Ivano-Frankivsk Construction Update 21 August 2019 “So we built the wall…”

One of the most exciting texts in the Old Testament is Nehemiah 4:6, “So we built the wall and the whole wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.” This text applauds eager cooperation, God’s Providential governing, and a stubborn concern and resolve for the condition of the Lord’s People.

Now transition to our current times in western Ukraine and to a congregation of the Lord’s People that has faced evil’s multiple attacks and challenges. The congregation demonstrated compassion as it distributed critically needed benevolent supplies for medical facilities, schools, orphanages, the elderly, those devastated by Russia’s war, and the vulnerable. These commodities were donated, packed and shipped by Christians in the USA.

The benevolent actions were well received by Ukrainians and their appreciation was shown in a number of ways:

A prime plot of land dedicated for religious purposes was donated to the congregation to build an operations center. This gift was almost seized by opponents to our efforts but God’s Providence intervened and the property is solidly secure.
“We have been given wood that was cut. This tree was given to us from the forest because of the fact that we helped many in the wooded area with humanitarian aid. They sawed in the size that we need for the roof.”
“As a result of our humanitarian aid and help to the needy, one of the Supreme Rada’s deputies intervened on our behalf and the cement plant gave us 5 (metric) tons of cement for our construction free of charge.”
All brick was purchased before there was a huge prince increase.

Our goal this summer is to complete the second-floor bricking and put a roof over the structure. This will allow us to finish at least one large room before the bitter winter arrives. Here is a report from Ivano-Frankivsk on the progress:

“Greetings, brethren! Today, which is Wednesday (21 August 2019), we discussed some questions after the Bible class and decided to set a date next week when everybody could come and help with construction to help workers finish walls as soon as possible. Men agreed. We understand that all of us have jobs and have to provide for families but we are pressed by circumstances to stick with our terms. That is why we will need women to help us later on, too. Tomorrow (22 August 2019), the main wooden trusses for the auditorium’s roof in the new building will be delivered. The work is going as planned. These are pics showing where we are as of today.”

Raising the funds to complete this phase has been challenging, BUT we thank God that we are over 75% of the required amount. This facility will provide legitimacy for the congregation and an operation’s base for actions not only in western Ukraine but in the neighboring countries.

Will you help us finish? We are where we are today because of the generosity and partnership of many. Our brethren in Ukraine are giving from their meager resources and they are joining with manual labor. After the roof is installed, they will finish the interior. They are doing all they can.

In a letter from May 2019 the brethren pleaded, “These are things we cannot do ourselves. That is why we plead with you for financial help so that we can complete construction of the church building. We beg you for help for the sake of our common goal to spread the Gospel and expand God’s Kingdom in the earth.”

Consider the amazing progress. Contemplate the boundless opportunities that will open for the congregation. Please help us finish this phase by sending a donation!