First Sabbath Offering for a chapel in Washington, D.C.

As a people who are preparing for the second coming of Jesus, we owe a debt of gratitude to our Protestant forefathers who, under the providence of God, founded a country that protects freedom of religion for all individuals—the United States of America. The capital city of this nation is Washington, District of Columbia, whose general area is home to about 650,000 residents, including the national government officials, foreign diplomats and their families, and a weekly population of more than one million commuters from the Maryland and Virginia suburbs. This makes it the 23rd most populous city within the United States, and the seventh largest metropolitan area. This large center of population with its economic, political, and cultural commerce is a fertile ground for the spreading of the gospel.

The work of reformation began in Washington, D.C. area in the late 1970s with only a handful of members. As time progressed, in 1980 a small house was purchased in Temple Hills, Maryland (a suburb of the District) and repurposed as a church building. As time passed, this small chapel has served as a beacon of light in this large area. Many brethren have come through Temple Hills and helped build the ministry in this area. The chapel, which has been used for many years, accommodates approximately 30 people. However, this has become too small for us to worship. With a growing membership and regularly attending visitors, we are in need of a larger building. After much prayer and fasting, a decision was made to purchase a larger facility, strategically located in this metropolis, permitting us to better fulfill the commission of our Lord to “Go ye therefore, and teach ALL nations.” The proclamation of the gospel must spread to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people that all may have an opportunity to hear and accept the gift of salvation.

We appeal to all Sabbath School students to help us with this project, in raising a new beacon of light in the capital of the United States. May God reward you richly as you donate liberally to His cause. We thank you in advance for your generous contribution to this worthy plan.

Your brethren and sisters from Washington, D.C., U.S.A.