In Domažlice, they began building an Evangelical church for 11 million

Domažlice - The Domažlice Evangelicals have begun the construction of a new church near the city’s Hanover Park. In a barrier-free congregational building costing 11 million crowns, a prayer room, meeting spaces, a flat for the pastor, and a bakery will be created within a year. Zbyněk Wolf from the Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren (ČCE) in Domažlice told ČTK. According to ČTK information, this is expected to be the only newly built church in the region in the last 70 years.
    "The last new churches were built in Domažlice before the war," said Father Miroslaw Gierga of the Domažlice Roman Catholic parish. Six years ago, a new chapel was built in Pasečnice for 40 people.
    "We want to start building in May, and the first services should take place there in the gathering room at the turn of the year", added Wolf. A dedicated prayer room for 100 people and the entire building are expected to be completed by spring 2008. The congregation plans a grand opening in the fall.
    The Domažlice ČCE already has the necessary funds. "We will obtain half from the sale of the unsuitable congregational house on Kostelní Street, which we already have a buyer for," Wolf stated. The building, which underwent significant modifications 100 years ago, was originally an inn. It does not provide a dignified environment for services, which about 40 people attend. It is also not large enough for them. Additionally, the church lacks facilities for children and youth, biblical lessons, and larger spiritual and cultural events, such as meetings with the partner congregation from nearby Bavaria, Furth im Wald. "They will be able to visit us more frequently than currently only twice a year," said Wolf.
    The congregation received another three million from the state treasury, one million from a nationwide church collection, and half a million crowns from people in the congregation and nearby supporters. The local evangelical community also received solidarity from church members abroad.
    The Domažlice Evangelical congregation has been striving for a new congregational house, which includes a prayer room and parsonage, since its establishment after World War I. Construction was initially impeded by occupation, then by monetary reform and the regime.
    Next to the prayer room, there will be a congregational room and a bakery for the park with a children's playground. The Domažlice ČCE has over 300 believers registered. The nearest prayer rooms are in Kdyně in Domažlice, Stříbro in Tachov, and Merklín in Plzeň.