Closer to God in Haiti

Sunday night and Haiti is back to the one I know and love – very hot, humid and me – very sweaty! We shared a wonderful day of worship. Patty and I were seated in the front row of church with all the little ones today and what an exhilarating service it was. We had the pleasure of the 15 oldest girls singing in Creole and English and Edvar, Marie’s son, preaching the sermon. He spoke in Creole and English for our benefit and it didn’t take long before God’s grace and mercy was flowing through the congregation. It was a very moving service for all involved. By service end, four young girls were sleeping on my lap with many more sleeping in pews and chairs around me. Then we moved out for many blessings and hugs by the congregation. All the girls were dressed in their best dresses, so camera shots were clicking. They had fun sharing a pair of my sunglasses for “some cool” pictures as well. Then it was back to Marie’s for a little lunch and an afternoon of fellowship with Marie and her son. He is a Pastor and has a ministry in Florida and St. Michelle, Haiti. What a pleasure it was to hear his testimony growing up in Haiti and Florida and decision to go to seminary. Got a chance to discuss Marie’s ministry with him as well as all the work IFJ has been doing since the quake. What an awesome opportunity to share some of the God connections that have been made. In late afternoon, Andy our translator and friend stopped by to see us to talk about a computer skills ministry that his team would like to start with Marie’s school. This is definitely something that would help all students out as they go on to higher education. Before leaving we prayed that God would give us direction on next steps for this great opportunity. The evening ended with a plate of stewed chicken legs and fresh vegetables. Dinner was capped off with frozen Snickers bars all the way around the table! As the evening ended, Patty mention we are counting down to three days left and realizing we both have much more to do! So it is to bed early for some much needed rest and we will hit it early tomorrow again. Thanks to all for your wonderful prayers and support of this ministry. Know we are bringing home with us all the love and fellowship shared from each one of the girls for all of you to see through our hearts, stories and smiles.

Renee