Through a partnership with International Cooperating Ministries, the Into Africa Project has been constructing buildings on the Bateke Plateau of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for multiple-purpose ministry use. The local partner is the CEBN church group founded by Rev. Isaac Luaba.
Rev. Isaac Luaba Cuts the Ribbon
On 29 August 2010, the dedication took place for the fifth of eight buildings in the current project. The church building is located in Bukanga Lonzo, Bandundu province of the DRC. The building's construction fulfills the prayers of the church congregation to have a weather-protected facility for worship, small group meetings, and pastoral training courses. The site is difficult to reach by motorized vehicle, which made the transport of materials to the site a real challenge.
Celebrating Inside the Church on the Joyous Dedication Sunday
The dedication ceremony started at 9:30 in the morning on 29 August, and did not end until 4:00 in the afternoon. An immense crowd of about 1100 people came from all corners to be a part of the consecration of the new building to God's purposes. Among those in attendance were tribal and political leaders from the area. The day also witnessed the dedication of six babies and the induction of 30 new church members.
The building is 15 x 20 meters (approx. 50 x 65 feet) in size, and has a capacity of up to 500 worshippers. The 4 hectare (10 acre) parcel of land on which it is built was donated by the village chief.
Plans for the building include its use as a medical clinic, school, meeting place for youth and women's groups, and training location for student pastors.
In Honor of the Dedication, the Local Tribal Chief Gave Rev. Isaac Luaba His Official Attire to Wear for This Photograph. On Isaac's Left is Godelive, His Wife.Below is a letter of thanks from the members of the Bukanga Lonzo church to supporters at OMS and ICM who enabled the construction of the new building.
Related links:
- Click here to view the progression of the construction project
- Click here to view other church buildings being constructed on the Bateke Plateau
- Click here to view information about the next construction project, in Mbjui-Mayi, Democratic Republic of Congo
