We are delighted to inform you about the construction of our new Mar Youhanna Maroun Church in our beloved village of Diman. The main objective is to build a place of worship that accommodates 450 parishioners - considering that the capacity of the existing church is 70 people. This is truly a historic and joyous time for Diman and it's descendants all over the world who have come together to build this magnificent building. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to leave our mark and give back to this amazing place that is entrenched in our hearts and our minds. It is also an opportunity to honour our parents, and grandparents, while sending a strong message to future generations about the importance of faith in our lives.
Construction started in the Fall of 2014. The excavation, concrete, masonry, interior partitioning, and site retaining walls are now complete. Exterior stone work and roofing is underway and projected to finish in the fall of 2018. To date, through the collaboration of our three communities in Australia, Canada and Diman, we have managed to raise one million and one hundred thousand US dollars. The final phase of construction includes windows, doors, and interior work which is projected to cost $500,000. We are confident that this money will be raised; our measure of success, however is in not only by how much money we raise, but by getting everyone with a connection to Diman to take part in this glorious project, each to their own ability. We strongly believe that with the building of this church, the people of Diman are writing history, and we hope that every person with a connection to Diman, shares in the joy and blessing of building the new Mar Youhanna Maroun Church.