Earlier this year the Society solicited prayer and monetary support for SDBs in Rwanda. 31 of their 35 church buildings that failed to meet the Government’s new standards were closed and the remaining 4 given short deadlines to reach the standards. According to the Baptist Press, an estimated 6,000 churches were closed across Rwanda. (http://www.bpnews.net/)
Our Rwanda brethren, in partnership with the Society, were able to keep the 4 churches open that were not closed and those closed are starting to be re-opened. In May, funds were identified and the Society sought donors to match $600 per month for ten months to address the ten most strategic facilities. Because of your loving support, 4 more church doors have been re-opened, so in total 8 local churches are now open. Glory be to God! There is a far way to go for all church buildings to meet the new standards, but we received a note with their reports saying:
“Thank you again for your prayer and financial support! May God bless you all.” – KARIMUTUMYE Jean de Dieu, SDB Rwanda Legal Representative
“Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.” – Philemon 1:7 (NIV)
Links for downloadables to share click HERE
~ Garfield Miller, Missions Coordinator