Meet the Founders and Field Missionaries

  • Americo Matine

    Founder and President

  • Cândida Matine

    Founder and President

“We believe that God has called us to minister to the hearts of Mozambicans. To make faithful disciples of Jesus Christ and equip communities to think and live biblical worldview. To provide communities with skills that will allow them to live with dignity, honor, and respect.” (Americo & Candida)

Meet the Board of Directors

  • Michael Garland

    Board Chair

    I am a husband, father of four and have worked at Lancaster Bible College since 2008. I have over 25 years of experience in construction and serve in the director role at the physical plant. I have worked with Americo in maintenance over the last four years. I am excited to share in this faith adventure with the leadership team, to grow and serve for the greater good of Maputo and the glory of God.

  • Nick Parsons

    Treasurer

    I am a public high school social studies teacher in Colorado, and I'm the treasurer for Building the Heart. I have been led by the Spirit to be involved in missions for the majority of my life, and it took me a number of years to realize with contentment the importance of my mission work and testimony in American public schools. However, I have been pushed on to consider foreign mission work as well.

  • Jessica Kiedis

    Office Manager

    I am a wife and homeschool mom to three children in York, Pennsylvania. I record our meeting minutes, help update our social media, and assist with fundraising. As a child, I remember reading stories about Africa and praying for the opportunity to serve one day on that continent. I’m in awe that God has provided this opportunity to serve Him through my role with Building the Heart Ministry!

  • Chris Mellon

    Vice President

    I am a husband. pastor and father of three children in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. I have a passion for worship and spreading the gospel of Christ. I have been called by the Spirit to Africa and have traveled there several times and desire to support BTH in any way possible so that they might transform lives in Christ around the globe.