• Bookstore
• Article: Courtship Principles vs. Rules
• Article: Good or Godly Kids
• Article: God’s Purpose for the Family
• Article: A Select Bibliography for Family Ministry
• Article: How in the World is Christianity Doing? Part II: The Dangers of Non-discernment
• Article: Christian Education and Local Church
• Article: Growing in Christlikeness

After serving in Portugal for eight years as full time missionaries (1986-94), Dave and his family have continued their ministry in Portugal.  Through speaking engagements and contacts Dave has remained “hands-on” within churches across the country, and recently published a book, “Five Star Marriage,” in the Portuguese language.

Dave and Joreen began their ministry in Portugal in 1986, settling into an apartment in Linda-a-Velha with two small children, as they began language study. In 1987 the family moved to Mafra (about 45 minutes from Lisbon), preparing for the launch of Word of Life Bible Institute in the fall of that year. This small, rural community became their home for the remainder of their time in Portugal. Following their furlough in 1991, Dave and Joreen returned to Portugal with BCM International and began involvement with the Portuguese Bible Institute. For the next three years, Dave served as a Bible professor and helped with administration at PBI. Dave also got a diploma from the University of Lisbon in the language and culture program. The Parrishes worked with a small church plant near Ericeira, and continued their relationship with the International Church in Cascais (a Lisbon suburb) where Dave had the privilege of preaching on a number of occasions.

The Parrishes returned to the U.S. at the end of 1994, locating in Burke, VA, while Dave completed his doctoral studies with Dallas Theological Seminary. Formally leaving Portugal did not close the door on ministry there. Dave visited in 1995 and 1996, primarily to focus on the development of the Pre-Marital Counseling manual. In November of 2000, Dave, Joyelle and Jacob returned to Portugal to renew friendships and speak in several churches. In February of 2003 “the trio” traveled again, logging many miles in Portugal over two weeks in conjunction with the release of the book; Dave spoke in a seven churches and at a Valentine’s Dinner. This past December (’05), Jacob spent two weeks painting a pastor’s house, an office at the Bible Institute, and part of a church sanctuary – while sharing fellowship with friends.

The Parrishes continue to maintain solid friendships with the many Portuguese church leaders, lay people, former Bible Institute students, and American missionaries who faithfully serve the Lord throughout Portugal. It has been a blessing and privilege to share fellowship with those who were a marvelous part of our lives in Portugal.

A three-week trip is currently being planned for Dave, Joyelle and Jason during the month of May, 2006. The purpose is for Dave to give a marriage and family seminar and to spend time in various churches in the northern (Porto area), central (Lisbon area) and southern (Algarve) locations. Once the itinerary is set, the dates and locations will be posted on this page.

InRichment in Portugal

www.ibp-esete.org - The web site for the Portuguese Bible Institute and new developments for training Portuguese leaders in the Church
www.mdiportugal.org - A creative and effective outreach that focuses primarily on evangelism through athletics!
www.portalevangelico.pt - A web portal for the evangelical alliance that serves as a fountain of information and directory of ministries and individuals.