What is Normal?

Sunday, October 6, 2024 - click here to support the continuing work at MOHI

As I consider the work we do at MOHI, I look through this filter:

Yes!

What is "normal"? I often ask myself this question, especially after spending the better part of twenty years raising my family in Haiti.

The idea of "normal" varies greatly depending on where you are in the world. For instance, "normal" to an American might be reliable electricity, hot running water, and indoor plumbing. In the Dominican Republic, "normal" means having electricity from the grid almost 24/7, flushable toilets, and city water that’s inconsistent but accessible. Bottled water is essential for drinking.

However, in Haiti, particularly in the small city of Grand-Goâve, "normal" was far from this reality. Blackouts were more frequent than not, and to obtain electricity, it was common to see people trying to connect to the power lines themselves, praying the blackout didn’t end while they were up there. Water? "Normal" meant walking to a well or the river, filling a bucket, and carrying it home on your head.

In the village of La Grúa in the Dominican Republic, the situation was much the same until recently. With no city water, residents often relied on a neighbor who sporadically shared his city water, or they would draw water from the river. It was heartbreaking to see the community live without such basic necessities.

But thanks to the generosity of New England Chapel and others, La Grúa now has a water system that brings clean, potable water directly to the village. Not only do they have water for drinking and daily use, but it's the best quality in the country! What an amazing transformation to witness—one of the poorest communities now has a resource many can only dream of. We are so thankful to everyone who made this possible.

I'm so glad Taran could be there in La Grúa to witness these moments. He told us, "The kids and parents were all coming out and filling up buckets of all sizes. The little one said, 'the water tastes SO good!'"

I have loved watching John and Mayo work together on the final installation. Mayo continues to learn so much from John’s wealth of experience. I'm pretty sure John's learning some things from Mayo, as well. It’s a joy to see how far they’ve come together.

Amid all this progress, Mayo, Mèt Ben, and Billy are still making regular trips to Puerto Plata with little Isaiah and his mom. Isaiah is still waiting for his hernia surgeries. The poor boy has been suffering for so long, but we’re praying that his surgery will happen soon. Please keep Isaiah in your prayers.

Meanwhile, Mèt Ben, Nurse Marlouse, and Lucy continue their daily work in the village ministries. They have been so faithful in serving the communities of La Grúa, Baraguana, Cambiaso, and Playa Cambiaso, as well as Luperón. Babies are being fed, mothers are being educated, and those with chronic illnesses are receiving the care and encouragement they need. It’s incredible to see the LORD’s hand at work through this dedicated team.

Excitement is building for the upcoming citywide crusade in Luperón, "Christ the Hope of Life," which is only 11 days away. Taran has already arrived in Luperón, and Pastor Lex and a team from Life Church (Leominster, MA) will join him later this week. We’re praying for hearts to be touched and lives to be transformed. Our friends in Luperón did an outstanding job with the promotional materials. There will be several popular Christian artists at the crusade. Check out the video!

If you haven't already done so, there’s still time to support this event. We’re so grateful for everyone who has contributed ($9,500) already. Thank you. The crusade budget is for $16,000. If you feel led, please send a one-time gift to help make this crusade a reality and a pivotal moment for the people of Luperón.

With her encouragement and leadership, Aquilina continues to bless the students at the Bless Back Business Academy in Luperón. Her dedication to them is clear, and their growth is a testimony to her hard work and care.

In Haiti, Pastor Lex has been spending time at the school in Thozin—one of his favorite places in the world. He loves interacting with the staff and caring for the children there.

It’s been a busy week at the school, and with the reopening, we’re hopeful everything will continue to go smoothly. Our administrative and educational staff are incredible, working tirelessly to ensure the students’ success.

There’s also been a lot of activity on campus, with the maintenance crew planting coconut trees for future shade and sustenance. Coconuts are both a refreshing drink and a key ingredient in Haitian cooking.

The team has been working on many cleaning projects, securing the campus with barbed wire along the new fence and ensuring the premises stay safe.

While Haiti's infrastructure may be limited, our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide provides much-needed access to healthcare, dental care, and medications for our students and the community. Dr. Evens, Dr. Winnie, Dr. Mabou, and Dr. Derival are providing excellent care, and we’re grateful for the support that allows us to serve those in need.

No blog post would be complete without mentioning the precious babies in our programs. They continue to be fed, nurtured, and loved day in and day out.

We at MOHI are deeply thankful for the generosity each of you has shown. Your prayers, partnerships, friendships, and financial support are truly transforming individuals and communities. The impact of your involvement is spreading far beyond our immediate work, reaching throughout Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and even further. We couldn’t do this without you—thank you!