António Barbosa Andrade, the district president of Nazarene Missions International (NMI), spearheaded the initiative with support from his ministry team. The goal was to introduce young people to Jesus Christ and equip them with a strong biblical foundation for their lives.

Terra Branca is one of the oldest and most populous neighbourhoods in Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde. Considerable social and economic diversity characterises the community. Established residential areas neighbor informal settlements, where some families face unemployment, food insecurity and inadequate housing conditions. For children and young people growing up in vulnerable circumstances, access to positive mentorship and supportive community relationships can make a meaningful difference.

The Church of the Nazarene invested in the spiritual development of the neighbourhood’s younger generation, sharing a message of hope, faith and transformation through a discipleship programme. It introduced more than 2,000 children and teenagers to the gospel message and structured discipleship lessons designed to deepen their understanding of God’s Word.

The programme encouraged participants not only to learn about Jesus Christ but also to develop a personal relationship with him and reflect his character in their daily lives. Through biblical teaching, the young participants were encouraged to grow in faith, demonstrate Christlike love and develop values that would positively influence their relationships.

The programme concluded with a graduation ceremony celebrating the children and teenagers who had completed the course. The occasion marked an important milestone in their spiritual journey, recognising their participation, commitment and growth in understanding the Christian faith. During the ceremony, the graduates were also commissioned and encouraged to continue sharing the gospel with others.

For the local church, the initiative represented an investment in the spiritual future of a generation, establishing a foundation upon which continued Christian growth and discipleship can be built. The hope is that these young disciples will become positive influences within their families, schools, churches and wider community, carrying forward the message of Christ to others.

For the Church of the Nazarene in Cape Verde, reaching more than 2,000 children and teenagers represents a significant ministry achievement and an opportunity for continued spiritual investment. As these young people return to their communities, the church is praying that they will remain steadfast in Christ and boldly share the gospel with others.

The church invites the wider Nazarene family to join in praying for every child and teenager reached through this initiative, as well as for the leaders and volunteers who continue to invest in their spiritual development.