On All fronts

As Holy Week approaches, we remember—and share with you—this statement from Jesus to His disciples and others drawn in by some sensational event. Jesus, however, is primarily concerned with His impending death, through which He gives us eternal life. This remains the heart of all this work, so that Toby Kristy Voahombo truly lives up to its name: the “Camp of the Crucified Christ.”

We are beginning to glimpse the finish line. We’re trying to launch as many projects as possible in parallel, while managing various priorities, workers, and trades as best we can:

• Electricity (solar power plant and terminal low-voltage equipment)

• Exterior and interior painting

• Carpentry (doors, windows, furniture…)

The first coat of paint now graces the exterior walls, bringing the building one step closer to its final look and adding a fresh sense of life and identity to the structure.

Inside, the team has started pouring the screed for the floors, while the first layer of primer is being applied to the walls—setting the stage for the colors to come.

The village is far removed from any electrical grid, which means we must be fully self-sufficient when it comes to energy. Given the region’s abundant sunshine throughout the year, a solar power system was the natural choice. The solar panels are now being installed on the roof, followed by the setup of the interior electrical network. One of the photos shows the team of electricians at work—some of whom are long-time friends of the Toby. Thank you, dear brothers!

Additional benches are, of course, essential to welcome the faithful. Our tireless Monique Rajakoba is visiting the carpentry workshop in Mahajanga, which is a full day’s (rough) journey away. The benches will soon be transported to the Toby, where the final assembly will take place on site.