The Church of the Nazarene in Brazil is celebrating the birth of a new district. On 11 April 2026, the Pantanal District was created, a milestone that was the result of cooperation and unity between four districts: The Centro Oeste, Londrina, Noroeste Paulista, and Río Baixada 1.
This new district begins with a presence in eight cities, crossing the borders of the states of São Paulo, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul. It already has a total of 1,726 members committed to the mission of the Church of the Nazarene.
The opening day of celebration began with a devotional moment led by regional leaders, who emphasized the importance of dependence on the Holy Spirit and shared vision for the progress of the mission. A time of worship marked the consecration of this new expansion and service, inviting the community to remain united and sensitive to the divine direction.
The installation assembly was held at the Central Nazarene Church in Brasília, which is a symbolic place linked to the beginning of work in the midwest of Brazil. The event was attended by representatives of the districts involved, pastors, secretaries, and local leaders. During the assembly, the initial composition of the Pantanal District was presented: 12 churches and a ministerial team of 18 members, including ordained and licensed ministers.
Marcos Vinicius Caetano de Almeida (of Três Lagoas) was appointed as the first superintendent of the Pantanal District. The occasion was marked by prayer, gratitude, and commitment to the pastoral service and mission of the new district.
The work of those who organized the new district was recognized: Severino José, Brazil Central field strategy coordinator; Manuel Lima, director of Brazil sub-region; and secretary Edmilson Gonçalves. Also, secretaries and superintendents from the four sending districts generously gave up churches and resources to form the new district. This was the result of two years of dedication and joint work.
The creation of the Pantanal District is a testimony of unity, organization, and passion for the mission of the Church of the Nazarene, reaffirming the commitment to grow in communion, serve faithfully, and depend on the Holy Spirit in this new chapter of expansion.