The Presbyterian Church of India is taking up a challenging and iconic project in commemoration of the 175th year or the Quartoseptcentennial Jubilee of the coming of the Gospel by launching a “House of Prayer” which is christened as “Thomas Jones I House of Prayer” at Kutmadan Village, Sohra.

NAME OF THE PROJECT
Thomas Jones I House of Prayer

RATIONALE
Thomas Jones-I and his wife Anna, landed at Sohra (Cherrapunjee) on 22nd June, 1841, after leaving Liverpool in the ship, “Jamaica”, in November, 1840. They were the first missionary couple sent by the Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Missionary Society (WCMMS) to North East India to bring and spread the light of the Gospel of salvation to the indigenous peoples of the region.
Subsequently, the work of the Welsh Mission spread to other parts of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, Mizoram (in 1894), the plains of Assam and Sylhet of present Bangladesh, Manipur and Myanmar, etc.
Even though there was much stress and strain,
the couple’s faith in the living God kept them going. They were men and women of prayer. Prayer changes things. Prayer overcomes all odds. Prayer is a vivid expression of faith and trust in the One who unflinchingly encouraged them in their work and promised to be with them all the time and everywhere. (Josh. 1:9; Matt. 20:20)

OBJECTIVES
– To build a Prayer Centre opened to all people and for all occasions.
– To conduct retreats for spiritual restoration for all.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SOHRA
Sohra or Cherrapunjee (Anglicized name) is an historical place. Once the wettest place in the world, it is the seat of Khasi culture. Today, it is very much a tourist delight all the year round, renowned for its caves and cascading waterfalls and when the sky is clear, the plains of Bangladesh can be viewed. During the monsoon season, there are tourists who, on a rainy day, would get down from their vehicles to dance in the rain.

PROJECT COST
The estimate amounting to Rs. 17,60,31,000/- (Rupees Seventeen Crore Sixty Lakhs Thirty One Thousand only) has been framed. The work shall be carried out as per the latest Indian Standard Codes of Practices and as per Meghalaya P.W.D (Building) specification and standard in particular. The rates provided will be effective for a period of 3 years.
Strategic Plan for Fund Raising
In view of financial constraint, the General Assembly, Presbyterian Church of India envisaged exploring possibilities in approaching well-wishers and donors for this iconic project as follows:
(1) Allocation from the General Fund of the Presbyterian Church of India
(2) All the Units, Presbyteries, Districts, Churches, Families, Church members at their disposal.
(3) Ecumenical Church bodies and organizations.
(4) Government agencies/Departments.
(5) Through Gospel musical concerts etc.

LAYING OF FOUNDATION
The laying of foundation was solemnized on 23rd January, 2016 at Kutmadan Village, Sohra, by Rev. D.C Haia Darnei, Moderator in the presence of different Committee members, invitees and Churches within Sohra District.

REQUEST AND APPEAL
On behalf of the General Assembly we appeal to well-wishers, Church members and families, Districts, Presbyteries, Synods and Organizations to generously contribute to this noble cause of construction of “Thomas Jones I House of Prayer.”

MODE OF GIVING INFORMATION
· Cash/Demand Draft/ Cheque/On-Line
Account No. – 18605 (UCO Bank, Shillong)
·Donation may be sent in favour of PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF INDIA A/C Payable at Shillong.
Amount: ___________________________

NOTE
· Please indicate in accompanying letter your contribution.
· Please send us the details of amount transferred.
Mail to: pcishillong@gmail.com
Branch Name:
Branch Code:
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Contact Nos.: + 91364 – 2505655/2221127/2226828
Address: Presbyterian Church of India Central Ward, Lower Lachumiere Shillong – 793001, Meghalaya