At the June 2023 General Assembly, Coban IBN was approved as a historic site, so a special plaque was unveiled by General Superintendent Gustavo Crocker, a native son of Guatemala, to commemorate this wonderful occasion. Many local, district, regional, and global church leaders were present, including Rev. Jim Ritchie, Global Missions director. He said:
“I have always loved the vision and heart behind Alabaster, and as a regional director and now Global Missions director, it has been so moving and exciting to see the end results of the church's sacrificial and joyful giving to Alabaster become a physical reality. I would encourage all Nazarene churches everywhere to play their part in Alabaster giving, as it really makes a difference. I also want to thank all local pastors and NMI leaders for keeping Alabaster at the forefront of the church's hearts and minds as they give their own gift to Jesus as he builds his church in this wonderful and unique way.”
Global Nazarene Missions International Director Lola Brickey shares:
“Coban, Guatemala, holds a special place in the hearts of all NMI leaders because it was where the first building was constructed with the help of Alabaster funds 75 years ago. While they were the first, gratefully, they are not the last. Since then, millions of quetzals, pesos, pounds, euros, rands, dollars, and other funds have been given, and countless projects have been undertaken. I am so grateful that Nazarenes around the world have continued to give sacrificially and faithfully to Alabaster offerings.”
Alabaster helps give longevity to the presence and purpose of Nazarene missions. The story of Alabaster continues to be written through transformed lives on every region. Thank you for giving through Alabaster!
