We had a great day today with our partner church in Trinec (Church of the Brethren in Trinec - Lyzbice). All I can say is "Wow!" They have done an incredible job on the facility they purchased around 3 years ago. They have taken an old, run down former communist era preschool building and turned it into an amazing center for ministry. I will post pictures later when I get home.
The main worship area has been transformed. It can seat around 80 or 90. They have put in a small stage up front, a sound room in the back, and even put up a copy of the Botts print from our church.
Downstairs they are creating a youth area where they can have a Friday night celebration club meeting. On the main floor they have leased out one wing to a local doctor (general practioner) and the other is used for the Christian Kindergarden (ages 3-5). The Kindergarden is absolutely beautiful, a wonderful place for kids to come.
Upstairs they have an office for their new Pastor, Slavoj, and two small classrooms where Bronek and Lorisa can teach English. There is additional room where they hope to one day build a flat (apartment) for the pastor and more room for another small conference room.
The vision of the church is to reach out to their community. By offering a Christian school, a doctor's office, and English classes, they make the church facility a place where their neighbors will feel welcome and at home. The neighbors are very glad the church purchased the facility rather than it being turned into a pub or other general business.
This August the church will hold their first English Day Camp. It is aimed at the children in the many flats (apartments) that surround the church. International Messengers is sending four Americans and the church will also provide some staff.
The church is also involved with other area churches in holding a citywide festival in September. This outreach event will be particularly aimed at young people and will include music, drama, and other events.
It is so good to see what God is doing through our partner church. Please remember to pray for them as they seek to do "prayer, care, and share" in their own community.
We leave at 6:15 AM tomorrow to take the 7:28 train to Prague. And we will leave very early on Tuesday to fly back to the States. I am sure this is the last time I will get a chance to post until Wednesday, so until then, thanks so much for your prayers.
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