Iglesia Esmirna Thanks Our U.S. Christian Friends

Every time we have been in San Marcos we have attended and supported the little evangelical church, Iglesia Esmirna. About 30-40 members worship on Sunday mornings and evenings. The main service is in the evening, but we only go in the mornings because we do not like being out after dark. Currently the services are crowded into the living room of a member’s home. It is a joy to celebrate each Lord’s Day with these loving people. Sometimes we must smile as a dog wanders through the service or a proud wandering rooster crows just outside one of the doors. Most of the hymns are those we sing in the U.S., but we struggle to sing them in Spanish. The Bible says, “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” We hope He understands our rendition.

The church urgently needs a new building, which is under construction on the main corridor through town. A year ago they had broken ground, and partial walls had been built of cement blocks. They needed $10,000 to construct the sanctuary and Sunday school roofs. We wrote to 40 of our relatives and friends encouraging them to donate toward this worthy cause. Only a few responded, and we understand that. Unless one can be here, see the poverty, and experience the needs first hand, it is difficult to have empathy with these struggling brothers and sisters in Christ. The church is so grateful to the generous few friends who did contribute as the result of our letter. Gloria’s sister’s church in Ohio responded positively to our plea for funds as did friends from Virginia, Kentucky, Texas, and Georgia. These fellow believers are not wealthy, but they understand that the Lord loves a cheerful giver. We know they have been blessed as we have been to be a vital part of this work.

The photos show the sturdy metal dome roof that covers the new building. Thanks again to those of you who helped purchase it. Now $3000 is needed to complete the front facade of the building. When that is accomplished, the church will be secured from vandalism, and the congregation can move in and begin worshipping—even on dirt floors. As more funds are raised, the new floor will be poured, kitchen appliances will be added, a small room will be prepared for visiting missionaries, restrooms will be available, and the pastor will have an office. After the entrance has been built, most funds will be for materials, as much of the interior work will be accomplished by church members. If you would like to contribute, even in a small way, to this worthwhile work, let us know. We will inform you of the address of the Central American Mission Board located in Dallas, and a project number for your contributions to be designated for Iglesia Esmirna. Donations are tax deductable.

The new building notwithstanding, the little church is spreading the Word of the Lord. A few Internationals attend, but the congregation is mostly indigenous townspeople. Most residents of San Marcos are Roman Catholic. Carlos, an American from Pennsylvania is the most excited and gifted advocate for the new building. He owns a lovely restaurant (see photo) and Internet center, and he wants the new building to have the same architectural beauty that his own facility has. His business is suffering as the result of decreased tourism. Pastor Jose (shown with his wife and son) represents a valuable new addition to the church. His messages are Biblically based, he is dynamic, and he has a sense of humor. He works a second job teaching Spanish to make ends meet. The photo of the little kids in Sunday school features Milia as teacher. She also leads the singing. Please pray that this little church will have a strong impact in San Marcos on the Lake.