Mid-January, the workers, – who had been so difficult to find, finally arrived. Almost all external work on the buildings is expected to be completed by the end of February. As a result, the scaffolding will be removed, and during March, earthworks will be underway to restore once again the green and serene atmosphere of this place.
Due to limited funds, our primary focus now is to complete, at least to a functional level, the main building that houses our kitchen, dining room, lecture hall, basement recreational room, and some staff accommodation. In a pinch, this building could also provide accommodation for students in smaller groups so that we can soon start our Winter schools. Bookings for both the Spring and Fall Bible school courses have been very encouraging, and we are now completely full for 2024.
Moreover, we are pleased with the response we’ve received concerning our staff requirements. But for most applicants, getting a residency visa for long-term stay and work in Greece has been challenging. Hence, we’re working with short-term volunteers. For this season, we still need the services of a cook or a cook’s assistant, one for Spring and another in the Fall. Additionally, we could use the help of a female Resident Assistant to work with our students during the Fall course.
Further, It would be much appreciated if you could pray with us for funds to complete the project as soon as possible to ensure we can maximise our effectiveness. Many passing through this place have been profoundly impacted. These short term schools have helped snatch back young people standing at the precipice of hell. As the world becomes darker and more confused by the day, we are seeing a deepening hunger for what is true and good. It is heartbreaking to have to turn people away for lack of space and for lack of staff to serve them. Please pray for us and consider how we might collaborate as God’s spirit prompts you. Please don’t underestimate the significance of even a small steady contribution donated monthly for example, that adds up over time! I appeal particularly to those of you who have participated here and know by experience how God can work to save and transform lives.