Treasure Center Update

Two months ago, we moved into the new Treasure Center building. The building has changed but the center still represents hope and serves as a reminder that each woman is treasured.

We are renters at the new Treasure Center, and were recently told by the landlord that he wants to sell it in the next couple of months. This means we either buy it or leave. This was devastating, but unfortunately, not a surprise. Even though we just moved in and the house is old and needs some work, we already consider it home. Within these walls we've watched our first Sisters of Rwanda business come to life and we've become a family. It has provided shelter in crisis, and has allowed healing to take root and blossom in those who enter. There is a garden growing in the spacious yard that is full of vegetables the women will soon harvest. It is a safe place for kids to play, a place where we work hard and celebrate life. On a Saturday afternoon, you're likely to find a few women practicing their new trade (even though it's their day off) while others come to share a meal and enjoy each other's company.

This is our Treasure Center, our refuge, and it's always full of life. We want to stay. Not only is it our refuge, but we cannot afford to not have a venue for KEZA jewelry production. Without any prompting from us, our beloved Sisters have starting fasting every Tuesday and praying daily while faithfully marching around the home, inspired by the story of the Israelites marching around Jericho. The writer of a book called Hebrews reminds us, "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for 7 days." Now we, of course, do not want any walls falling but we do hope to purchase it and truly be able to call it ours. It will be nothing short of a miracle if we can raise the $90,000 dollars needed to purchase the home.

Owning this Treasure Center will keep us from having to move every 3-6 months. It will finally be a place the Sisters can call their own. And it will alleviate us from having any major monthly bills. We've done the research, the price is right, and the location is absolutely perfect. We are calling on those who support the vision of SOR to help us raise this $90,000 for the Treasure Center.

Ilea Dorsey, Country Director (Rwanda)