Thanks to the generous contributions of several Transformation Ministries churches, a new worship center is under construction for the Ndava Free Baptist Church in Cibitoke, Burundi. Rev. Raymond Giddens, Sr., Pastor of Unity Baptist Church in Las Vegas, NV was passionate about a new facility for Ndava after he preached there on his first trip to Burundi in 2007. The small church that was feature in the last entry was full, with people standing outside to hear God’s Word. Working with Transformation Ministries leaders and leaders of the Free Baptist Church of Burundi, he committed to raising the funds to make this new facility possible.
Rev. Giddens’ commitment was timely, as local officials told the church they would need a new building if they were to continue ministry at this location. The old building made of mud bricks and a thatched roof was deemed inadequate for the growing congregation. Funds were sent to Burundi to begin the work. The church had gathered stones to place in the foundation, additional land had been purchased, and drawings were approved by local officials. It was time to begin.
The congregation was excited to begin construction. Burundi is the third poorest country in the world, with over 68% of the population living in poverty. Well over 80% make their living through subsistence agriculture so there isn’t much cash for purchasing building materials. But there is an overflow of love for Jesus, as well as praise and a willingness to work to make their dream of a new worship center come true.
Here you can see the beginning of the work at Ndava. Over the next few weeks, we’ll show you progress of the walls going up and we hope to have pictures of the finished worship center soon.
Please pray for our brothers and sisters in Burundi.
