Remembering the Past - Building the Future
Sunday, January 12, 2025 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]
As I write today's update, wildfires are devastating homes in Southern California. Know that our hearts are with you, and our prayers are reaching God's ear.
Reflecting on 15 Years Since the Earthquake
Today marks the 15th anniversary of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 magnitude quake struck, claiming the lives of over 220,000 people, injuring more than 300,000, and leaving 1.5 million homeless. The destruction was immense, with homes, schools, and churches reduced to rubble. Lex and I, along with our children and a team from the US and Germany, experienced this catastrophe firsthand. It was a time of seeming hopelessness, yet we found strength in the presence of God. His comfort sustained us amidst the great sorrow of losing friends and loved ones, as did every family in Haiti.
Today’s Challenges and a Call to Prayer
Fifteen years later, Haiti faces another storm—gang violence that grips the lives of millions. Fear and uncertainty are daily realities for many. As we remember the sorrow of the earthquake, we ask for your continued prayers. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” This truth sustains us, and we’re grateful that the foundation of MOHI continues to stand firm despite the shaking and storms of life.
An Exciting Opportunity for a Mission House
We have an incredible opportunity before us to purchase a mission house with owner financing. This house serves as a safe haven and a base for short- and long-term missionaries, allowing them to go out and care for the surrounding communities. To secure this home, we need to raise $80,000 in the next three months. Owning this property will provide stability and expand our capacity to serve. We invite you to join hands with us in prayer and support to make this dream a reality.
Chair City Church: Faith in Action
Last week, we enjoyed hosting our friends from Chair City Church. They prayed with many and helped advance the construction of apartment building #2 ...
... they poured love into the children ...
... enjoyed some good food ...
... and enjoyed many unique aspects of the Dominican Republic.
They also worshiped alongside the Haitian Baptist Church. Though the church building remains incomplete, its members’ faith and determination shine. Their next goal is to install the bathroom, and we’re excited to walk this journey with them.
Vibrance and Growth at MOHI
It’s inspiring to see the vibrance of church services at both MOHI campuses in Haiti. The love for beauty and worship is evident in every gathering.
Meanwhile, our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide continues to transform lives. In a country where seeking medical care often happens too late, our clinic in Grand-Goâve has become a trusted place for thousands. People now have a reliable source for primary care and are starting to visit the dental clinic for regular checkups as well. This shift is monumental, and we are deeply grateful for our partners who help make it possible.
Schools Back in Session
Schools in Haiti are back in session after the long holiday break, providing children with a sense of normalcy and hope amidst the ongoing challenges. Education is a cornerstone of rebuilding lives and communities, and seeing the students return to their studies is a testament to the resilience of the Haitian people. MOHI’s schools continue to offer academic instruction, spiritual guidance, and a nurturing environment.
START NOW: Empowering Lives
The START NOW program is another beacon of hope, both in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This early childhood intervention program equips young children with foundational skills, preparing them for future success. Through START NOW, we address developmental delays and provide critical support to families. Seeing the growth and potential in these children reminds us of the transformative power of education and intervention.
Birds
One of my joys in life over the past 40 years or so is watching birds. Here in Luperón there seems to be a healthy abundance of very loud Hispaniola Woodpeckers. The mission house has an abundance of doves that regularly visit us in pairs. Today, I saw a Hispaniolan Kestrel. It has the bird-of-prey look like a hawk and a prominent, almost pink-colored back. Mayo was in the yard and he told me it was the Dominican version of an eagle. He's only seen maybe ten in his entire lifetime. I didn't have time to catch a photo, but this one will give you a better idea of how beautiful this bird is.
This dancing bird can be seen in a local day resort that we usually bring the teams to for dinner.
From CA to MA and NY in between
Along with Taran, we welcomed a new team yesterday from across America. Mackenzie and Bri join us from California, Ben, Sue, and Luke from Massachusetts, and Jess (who was just with us in November) from New York. They are off to a GREAT start.
Gratitude for Partnership and Support
We cannot do this work alone. Philippians 1:3-5 says, “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” To all who stand with us in prayer, giving and service—thank you. Your faithfulness strengthens the foundation of hope in Haiti. Together, we continue to rebuild, heal, and shine God’s light in the darkness.
