As I look back on the process of working on the new buildings on our new property, I can only think of God’s grace and provision. He is the One who has made all this possible. He has also used His people in our churches to make it happen for which we are grateful.

The Mission Office building has been completed for over one year now. We are settled in and appreciate the functionality of this nice building. The Event Center is also completed as of April 15, 2025. We look forward to how the Lord will use this in the training of future leaders and for our current missionaries.

The five short-term apartments are done. We hope to open them up for our missionaries around Easter after we get the furniture in place and make sure everything is working. I know this will be a blessing to many.

The retirement apartments are taking a little longer to finish. We encountered a few issues, but we are back on track. The drywall will be going up soon. We hope these will be done by the end of July 2025. We have a list of those who are eager to begin staying in them.

Allow me to share a few things I have learned and experienced through this process.

1. Building in America is much different than in Africa. There are many more rules and regulations with all the permits and environment issues.
2. I was advised to use those around me so that I did not have too much on me. I have done that which also allows me to keep doing what I need to do as the Mission Director.
3. Using a Construction Manager on our building was good although more expensive. Managing the construction of the other buildings without one — we are the general contractor — has resulted in a lot of unexpected headaches.
4. The time you hoped and believed various phases of the project would be completed does not always work out.
5. The cost is always going to be more than expected. I thought we had things pretty well figured out, but things changed and the cost of materials has risen significantly in comparison to when we first began.
6. Decisions, decisions, decisions on a daily basis. It can be a little overwhelming at times and honestly stressful as well.
7. Prayer is so important. I have prayed and asked God for wisdom and provision. He has seen us through to this point, opening doors every step of the way from the very beginning. God is so good!
8. Thanksgiving – I am thankful for all who have prayed for and given toward this project. Many missionaries will be blessed for many years to come.

Would you pray with me for more missionaries? Our world needs more people who would go and share the precious gospel of Jesus Christ. They need salvation. The Mission Office would love to be the vehicle that helps them get to where God has called them to serve. Pray according to Matthew 9:38.

-by Jon Konnerup, BBFI Mission Director