Faith at the Dinner Table

Joao, a successful technology entrepreneur in São Paulo, had long embraced the idea that faith and work were inseparable. When he invited Leadership Circle leaders to a family dinner, he hoped the conversation would inspire his son, who had grown disillusioned with the city’s corruption and dysfunction.

During the dinner, Joao’s son expressed his frustration with São Paulo, declaring that he didn’t see a future for himself in a city plagued by injustice and inefficiency. But as the conversation shifted to the topics of the Leadership Circle—purpose-driven living, vocation as ministry, and city renewal—something remarkable happened. Joao’s son leaned in, intrigued by the idea that faith could be relevant in rebuilding communities.

Hope in a New Vision

Joao shared stories of how leaders like Ricardo Arias Mora in Colombia and Colonel Terra in São Paulo had used their positions to bring justice and hope to their cities. He described how faith-rooted movements such as the Dignity Project had changed entire nations by addressing systemic issues like housing and corruption through biblical principles. His son’s initial skepticism gave way to curiosity as he began to understand that real change starts with people who live out their calling in all areas of life.

Cities Project Global’s teaching about “order, beauty, and abundance” resonated deeply with Joao’s son. He realized that shalom—peace and restoration—could become a reality if leaders worked with integrity and compassion, influencing key spheres such as education, government, and media.

A Family Renewed

By the end of the evening, Joao’s son admitted that he could imagine staying in São Paulo if believers took an active role in city renewal. What started as an ordinary family dinner became a defining moment—a reawakening of hope and purpose in a young man who was ready to give up.

Joao’s story underscores the importance of family leadership and generational faith. His commitment to nurturing his son’s vision for the future exemplifies the ripple effect of integrated living, where faith, work, and community intersect to create lasting impact.

These expanded stories highlight how everyday leaders like Col. Terra and Joao exemplify the belief that no sphere of society is beyond redemption when approached with faith and purpose.