We are pleased to share with you the most recent construction update on the church you are helping plant in Pedernales, Ecuador.
Background Details
This church plant is located in Pedernales Canton in Manabi, Ecuador. Pedernales was the epicenter of the April 2016 Earthquake, and is still struggling today in recovering. The nearest hospital for the impoverished families is a one-hour drive to the city of Jama. There is no potable water nor sanitation systems here. The mother church, Iglesia Alianza Evangelic Ecuadorian El Porvenir, is located approximately 95 miles away in Manta and has been ministering to families here for approximately eight years. After the devastation of the 2016 earthquake, 200 Compassion-registered children were transitioned from a church partner in a nearby community to receive services here as a satellite location of the mother church. Ramon Velez (pictured above), veterinarian by trade, lives in the community and is serving as the pastor. They are now ready to establish a permanent presence in the community, with your support.
The land that was purchased for the new church is highly strategic because of its centrality in the community and there was an existing structure that included a cement foundation, which will be repurposed in the new building. Your investment allows this church to construct a permanent building (equipped to resist future damage from natural disasters) that includes the following facilities:
- Multipurpose room/Sanctuary
- Two classrooms
- Kitchen
- Office
- Restrooms for girls
- Restrooms for boys
- Water and sanitation installations, including a cistern, raised tank/pump, septic well and flushing toilets
This building will allow Pastor Ramon, and the church leadership, to better establish themselves in the community as a beacon of hope and God’s love. They will be able to minister to more families and serve more children with Compassion’s programming.
Construction Progress
Excitement for the construction is growing throughout the community.
To date, the following achievements have been reached:
- A Construction Committee has been formed that meets regularly to review plans for building
- Land deeds were secured
- Construction permits were obtained
- Structural blueprints were submitted to city council for approval
- Civil engineer, Miguel Chavez, was hired to oversee construction under the direction of the committee
Through clean up activities coordinated by the pastor, the land is cleared and construction began the week of August 27, 2018.
Church Activities
Pastor Ramon continues promoting the new church with families in the area and encouraging their participation in church activities. Children are participating in more activities with their families because of the anticipation of having a new place to learn and worship.
Prayer Requests and Praises
The church is grateful for your selfless love and concern for them. They appreciate your prayers for the following:
- Members of the church will grow in their faith
- Children and families will come to know the love of their Savior
- The beautiful town of Pedernales and its residents will be blessed
- Wisdom as they preach the gospel and form disciples
Photos of Progress