The Canção Nova Community, known for its evangelistic and missionary work, has a new leader among its celibate members. On Saturday, May 2, 2026, missionary Vera Lúcia Reis, affectionately called Verinha, was elected counselor in charge of the celibates. She now serves on the community's General Council for the 2026-2031 term. This role carries great responsibility: accompanying and guiding celibate members, fostering their spiritual life and growth in their vocation.
Verinha has a long history with Canção Nova. She joined the community in 1989 and has since dedicated her life to Christian service. Her journey is marked by deep faithfulness and love for the mission. As it is written in Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Verinha's life reflects this hope and trust in God's purposes.
Who Is Vera Lúcia Reis?
Born on May 31, 1964, in Cruzeiro, São Paulo, Verinha is a missionary who has lived in various cities and countries. Her journey has taken her to places like Queluz (SP), Cachoeira Paulista (SP), Rio de Janeiro (RJ), São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA), São Paulo (SP), Rome (Italy), Belo Horizonte (MG), São José do Rio Preto (SP), and São José dos Campos (SP). Each move was an opportunity to learn and grow, both personally and spiritually.
Throughout her 37 years at Canção Nova, Verinha has served in many roles. She has been a general formator, counselor, permanent companion, mission leader, and worked in events and the general secretariat. She also served as a community formator and was part of the vocational team and treasury. This diverse experience prepared her for the new mission of caring for the celibates.
Verinha holds degrees in Teaching and Theology. Additionally, she completed a course for Formators, has training in Logotherapy, and specialization in Ecclesial Management and Counseling. She has been a celibate member of Canção Nova since May 31, 2003. Her academic and spiritual formation equip her to guide others in consecrated life.
The Role of Counselor for Celibates
In Canção Nova, celibates are those who take a vow of chastity and dedicate themselves entirely to God's service. The counselor in charge accompanies them on their journey, offering spiritual, emotional, and practical support. It is a calling that requires wisdom, patience, and great love. As Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 7:32: "I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs—how he can please the Lord." Verinha's work will help celibates live this consecration with joy and faithfulness.
The General Council of the community is responsible for making important decisions and guiding Canção Nova's direction. Verinha's election reflects the community's trust in her. Her experience and dedication are a testament to God's love in action.
A Life of Service and Faith
Verinha's journey is inspiring. She began her path at Canção Nova as a young woman and has since devoted herself to service. Her life is an example of how God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things. In Matthew 25:21 we read: "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" Verinha will surely hear those words one day.
She also faced challenges. Living in different cities and cultures is not easy, but Verinha saw each change as an opportunity to grow and serve. Her faith sustained her through it all. As she herself might say: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13).
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