The Canção Nova Community, known for its evangelistic work and Christian formation, has elected Maria Salette Ferreira Ribeiro as the new person in charge of couples. The election took place during the 16th General Assembly, held in Lavrinhas, São Paulo, and marks a new chapter in pastoral care for families. Married and mother of two, Salette brings a rich background in missionary experience and academic training.
Born in Salvador, Bahia on May 20, 1965, Salette joined Canção Nova on January 17, 1991. Since then, she has served in various roles: as a couples' trainer, missionary manager, permanent companion, and in music ministry. Her journey includes stints in communities in Cachoeira Paulista (SP), São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA), Salvador (BA), Gravatá (PE), and Cuiabá (MT).
Background and Pastoral Vision
With a degree in Pedagogy and technical experience in radio, TV, training, and events, Salette understands the importance of communicating God's love clearly and warmly. She believes that marriage is a reflection of Christ's love for the Church, as taught in the letter to the Ephesians: "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her" (Ephesians 5:25, NIV). For her, ministry with couples is not just about counseling, but about building faith communities where families can grow together.
In her words, "the home is the first church, and we need to strengthen the foundations of faith within each family." This pastoral vision aligns with the ecumenical values of EncuentraIglesias.com, which seeks to promote unity among Christians from different denominations.
Challenges and Expectations for the New Term
Salette's term will be five years, and she has already indicated plans to focus on three main areas: ongoing couples' formation, support in times of crisis, and integration of families into community life. She emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue and prayer, recalling the psalm: "Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain" (Psalm 127:1, NIV).
Canção Nova, founded in 1978, has a strong presence in Catholic media, but its new leader emphasizes the ecumenical nature of her work: "Denomination doesn't matter; what matters is that families find in Christ the strength to live love." This approach resonates with EncuentraIglesias.com's mission to connect Christians of all traditions.
The Role of Couples in the Church's Mission
In Salette's view, couples are not just beneficiaries of ministry, but protagonists of evangelization. She cites the example of Priscilla and Aquila, who in the Bible were partners in ministry (Acts 18:2-3, NIV). "Every couple has a unique calling to serve, and our role is to help them discover and live that calling," she says.
The new leader also plans to implement spiritual retreats and formation meetings addressing topics such as communication in marriage, family finances, and raising children in the light of faith. She believes that by strengthening marital bonds, the church as a whole is strengthened.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Salette is no stranger to leadership. Before being elected to oversee couples, she already served as a trainer and permanently accompanied couples in different regions of Brazil. Her experience in radio and TV also prepared her to communicate with large audiences, something that will be useful in coordinating events and producing content for the community.
Her election was met with enthusiasm by Canção Nova members. Many highlight her empathy and listening skills, essential qualities for dealing with the complexities of married life. "She has a servant's heart and a leader's mind," commented one assembly participant.
Final Reflection
Salette Ferreira's appointment reminds us that God continues to call dedicated leaders to strengthen families. In a world where family values face so many challenges, having someone with her experience and pastoral vision is a true gift. May her ministry be fruitful, and may many families find in Canção Nova a place of growth and love.
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