Rwanda Church Construction
The Rwanda Governance Board was clear last year: houses of worship that didn’t meet its new standards would be forced to close. The standards include changes like adding freshwater tanks, adequate safe parking, handwashing stations, toilets for men and women and pastors with theological degrees.
The Presbyterian Church in Rwanda (EPR) faced a great challenge following these new government mandates. Ninety-nine parish temples were closed.
In addition to building construction and upgrading parking and restrooms, the scope of work often includes adding electricity, baptistries, sound equipment, fire extinguishers, and more. Church members offer a wide range of abilities and are eager to help haul supplies, install doors or equipment, or paint. Their sweat equity invests in the Kingdom work of growing the church.
Even a year later, the work continues. Through the support of The Outreach Foundation, 12 parish temples have been built or completed major renovation projects to meet the new standards. Several others continue progressing in various stages. The projects will ultimately better serve the growing church body throughout the region but the financial need is great. The ongoing support opens more doors to equip leaders and disciple the current and next generation.
The photos from our partners at EPR show just how transformative the new projects are. Even more than physical buildings, lives are being transformed and the number of disciples is multiplying. Evangelism training and conferences are growing, increasing the capacity to effectively reach beyond the walls to attract others. Weekly small groups are meeting in the new and improved spaces.
This inspiring work continues, and there is much to do. Your prayers for the Presbyterian Church in Rwanda, most of all, have been the blocks to help construct these Holy places to gather and worship our Lord.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Outreach Foundation continues to seek gifts for the progressing work to renovate and reopen the remaining parish temples. If you would like to support the EPR in these efforts you can send a gift in the form of a check with Rwanda Church Construction on the memo line, or you can donate on our website: www.theoutreachfoundation.org.
