Haiti

Since the earthquake in Haiti two years ago, the evangelical churches there have grown in size. However, most of the church buildings are still in ruins, with the local pastor having now way of rebuilding it. This team will be involved in the rebuilding of Mission Baptist Church in Delmas, Haiti. Basic construction skills are required for this part of the ministry. The leadership development component of this team will focus on training for church leaders.

Updated Sunday, May 6
We received word that the Haiti team arrived home safe and sound. Thank you for praying them through their experience!

Updated Monday, April 30
Email from Monisha   
Day One - Team Haiti arrives. We were picked up at the airport in a large van, which over the last few days has been proved to be a huge luxury. As we drive, we pass sidewalks filled with people selling dry pasta shells, sugar care stalks, live chickens and rabbits, shoes, Levis, etc. You become instantly aware of unpaved streets, pollution, car and trucks spewing fumes. We came to Pastor Eddie's home where his lovely wife, Mirlande, met us and began to shuffle us to our rooms.  We will call their home, our home for the next week. We proceed with lunch cooked by their lovely cook, Jinette. We then walked over to one of Greg's orphanages which holds disabled children. We were able to spend about an hour just loving one these little lambs. They, in turn, have crawled into each of our hearts forever. 

Day Two - Our first full day. Today, we had the option of attending Pastor Eddie's church at 6 a.m. or wait and attend Pastor Modil's church which started at 9 a.m. The latter is the church that we are here to help rebuild. During the earthquake, this was the church that collapsed and took the life of his wife and his home. But he continues to shepherd his congregation in spite of such great devastation. He does it all with a smile and outspread arms. Though the sermon was given in Creole, one of the languages spoken in Haiti, we all understood it and were visibly touched by the words. Amazing to have a visual and auditory reminder of how the message of Jesus Christ and His great sacrifice can transcend language barriers! After church, some went to visit the "western" market, some went back to the orphanage, and others stayed back "home" to rest. We ended the day with a devotion [and debrief] time with our team.

Day Three - First day of construction. We met for breakfast at 6:30 a.m. and it seemed that everyone was starting to get their minds geared for the day ahead. We got to the site about thirty minutes later. Armed with tools, safety goggles, gloves, and a great attitude, the team set out to take measurements, saw wood, climb heights, etc. By the end of the day, we built three walls and put together a truss. Four more are ready and waiting in the wings for our return tomorrow! It was a day that allowed us to build not only the physical building but wonderful, and God willing, long-lasting relationships. We climbed back into a tap tap (a mode of transportation here. Not sure if they call it a tap tap because it taps on your spine as it bounces you side to side or because you tap on the roof of the carrier when you are ready for it to drive off. I think it's the latter.) and sat down to delicious meal and much-needed fortification at home. After dinner we rested and had devotions again as a team. Rick Jamieson led our hearts in a powerful message about how God can use common folk to do uncommon things.    

Much more to report as the days go by, if we are able to get internet access. We are looking forward to Pastor Mike and Ed's arrival tomorrow. Should be more fun and can't wait to hear what they will accomplish during their time here. Take care and see you all soon. Please continue to keep this beautiful place bathed in prayer. 

Monisha & Our Entire Team

 
Updated Saturday, April 28
We received word that the team arrived in Haiti safe and sound this morning. Check back for more updates about the construction project and the upcoming conference, and pray for God's work through both!