Help Complete Construction at St. Mary of Zion in Jamaica

Dear Friends,

Saint Mary of Zion Church in Ocho Rios, Jamaica has been a beacon of faith, hope, and love to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo community in Jamaica for many years. Possessed of great faith, however, the community does not possess great material wealth. The church building currently lacks a roof or a floor, and services are being held inside a temporary structure.

In order to complete the roof, they are hoping to raise 5 million Jamaican dollars (around $30,000 USD). Then, they will need another 5 million to complete the floors, windows, wheelchair ramp, parking lot, and other facilities. This may be an underestimate, but we are determined to make a strong fundraising campaign and give them the most help we can.

St. Mary of Zion church in Ocho Rios has long-term plans to build a monk’s quarters and also to purchase a bus. They desire to make this church open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and to encourage tourists (especially Orthodox Christians) to include this place as a stop on their travels where they can pray, participate in daily educational programs, and partake of Holy Communion on a daily basis.

The funds raised will go toward:

• Building construction: Completing the roof, walls, floors, windows, and plumbing to ensure the church is functional and welcoming.

• Construction of the grounds: Completing the parking lot, stairs, wheelchair ramp, walls, and landscaping so that the grounds are safe, attractive, and accessible.

• Community outreach: Supporting food distribution, clothing donations, and other essential services.

• Ministry programs: Providing Sunday school materials, Bible study resources, and worship essentials.

• Long-term vision: Welcoming a resident monk, offering daily Communion, and creating a hub of activity.

No contribution is too small, and every dollar makes a difference. Together, we can give Saint Mary of Zion Church the resources it needs to continue being a light in the darkness for the people of Jamaica.

If you cannot donate, please share this campaign with others who might be able to help.

Thank you for your generosity, prayers, and support.

Let’s come together to make a lasting impact on this church and its congregation.

God bless you!