Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Many of you have expressed interest in church-planting initiatives in Egypt, especially rural and economically depressed communities in greater Cairo and the southern provinces. During the past few years, the number of evangelical churches has increased by more than 30%. This has been possible by the grace of God, the dedication of congregations in Egypt, and the support of many friends across the globe.

We must express our gratitude to the current administration that has demonstrated a friendly attitude toward Christians by designating parcels of land in newly developed communities for planting new churches; granting construction and renovation permits; and, for the first time, granting all existing churches legal deeds of ownership.

In other encouraging news, The Synod of the Nile has reported that the number of evangelical churches now exceeds 450, up from about 300 a decade ago; an additional 60 church buildings are under construction. Also, more than a dozen fellowship groups have become recognized as new, active churches. 

The leadership of the evangelical denominations has realized that, in addition to building physical structures, there’s a great need to build congregations and expand the ministries of the new churches. To meet this challenge, the 80/800 Program was created to launch and support 80 churches this decade and 800 in the decades to come. This program is being led by a team from the Synod of the Nile, and the scope of services include assistance and support to congregations in the many phases of church planting, growth, and operations, including:

1. Applying and getting the required building, occupancy, and operational permits
2. Constructing and equipping sanctuary worship and meeting spaces for children, youth, and adult education
3. Building organizational capacity, including selecting and supporting a pastor and establishing basic worship and pastoral-care programs
4. Helping churches and congregations to launch community ministry and outreach, such as food banks, childcare, medical clinics, etc.

As always, 100% of your tax-deductible contributions will be designated and delivered to the 80/800 program; this is in addition to continuing your usual support of the many churches, ministries, and charitable programs in Egypt thorough Christians Caring for Egypt.

May the Lord continue blessing you and your family as we enter the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season!

Grace and peace,

Amir A. Metry, MTS, PhD

President

CHRISTIANSCARINGFOREGYPT, INC.

MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ 08831-9998

From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required (Luke 12:48)