August 18, 2006
On Monday, August 14, we witnessed an historic ground-breaking ceremony in Tirana, Albania. Actually, it was a tile breaking ceremony that marked the beginning of a significant reconstruction project.
For ten years, we have been trying to build a multi purpose building in Tirana—a building to be used seven days a week by the church, WEI teachers, missionaries, International Bible Institute of Albania, and NationsUniversity.
We bought an old building near the center of the city several years ago with the idea of remodeling it. Flori Polo, former WEI student, and his mother drew up a beautiful set of plans last year. Since then, we have encountered a long series of discouraging roadblocks. Erik Qirjaqi and Artan Xhaferi are to be commended for their perseverance. Providentially, God led Erik and Artan to a city official who had studied English and the Bible with us eight years ago. She gave final approval on the remodeling project.
She said, “Where have you been? I’ve been looking everywhere for you. I have three daughters who want to study with WEI.” Then, she said with a smile, “If you don’t teach them, I won’t give you a building permit.” God works in interesting ways.
Plans call for an underground floor with a kitchen, a fellowship hall, and a youth activities room. When we left Albania August 18, workers had already broken through the concrete floor and were digging the basement by hand. It is amazing what Albanians can do without heavy equipment.
The ground floor will contain offices, class rooms, and a library complete with computers. The upper floor will have a baptistery and an auditorium that will seat 270 people. The roof will be terraced and covered with a canopy. It will be used for outdoor worship, fellowship gatherings, and weddings.
Barring unforeseen problems, there is enough money in the bank to complete the construction. However, we still need approximately $40,000 to furnish the building with chairs, tables, desks, books, shelves, computers, and appliances.
Your contribution to the Tirana building fund will make a difference in the future of the Lord’s church in Albania and throughout Eastern Europe. Christians will worship and study the Bible there. WEI students will be taught and baptized there. Preachers and church leaders will be trained there.
If this building program grabs your attention and touches your heart, please let us hear from you.
