In November 2024, attendees of the World Jewish Adventist Congress in Brazil embarked on a memorable journey to Curitiba, Paraná, a picturesque town often regarded as one of the most beautiful in Brazil, to celebrate a historic milestone: the dedication of the newest Beth Bnei Tsion congregation.
The festivities began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by an eager procession into the sanctuary. The program, presented in both Portuguese and English, reflected the history and spiritual mission of Beth Bnei Tsion congregations in Brazil. A heartfelt tribute, “Video das Toledot: Histórias e Gerações” (“Stories and Generations of Beth Bnei Tsion of Curitiba 2001–2024”), honored the efforts of Pastor Rogel Mayo Tavares and Pastor Reinaldo Siqueira whose visionary guidance and leadership has been instrumental in advancing the Jewish-Adventist mission in Brazil.
A sermon on the history of Hungarian Jews, delivered in a blend of Portuguese and English, was accompanied by a powerful video presentation from the Hope Channel, elaborating on the plight of Hungarian Jews. The sermon emphasized the congregation’s mission: to rekindle love and appreciation for Jewish traditions and culture among Adventists of Jewish heritage. The event also aimed to promote respect for Judaism, Israel, and the Jewish roots of the Adventist faith, reaching beyond the church community to inspire understanding and unity.
Pastor Rogel Tavares shared a vision for the new congregation, stating it “will be a support space for cultural and educational activities… creating an environment conducive to strengthening common values, as well as mutual understanding and respect.”
In addition to the ceremony, attendees were invited to explore a small museum on the third floor. The space, dimly lit with soft overhead lights, showcased the “Righteous Among the Nations” exhibition. In partnership with the city’s Holocaust Museum, this exhibition pays tribute to the non-Jewish Adventist and Brazilian heroes who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. Each display seemed to whisper the stories of those who acted with unparalleled courage, their faces frozen in time, inviting attendees to reflect on the legacy of selflessness they left behind.
One member of the Beth Bnei Tsion community expressed gratitude for the event saying, “We are deeply thankful to all the communities who joined us for this special occasion; you filled our hearts with joy. A special recognition goes to Pastor Reinaldo Siqueira, our greatest encourager, mentor, and friend. He has been instrumental in guiding us through the victories we’ve achieved so far. May the Eternal continue to use him as a blessing to all our [Beth Bnei Tsion congregations].”
Following the formal program, attendees gathered in the church lobby to enjoy an impressive array of refreshments, including fresh fruits and crisp vegetables, alongside an assortment of warm baked goods, savory quiches, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Ice cream cones were piled high with creamy swirls, and made-to-order crepes were filled with a variety of sweet and savory fillings. Conversations and laughter carried the celebration well into the night; the festivities wrapped up around midnight.
The dedication of the new Beth Bnei Tsion congregation symbolized more than a religious or spiritual milestone. It was a fusion of Jewish heritage, Adventist faith, and the vibrant spirit of Brazil. The evening was a testament to the community’s deep commitment to honoring Jewish traditions within the Adventist faith while embracing the warmth and energy that defines Brazilian culture.
