Marcus and Tamara Throup
Tamara and Marcus
Rev. Marcus and Tamara Throup work with SAMS
(South American Mission Society)in Joao Pessoa, North East Brazil.
Marcus is a Bible teacher and Tamara is completing a degree in Psychology.
Their long term vision is to set up a large theological college (seminary) in Joao Pessoa
to provide training for tomorrow’s pastors and mission workers.
Here’s what Marcus has to say for himself:
“I was born in Nottingham and brought up in Sandiacre. My parents are
faithful Christians and I began church life at Toton Methodist. The link with
St Helen’s came in my late teens, I was studying Theology at Oxford
but wanted to find a good church to attend during University holidays. Everyone
at St Helen’s made me feel very welcome. Even though I was always
in and out of church because of Uni, people seemed to value me and take interest
in what I was up to. The services were uplifting and the sermons thoughtful
and Bible based. It’s the same today, and we’re humbled by the
care we receive from both leaders and members of the church.
“While at University I felt called to work with street children in Brazil,
so in 2000 I went for 9 months as a volunteer on a
project caring for street boys. It was a real eye opener and I learned a great deal as I sought to befriend
those lads and share with them the love of Jesus. During this time it became
clear that God had plans for me to be in Brazil longer term, and through my
contact with the local Anglican Church I met Tamara – so by the time
I was ready to return to England it was confirmed – I’d definitely
be going back sometime!
“After completing a Master’s at St John’s Nottingham
I was in Brazil again in August 2002, and, (first things first!) Tamara and
I were married on 24/08/02. From 2002 – 2006 in addition to her studies
Tamara worked with me in a whole variety of settings. For a long time we continued
with the boys’ project where I was chaplain, and we headed up the youth
ministry at the Living Waters’ Church (the church by the rubbish dump).
After ordination, curacy duties were combined with teaching in our theological
seminary, and translation work for our bishop. Later, in the Mediator Parish
Tamara took on the role of children’s work co-ordinator, and I continued
my ministry in the contexts of church and seminary.
“Though on occasion we’ve had a rough ride owing to church politics,
we return to Brazil full of joy for what the Lord has already done and hope
for what he is yet to do! Thank you so much for all your support and prayers.”
Tamara adds:
“As Marcus already said, since we got married we have been in different
churches, doing all kind of work. During those 4 years we passed through good
moments and difficult moments. It has been really nice seeing all those people
who are praying for us and supporting us so much. Thank you, all of you. Some
of you already know, but I’ll say it again, when we go to Brazil again
Marcus will be working in the church and lecturing, and I’ll be doing
my placement to complete my psychology graduation. I probably will be working
with drug addicts and alcoholics, so once more I appreciate your prayers that
God give me wisdom and strength to do this work.”