When we first arrived in Ziway in 2008, the Meserete Kristos Church met in a small pole and mud building which it long ago outgrew. The number of people attending each Sunday was far greater than the seating capacity. Backless benches were set up outside so that people could sit and listen. Very few of those sitting outside could see through the small windows and doors to observe what was going on inside.

In 2002, the congregation stepped out in faith and began construction of a new, much larger church building. As money became available they purchased materials and added to the building. The new building continued to grow and improve with walls constructed of concrete blocks and trusses of metal.

Then the church received a big boost via a generous donation to Misgana Ministries from a church in Illinois. It made it possible for the congregation to fill in the gable ends and add a metal roof. Once the roof was on, the congregation moved to the “new building” in spite of having no windows or doors.

Subsequent to that, the congregation recently took up a collection and has constructed a stage, or pulpit. Shortly after the stage was built, the congregation again came together to greatly improve their sound system. Then some windows were installed. Little by little, as money becomes available, improvements are being made to this “building by faith.”

We are excited that we now have a much larger facility to accommodate all those who come for church services and other worship activities.

The congregation is growing rapidly, for which we praise God. We constantly rejoice over more people giving their lives to Jesus. We pray that God will quickly provide the funds to finish His house here in Ziway.

A nice floor, the remaining windows, doors, a ceiling, lighting, and other finishing touches remain to be added.

The former Ziway Meserete Kristos church building.

The Ziway Meserete Kristos Church after the addition of the stage, drapes, and more seating capacity.

Congregation of the Ziway Meserete Kristos Church during worship. As can be seen, windows, a floor, doors, ceiling, lighting, etc. still need to be added.