Roberto Firmino, a football player from Brazil, was consecrated as an evangelical pastor three years after he and his church partner created it.
Together with his spouse Larissa Pereira and the pastors Jairo Fernandes and Keila Medeiros, the former forward for Liverpool created the Manah Church in his hometown of Maceio.
Firmino uploaded pictures of himself and his spouse receiving their church pastorates in an Instagram post.
What a memorable and unforgettable night. This church was BORN in the heart of God and we are extremely grateful for the privilege of witnessing up close all that the Lord has done,” he wrote.
“Since our encounter with Christ, a longing burns in our hearts… Let people know this love that has reached us. Now we have another craving and responsibility… Be Pastors after God’s heart and who cooperate with the Kingdom.”
He added: “Today we are totally flabbergasted when we see the size of God’s mercy upon us. He really picks the unlikely! Thank You Jesus. Thank you Pr Jairo and Pr Keila for pushing us and believing in us.”
Firmino spent eight years at Liverpool, where he helped the Reds to win every trophy, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
