Sunday Morning...

Good morning,

I sent out an update to our prayer warrior list 2 days ago, but forgot to update on here. Sorry. Not a LOT is happening, but there is a bit. We've seen some trucks that made it through from Port au Prince. They come caravan style to avoid problems on the road with both thieves and those who have nothing and are desperate. We think they were carrying staples, like beans, rice, oil, and those sort of staples. The problem is the prices of these things have gone out of sight. I understand them charging more, since they are taking risks to get them here, but it seems a bit extreme. And the normal Haitian can't afford those prices. There have also been some gas trucks who made it through. Fuel is coming in slowly, more like a trickle. But it's a start. No propane at this point, so we are still praying for that. And we may not be able to get it the first few trucks that come in, either. People are in a panic state for items they can't get. Yet, we know the Lord knows, and is in charge. Although things seem to be starting to calm down, the situation with the displaced people has not changed. They still have nothing and have no where to go. So, please keep praying for them and us, and all who are trying to help them.

Don has been a bit overwhelmed by the school costs. He is still trying to help about 15 kids with their schooling. He has gotten some of them started with the first payments they have to make just to get into school. They have to pay an "inscription" fee, which is a registration fee. Then they have to pay for the first month of school, then pay for uniforms (which are required here), then books and shoes. It's unreal what it takes to get a child in school here. Don has already paid quite a bit for these 15 kids he has helped, but to finish their fees to cover through December, he still needs way over $2,000 US. Then for the rest of the school year, he needs another $670. Parents here would sell their last cow (and their means of livelihood) to put a child in school. They feel educating their child will help them in the future. (The child can graduate, get a job, and help support the family). But most cannot afford to do it for all the years needed to graduate. It's sad that this education is costing so much here.

We have been able to help out more with food since our last update. Many, many have come up here from Gonaives. They have nothing and no where else to go. Helping with food is a first step. From that point on, we really need the Lord to guide and direct us in how, where and who to help. Please keep that in prayer.

The rains have finally stopped. Our ground is starting to recover from that onslaught. But within a day and a half, the roads were back to being a dust bowl. A lot of the roadwork was washed away and our roads are worse than they were before. So, travel take a lot more time. (and you acquire a lot more bruises from bouncing around).

MFI has been in and delivered much needed supplies along with the relief supplies they have been bringing. We are so thankful for them "Standing in the Gap" for everyone here. We have missionary friends who are praying for tents. They have so many displaced people at their compound and need places for them to sleep and eat. They are also praying for food to feed them, but shelter is important. They also have several churches out in the country toward Gonaives, where people have lost everything, even their church. They would like to go in and help out with at least food and shelter for them. Please pray for them.

We are doing okay...it's a struggle for us emotionally, and even spiritually at times, but we do know that God is here and He is with us and with the Haitian people who will call upon Him. Pray for us to be a good witness to all who come, even those we cannot help.

Keep the container in prayer...we've put down a deposit on it now, and Monday we are supposed to go in for inspection. It could take another week after that before we get it. Pray that it is released and the cost is lower than expected. And that we get it quickly. The first step is on the way and we pray for delivery.

Time to get ready for church. It is a joy to see the Haitians rejoicing in the Lord, no matter their circumstances. They love to pray and sing. It's very uplifting.

We know you face struggles, too, and we are praying God will meet your needs as you turn to Him. Have a super great Sunday. Our love to you all!!