Finding a Happy Home

Growing up in small-town Ohio, Jill van Opstal-Popa never dreamed she would be making her home among the orphaned children of Brazil. But when she and her husband set out to be missionaries, they found themselves building a home for the children who had no home.

As van-Opstal-Popa sought to make a home for many who had no home, she found herself finding a happy home in the arms of her Heavenly Father. Through trials and tribulations, hurtful gossip and whispered accusations, and a worldwide pandemic that left her isolated from her family, van Opstal-Popa points to the joy that still can be found in Jesus.

In Finding a Happy Home: A Journey of Faith and Redemption, from the heart of a mother to many comes the stories of the people of Brazil-from the brave parents who had no choice to the workers who took on the role of parent to the fatherless. Your heart will be pulled to the stories of each child whose story is unique but also like so many others. Follow one missionary's journey as she shares her heart and the mission of Lar Feliz.

Jill's memoir offers a look into an exceptional life of resilient trust, obedient faith, steadfast hope, and enduring love. Her life shows what can happen when one says yes to God...Offering a home to children who don't belong or have any other source of refuge is truly ministering to Jesus; so, come along on this journey to read about how God can take the ordinary and transform it into something supernatural. Yes, it will require obedient sacrifice; but the fruit of this obedience will bless generations.

-Carolyn Ros

Author, Missionary, Leader at YWAM Amsterdam

When you read this story of where Jill came from, what she has been through, and where she is now, you will be sure nothing is impossible for those who believe! For me, it is an honor to write a recommendation for this inspiring book about overcoming the world with faith. Jill, you are a true inspiration.

-Brenda Toet

One in Him Foundation

If your heart cries out for an intimate experience with the Lord, this book will demand a lot from you! All of the stories that Jill shares with so much love were lived with great intensity in a life of great communion and surrender to the Lord. I am sure that this reading will take you to a deeper level with God and to a new story in your own life.

-Joice and Leandro Pasqualeti, Senior Pastors

Evangelical Community Chamados Church, Holambra, Brazil

We were created to belong, and we were made to be in a family. This has been the mission of Paul and Jill van Opstal Popa-to create a happy home for people who have been left on the outside. In this incredible book, Jill shares their life's journey as they worked with over two thousand children to provide love, care, and hope for their future. They have instilled in these kids the fact that they were created for a reason and that God has an incredible plan for their lives.

You will no doubt laugh and cry as you read their story; but above all, you will find hope in a God Who longs for us to find a happy home in Him.

-Andrew and Penny Toogood

Founders and Pastors of Exchange Church, Belfast

Paul and Jill have transformed lives and built dreams over the years. Their dedication not only provides shelter and safety but also offers these children and teenagers the chance for a better future, away from neglect, violence, and abandonment. Lar Feliz is undoubtedly a significant achievement for our city.

-Gustavo Reis

Mayor of Jaguariúna