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Our school year began on Wednesday, August 13, just two days after the scheduled opening. The minor delay was necessary to allow for the completion of several of our summer construction projects. We praise the Lord for all His help in bringing all the details together.
First of all, He provided the funds to allow us to build the cafeteria and install floor tile in the upstairs classrooms. Second, He gave wisdom to plan and execute the plans. Third, He provided personnel to do the work.
The funds came from several years of saving funds from both the church and school. Even in our absence, the funds were laid aside. This occurred in spite of the fact that Puerto Rico’s economy has been adversely affected by poor fiscal management on the part of our island government and the added pressures of rising prices due to the inflation of oil prices. God’s people here have learned that it is a joy to give to the Lord, and they have done so sacrificially.
Planning began during our furlough as we exchanged ideas and drawings. No one has a corner on the market of good ideas, so we worked with a contractor in our church, our church’s leadership, and the members themselves. Originally the walls were not going to be done in block, but we decided on the more permanent structure to allow for better security and comfort. The work began in early May while we were still in the States; otherwise, we would never have been finished on time.
The Lord had placed a builder in our congregation during our absence. He is a man of integrity who serves the Lord through his talents. He found a helper who was faithful in showing up for work and cooperative in adjusting his schedule to suit the needs of the project. In early July, the Lord sent us a mission team that installed the roof of the cafeteria in record time.
The flooring project gave us a bit more difficulty. We had a little difficulty finding someone to install the tile, but the Lord provided the right man at just the right time. He worked with us to finish the project on time, even working on Saturdays to meet the deadline.
I have included a photo gallery to help you understand the progress God has granted. Church members, students, and parents have all commented at the amazing amount of work done in just a little over two months. Praise the Lord for His goodness!
