We just completed our trip to Anse-a-Galet, LaGonave, Haiti, but the work there continues.  Let me explain… we successfully assembled the trusts and put them into place. We also were able to get the sheet metal roof and guttering installed.  We couldn’t have completed our task without the help of several Haitian men.  And, while we returned home, those men are continuing the work under the supervision of the WISH missionary, Robin, and his foreman, John Baptist.  While we were successful at our task, the greater success was what God did and is doing within this project, Pastor Foglas’ ministry and the Saline community.

As we reflect on the work, relationships and experience, the word “dignity” comes to mind.  Merriam-Webster defines dignity as “the quality or state of being worthy.”  The children and people served by the feeding program will have a clean, nice room to eat in, the food will be prepared in a clean, updated kitchen and have a constant water supply so no one will miss a meal.  The buildings will have smooth, freshly painted walls and be supplied with nice furniture.  This will bring glory to God and dignity to those served.  In a short amount of time, we grew close to our Haitian coworkers.  They were always eager to work and eager to connect with us.  But, what stood out was that they felt valued and loved.  God used the project to give these workers dignity and allow them to provide for their families.  One young man named Joseph, was so excited to be a part of a team and to feel included.  You see, Joseph is an albino and often has a hard time fitting into the community.  Then at the other end of the age spectrum was Saville.  He was old and frail and had to live with a catheter.  He and his wife live across the street from the feeding facility.  His face lite up when we hired him and he gave us his best all that week.  Every morning, in French Creole, he greeted us and said, “thank you, Jesus.”  The dignity, or worth, or value felt in this community was given by God and for God’s glory.  He created us in his image for His glory and, therefore, assigns eternal significance to His creation.  He does this for everyone, everywhere because God has enriched every person with value and worth.

Thank you for being a part of what God is doing through these projects and relationships with the sharing of financial resources and prayers.  There was enough money to fulfill this project, buy a 300 gallon cistern for constant water supply and to rehab the WISH dorm facility.  The dorm will be rented by the Wesleyan Hospital and will house local Haitians in Wesleyan Nursing Program.

Peace,
Steve