Los Angeles Portuguese church hasn’t met together since churches in SCC first stopped in-person gatherings in mid-March. In May, that all changed, at least temporarily, when members gathered for a drive through baby shower for Nayana Borghi and Ismael Sanches.
Borghi and Sanches are new to the area and are friends of the church. The women’s ministry team planned a special, and safe, celebration to shower the couple with love as they prepared for the birth of their daughter, Antonella.
“We decided to organize a baby shower because Nayana was expecting her first child without her family and friends around,” said Jorgina Da Silva, women’s ministry director at the Los Angeles Portuguese church. “I got the feeling she was a little stressed, so we wanted to help out.”
The special event took two weeks to organize. Da Silva and the women’s ministry team made calls to the entire congregation, created a list of items needed, and arranged for cards, balloons, and welcome signs. On the day of the baby shower, everyone met at Da Silva’s house in Sunland and caravanned to Palmdale. About 15 people participated, and others sent gifts and well wishes to avoid crowding.
“We took great care so that this moment could happen without risk to any participant,” said Alexander Salles, pastor of Los Angeles Portuguese church, who was in attendance, “and especially for the future mother and her baby.”
Borghi was grateful for this expression of friendship, especially during these times. “I was very moved, very happy, and felt welcomed by this church,” said Borghi. “When they arrived singing with all that affection, I felt special.” Their daughter was born a month later.
“This is the reason why we exist as a community,” said Salles. “To support each other.”
