Today was something else. We had a fellowship dinner put on by our team after church for the missionaries. It went great. But everyone was sharing the stories of those they knew in Port and what was going on. Some of the miracles are awe inspiring. A whole family buried under their home when it collapsed....and all are out and fine. THAT IS GOD!! And those stories were repeated over and over of how God stepped in and took control. This disaster was NOT sent by the Lord, but He is using it to bring people to Him. We hear all the gory details over and over, but not many of the miracles have made it into the news. There are a LOT of miracles taking place and we need to praise Him for what He is doing. Yes, there is death and destruction and we need to keep praying for those who are in those really bad situations, or for those whose families are not with them anymore. At English Bible Fellowship, one of the missionaries shared something that was inspiring. He received a message from a Haitian pastor who is stateside, and some of his family passed away. The pastor said, "They are away." Not gone... but away....what a concept. He knows he will see them again and doesn't consider them GONE. To be able, in these circumstances, to have such a deep conviction is phenomenal. Pray for others to be able to see the truth in that.
English church was awesome. So many sharing the PRAISES of things going on now. It's great that as a church we can rejoice in God's miracles, and yet, pray together for the needs to be met and for God's guidance in all of this turmoil. An added blessing, our son, grandson and a friend did a number in church. Our grandson played the flute and it was wonderful. Then the pastor from our home church shared God's word. What an uplifting time of fellowship. We need these times to off set the rest of what is happening.
We had wondered where the pastor from the EBAC orphanage was. But praise God, he turned up in Canada, safe and sound. We knew he had headed to Port to fly out...but had no confirmation that he had done it.
We have had so many coming to us, letting us know their relatives are moving up here to live with them. This is going to be a really hard time, dealing with all the needs to be met. It IS a heavy burden for us, but it's so much more for the Haitians. This country really needs the Lord's Hand to bring it around. Pray with us that God will bring in His Spirit to start working in hearts and lives.
I have to make this post short since power is limited now. Please keep praying... we have been seeing busloads of people coming up and the UN has been transporting people here from Port, too. This is a bit overwhelming when we think of all that lays ahead of us. We need prayers for discernment, wisdom and grace. Please be with us and hold up our arms as we strive to do what the Lord wants us to do.
In His Service, and in His Love,
Karen for all of us...........
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Saturday
So much going on all over, but today I decided to take a look at some of the POSITIVE things. Our team did their pastors conference. According to Pastor Codo, it was a wonderful success. He said the pastors were so thrilled to have someone take the time to come and share their knowledge with them. I think our team was just as happy to be a part of a wonderful group of caring Christians. Yes, the turmoil in the country was evident. Some were unable to come. They didn't make it from Port. Transportation in the north was very hard to come by, so some didn't make it here, because they couldn't find a tap-tap. Others came on bikes and even on foot to get there. They had over 70, and that is great.
I'll share some photos today of the conference and what went on. I'll try to explain things as I go. Pastor David was one of the speakers. As with all of the team, they shared from their hearts. And were received with gratitude.
Dale shared too, and many of the pastors not only knew him from the last conference they had, but from when he lived here in Haiti. Jim took his turn at teaching and shared from his heart and knowledge, too.
When Haitians pray, it's an awesome thing. Their love and reverence for the Lord is so evident in their prayers.
Our son, grandson and Mari shared a musical number or two. We're proud of our grandson getting up and playing the flute. I think they all loved hearing the Americans share in music as well as words.
There were morning and afternoon sessions. It wasn't just pastors who came. It was church workers and teachers, too. Mari had sessions with the women in attendance. And even in between sessions, sharing continued, as seen here when Mike was with some of the attendees.
All of those who attended were so pleased. It was a great conference. One of the pastors who came, was a bit late. He came from Port au Prince and shared with everyone his experiences. It was an enlightening time for not only the Haitians, but for the team as well.
Today the team was able to go out for a while. They visited Pastor Wagner and saw his church, then went to an orphanage, and even got a quick look at town. The roads make that trip VERY, VERY tiring, so upon return, it was nap time. But not for long.
Then tonight some of our girls made the team a Haitian meal and did a fantastic job. To our surprise, Betty's brother (she is one of our kids and the one who got married recently) came from Port to be with his sister. He shared some of his experiences with the team.
MFI came in today to pick up a team, but I wasn't able to go, so sent Pastor Saintil to process the team going out. They went to Port with a load of relief supplies then came here to pick up a team that was stranded. With no commercial planes flying from Port, teams are stranded all over the place. Again, MFI is standing in the gap for everyone.
The turmoil and heartache continues, but through it all, God is still there and willing to take that heavy yoke upon HIS shoulders, if people would only turn to Him. Keep praying...He can have a victory here if intercessors keep praying. Till tomorrow... we are looking through the clouds for the sunshine...SONSHINE!!!
I'll share some photos today of the conference and what went on. I'll try to explain things as I go. Pastor David was one of the speakers. As with all of the team, they shared from their hearts. And were received with gratitude.
Dale shared too, and many of the pastors not only knew him from the last conference they had, but from when he lived here in Haiti. Jim took his turn at teaching and shared from his heart and knowledge, too.
When Haitians pray, it's an awesome thing. Their love and reverence for the Lord is so evident in their prayers. Our son, grandson and Mari shared a musical number or two. We're proud of our grandson getting up and playing the flute. I think they all loved hearing the Americans share in music as well as words.
There were morning and afternoon sessions. It wasn't just pastors who came. It was church workers and teachers, too. Mari had sessions with the women in attendance. And even in between sessions, sharing continued, as seen here when Mike was with some of the attendees. 
All of those who attended were so pleased. It was a great conference. One of the pastors who came, was a bit late. He came from Port au Prince and shared with everyone his experiences. It was an enlightening time for not only the Haitians, but for the team as well.
Today the team was able to go out for a while. They visited Pastor Wagner and saw his church, then went to an orphanage, and even got a quick look at town. The roads make that trip VERY, VERY tiring, so upon return, it was nap time. But not for long.Then tonight some of our girls made the team a Haitian meal and did a fantastic job. To our surprise, Betty's brother (she is one of our kids and the one who got married recently) came from Port to be with his sister. He shared some of his experiences with the team.
MFI came in today to pick up a team, but I wasn't able to go, so sent Pastor Saintil to process the team going out. They went to Port with a load of relief supplies then came here to pick up a team that was stranded. With no commercial planes flying from Port, teams are stranded all over the place. Again, MFI is standing in the gap for everyone.
The turmoil and heartache continues, but through it all, God is still there and willing to take that heavy yoke upon HIS shoulders, if people would only turn to Him. Keep praying...He can have a victory here if intercessors keep praying. Till tomorrow... we are looking through the clouds for the sunshine...SONSHINE!!!
Friday, January 15, 2010
Friday
I'm glad I'm taking the time to update things. I have been overwhelmed by the people who have been reading this...humm...maybe I'd better watch what I am saying. People who don't know me may not understand some of my things. But I was told a blog is where you can just let your feelings talk to others. Boy, have you all been getting an ear full, huh? But I do know that so many want to hear about things here, even when we are discouraged, so they can pray. And I thank each and every one of you who are praying, not only for us, but for Haiti. God can use this awful catastrophe to bring people around to Him. I keep going back to scripture and remember God can use ANYTHING for His glory, if we simply LET Him. So my prayer is: God, take this whole situation and turn it around. You can heal hearts and hurts. You can bring peace to hearts where they are in turmoil. You can comfort where there seems no help. Lord, you are the God of the universe and you can take our lives and make them into something great for you. Be with all of our brothers and sisters who are suffering and give them hope. Take those who don't know you, and move their hearts toward you. Let your light shine in their lives. Be with Haiti. Surround Haiti with your love and care and let people see how much you love them. In the Holy and Precious Name of Your Son, Jesus, Amen.
And yes, God IS in control. The horror of the earthquake itself is over, but now the aftermath is setting in. People in Port are desperate and hurting. And these feelings are turning some to violence and lawbreaking. But put yourself in their place. If you or your family were tossed about, your home destroyed, your livelihood gone, everything you owned laying in rubble, your dreams turned to dust and now you have gone days without food or water, and you may be injured...where would YOU be? I don't know...I would pray I could act in a godly way, but when children are involved, I might turn to these things, too. So, prayers need to be going up constantly for this suffering humanity. A lot of help is coming in, but we are dealing with over a MILLION people, and trying to get through to them, when roads are blocked with debris, yes, even bodies, it's REALLY HARD to get help to the people. Then the gangs of thugs, and those in desperate situations stop anything moving to get help or whatever they have. It is chaos. So, not only the people of Haiti, but those trying to help them need a lot of prayers.
We have heard that the hospital here in Cap has a lot of wounded here now. I have NO idea how they got them here, but this hospital is filling up. So, the exodus from Port is in force now.
MFI has been bringing in supplies, under very difficult circumstances, but they have come in, and are taking many of the people desperate to get out back to the states. AGAIN, MFI is "Standing In The Gap" for not only missionaries, but for hurting humanity. Keep MFI in your prayers. And if the Lord leads, help them ship the needed supplies to Haiti. Their site is on the right of this page. You can get more news on what is going on by checking out their site, too.
MFI flew toward Haiti yesterday but could land, so had to overnight on one of the islands. This morning they flew again, but ended up landing in Cap. By the time we got there with the huge truck they needed for those supplies, they were cleared to land in Port, so they went on. Two trips on these roads...whew...a nightmare. But we'd do it again to help them help others.
So many have offered to come and help. Talking to other missionaries, they are getting calls from teams wanting to come and help. Let me share what one missionary wrote. It is very insightful.
From Rodney and Cathy Fitzsimmons....
"We received this note from an international aid organization. 'It would be unwise for anyone but the most skilled first response disaster people with security to enter the impact area.' "
We know people want to come and help, but at times like these, with things so uncertain, it is best to leave things in the hands of the professionals. We are seeing that even here in the north. Those who want to help, but do not have the right training, can cause even more problems for the rescue workers. And now when things are tense and people are so on edge, it's best to simply wait. But EVERYONE can pray. Seeking the Lord and petitioning Him for intercession is what is desperately needed right now.
Not only are we busy with this desperate situation, but we have a team here. They are really troupers. They came to do several things, but the problems have stopped some of them. They did hold the pastors conference. What a blessing to so many pastors. Pastor Codo told me today that those who attended were so inspired and helped in many ways. It all comes back to the fact that they can't teach their people what they have never been taught. And these conferences are giving them the insight and knowledge to do just that. I hope tomorrow I will be able to post some photos of the team's time here so far. I don't have photos of the disaster, but don't need them. You can get them all over the Internet. We needed some light in this darkness, and the team has done that. Life DOES go on, even when some wish it didn't . So we need to prepare the leaders to minister to the hurting souls. Praise God for willing pastors and teachers who are willing to come and share God's wisdom.
Okay, long enough for tonight. Have to get to work on some of the other things now. Work never ceases, and time doesn't stop. Keep praying, and yes, keep praising God for all of the miracles He has performed already in Haiti. And remember, when thinking of the hurting, discouraged souls here, "There but for the Grace of God, go I (and you)."
And yes, God IS in control. The horror of the earthquake itself is over, but now the aftermath is setting in. People in Port are desperate and hurting. And these feelings are turning some to violence and lawbreaking. But put yourself in their place. If you or your family were tossed about, your home destroyed, your livelihood gone, everything you owned laying in rubble, your dreams turned to dust and now you have gone days without food or water, and you may be injured...where would YOU be? I don't know...I would pray I could act in a godly way, but when children are involved, I might turn to these things, too. So, prayers need to be going up constantly for this suffering humanity. A lot of help is coming in, but we are dealing with over a MILLION people, and trying to get through to them, when roads are blocked with debris, yes, even bodies, it's REALLY HARD to get help to the people. Then the gangs of thugs, and those in desperate situations stop anything moving to get help or whatever they have. It is chaos. So, not only the people of Haiti, but those trying to help them need a lot of prayers.
We have heard that the hospital here in Cap has a lot of wounded here now. I have NO idea how they got them here, but this hospital is filling up. So, the exodus from Port is in force now.
MFI has been bringing in supplies, under very difficult circumstances, but they have come in, and are taking many of the people desperate to get out back to the states. AGAIN, MFI is "Standing In The Gap" for not only missionaries, but for hurting humanity. Keep MFI in your prayers. And if the Lord leads, help them ship the needed supplies to Haiti. Their site is on the right of this page. You can get more news on what is going on by checking out their site, too.
MFI flew toward Haiti yesterday but could land, so had to overnight on one of the islands. This morning they flew again, but ended up landing in Cap. By the time we got there with the huge truck they needed for those supplies, they were cleared to land in Port, so they went on. Two trips on these roads...whew...a nightmare. But we'd do it again to help them help others.
So many have offered to come and help. Talking to other missionaries, they are getting calls from teams wanting to come and help. Let me share what one missionary wrote. It is very insightful.
From Rodney and Cathy Fitzsimmons....
"We received this note from an international aid organization. 'It would be unwise for anyone but the most skilled first response disaster people with security to enter the impact area.' "
We know people want to come and help, but at times like these, with things so uncertain, it is best to leave things in the hands of the professionals. We are seeing that even here in the north. Those who want to help, but do not have the right training, can cause even more problems for the rescue workers. And now when things are tense and people are so on edge, it's best to simply wait. But EVERYONE can pray. Seeking the Lord and petitioning Him for intercession is what is desperately needed right now.
Not only are we busy with this desperate situation, but we have a team here. They are really troupers. They came to do several things, but the problems have stopped some of them. They did hold the pastors conference. What a blessing to so many pastors. Pastor Codo told me today that those who attended were so inspired and helped in many ways. It all comes back to the fact that they can't teach their people what they have never been taught. And these conferences are giving them the insight and knowledge to do just that. I hope tomorrow I will be able to post some photos of the team's time here so far. I don't have photos of the disaster, but don't need them. You can get them all over the Internet. We needed some light in this darkness, and the team has done that. Life DOES go on, even when some wish it didn't . So we need to prepare the leaders to minister to the hurting souls. Praise God for willing pastors and teachers who are willing to come and share God's wisdom.
Okay, long enough for tonight. Have to get to work on some of the other things now. Work never ceases, and time doesn't stop. Keep praying, and yes, keep praising God for all of the miracles He has performed already in Haiti. And remember, when thinking of the hurting, discouraged souls here, "There but for the Grace of God, go I (and you)."
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thursday update
What a day this has been. We went to the airport for our flight. Praise God the airport here is open. There are no in-country flights, so the tarmac was pretty open for us today. A few people in and a planeload out. That was great. The hard part was listening to all the Haitian workers there talking about their families in Port. There was not ONE who didn't have family in Port. Some were alive, some dead and some missing. No crying, just VERY dejected people. This is hurting EVERYONE in the country.
We are trying right now to help some families to send someone to Port to find their relatives and bring them up here. We know it's costly, but if we were in that situation, and needed to find our loved ones, we would look for help to get there, too. Pray for that for us.
But when we got home our whole demeanor changed. We received word that ALL of our "kids" are alive. Some have injuries, but nothing serious. It was like a whole load a cement had been lifted from by shoulders. My blog last night showed how disoriented and upset I have been. Well, I felt like dancing today. And then reality hit again. Not everyone on our list has been found, just our "kids". There is still family of some of our kids that are unaccounted for. And it was so sad to learn that Remy's niece was found, but not alive. For those of you who don't know Remy, he is one of our kids and also the president of the new IDADEE orphanage.
Then our next...event... came in an email. Stan may have enough funds to get us two more containers of food. THIS IS FANTASTIC. BUT... and here is the prayer request...we have 2 containers sitting at the docks and they aren't cleared yet. Well, it's one positive and we think the second one if not here already should be shortly. We need MEGA prayers that God will touch the hearts of the people at customs and release these containers. We need them already. The first bus load of refugees came up today. And this is just the start. So, can you put that on a prayer list for us? We need to be able to utilize what is here already to help those suffering. God knew this and maybe that is why it was held up in the first place, but it's time to release them and get things going.
We have had quite a few requests concerning teams coming to help. At this point, that isn't necessary. All of the logistics of getting these things in order and in gear is ahead of us. We want to do this in the way the Lord would have us do it. HE has to be our main focus. without that direction we would be floundering around. We know many churches who will be helping with the refugees and trying to find places for them to stay. But this also involves food and clothing. Right now, clothing is NOT needed that desperately. But food and shelter is at the top.
I am trying not to let this drag me down again, thinking of all the lives lost, the unaccounted for, the severely injured. And the TOTAL destruction of lives and buildings. We have to cling to the fact that God is till in control and He is the author of all things. I will NEVER believe that God caused this disaster, but He may have allowed it for reasons we will never know.
So, for tonight, I'll close and ask you all to continue to pray and lift up this whole sad situation here. God put us here for a reason, and this may be it. But as Moses needed Arron to uphold his arms, we need you to uphold us in prayer and whatever way He directs you to do.
In His service and By His Grace.....
We are trying right now to help some families to send someone to Port to find their relatives and bring them up here. We know it's costly, but if we were in that situation, and needed to find our loved ones, we would look for help to get there, too. Pray for that for us.
But when we got home our whole demeanor changed. We received word that ALL of our "kids" are alive. Some have injuries, but nothing serious. It was like a whole load a cement had been lifted from by shoulders. My blog last night showed how disoriented and upset I have been. Well, I felt like dancing today. And then reality hit again. Not everyone on our list has been found, just our "kids". There is still family of some of our kids that are unaccounted for. And it was so sad to learn that Remy's niece was found, but not alive. For those of you who don't know Remy, he is one of our kids and also the president of the new IDADEE orphanage.
Then our next...event... came in an email. Stan may have enough funds to get us two more containers of food. THIS IS FANTASTIC. BUT... and here is the prayer request...we have 2 containers sitting at the docks and they aren't cleared yet. Well, it's one positive and we think the second one if not here already should be shortly. We need MEGA prayers that God will touch the hearts of the people at customs and release these containers. We need them already. The first bus load of refugees came up today. And this is just the start. So, can you put that on a prayer list for us? We need to be able to utilize what is here already to help those suffering. God knew this and maybe that is why it was held up in the first place, but it's time to release them and get things going.
We have had quite a few requests concerning teams coming to help. At this point, that isn't necessary. All of the logistics of getting these things in order and in gear is ahead of us. We want to do this in the way the Lord would have us do it. HE has to be our main focus. without that direction we would be floundering around. We know many churches who will be helping with the refugees and trying to find places for them to stay. But this also involves food and clothing. Right now, clothing is NOT needed that desperately. But food and shelter is at the top.
I am trying not to let this drag me down again, thinking of all the lives lost, the unaccounted for, the severely injured. And the TOTAL destruction of lives and buildings. We have to cling to the fact that God is till in control and He is the author of all things. I will NEVER believe that God caused this disaster, but He may have allowed it for reasons we will never know.
So, for tonight, I'll close and ask you all to continue to pray and lift up this whole sad situation here. God put us here for a reason, and this may be it. But as Moses needed Arron to uphold his arms, we need you to uphold us in prayer and whatever way He directs you to do.
In His service and By His Grace.....
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Wednesday evening
I am a bit overwhelmed right now... in a lot of ways. We have had OVER 200 emails today alone...we so appreciate all the prayers and concern. I hope everyone understands that I won't be able to answer them all...actually very few at this point. But it is so awesome the amount of prayers and offers that have come in. Thank you all so much!!!!!
Okay, I guess I should try to answer some of the questions that have come in. Sorry if I don't answer the one you asked, but will try to cover most of them. And I apologize ahead of time if I am a bit disoriented.
The aftershocks continue. We have not heard of any more threats of tidal waves, so that is one blessing....and we have heard from so many missionaries who are doing okay. Not many are doing "fine"...because we all have someone in the Port area we are concerned about, and some minor damage has occurred in some areas. At this point in time, we are concerned about finding out if people we know have survived, and if so, where are they and how are they. This first shock will wear off and we will find ways to search for them. We already have gotten a couple of places to give names of those we are missing, so that is a start.
But the hard thing to really grasp right now is that there are THOUSANDS who have survived, and have NO PLACE to go. Just as happened with Gonaives, many will be coming north to find refuge with family or friends here. There is simply NOTHING left for them in Port. They can clear land, but how will these people rebuild, or live for that matter. So much of the city has been destroyed. So, in the very near future we will be concentrating on how we can help those coming north to families here. The economy was horrid to begin with and now this has put a standstill to anything that could have been a boost to people here. Soon there will be no fuel in the north, no food coming from Port to stock shelves, and pretty much nothing to help those living here.
Stan, the fellow who sends our containers, has been thinking of trying to get another container ready to go with simply FOOD for helping people here. Yes, the need in Port is great...but with all those countries sending help in so many areas, the outlaying areas need to be thought of too. This is where the population will be heading to live now. So, we are praying that a container can be a reality in the VERY near future. The needs here will be just as great as the needs are in Port right now, for survival. And at this point, we cannot get help INTO Port au Prince. That help has to come through the organizations already in place there. Taking in things is really not an option. I know we will be feeling the effects of this "migration" as soon as the "dust settles", so to speak. We are trying to readjust our thinking and start planning for the weeks and months ahead. God will really need to direct and be with us through all of this. We want to be HIS hands and feet, doing what HE wants us to do in this awful situation.
Another prayer need...we have had SO much rain that the ground cannot take anymore. None of the water is now being absorbed by the earth...it's over-saturated already. And it continues to rain, and rain, and rain. The roads are so bad that we try to avoid going places. We have to go to the airport tomorrow and we pray we will not have any problems going or coming back.
We have gotten some really sad and tear jerking stories from many missionaries. The death, maiming of bodies, and total destruction of things is overwhelming in so many places. The impact of this will be felt for many years to come. And those surviving will be struggling to survive a little longer in the months and years to come. The job is SO HUGE that it is hard to realize what is all needed and where it will be needed. As discouraged as we are right now, the enormity of what lies ahead is heart stopping. But God has placed us here, and it may be for this exact time.
Pray that we will be able to stand and do what He wants us to do. We really have NO idea what that is at this time, but we are willing to be what He wants us to be, wherever that is.
We are hearing the cries of those who have no idea where loved ones are. We feel their pain and know what they are going through. But we also know we serve a MIGHTY and AWESOME GOD who knows and hears our pleas. Pray with us as we reach out for His hand and strength. Pray with us that we will follow where He leads and do what He wants.
I am sorry this is so disjointed. We are just starting to overcome the shock and beginning to realize the work ahead. My mind and heart are going in so many different directions right now. And with power an uncertainty, we do what we can when we can. I'm praying we will continue to have power and that we will be able to keep in contact. I will try to update as we hear things here. We did hear of several people who somehow got word that their family survived and were coming...so the migration has started....
KEEP PRAYING...God will hear!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Okay, I guess I should try to answer some of the questions that have come in. Sorry if I don't answer the one you asked, but will try to cover most of them. And I apologize ahead of time if I am a bit disoriented.
The aftershocks continue. We have not heard of any more threats of tidal waves, so that is one blessing....and we have heard from so many missionaries who are doing okay. Not many are doing "fine"...because we all have someone in the Port area we are concerned about, and some minor damage has occurred in some areas. At this point in time, we are concerned about finding out if people we know have survived, and if so, where are they and how are they. This first shock will wear off and we will find ways to search for them. We already have gotten a couple of places to give names of those we are missing, so that is a start.
But the hard thing to really grasp right now is that there are THOUSANDS who have survived, and have NO PLACE to go. Just as happened with Gonaives, many will be coming north to find refuge with family or friends here. There is simply NOTHING left for them in Port. They can clear land, but how will these people rebuild, or live for that matter. So much of the city has been destroyed. So, in the very near future we will be concentrating on how we can help those coming north to families here. The economy was horrid to begin with and now this has put a standstill to anything that could have been a boost to people here. Soon there will be no fuel in the north, no food coming from Port to stock shelves, and pretty much nothing to help those living here.
Stan, the fellow who sends our containers, has been thinking of trying to get another container ready to go with simply FOOD for helping people here. Yes, the need in Port is great...but with all those countries sending help in so many areas, the outlaying areas need to be thought of too. This is where the population will be heading to live now. So, we are praying that a container can be a reality in the VERY near future. The needs here will be just as great as the needs are in Port right now, for survival. And at this point, we cannot get help INTO Port au Prince. That help has to come through the organizations already in place there. Taking in things is really not an option. I know we will be feeling the effects of this "migration" as soon as the "dust settles", so to speak. We are trying to readjust our thinking and start planning for the weeks and months ahead. God will really need to direct and be with us through all of this. We want to be HIS hands and feet, doing what HE wants us to do in this awful situation.
Another prayer need...we have had SO much rain that the ground cannot take anymore. None of the water is now being absorbed by the earth...it's over-saturated already. And it continues to rain, and rain, and rain. The roads are so bad that we try to avoid going places. We have to go to the airport tomorrow and we pray we will not have any problems going or coming back.
We have gotten some really sad and tear jerking stories from many missionaries. The death, maiming of bodies, and total destruction of things is overwhelming in so many places. The impact of this will be felt for many years to come. And those surviving will be struggling to survive a little longer in the months and years to come. The job is SO HUGE that it is hard to realize what is all needed and where it will be needed. As discouraged as we are right now, the enormity of what lies ahead is heart stopping. But God has placed us here, and it may be for this exact time.
Pray that we will be able to stand and do what He wants us to do. We really have NO idea what that is at this time, but we are willing to be what He wants us to be, wherever that is.
We are hearing the cries of those who have no idea where loved ones are. We feel their pain and know what they are going through. But we also know we serve a MIGHTY and AWESOME GOD who knows and hears our pleas. Pray with us as we reach out for His hand and strength. Pray with us that we will follow where He leads and do what He wants.
I am sorry this is so disjointed. We are just starting to overcome the shock and beginning to realize the work ahead. My mind and heart are going in so many different directions right now. And with power an uncertainty, we do what we can when we can. I'm praying we will continue to have power and that we will be able to keep in contact. I will try to update as we hear things here. We did hear of several people who somehow got word that their family survived and were coming...so the migration has started....
KEEP PRAYING...God will hear!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The Earthquake
This will be short, power about to go off....
Yes, we did have an earthquake. The center of it was just west of Port au Prince. We felt it here, quite strong. Rocking chairs were going like mad... cars rocking like they were on our worst roads...(and they weren't even running!!)...and a bit of fear in hearts. Now Don and I have been in quakes here before, so we knew what was going on. But the team had just arrived and most have never been in a quake, so it was a bit of "excitement" here. We are fine...nothing we know of in our area has been damaged...but we have not been out, and since all phones are now down, we have no way to find out how things are in the area here.
We are asking for some very special prayers. Six of our "kids" are in school in Port au Prince. They are near the area near where the hospital was destroyed, I believe. We have no way to contact them or to find out if they are okay...the Embassy wrote us and asked us if we knew of anyone hurt or needing assistance here. I wrote them exactly what I have written here, but then asked if there will be a center where we can check on people there. I told them about our "kids" and that we are very concerned. Pray we hear, somehow as to what is happening and if they are okay. Our hearts are VERY heavy at this time.
Our team is to do a pastors conference this week. At this point, it is still a go unless we hear something other. The aftershocks are still coming, even now, almost 6 hours after the quake. Not real strong, but definitely THERE. I have no idea if these aftershocks are causing more problems in Port au Prince.
I will try to keep you all updated as we hear any news at all. But for now PLEASE KEEP PRAYING. This situation is going to devastate an already hurting country. The Lord is the only one who can make a difference now.
By His Grace, we are thankful for His protection...and His care. Keep praying for those involved in the worst of it. I'll try to keep posting going as we learn more.
Yes, we did have an earthquake. The center of it was just west of Port au Prince. We felt it here, quite strong. Rocking chairs were going like mad... cars rocking like they were on our worst roads...(and they weren't even running!!)...and a bit of fear in hearts. Now Don and I have been in quakes here before, so we knew what was going on. But the team had just arrived and most have never been in a quake, so it was a bit of "excitement" here. We are fine...nothing we know of in our area has been damaged...but we have not been out, and since all phones are now down, we have no way to find out how things are in the area here.
We are asking for some very special prayers. Six of our "kids" are in school in Port au Prince. They are near the area near where the hospital was destroyed, I believe. We have no way to contact them or to find out if they are okay...the Embassy wrote us and asked us if we knew of anyone hurt or needing assistance here. I wrote them exactly what I have written here, but then asked if there will be a center where we can check on people there. I told them about our "kids" and that we are very concerned. Pray we hear, somehow as to what is happening and if they are okay. Our hearts are VERY heavy at this time.
Our team is to do a pastors conference this week. At this point, it is still a go unless we hear something other. The aftershocks are still coming, even now, almost 6 hours after the quake. Not real strong, but definitely THERE. I have no idea if these aftershocks are causing more problems in Port au Prince.
I will try to keep you all updated as we hear any news at all. But for now PLEASE KEEP PRAYING. This situation is going to devastate an already hurting country. The Lord is the only one who can make a difference now.
By His Grace, we are thankful for His protection...and His care. Keep praying for those involved in the worst of it. I'll try to keep posting going as we learn more.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Year's Day
Greetings in the New Year...
I hope your celebrations were Christ centered. New Year's Eve, we didn't do anything special. In fact Don was in bed by 11:00. I stayed up until 1:30, only because Vero had gone to church for their service (from 8 to 12) and I wanted to make sure she made it home okay. They had a great service, and baptized 34 people. And they had others come forward to accept the Lord. She was so excited.
New Year's day Don and I were invited out to lunch with our good friends, Paul and Belle Romeus. We went to the Picolet...a newer hotel/ restaurant. It was a bit more expensive, but very, very nice. We were joined by Pat and Clark Moore and Wilbert Merzilus and his children. We had such a nice time of fellowship and enjoyed the wonderful weather and great companionship. Then we went to Pat and Clark's home and spent some time just relaxing. Notice we put the guys at the end of the table and the women in the middle. That is Paul closest to the camera and Belle is between Clark and Pat. Wilbert and family at the other end. (When we got there, Wilbert and family were already eating, so we just joined them)..jpg)
Then it was back to work... had to take down all the Christmas decorations and get the house in order. With a team coming on Tuesday, we wanted to have some of the work done so we can enjoy them!!
We have had plenty of rain lately. I hope it will be finished soon, so our teams will have good weather for their projects and work.
I don't know if I mentioned that we have two new dogs...got them a while back. Their names are Zoe and Leah. Zoe is the mother and Leah the daughter. Both black part Rottweilers. Zoe had pups not long ago. She had 8 but only have 2 now. Not sure if the others died, or someone decided they wanted them...one of our problems here. Then Ma Dog (the stray that has been with us for a couple of years...Abbie calls her Sister)...had pups. She has three. So, we are in the pups again... we need to have the dogs taken care of, we sure don't need more pups around here. But while they are little they are so cute. Problem is, they grow up.
Don has made more deliveries and trying to get people the food they need. This country is in such sad shape. But with God's help, we are helping quite a few with food and water. And then there are always those who need help with medical needs and schooling. The needs never cease.
We were able to see the wedding pictures of our granddaughter's wedding. Such a beautiful bride!! It looked like a wonderful wedding, and we are so sorry we missed it. Keep them in prayer as he goes back to finish his boot camp and then heads out to wherever they are sending him.
Still no word on the container... so please keep praying. We have another one on the way already. The boat is supposed to leave Miami sometime next week, I believe. We just keep praying that things will continue to go well, and that the people in customs will have their hearts and eyes open to what the Lord wants. But we do need a lot of prayer backing us on these containers. Thanks for helping out with this prayer need.
Well, it's back to work, and getting late, so soon to bed. You all have a wonderful, God blessed week. Remember... 1 Thess. 5: 16-18.... "Rejoice evermore, Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
I hope your celebrations were Christ centered. New Year's Eve, we didn't do anything special. In fact Don was in bed by 11:00. I stayed up until 1:30, only because Vero had gone to church for their service (from 8 to 12) and I wanted to make sure she made it home okay. They had a great service, and baptized 34 people. And they had others come forward to accept the Lord. She was so excited.
New Year's day Don and I were invited out to lunch with our good friends, Paul and Belle Romeus. We went to the Picolet...a newer hotel/ restaurant. It was a bit more expensive, but very, very nice. We were joined by Pat and Clark Moore and Wilbert Merzilus and his children. We had such a nice time of fellowship and enjoyed the wonderful weather and great companionship. Then we went to Pat and Clark's home and spent some time just relaxing. Notice we put the guys at the end of the table and the women in the middle. That is Paul closest to the camera and Belle is between Clark and Pat. Wilbert and family at the other end. (When we got there, Wilbert and family were already eating, so we just joined them).
.jpg)
Then it was back to work... had to take down all the Christmas decorations and get the house in order. With a team coming on Tuesday, we wanted to have some of the work done so we can enjoy them!!We have had plenty of rain lately. I hope it will be finished soon, so our teams will have good weather for their projects and work.
I don't know if I mentioned that we have two new dogs...got them a while back. Their names are Zoe and Leah. Zoe is the mother and Leah the daughter. Both black part Rottweilers. Zoe had pups not long ago. She had 8 but only have 2 now. Not sure if the others died, or someone decided they wanted them...one of our problems here. Then Ma Dog (the stray that has been with us for a couple of years...Abbie calls her Sister)...had pups. She has three. So, we are in the pups again... we need to have the dogs taken care of, we sure don't need more pups around here. But while they are little they are so cute. Problem is, they grow up.
Don has made more deliveries and trying to get people the food they need. This country is in such sad shape. But with God's help, we are helping quite a few with food and water. And then there are always those who need help with medical needs and schooling. The needs never cease.
We were able to see the wedding pictures of our granddaughter's wedding. Such a beautiful bride!! It looked like a wonderful wedding, and we are so sorry we missed it. Keep them in prayer as he goes back to finish his boot camp and then heads out to wherever they are sending him.
Still no word on the container... so please keep praying. We have another one on the way already. The boat is supposed to leave Miami sometime next week, I believe. We just keep praying that things will continue to go well, and that the people in customs will have their hearts and eyes open to what the Lord wants. But we do need a lot of prayer backing us on these containers. Thanks for helping out with this prayer need.
Well, it's back to work, and getting late, so soon to bed. You all have a wonderful, God blessed week. Remember... 1 Thess. 5: 16-18.... "Rejoice evermore, Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
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