The Power of the Fishing Net prayer
In February 2024, a new chapter of evangelism began in the heart of Lisbon. At the premises of the Evangelical Alliance of Portugal, Dr. Daniel Schmid introduced the LiFe Toolbox to a group of expectant pastors, including Sergio Matos, a leader of the Maranatha churches. The vision was ambitious: to move from a general desire for growth to a practical, unified outreach that could span multiple congregations simultaneously. For Sergio and the other leaders, the appeal of LiFe was its immediate readiness for the Sunday service—a strategy that could turn their weekly worship into a natural, inviting entry point for the community.
The preparation that followed proved that technology and tradition could work hand-in-hand for the Gospel. Throughout the spring, 18 different churches joined weekly Zoom training sessions, synchronizing their efforts and building a shared momentum. This wasn’t just a logistical exercise; it was a deeply spiritual mobilization. The congregations launched a "fishing net prayer", interceding for 415 guests they hoped to welcome. This period of preparation shifted the focus of the members from internal church business to a high-expectancy mission, creating a unified heartbeat across all 18 locations.
When June arrived, the "fishing net" began to fill with remarkable results. Throughout five consecutive Sundays, as the churches presented the core LiFe topics, the atmosphere was filled with joy as guests who had been prayed for by name began walking through the doors, eager to engage with the big questions of life and faith. The services became more than just events; they were the catalysts for lasting connections. Today, these churches are no longer just looking for visitors—they are actively nurturing valuable, new relationships with people who have found a spiritual home.
The success in Portugal has already sparked a vision that reaches far beyond Lisbon. Alongside leaders like Alvaro Ladeira and Sergio Matos, the team is now praying and planning for how the LiFe Toolbox can serve Portuguese-speaking countries globally. Their experience serves as a powerful reminder to pastors everywhere: when you combine specific prayer with a clear, practical tool, the "fishing net" of the church can reach further than ever before.
