Small Chapels in Small Villages
Until the 1990’s, the Apostles were in charge of building village chapels, costing US$ 1000 each. Each of these small chapels were constructed in their own unique style and with varying materials of construction. However as the number of sealed members continued to increase, attempts were made to standardize the kind of church that was being built.
In the 1990’s, village churches were built with framed structures and concrete. Trusses and sheets were designed more uniformly. One report says that every three days a church was being completed. This would mean that almost a hundred churches were built in a year.
Expanding the Vision
At the end of the 1990’s and the beginning of the 2000’s the church building program shifted its focus. With the future in sight, the church building program sought to diversify from its uniform structured churches, and build spaces that could also be used for other church related activities. In some places, larger multi-purposes buildings were constructed, while elsewhere, existing buildings were purchased and modified. These newer buildings allowed for activities such as choir practices, minister meetings and Sunday school class, which opened up new opportunities for fellowship.
Churches for the Future
Over the years the Church building program has evolved. No longer focused on just quantity, the program now aims at providing a space for fellowship and learning. It now also takes into consideration the geographical and cultural contexts in which these buildings are being constructed. the aim is to create a space that can be used for multiple purposes while also catering to the specific cultural and environmental needs of the area.
As we moved into the consolidation phase of growth, we hope that the church building program can continue to provide safe havens to members all across the country.