We are Frank and Chris, the lead pastors and founders of VIVA Church in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. I (Frank) first came to Canada in 1987, following God’s call to permanently move from Brazil to Canada. In August 1992, I started VIVA Church. In January 1994, I married Chris, and in 1996, I graduated from the Nazarene Bible College of Canada. I later earned a Doctor of Divinity (DDiv) from Canada Christian College in 2022.

Chris was born and raised in South Carolina. She had a radical encounter with Jesus during her final year of university and subsequently became a missionary in Brazil. It was during her time in Brazil that we met, and we got married in 1994. Together, we have labored to build a thriving local church with a heart to touch the nations.

With a vision to reach people for Jesus, VIVA Church has grown to become a positive influence for the Kingdom, not only in Oshawa but also by planting churches in the region and internationally in countries like Cambodia and Uganda. Beyond our work at the local church, I (Frank) serve the body of Christ on the boards of other ministries and churches, and I am part of the Apostolic Ministry of MFI-Canada. I also travel to speak at conferences and many churches around the world.

Chris and I have dedicated more than 30 years to serving at VIVA Church, witnessing the salvation and growth of many. We have been blessed with two beautiful daughters: Leticia, our youngest, and Gabriella, our oldest, who is married to Matheus.