On February 16, 2023, at 10:46 a.m., five Covenant Brethren Church (CBC) pastors, a pastor from another denomination, and another CBC leader knelt together in prayer for the construction of a new CBC church in San Lucas, Guatemala. On March 20, 2026, at 10:44 a.m., three CBC leaders met with the pastor of a new CBC congregation in Higüey, Dominican Republic, to pray for its construction to be completed. This church will provide a Christian place of worship for an area that currently has none.

5 CBC pastors and others praying for the church construction on the Building Lot for the New Miracle Fishing Church in Guatemala.

However, prayer must be accompanied by action. We are called to support the work of the Lord through our giving, service, and encouragement. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 3:6, “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase” (KJV). Each of us has a part to play in building God’s Kingdom. A new congregation has a stronger foundation when it is supported by faithful prayer, dedicated workers, and a Christian community willing to invest in its future.

New Church at Higuey, Dominican Republic.
Construction continues.

Both churches are moving toward completion, but they need our continued prayers and financial support.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, prayer works! James 5:16 reminds us, “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avail much” (KJV). Prayer is essential as we seek to plant new churches and share the Good News of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

As we celebrate these new churches, we must also remember the many churches in our own country that are closing their doors. This is heartbreaking, especially when people who once worshiped together become disconnected from a church family. Some may never find another congregation to call home.

While we pray for new churches to be planted, we must also pray for existing congregations that are struggling with declining attendance, conflict, or discouragement. The Covenant Brethren Church has many small congregations facing difficult decisions about their future. These churches need our prayers, encouragement, and support. We must not give up on them!

In Revelation 2:5, the church is called to remember, repent, and return to its first love. May struggling congregations rediscover their love for Jesus Christ, renew their commitment to God’s Word, and reach out to their communities with His love.

Let us pray for new churches to grow, struggling churches to be renewed, and all congregations to remain faithful to the calling of Jesus Christ. As Matthew 9:37– 38 reminds us, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. May the Lord raise up workers, provide needed resources, and strengthen His people for the work ahead.

Brothers and sisters, let us never underestimate the power of prayer. Let us pray faithfully, give generously, serve willingly, and trust God to bring the increase. May all we do bring glory to His name!

Blessings,
Grover Duling, CBC Executive Board