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. Later I was awarded 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 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.