A new reason to help
June 2, 2011
At midnight on March 23rd, 4 men entered our bedroom wielding machetes. They stole the equivalent of $1000 in cash as well as a great deal of our more valuable possessions, such as cell phones, our camera, shoes, our laptop, watches, and billfolds. Even Moffat's driver's license will take approximately $100 to replace. It quickly became clear they intended to kill us because they were completely unconcerned that we could see their bare faces. They beat up Moffat and his brother Chimwemwe, and severely injured our night watchman who's been with us for 7 years.
Throughout the ordeal, we held on to our inner peace and did our best to create a calm atmosphere. The men were unlikely to be part of the community we work in as they didn't know or recognize us. But as we talked gently to them--assuring them that God still loves them despite their actions, explaining that Moffat and I are pastors--they eventually backed off from their ultimate plan.
The police think the thieves tracked me home from the bank after I'd made a large withdrawal. This withdrawal was intended to pay for a week's worth of materials and labor for the community center we've been building since the end of 2010. We are saddened that the work had to be put on hold until we can gather more funds.
The community center's foundation has been laid next to the big, beautiful church that Moffat designed himself, and will reflect a similar design. We intend to use this space for youth activities, weddings, town meetings, etc--although it's located next to the church, it will be used for a variety of purposes.
We truly need the help of our friends at this time. This is the ideal season in Malawi for construction work, but the work cannot continue until we have the funds.
BUILDING COSTS
1 bag of cement: $20
1 truckload of bricks: $60
Truck rental: $60
1 week of labor: $150
The roof alone may cost around $10,000. With $20,000 in hand, we could potentially finish the building in three months. If we could collect even half the funds this summer, we can at least get started. Any small amount would be greatly appreciated--this would mean so much to the people of Mzuzu.
Rainy season starts in November, so we'd love to get the maximum time possible out of the dry season. Please donate whatever you can by JULY 30TH to help us finish as much of the building as we can before the rains start! Thank you for your support!
We are also happy to take your tax-deductible donations by mail:
WE ARE ONE Malawi c/o Kip Myers (check payable to WE ARE ONE)
305 Bergen Street Apt. #1D
Brooklyn, NY 11217