I am extremely happy to report that attending the Haiti Advisory Committee meeting on November 20th in Coral Springs, FL was an eye opening experience to say the least. I never expected to hear so many wonderful things about what is happening to build the Church of the Brethren in Haiti.
I am so thankful for the invitation to attend from Jeff Boshart and the wonderful weekend hospitality of Wayne and Karen Sutton.
It was reported there that we have completed 85 houses in Haiti!! 41 in the Mirebalais area, 1 on St. Louis; 42 in Gonaives and 1 for the General Secretary, Jean Bily Telfort. A well was also completed in Gonaives which turned out to be an artesian well that will likely provide wonderful water for the village there!!! This is all wonderful news.
Now we are moving on to the rebuilding phase of post-earthquake Haiti. Brethren Disaster Ministries has received 1.1 million dollars for this project. With this we are taking care of the Brethren as well as many other surrounding neighbors in Haiti. The local pastors are trying to do the work of the church by determining who on the island is truly a displaced people from the earthquake. This is not an easy job at all. Add to this a request from La Tortue for help after Hurricane Tomas damaged that area.
The needs are so vast on this island!!!
I found it exciting that we are working toward the building of schools! Iiexene Alphonse reported on his work on the New Covenant School in St. Louis du Nord. We know there is not enough room for all the students there is a need to promote gender equality along with strong minimum standards for Brethren Schools. There is a reality that the culture is far different from ours, yet we must give girls a chance to have a good education in the outlying areas as well. It was wonderful to hear that offerings from NYC gave $5,600.00 to the school. Chris Douglas has also offered a booth at Annual Conference for the St. Louis du Nord School and, perhaps, some other work as well.
Another exciting dream is coming working toward reality as well. A mobile health clinic!!! Personally knowing the medical needs of these people I see this as a really wonderful effort. I would like to see a fleet of these clinics, but one step at a time :) These clinics would have a Licensed Haitian Doctor on Staff. Work toward an endowment is being done right now. (Save your pennies and dollars, Brethren!!!)
Neslin Augustin was there to share with us about his work in La Tortue. Neslin is a member of the Miami Haitian COB. There is a real need in this area. Another mission field for us.
The Theological Conference for COB Pastors in Haiti will be held in August 2011. Galen Hackman has greed to do some teaching there. He will do some work on Brethren History and Practice from his books that have been translated into Creole in the Dominican. There is the possibility of another speaker which is yet undecided. The Conference is expected to be held at the Croix des Bouquet complex which is expected to be complete by June.
With all the other Brethren doing work in Haiti, it's clear to me that Brethren have been called to do a major work on the island of Haiti. May the Lord prosper our work there as long as He is honored as the author and finisher of our Faith!
Til next time...
Janet E.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Updates and thoughts
What tragedy has struck the island of Haiti!!! The cholera outbreak has not stricken Port au Prince in the way it has other areas of the island, especially since the Hurricane Tomas skirted the western edges.
I received a call last week (Nov. 12) that the northern borders into the Dominican were closed due to the outbreak and that food was becoming extremely costly. With Pastor Geordany feeding about 35 children this causes some real issues. Thank God for Antioch COB who sent money immediately to help offset that.
It is disgusting to learn that the customs and government are up to their old tricks again. A package expecting to cost $7 or $8 to get out of customs cost a Haitian pastor $85 ~ more than the contents were worth. I keep wondering why those "peace keeping" forces don't keep peace, enforcing fair trade or fair customs or SOMETHING. Why does the UN or even the Haitian Government (what's left of it), allow the gouging of people, their OWN people and then expect there to be faith in the government. The Haitian people are not stupid. Far from it. On the one hand, you can't blame individuals for trying to make an extra buck, but there has to be order and lawful behavior. It's hard to see between the two.
I know others from our District were scheduled to go down with the Midwifes for Haiti, but I am unaware of their current status. The Cholera is near to Hinche where they would work.
We are planning a trip to LaJeune and other points on the island for January 25 - February 8th. We have a doctor and P.A. heading down with us for the first week. The tickets are purchased, so we shall see how that develops.
The Haiti Mission Advisory Team meets the end of this week (Nov. 20th) in Miami. I will have the joy of setting in on that meeting and look forward to learning what the COB has planned for Haiti in the coming months and years.
Samaritans Purse has a huge settlement in the earthquake stricken area that is doing work removing rubble and helping the people. Practical help. Makes sense to me.
I am convinced that there can never be too many organizations working in Haiti. The government is, for all intents, useless, at this point and the government entities set to help the island aren't doing too great a job either. It appears either Christian organizations do it or it doesn't get done.
What the people need is a well placed government to provide cleanup, food, medicine and jobs. Once the island is stabilized as a viable entity then, maybe, just maybe, they can self-govern. Until then, there is no confidence, so who knows how these elections are going to go.
So, this is my two-cents on the travesty in Haiti for the moment. They desperately need our prayers, our money and our help. Prayerfully give.
Enough thoughts for now... Janet
I received a call last week (Nov. 12) that the northern borders into the Dominican were closed due to the outbreak and that food was becoming extremely costly. With Pastor Geordany feeding about 35 children this causes some real issues. Thank God for Antioch COB who sent money immediately to help offset that.
It is disgusting to learn that the customs and government are up to their old tricks again. A package expecting to cost $7 or $8 to get out of customs cost a Haitian pastor $85 ~ more than the contents were worth. I keep wondering why those "peace keeping" forces don't keep peace, enforcing fair trade or fair customs or SOMETHING. Why does the UN or even the Haitian Government (what's left of it), allow the gouging of people, their OWN people and then expect there to be faith in the government. The Haitian people are not stupid. Far from it. On the one hand, you can't blame individuals for trying to make an extra buck, but there has to be order and lawful behavior. It's hard to see between the two.
I know others from our District were scheduled to go down with the Midwifes for Haiti, but I am unaware of their current status. The Cholera is near to Hinche where they would work.
We are planning a trip to LaJeune and other points on the island for January 25 - February 8th. We have a doctor and P.A. heading down with us for the first week. The tickets are purchased, so we shall see how that develops.
The Haiti Mission Advisory Team meets the end of this week (Nov. 20th) in Miami. I will have the joy of setting in on that meeting and look forward to learning what the COB has planned for Haiti in the coming months and years.
Samaritans Purse has a huge settlement in the earthquake stricken area that is doing work removing rubble and helping the people. Practical help. Makes sense to me.
I am convinced that there can never be too many organizations working in Haiti. The government is, for all intents, useless, at this point and the government entities set to help the island aren't doing too great a job either. It appears either Christian organizations do it or it doesn't get done.
What the people need is a well placed government to provide cleanup, food, medicine and jobs. Once the island is stabilized as a viable entity then, maybe, just maybe, they can self-govern. Until then, there is no confidence, so who knows how these elections are going to go.
So, this is my two-cents on the travesty in Haiti for the moment. They desperately need our prayers, our money and our help. Prayerfully give.
Enough thoughts for now... Janet
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Haiti Workcamp!!!
Below I am posting all the info I have at this moment on these workcamps. Registration forms can be emailed to you by contacting "me" or the District Office.
Haiti Earthquake Response
2010 - 2011 Haiti Workcamps
work, worship & learn
November 6-13, 2010
Register with deposit by October 13
January 23-30, 2011
Register with deposit by December 31
March 14-20, 2011
Register with deposit by February 14
Additional dates may be added if there is interest
Join in a Work, Worship and Learn adventure in Haiti. Workcamp volunteers will plunge
into Haitian life as they work, eat, and worship side by side with Haitian Christians. The delegation will help rebuild homes in both the Port-au-Prince area and outlying villages that have received earthquake victims.
Sponsored by Brethren Disaster Ministries (BDM), while working closely with the Haitian Church of the Brethren (L’Église des Frères Hatien), participants will help construct homes for earthquake survivors and a guest house at the new Haiti Church offices.
A highlight of the trip will be worshiping with our Haitian brothers and sisters. The workcamp leader will provide background on Haiti and the Haitian Church of the Brethren.
Leaders: Jeff Boshart, Ilexene Alphonse, Klebert Exceus
Max Group Size: 15
Cost: $900/person. A $300 deposit is due with the registration. This fee includes all
expenses while in Haiti: meals, lodging, in-country transportation, travel insurance
and $50 for building supplies. The workcamp participant will need to purchase
round-trip transportation from home to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
Requirements for participating in BDM Haiti Workcamp:
Good health - Stamina for hard work in hot climate
18 years of age and older
Passport
Vaccinations/medications – contact your family doctor or local Health Department.
Tetanus required. Malaria medications recommended.
Sensitivity and flexibility with regard to cultural differences
For More Information: Brethren Disaster Ministries, tel. 800-451-4407
Email: BDM@brethren.org
www.brethrendisasterministries.org
Interested Volunteers: Please complete the registration form ASAP to show interest.
BDM staff will follow up with more information
Haiti Workcamp Q & A
Work, Worship & Learn Workcamp Questions and Answers
Q: Will I have safe drinking water, or should I bring purification tablets?
A: Filtered, “Culligan” water is available for purchase in any city in Haiti. We will be purchasing 5-gallon bottles and carrying it with us in coolers most days. You will want to bring a smaller water bottle to fill each morning and throughout the day. This will serve as your water for brushing your teeth as well. Do not use any tap water for drinking or brushing your teeth. If you wish to bring purification tablets you are welcome to do so, but there should not be any need for this.
Q: Will we have clean bathrooms everywhere we go?
A: The answer is likely to be “no.” The guesthouse and hotel bathrooms are clean, but
when we are at the worksite bathrooms and even latrines will be scarce. We’ll make
sure we have some provisional latrines available if necessary. You may wish to bring
your own toilet paper supply for our time at the worksite.
Q: Will the food be safe to eat?
A: Yes! We’ll have experienced food handlers preparing our meals while at the
worksite. We’d caution against eating salad in restaurants, however.
Q: Is Haiti a safe country?
A: You probably have read that the U.S. government has issued travelers’ warnings for
Haiti. Mostly this is for health-related issues, however Haiti has other risks as well: poor roads, unsafe vehicles (not ours), political instability and even the occasional kidnapping. We have worked hard to create a safe experience for the workcamp. Things have improved greatly in Haiti in the past few years, and you will notice United Nations military troops along with a large Haitian police presence as you travel in Haiti. This has helped to reduce crime, and foreigners are generally not targets. In fact, Haitians are very friendly toward Americans, and anyone who speaks some English will want to try speaking with you.
We will have Haitian Brethren church members with us, and you can be guaranteed
some of the warmest hospitality you’ve ever experienced. Our hosts take your safety
and happiness very personally and wish you to have a tremendous experience in their
country. You will be blessed by getting to know them.
Q: Will I be able to get a shower every day if I want to?
A: The guesthouse and hotel where we will be staying have cool showers, so you don’t
have to miss out on staying clean. Water will not be heated.
Q: What about tropical diseases?
A: Malaria and Dengue Fever are a significant health risk, particularly in the city of Gonaíves where we will be spending several days. We’ll sleep under mosquito netting at night or have fans, but you’ll want to have plenty of bug spray with you as well. Mosquitoes in Haiti hide in damp places like bathrooms and under tables and beds during the day. You’ll want to spray your ankles if wearing sandals. Also, ask your family physician for recommended immunizations and medicine for preventing malaria.
Typhoid is also present, but the risk is very low if you follow our guidelines for safe drinking water.
Q: What will the weather be like?
A: Hot! Very Hot! Rain showers are possible every afternoon, which adds to the
humidity. Temperatures will be in the 90’s every day and can top 100 F. Be prepared to sweat a great deal. Nighttime lows will be in the mid to upper 70’s, but this will be in the early morning and sleeping can be a bit difficult. The guesthouse will have fans, and in Gonaíves the hotel has air-conditioning most nights. It is possible we will have some nights without electricity.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Haitian culture is very modest. Men always wear long pants and women almost
always wear skirts or dresses. However, BDM female volunteers may wear long pants
when at the worksite. BDM male volunteers should wear long pants whenever in public,
including at the worksite. All BDM volunteers may wear shorts when at the hotel or
guesthouse in the evenings.
Please, no tank tops for men or women. Bring good walking shoes and/or work shoes.
Open toed shoes are not recommended for the worksite, but sandals and flip-flops are
fine for travel days and at the hotel or guesthouse.
We ask you to respect the local culture and to remember that we will be working side by side with Haitian Brethren and thus are representatives not only of our churches back home, but of the Church of the Brethren in Haiti as well.
We’ll be attending at least one church service. Haitian men almost always wear longsleeved shirts and ties. It will be very hot, and our Haitian hosts understand that most Americans are not used to the heat. BDM volunteers may wear short-sleeved dress shirts or polo shirts (ties optional). Nice sandals or dress shoes would be appropriate footwear for church. No flip flops please for church. Women may wear skirts or dresses.
Q: I don’t speak French or Haitian Creole, will that be a problem?
A: No. We’ll have several interpreters with us at all times. If you do speak French, we’ll use your gift.
Q: What should I expect in the airport?
A: We’ll be together as a group and should have little trouble in Port-au-Prince. You
may have difficulties coming back into the U.S. if you buy anything which is not
permitted by U.S. customs (i.e. fruits and vegetables, animal products, etc.). Things like jewelry, coffee, wooden crafts and paintings are permissible, but must be declared.
Q: Are there any other Haitian customs that I should know about?
A: We’ll discuss this during an orientation session before we go or right after we arrive.
Q: May I wear jewelry?
A: Women may wear jewelry. We ask that men who have earrings please remove them
during the day when we are in public. It is best to limit jewelry out of respect for our hosts.
Q: When I attend a church service will I be expected to sing or preach?
A: Yes! The expectation will be that someone from our group will give a short message. Of course you can refuse the invitation, but our hosts would be very pleased if someone in the group might be willing to do this. It would be nice if the group could pull together a musical selection or two as well.
Haiti Earthquake Response
2010 - 2011 Haiti Workcamps
work, worship & learn
November 6-13, 2010
Register with deposit by October 13
January 23-30, 2011
Register with deposit by December 31
March 14-20, 2011
Register with deposit by February 14
Additional dates may be added if there is interest
Join in a Work, Worship and Learn adventure in Haiti. Workcamp volunteers will plunge
into Haitian life as they work, eat, and worship side by side with Haitian Christians. The delegation will help rebuild homes in both the Port-au-Prince area and outlying villages that have received earthquake victims.
Sponsored by Brethren Disaster Ministries (BDM), while working closely with the Haitian Church of the Brethren (L’Église des Frères Hatien), participants will help construct homes for earthquake survivors and a guest house at the new Haiti Church offices.
A highlight of the trip will be worshiping with our Haitian brothers and sisters. The workcamp leader will provide background on Haiti and the Haitian Church of the Brethren.
Leaders: Jeff Boshart, Ilexene Alphonse, Klebert Exceus
Max Group Size: 15
Cost: $900/person. A $300 deposit is due with the registration. This fee includes all
expenses while in Haiti: meals, lodging, in-country transportation, travel insurance
and $50 for building supplies. The workcamp participant will need to purchase
round-trip transportation from home to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
Requirements for participating in BDM Haiti Workcamp:
Good health - Stamina for hard work in hot climate
18 years of age and older
Passport
Vaccinations/medications – contact your family doctor or local Health Department.
Tetanus required. Malaria medications recommended.
Sensitivity and flexibility with regard to cultural differences
For More Information: Brethren Disaster Ministries, tel. 800-451-4407
Email: BDM@brethren.org
www.brethrendisasterministries.org
Interested Volunteers: Please complete the registration form ASAP to show interest.
BDM staff will follow up with more information
Haiti Workcamp Q & A
Work, Worship & Learn Workcamp Questions and Answers
Q: Will I have safe drinking water, or should I bring purification tablets?
A: Filtered, “Culligan” water is available for purchase in any city in Haiti. We will be purchasing 5-gallon bottles and carrying it with us in coolers most days. You will want to bring a smaller water bottle to fill each morning and throughout the day. This will serve as your water for brushing your teeth as well. Do not use any tap water for drinking or brushing your teeth. If you wish to bring purification tablets you are welcome to do so, but there should not be any need for this.
Q: Will we have clean bathrooms everywhere we go?
A: The answer is likely to be “no.” The guesthouse and hotel bathrooms are clean, but
when we are at the worksite bathrooms and even latrines will be scarce. We’ll make
sure we have some provisional latrines available if necessary. You may wish to bring
your own toilet paper supply for our time at the worksite.
Q: Will the food be safe to eat?
A: Yes! We’ll have experienced food handlers preparing our meals while at the
worksite. We’d caution against eating salad in restaurants, however.
Q: Is Haiti a safe country?
A: You probably have read that the U.S. government has issued travelers’ warnings for
Haiti. Mostly this is for health-related issues, however Haiti has other risks as well: poor roads, unsafe vehicles (not ours), political instability and even the occasional kidnapping. We have worked hard to create a safe experience for the workcamp. Things have improved greatly in Haiti in the past few years, and you will notice United Nations military troops along with a large Haitian police presence as you travel in Haiti. This has helped to reduce crime, and foreigners are generally not targets. In fact, Haitians are very friendly toward Americans, and anyone who speaks some English will want to try speaking with you.
We will have Haitian Brethren church members with us, and you can be guaranteed
some of the warmest hospitality you’ve ever experienced. Our hosts take your safety
and happiness very personally and wish you to have a tremendous experience in their
country. You will be blessed by getting to know them.
Q: Will I be able to get a shower every day if I want to?
A: The guesthouse and hotel where we will be staying have cool showers, so you don’t
have to miss out on staying clean. Water will not be heated.
Q: What about tropical diseases?
A: Malaria and Dengue Fever are a significant health risk, particularly in the city of Gonaíves where we will be spending several days. We’ll sleep under mosquito netting at night or have fans, but you’ll want to have plenty of bug spray with you as well. Mosquitoes in Haiti hide in damp places like bathrooms and under tables and beds during the day. You’ll want to spray your ankles if wearing sandals. Also, ask your family physician for recommended immunizations and medicine for preventing malaria.
Typhoid is also present, but the risk is very low if you follow our guidelines for safe drinking water.
Q: What will the weather be like?
A: Hot! Very Hot! Rain showers are possible every afternoon, which adds to the
humidity. Temperatures will be in the 90’s every day and can top 100 F. Be prepared to sweat a great deal. Nighttime lows will be in the mid to upper 70’s, but this will be in the early morning and sleeping can be a bit difficult. The guesthouse will have fans, and in Gonaíves the hotel has air-conditioning most nights. It is possible we will have some nights without electricity.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Haitian culture is very modest. Men always wear long pants and women almost
always wear skirts or dresses. However, BDM female volunteers may wear long pants
when at the worksite. BDM male volunteers should wear long pants whenever in public,
including at the worksite. All BDM volunteers may wear shorts when at the hotel or
guesthouse in the evenings.
Please, no tank tops for men or women. Bring good walking shoes and/or work shoes.
Open toed shoes are not recommended for the worksite, but sandals and flip-flops are
fine for travel days and at the hotel or guesthouse.
We ask you to respect the local culture and to remember that we will be working side by side with Haitian Brethren and thus are representatives not only of our churches back home, but of the Church of the Brethren in Haiti as well.
We’ll be attending at least one church service. Haitian men almost always wear longsleeved shirts and ties. It will be very hot, and our Haitian hosts understand that most Americans are not used to the heat. BDM volunteers may wear short-sleeved dress shirts or polo shirts (ties optional). Nice sandals or dress shoes would be appropriate footwear for church. No flip flops please for church. Women may wear skirts or dresses.
Q: I don’t speak French or Haitian Creole, will that be a problem?
A: No. We’ll have several interpreters with us at all times. If you do speak French, we’ll use your gift.
Q: What should I expect in the airport?
A: We’ll be together as a group and should have little trouble in Port-au-Prince. You
may have difficulties coming back into the U.S. if you buy anything which is not
permitted by U.S. customs (i.e. fruits and vegetables, animal products, etc.). Things like jewelry, coffee, wooden crafts and paintings are permissible, but must be declared.
Q: Are there any other Haitian customs that I should know about?
A: We’ll discuss this during an orientation session before we go or right after we arrive.
Q: May I wear jewelry?
A: Women may wear jewelry. We ask that men who have earrings please remove them
during the day when we are in public. It is best to limit jewelry out of respect for our hosts.
Q: When I attend a church service will I be expected to sing or preach?
A: Yes! The expectation will be that someone from our group will give a short message. Of course you can refuse the invitation, but our hosts would be very pleased if someone in the group might be willing to do this. It would be nice if the group could pull together a musical selection or two as well.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Just some thoughts from here
Friday evening we spent some worship time with Pastor Eddy from Petit Goave. It was a wonderful time and allowed the introductions to extend beyond our sphere. In fact, it allows us to have another future time of worship at another church in another denomination that I really look forward to.
These last few weeks I've taken some time to explore some of the missions in Haiti. There are thousands!!! Most all of them are legitimate and have centered themselves on a certain portion of Haiti that needs help.
Being Brethren I have an affinity to those Brethren churches getting started there. You know, it's hard to balance between missions we've supported for years and new possibilities, not to mention how stretched the dollar is right now. And in thinking about that and wondering what "I" can do to help the most with the least this blog came to mind.
If every church agree to support one mission, one pastor, one child, one "something" in Haiti, then, just maybe, we could make a big difference in that island for Christ.
Let it be said that I have no desire to "westernize" them. They are Haitians. As such, their language of Haitian Creole should take the forefront in their language studies and education. Their education should be our first goal. Currently, education if affordable, is first offered to the males. This needs to change. Not the "first offered", but the 100% availability. Every child should be able to get a high school education. After that is accomplished, then we need to work at children getting college education. This insures that those in "power" will someday not be "just" the wealthy. That common people, from common places, may someday lead their country.
There are young men in our country, training in our schools, that have a heart's desire to change Haiti for the better. We need to support their efforts along with others. Develop a plan, pick a mission and covenant to support it.
Join me, will you?
These last few weeks I've taken some time to explore some of the missions in Haiti. There are thousands!!! Most all of them are legitimate and have centered themselves on a certain portion of Haiti that needs help.
Being Brethren I have an affinity to those Brethren churches getting started there. You know, it's hard to balance between missions we've supported for years and new possibilities, not to mention how stretched the dollar is right now. And in thinking about that and wondering what "I" can do to help the most with the least this blog came to mind.
If every church agree to support one mission, one pastor, one child, one "something" in Haiti, then, just maybe, we could make a big difference in that island for Christ.
Let it be said that I have no desire to "westernize" them. They are Haitians. As such, their language of Haitian Creole should take the forefront in their language studies and education. Their education should be our first goal. Currently, education if affordable, is first offered to the males. This needs to change. Not the "first offered", but the 100% availability. Every child should be able to get a high school education. After that is accomplished, then we need to work at children getting college education. This insures that those in "power" will someday not be "just" the wealthy. That common people, from common places, may someday lead their country.
There are young men in our country, training in our schools, that have a heart's desire to change Haiti for the better. We need to support their efforts along with others. Develop a plan, pick a mission and covenant to support it.
Join me, will you?
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Schedule for the folks headed to Africa
Here is the schedule for the ministry in Africa. I share this for your prayers.
We fly out today and arrive tomorrow in Accra, Ghana West Africa.
On Sunday through Tuesday we will conduct a church planting crusade in a village called Kabenla Suazo.
Then September 2-5 will will conduct a women's conference. We will speak in the morning, then again in the evening each day. The theme is based on Isaiah 52: 1-2 "Awake....Become Strong."
Pray for our team: Eddie and Paula Hooke and Sandi and myself.
Believing great things for God's Kingdom.
Hal Sonafrank
We fly out today and arrive tomorrow in Accra, Ghana West Africa.
On Sunday through Tuesday we will conduct a church planting crusade in a village called Kabenla Suazo.
Then September 2-5 will will conduct a women's conference. We will speak in the morning, then again in the evening each day. The theme is based on Isaiah 52: 1-2 "Awake....Become Strong."
Pray for our team: Eddie and Paula Hooke and Sandi and myself.
Believing great things for God's Kingdom.
Hal Sonafrank
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
A side note on Missions
World Missionary Press provides New Testaments as well as whole Bibles to various mission points. They recently provided New Testaments and tracts in Kreyol for a class. I include in this blog their prayer requests for your prayer time.
Greetings in the name of our risen Lord Jesus Christ. I trust all is well with you and your loved ones today.
May I request your prayer support:
YESTERDAY three of our containers were scheduled to sail aboard the “Ever Respect” from Norfolk, VA:
a 40-ft. container for Baranquilla, Colombia (17 skids, 4,225 boxes);
a 40-ft. container for Guayaquil, Ecuador (18 skids, 4,215 boxes);
a 20-ft. container for Callao, Peru (10 skids, 2,580 boxes).
Estimated arrival dates: September 7, 9, 12 respectively.
ALSO YESTERDAY:
The ship “MOL Efficiency”, also departing from Norfolk, will carry:
a 40-ft. container for Vina del Mar, Chile (18 skids, 4,217 boxes);
a 20-ft. container for Santiago (10 skids, 2,567 boxes).
Estimated arrival date in Valparaiso, Chile: September 15.
Please pray for safe transport of God’s Word on these two ships. Total: 73 skids, 17,804 boxes, 89 tons! And pray for great fruitfulness as the Spirit of God touches hearts through His powerful Word.
Thank you for your interest in the worldwide ministry of World Missionary Press. What a blessing you are to us!
Your friend in Christ,
Go to www.wmpress.org for information on other aspects of the ministry.
Greetings in the name of our risen Lord Jesus Christ. I trust all is well with you and your loved ones today.
May I request your prayer support:
YESTERDAY three of our containers were scheduled to sail aboard the “Ever Respect” from Norfolk, VA:
a 40-ft. container for Baranquilla, Colombia (17 skids, 4,225 boxes);
a 40-ft. container for Guayaquil, Ecuador (18 skids, 4,215 boxes);
a 20-ft. container for Callao, Peru (10 skids, 2,580 boxes).
Estimated arrival dates: September 7, 9, 12 respectively.
ALSO YESTERDAY:
The ship “MOL Efficiency”, also departing from Norfolk, will carry:
a 40-ft. container for Vina del Mar, Chile (18 skids, 4,217 boxes);
a 20-ft. container for Santiago (10 skids, 2,567 boxes).
Estimated arrival date in Valparaiso, Chile: September 15.
Please pray for safe transport of God’s Word on these two ships. Total: 73 skids, 17,804 boxes, 89 tons! And pray for great fruitfulness as the Spirit of God touches hearts through His powerful Word.
Thank you for your interest in the worldwide ministry of World Missionary Press. What a blessing you are to us!
Your friend in Christ,
Go to www.wmpress.org for information on other aspects of the ministry.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Haitian Choir coming to Staunton
When: 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 13
Where: Trinity Episcopal Church, 214 West Beverley Street , Staunton , VA
Contact: progerbowen@gmail.com, tel - 540 292 6423
Cost: free, but tickets required. Available at - Trinity Episcopal Church, Staunton; Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church, Fishersville; Stone Soup Books 908 West Main Street, Waynesboro; St. John’s Episcopal Church, Waynesboro; The News Leader, 11 N. Central Ave, Staunton; or reserve at proger.bowen@gmail.com
Haitian Men and Boys Choir coming to Staunton
The earthquake changed the center of their world. Their Holy Trinity Cathedral and thousand-student music school in Port au Prince collapsed into rubble. Scores of lives were lost all around the church complex. The philharmonic orchestra’s instruments were crushed. Choristers in the elite men and boys choir, Les Petits Chanteurs, lost their homes. They sleep in makeshift tent cities now.
Miraculously, seven months after the earthquake, Les Petits Chanteurs has regrouped — and they will perform in the Shenandoah Valley in September. The 30-voice choir, accompanied by a string ensemble from the Holy Trinity Philharmonic Orchestra, will be touring the United States , and they have agreed to stop in Staunton , VA. The focus of the tour is to raise awareness in the United States about the rich musical traditions in Haiti and the importance of rebuilding Holy Trinity Music School , a keystone in Haiti ’s cultural life. Les Petits Chanteurs is a select group of performers ranging in age from 8 to 18. It is currently under the direction of Nicole St. Victor.
Over the years, representative groups from Holy Trinity Music School have performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington , D.C. , Lincoln Center in New York City , Tanglewood with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, with the Chicago Children's Choir, and at more than 90 churches across the United States . Holy Trinity Music School is the only music school of its kind in Haiti and depends upon charitable support to sustain its mission to all the people of Haiti . Its buildings are rubble now, as is the surrounding Holy Trinity Cathedral complex, but the choir and orchestra are rising again!
It is our hope to fill Trinity Episcopal Church to its 500 person capacity on September 13. A free will offering will be taken at intermission. We will help Haiti stand and sing.
Where: Trinity Episcopal Church, 214 West Beverley Street , Staunton , VA
Contact: progerbowen@gmail.com, tel - 540 292 6423
Cost: free, but tickets required. Available at - Trinity Episcopal Church, Staunton; Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church, Fishersville; Stone Soup Books 908 West Main Street, Waynesboro; St. John’s Episcopal Church, Waynesboro; The News Leader, 11 N. Central Ave, Staunton; or reserve at proger.bowen@gmail.com
Haitian Men and Boys Choir coming to Staunton
The earthquake changed the center of their world. Their Holy Trinity Cathedral and thousand-student music school in Port au Prince collapsed into rubble. Scores of lives were lost all around the church complex. The philharmonic orchestra’s instruments were crushed. Choristers in the elite men and boys choir, Les Petits Chanteurs, lost their homes. They sleep in makeshift tent cities now.
Miraculously, seven months after the earthquake, Les Petits Chanteurs has regrouped — and they will perform in the Shenandoah Valley in September. The 30-voice choir, accompanied by a string ensemble from the Holy Trinity Philharmonic Orchestra, will be touring the United States , and they have agreed to stop in Staunton , VA. The focus of the tour is to raise awareness in the United States about the rich musical traditions in Haiti and the importance of rebuilding Holy Trinity Music School , a keystone in Haiti ’s cultural life. Les Petits Chanteurs is a select group of performers ranging in age from 8 to 18. It is currently under the direction of Nicole St. Victor.
Over the years, representative groups from Holy Trinity Music School have performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington , D.C. , Lincoln Center in New York City , Tanglewood with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, with the Chicago Children's Choir, and at more than 90 churches across the United States . Holy Trinity Music School is the only music school of its kind in Haiti and depends upon charitable support to sustain its mission to all the people of Haiti . Its buildings are rubble now, as is the surrounding Holy Trinity Cathedral complex, but the choir and orchestra are rising again!
It is our hope to fill Trinity Episcopal Church to its 500 person capacity on September 13. A free will offering will be taken at intermission. We will help Haiti stand and sing.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Final Hello from Haiti!
Alo!
Well, today is the last day we are in Haiti. It was been a wonderful trip and
we have both grown so much! On Monday we went to the Market, which for Whitney
was a very intense experience - especially when the local "crazy guy" professed
his love to her! haha - Pastor Joe made quick work of him however and told us
that "the crazy guy knows I will lay hands on him!" We also did three more
water tests on Monday and the tests were a success in the sense that they
worked, but the results could be considered a failure - just about every
bacteria present is in their well and house water! We have also spent a lot of
time playing with the kids and spending time with them. Whitney has found her
"little man" whom just may be riding back with her in her suitcase! Allen's
soccer skills have definitely not improved any - but the kids seem to get
amusement out of him trying and failing miserably! Pastor also showed us the
land where he is going to build a school once he gets enough money. And this
morning, we saw the land that he rents and farms. Since we no longer have
church services as night, we have been able to marvel at God's nighttime
handiwork - the stars! You never knew there were so many! It is hard to
believe that we are going home tomorrow! Thanks to everyone for your prayers
and support - God has definitely been present during this experience.
In Christ,
Whitney and Allen
Well, today is the last day we are in Haiti. It was been a wonderful trip and
we have both grown so much! On Monday we went to the Market, which for Whitney
was a very intense experience - especially when the local "crazy guy" professed
his love to her! haha - Pastor Joe made quick work of him however and told us
that "the crazy guy knows I will lay hands on him!" We also did three more
water tests on Monday and the tests were a success in the sense that they
worked, but the results could be considered a failure - just about every
bacteria present is in their well and house water! We have also spent a lot of
time playing with the kids and spending time with them. Whitney has found her
"little man" whom just may be riding back with her in her suitcase! Allen's
soccer skills have definitely not improved any - but the kids seem to get
amusement out of him trying and failing miserably! Pastor also showed us the
land where he is going to build a school once he gets enough money. And this
morning, we saw the land that he rents and farms. Since we no longer have
church services as night, we have been able to marvel at God's nighttime
handiwork - the stars! You never knew there were so many! It is hard to
believe that we are going home tomorrow! Thanks to everyone for your prayers
and support - God has definitely been present during this experience.
In Christ,
Whitney and Allen
Monday, August 2, 2010
Trip Diary #2
Greetings!
It is so good to write you all again! It has been a very busy past couple of
days! The youth rally, which began Thursday night, was definitely a success.
Youth came from all over - even as far as Cap Haitian. And they slept
everywhere! The rally consisted of two services a day on Friday and Saturday
and then a "round table" in the afternoons. The services were full of
preaching, dancing, and a lot of stuff we are not too used to seeing back in
our Church of the Brethren church! It was exciting to say the least! The
round tables consisted of the youth asking the pastors questions about anything
they wanted to. Every question except for one was about relationships (it
appears Haitian youth are not all that different from American youth! haha!).
Allen got to preach on Saturday morning. Yesterday (Sunday), we had church in
the morning for a service that lasted almost five hours! It was a blessing
though! After the service we ate a fabulous lunch and then we went outside and
took a ton of pictures of the youth! They loved it! Last night was a concert
and that was amazing! Whitney made the comment "American Idol should come
here!" They even convinced Allen to do his Books of the Bible rap again and
obviously Haitians don't know what rap is supposed to sound like because they
seemed to enjoy it. We are both pretty tired this morning as the youth rally
kept us pretty hopping and without much sleep. This morning we are going to
the market and this week we plan to complete all the water tests (the trial
test was a success!) and spend time playing with the orphans. Thank you so
much for your prayers, God is so good, and we look forward to seeing you all
again! God Bless!
In Christ,
Whitney and Allen
It is so good to write you all again! It has been a very busy past couple of
days! The youth rally, which began Thursday night, was definitely a success.
Youth came from all over - even as far as Cap Haitian. And they slept
everywhere! The rally consisted of two services a day on Friday and Saturday
and then a "round table" in the afternoons. The services were full of
preaching, dancing, and a lot of stuff we are not too used to seeing back in
our Church of the Brethren church! It was exciting to say the least! The
round tables consisted of the youth asking the pastors questions about anything
they wanted to. Every question except for one was about relationships (it
appears Haitian youth are not all that different from American youth! haha!).
Allen got to preach on Saturday morning. Yesterday (Sunday), we had church in
the morning for a service that lasted almost five hours! It was a blessing
though! After the service we ate a fabulous lunch and then we went outside and
took a ton of pictures of the youth! They loved it! Last night was a concert
and that was amazing! Whitney made the comment "American Idol should come
here!" They even convinced Allen to do his Books of the Bible rap again and
obviously Haitians don't know what rap is supposed to sound like because they
seemed to enjoy it. We are both pretty tired this morning as the youth rally
kept us pretty hopping and without much sleep. This morning we are going to
the market and this week we plan to complete all the water tests (the trial
test was a success!) and spend time playing with the orphans. Thank you so
much for your prayers, God is so good, and we look forward to seeing you all
again! God Bless!
In Christ,
Whitney and Allen
Friday, July 30, 2010
Trip to Haiti Diary ~ Allen Bowers & Whitney Hoover
Hello From Haiti
Bonjou! (Good morning!)
It is so good to write you all this email. We are sorry that it has taken us
this long to write! Our time here in Haiti has been wonderful. We left the
states on Tuesday and had relatively no trouble at the airports or on the plane
(although Whitney and I both had our bags searched! - I guess we are the
terrorist type, haha!). We arrived in Port au Prince at 1:30 on Tuesday and it
was definitely an experience! Part of the airport was destroyed and we had to
go through a new building for customs and immigration. The Lord prepared the
way for us and we had no trouble getting through customs nor immigration and
the Lord saw that all of our luggage arrived! We walked outside and a friend
of Pastor Preval was waiting for us. We rode with Pastor Preval all over Port
au Prince as he took care of some duties and we saw the overwhelming
devastation caused by the earthquake - the pictures and images of collapsed
buildings and tent communities from TV are real. We spent the night at Pastor
Preval's and in the morning we flew to Pignon where Pastor Geordany was waiting
for us! From there we traveled to LaJeune and I (Allen) have never felt more
like I was at home! I (Whitney) also feel very welcomed by Pastor and his
wife. I appreciate them allowing us to stay here and my eyes have definitely
been opened. Words can not explain what I have seen so far. The children are a
little weary of me because I unlike Allen do not know any of the language.
However, we play games which allows us to bond. Since then we have been
spending time with the children and getting to know the people. We did a
practice water test yesterday and we will do more of that next week. The youth
rally started yesterday and there are youth sleeping everywhere at Pastor
Geordany's compound! They are so warm and welcoming and it is so awesome to
know that we are brothers and sisters in Jesus! Today, tomorrow, and Sunday
there will be two services a day - which is going to be awesome but probably
also a little tiring! God is good, so is the food, and we are having a
wonderful time! Please keep us in your prayers, that we may share the love of
Jesus with these wonderful people! We love you all and look forward to seeing
you and showing you our pictures when we get back!
In Christ,
Allen and Whitney
Bonjou! (Good morning!)
It is so good to write you all this email. We are sorry that it has taken us
this long to write! Our time here in Haiti has been wonderful. We left the
states on Tuesday and had relatively no trouble at the airports or on the plane
(although Whitney and I both had our bags searched! - I guess we are the
terrorist type, haha!). We arrived in Port au Prince at 1:30 on Tuesday and it
was definitely an experience! Part of the airport was destroyed and we had to
go through a new building for customs and immigration. The Lord prepared the
way for us and we had no trouble getting through customs nor immigration and
the Lord saw that all of our luggage arrived! We walked outside and a friend
of Pastor Preval was waiting for us. We rode with Pastor Preval all over Port
au Prince as he took care of some duties and we saw the overwhelming
devastation caused by the earthquake - the pictures and images of collapsed
buildings and tent communities from TV are real. We spent the night at Pastor
Preval's and in the morning we flew to Pignon where Pastor Geordany was waiting
for us! From there we traveled to LaJeune and I (Allen) have never felt more
like I was at home! I (Whitney) also feel very welcomed by Pastor and his
wife. I appreciate them allowing us to stay here and my eyes have definitely
been opened. Words can not explain what I have seen so far. The children are a
little weary of me because I unlike Allen do not know any of the language.
However, we play games which allows us to bond. Since then we have been
spending time with the children and getting to know the people. We did a
practice water test yesterday and we will do more of that next week. The youth
rally started yesterday and there are youth sleeping everywhere at Pastor
Geordany's compound! They are so warm and welcoming and it is so awesome to
know that we are brothers and sisters in Jesus! Today, tomorrow, and Sunday
there will be two services a day - which is going to be awesome but probably
also a little tiring! God is good, so is the food, and we are having a
wonderful time! Please keep us in your prayers, that we may share the love of
Jesus with these wonderful people! We love you all and look forward to seeing
you and showing you our pictures when we get back!
In Christ,
Allen and Whitney
Monday, July 19, 2010
Another Mission to another Place
A mission to Africa is being organized by Bro. Hal Sonafrank of Leakes Chapel over in the Stanley area.
Below is some information he sends for prayer, praise and support:
The upcoming trip to Africa is scheduled for August 26-September 7. (Actually return to the US on September 8) There have been many needs met and many are still being prayed for to be met.
The team of 5 will be conducting a church planting crusade, plus holding pastor's conferences, womens conferences as well and working with the orphanage and other ministries during the two weeks they will be there.
For those who might desire to contribute to this outreach, please send your donations to:
Leakes Chapel Church of the Brethren
2334 Honeyville Road
Stanley, VA 22851
Please mark in the memo: "Africa Trip"
Thanks in advance for your gracious generosity.
Bro. Hal asks us to please note the following for your prayers:
Pray For The Africa Team and Crusade Meetings
1. Pray for the safety in all our travels - on the way, while there, and on the return home.
2. Pray for angels to surround us.
3. Pray for protection from any sickness and disease.
4. Pray for the food and water to be good and for no germs or "bugs" to harm us.
5. Pray that Satan and his demons will be bound by God and that they cannot move around us or in our thoughts and actions in any way.
6. Pray that the team, along with Brother Charles Nyane will be in the Spirit and that there will be unity of the Spirit each day.
7. Pray the Holy Spirit will direct our steps each day and that no one will walk in the flesh.
8. Pray that many will come to the crusades and that many will come to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord.
9. Pray that all who come for healing will be healed.
10. Pray that the team will be filled with the Holy Spirit of love and boldness and that there will be a demonstration of miracles by God through each one.
11. Pray that all fears and lying spirits will be broken and cast down from each one.
12. Pray for a hedge of protection around and over the team each day and for the blood of Jesus to cover everyone's minds.
13. Pray for each team member's congregation, their pastors and families.
14. Ask the Lord to reveal other things to pray for as you listen to His voice.
Pray For Crusade Expenses To Be Met
1. Fuel for transportation of team members.
2. Publicity Banner
3. Publicity Posters
4. Publicity Hand Bills
5. Radio Interviews/Announcements
6. Supplementary Equipment
7. Chair Rental
'8. Electricity
9. Platform building material
10. Tarpaulin
11. Communication
12. Police permit, letters to churches, calling on local village chief
13. Meeting with the elders of the town and tract distribution
14. Maintenance and care
15. Accomodations
16 Survey and preparation.
Below is some information he sends for prayer, praise and support:
The upcoming trip to Africa is scheduled for August 26-September 7. (Actually return to the US on September 8) There have been many needs met and many are still being prayed for to be met.
The team of 5 will be conducting a church planting crusade, plus holding pastor's conferences, womens conferences as well and working with the orphanage and other ministries during the two weeks they will be there.
For those who might desire to contribute to this outreach, please send your donations to:
Leakes Chapel Church of the Brethren
2334 Honeyville Road
Stanley, VA 22851
Please mark in the memo: "Africa Trip"
Thanks in advance for your gracious generosity.
Bro. Hal asks us to please note the following for your prayers:
Pray For The Africa Team and Crusade Meetings
1. Pray for the safety in all our travels - on the way, while there, and on the return home.
2. Pray for angels to surround us.
3. Pray for protection from any sickness and disease.
4. Pray for the food and water to be good and for no germs or "bugs" to harm us.
5. Pray that Satan and his demons will be bound by God and that they cannot move around us or in our thoughts and actions in any way.
6. Pray that the team, along with Brother Charles Nyane will be in the Spirit and that there will be unity of the Spirit each day.
7. Pray the Holy Spirit will direct our steps each day and that no one will walk in the flesh.
8. Pray that many will come to the crusades and that many will come to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord.
9. Pray that all who come for healing will be healed.
10. Pray that the team will be filled with the Holy Spirit of love and boldness and that there will be a demonstration of miracles by God through each one.
11. Pray that all fears and lying spirits will be broken and cast down from each one.
12. Pray for a hedge of protection around and over the team each day and for the blood of Jesus to cover everyone's minds.
13. Pray for each team member's congregation, their pastors and families.
14. Ask the Lord to reveal other things to pray for as you listen to His voice.
Pray For Crusade Expenses To Be Met
1. Fuel for transportation of team members.
2. Publicity Banner
3. Publicity Posters
4. Publicity Hand Bills
5. Radio Interviews/Announcements
6. Supplementary Equipment
7. Chair Rental
'8. Electricity
9. Platform building material
10. Tarpaulin
11. Communication
12. Police permit, letters to churches, calling on local village chief
13. Meeting with the elders of the town and tract distribution
14. Maintenance and care
15. Accomodations
16 Survey and preparation.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Recent Headlines
We are actually not seeing regular news coming out of Haiti. In fact, you often have to search for it. Here are some recent headlines regarding the island that might be of interest. Reading just these headlines of the last couple of days should help us to realize that they are far from out of the woods yet. Please continue to pray for Haiti!!
Port-au-Prince Maternity Clinics Pushed to Limit
The Online NewsHour - Thu Jul 15, 6:20 pm ET
*
Amy Goodman: Six months after the earthquake, Haiti’s suffering is intense
The Capital Times - Thu Jul 15, 5:53 am ET
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — July 12 marked the six-month anniversary of the devastating earthquake here in Haiti that killed as many as 300,000 people and left much of the country in ruins. Up to 1.8 million people are living in squalid tent cities, with inadequate sanitation, if any, no electricity and little security, and no respite from the intense heat and the worsening rains. Rape, hunger and ...
*
Haiti’s displaced residents stuck in squalid camps
The Wenatchee World - Wed Jul 14, 3:08 pm ET
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — Before the earthquake, Frances Etienne scraped by with ingenuity and hard work. Using micro-loans to purchase inventory for her business, she sold spaghetti, spices and other food from a small neighborhood store. Then the tremors struck and wiped out her business — but not her $3,700 debt.
*
Most countries fail to deliver on Haiti aid pledges
CNN - Thu Jul 15, 2:29 pm ET
Six months after a devastating earthquake struck Haiti, most governments that promised money to a special fund to help rebuild the country have not delivered the cash, a CNN investigation has found.
*
In Haiti, a Storm Transforms a Haven Into a Disaster Site
New York Times - Wed Jul 14, 6:18 pm ET
Some 1,700 Haitians who had agreed this spring to move from Port-au-Prince to Corail Cesselesse, a remote camp in an inhospitable location, lost their shelter on Monday.
*
Amurtel Haiti update
The Valley Reporter - Thu Jul 15, 10:02 am ET
For those following the news in Haiti, it is clear things are still pretty grim for the survivors of the January 12 earthquake. There are still over a million homeless and many of the 300,000 dead are still entombed in the rubble throughout the capital of Port au Prince. Hunger is on the rise, along with disease and frustration for those still living in the squalid tent camps. For various ...
*
Haitian Coalition of Somerville leads humanitarian mission in Haiti
Somerville Journal - Tue Jul 13, 8:03 pm ET
Franklin Dalembert, the Haitian Coalition of Somerville’s executive director, expected to find more signs of a country under construction when he arrived in Haiti in late April with a delegation of 30 health professionals prepared to deliver medical assistance and mental health counseling, distribute medication and food, and provide training in CPR and first aid to survivors of the Jan. 12 ...
*
After Haiti earthquake, she went to help - and hasn't left
Minnesota Public Radio - Thu Jul 15, 7:56 pm ET
Six months after January's earthquake left more 200,000 people dead, Deb Ingersoll reflects on her work and what compelled her to leave Minnesota and help the recovery in Haiti.
*
Bill Clinton gets tough as donors fail to honour $5bn Haiti pledge
Guardian Unlimited - 2 hours 5 minutes ago
Countries which pledged billions of dollars in aid to earthquake-ravaged Haiti but have yet to deliver the money told to pay up Bill Clinton has promised to get tough with countries which pledged billions of dollars in aid to earthquake-ravaged Haiti but have yet to deliver the money they promised. Six months after the disaster that killed 220,000 people and left more than 1.5 million homeless ...
*
HAITI LOVES MESSI.
Nation News - Thu Jul 15, 8:04 pm ET
Argentine soccer star and UNICEF’s Goodwill Ambassador Lionel Messi, second right, is escorted by bodyguards during a visit to an earthquake refugee camp in Port-au-Prince, yesterday. Haitians mobbed the football icon chanting his name and raising an Argentina flag high as he walked by. (AP Picture.)
*
France looking into '$21 billion' Haiti hoax
AP via Yahoo! News - Thu Jul 15, 12:56 pm ET
France's Foreign Ministry says it is considering legal action against the alleged perpetrators of an Internet hoax that claimed France would pay a huge indemnity Haiti demanded 125 years ago.
*
HAITI ADOPTIONS: Haitian twins adjust to new lives in Iowa
WHO-TV 13 Des Moines - Tue Jul 13, 11:44 pm ET
The Stanleys brought six-year-old twins Jean Dany and Danise home from Haiti in January. "They say there's a honeymoon period for an adoption where everyone gets along with everybody and treats each other like guests," says Jaime Stanley. The honeymoon didn't last long and the family was left to deal with overcoming language and emotional barriers.
*
Haitian man survives cancer, earthquake to continue work
The Wilmington Star-News - Thu Jul 15, 3:38 pm ET
It’s been 13 years since Edvy Durandice last visited Wilmington.
*
Haiti Still Needs Help
NBC San Diego - Wed Jul 14, 12:17 pm ET
A local group says many Haitians are still living under bedsheets. Haiti - Caribbean - Organization - Port-au-Prince - Business and Economy
*
Haiti fund only 20% full
iafrica.com - Thu Jul 15, 4:04 am ET
After $500-million was pledged to Haiti, the aid fund for quake relief is only 20 percent full.
Port-au-Prince Maternity Clinics Pushed to Limit
The Online NewsHour - Thu Jul 15, 6:20 pm ET
*
Amy Goodman: Six months after the earthquake, Haiti’s suffering is intense
The Capital Times - Thu Jul 15, 5:53 am ET
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — July 12 marked the six-month anniversary of the devastating earthquake here in Haiti that killed as many as 300,000 people and left much of the country in ruins. Up to 1.8 million people are living in squalid tent cities, with inadequate sanitation, if any, no electricity and little security, and no respite from the intense heat and the worsening rains. Rape, hunger and ...
*
Haiti’s displaced residents stuck in squalid camps
The Wenatchee World - Wed Jul 14, 3:08 pm ET
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — Before the earthquake, Frances Etienne scraped by with ingenuity and hard work. Using micro-loans to purchase inventory for her business, she sold spaghetti, spices and other food from a small neighborhood store. Then the tremors struck and wiped out her business — but not her $3,700 debt.
*
Most countries fail to deliver on Haiti aid pledges
CNN - Thu Jul 15, 2:29 pm ET
Six months after a devastating earthquake struck Haiti, most governments that promised money to a special fund to help rebuild the country have not delivered the cash, a CNN investigation has found.
*
In Haiti, a Storm Transforms a Haven Into a Disaster Site
New York Times - Wed Jul 14, 6:18 pm ET
Some 1,700 Haitians who had agreed this spring to move from Port-au-Prince to Corail Cesselesse, a remote camp in an inhospitable location, lost their shelter on Monday.
*
Amurtel Haiti update
The Valley Reporter - Thu Jul 15, 10:02 am ET
For those following the news in Haiti, it is clear things are still pretty grim for the survivors of the January 12 earthquake. There are still over a million homeless and many of the 300,000 dead are still entombed in the rubble throughout the capital of Port au Prince. Hunger is on the rise, along with disease and frustration for those still living in the squalid tent camps. For various ...
*
Haitian Coalition of Somerville leads humanitarian mission in Haiti
Somerville Journal - Tue Jul 13, 8:03 pm ET
Franklin Dalembert, the Haitian Coalition of Somerville’s executive director, expected to find more signs of a country under construction when he arrived in Haiti in late April with a delegation of 30 health professionals prepared to deliver medical assistance and mental health counseling, distribute medication and food, and provide training in CPR and first aid to survivors of the Jan. 12 ...
*
After Haiti earthquake, she went to help - and hasn't left
Minnesota Public Radio - Thu Jul 15, 7:56 pm ET
Six months after January's earthquake left more 200,000 people dead, Deb Ingersoll reflects on her work and what compelled her to leave Minnesota and help the recovery in Haiti.
*
Bill Clinton gets tough as donors fail to honour $5bn Haiti pledge
Guardian Unlimited - 2 hours 5 minutes ago
Countries which pledged billions of dollars in aid to earthquake-ravaged Haiti but have yet to deliver the money told to pay up Bill Clinton has promised to get tough with countries which pledged billions of dollars in aid to earthquake-ravaged Haiti but have yet to deliver the money they promised. Six months after the disaster that killed 220,000 people and left more than 1.5 million homeless ...
*
HAITI LOVES MESSI.
Nation News - Thu Jul 15, 8:04 pm ET
Argentine soccer star and UNICEF’s Goodwill Ambassador Lionel Messi, second right, is escorted by bodyguards during a visit to an earthquake refugee camp in Port-au-Prince, yesterday. Haitians mobbed the football icon chanting his name and raising an Argentina flag high as he walked by. (AP Picture.)
*
France looking into '$21 billion' Haiti hoax
AP via Yahoo! News - Thu Jul 15, 12:56 pm ET
France's Foreign Ministry says it is considering legal action against the alleged perpetrators of an Internet hoax that claimed France would pay a huge indemnity Haiti demanded 125 years ago.
*
HAITI ADOPTIONS: Haitian twins adjust to new lives in Iowa
WHO-TV 13 Des Moines - Tue Jul 13, 11:44 pm ET
The Stanleys brought six-year-old twins Jean Dany and Danise home from Haiti in January. "They say there's a honeymoon period for an adoption where everyone gets along with everybody and treats each other like guests," says Jaime Stanley. The honeymoon didn't last long and the family was left to deal with overcoming language and emotional barriers.
*
Haitian man survives cancer, earthquake to continue work
The Wilmington Star-News - Thu Jul 15, 3:38 pm ET
It’s been 13 years since Edvy Durandice last visited Wilmington.
*
Haiti Still Needs Help
NBC San Diego - Wed Jul 14, 12:17 pm ET
A local group says many Haitians are still living under bedsheets. Haiti - Caribbean - Organization - Port-au-Prince - Business and Economy
*
Haiti fund only 20% full
iafrica.com - Thu Jul 15, 4:04 am ET
After $500-million was pledged to Haiti, the aid fund for quake relief is only 20 percent full.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Another "new" Project ~ Education for Haiti!
Help is needed for this one! Every dollar will count!
Support and Reconstruction of Social Education Infrastructure in Haiti
First Annual Leadership Development Conference
July 23-25, 2010 Hinche, Central Plateau Haiti
"This conference has been developed and is headed up by Haitian College students from the U.S. currently attending Liberty University, EMU and JMU. A non-profit foundation called Chemen Lavi(Path of Life) will be presented. It is is a Haitian non-governmental and non-partisan, non-profit foundation founded in Haiti in June 2000 by a group of young professionals and religious students. Chemen Lavi wants to provide support in the development of a new Haiti where people in the rural communities are able to take care of themselves and their familiates. Chemen Lavi promotes and develops partnerships that focus on educating the youth of these communities so they can in turn take care of their families, improving living conditions and socio-economic conditions for generations to come.
The objective of this conference is to socially educate senior high school students who have become discouraged after the worst earthquake ever recorded on the Island. The conference is set to help them morally and teach them how to develop their leadership abilities to be successful. It will invite participants to examine their culture and themselves in light of the state dimensions of leadership. It will affirm and uplift them as leaders and human beings; it will equip them with the tools to address community and personal issues related to leadership and education about the importance of environmental protection and issues that impact them socially, individually, spiritually and psychologically. Samples of the workshops being presented are:
Humility and Leadership;
The perils and pitfalls of being a Student leader;
Orientation to college and scholarship;
Building Coalitions and;
Environment Protection. "
This Conference is to be FREE to the students from Hinche and surrounding areas that will be attending. 800 students are expected. The leaders would like to provide meals, lodging, notebooks, pens and flip charts for this endeavor. A breakdown of these costs including the 10% provided by Chemen Lavi is available from Patrick Eugene pe@chemenlavi.org or from Janet Elsea justhomesteaders@gmail.com. Check out the website at www.chemenlavi.org. Costs are expected to be $5688.90. Your pennies and dollars count!!!!!
Support and Reconstruction of Social Education Infrastructure in Haiti
First Annual Leadership Development Conference
July 23-25, 2010 Hinche, Central Plateau Haiti
"This conference has been developed and is headed up by Haitian College students from the U.S. currently attending Liberty University, EMU and JMU. A non-profit foundation called Chemen Lavi(Path of Life) will be presented. It is is a Haitian non-governmental and non-partisan, non-profit foundation founded in Haiti in June 2000 by a group of young professionals and religious students. Chemen Lavi wants to provide support in the development of a new Haiti where people in the rural communities are able to take care of themselves and their familiates. Chemen Lavi promotes and develops partnerships that focus on educating the youth of these communities so they can in turn take care of their families, improving living conditions and socio-economic conditions for generations to come.
The objective of this conference is to socially educate senior high school students who have become discouraged after the worst earthquake ever recorded on the Island. The conference is set to help them morally and teach them how to develop their leadership abilities to be successful. It will invite participants to examine their culture and themselves in light of the state dimensions of leadership. It will affirm and uplift them as leaders and human beings; it will equip them with the tools to address community and personal issues related to leadership and education about the importance of environmental protection and issues that impact them socially, individually, spiritually and psychologically. Samples of the workshops being presented are:
Humility and Leadership;
The perils and pitfalls of being a Student leader;
Orientation to college and scholarship;
Building Coalitions and;
Environment Protection. "
This Conference is to be FREE to the students from Hinche and surrounding areas that will be attending. 800 students are expected. The leaders would like to provide meals, lodging, notebooks, pens and flip charts for this endeavor. A breakdown of these costs including the 10% provided by Chemen Lavi is available from Patrick Eugene pe@chemenlavi.org or from Janet Elsea justhomesteaders@gmail.com. Check out the website at www.chemenlavi.org. Costs are expected to be $5688.90. Your pennies and dollars count!!!!!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
A project in the making and updates on others
Saturday June 19th I traveled up to West Virginia joining with 12 men and 7 women to covenant to work together to rebuild the meetinghouse of Pastor Eddy Sainvil in Petit Goave, Haiti. The brothers and sister in Christ there were Brethren, Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist and non-denominational. Yet the goals were the same. And to prove the point we agreed "unanimously" that all decisions would be made by consensus ensuring that even if one person disagreed with a decision we would stop, pray and brainstorm until a consensus could be had. A contractor made a recommendation to purchase a flex-steel building in the US and ship it to Petit Goave to insure quality and relative safety during an earthquake. Quotes were available for a 40x80 building of $20,000 to Florida where the costs would escalate for shipment and customs and all the rest that burden us when shipping to Haiti. Even so we felt it affordable.
Still there are obstacles to overcome. Some of these were discussed and a Building Committee of four were chosen to make a trip to Petit Goave ~ our Calab/Joshua Team that will go, evaluate, pray, meet with the Pastoral Elders there and report back to the group.
It was a good meeting of the minds. It was the beginning of a project ~ a vision for the future ~ a future that begins now.
Churches are invited to join hands in the fund raising efforts. Mt. Pleasant has begun with a recent steak dinner. Another is being planned for October. Middle River and Rileyville are joining in also. If you have interest in this ongoing plan, give a call to Janet Elsea, Becky Miller or Doug Southers. We're all on the same page, heading in the same direction. Progress we can see in a project that God is in.
In other "news", the orphanage in LaJeune is almost complete. Their garden is in and others are being planted. Allen Bowers from Antioch is headed down in July to work in a variety of areas in LaJeune. We are hoping to get updates from him upon his return.
Creole classes are being taught by Patrick Eugene at Mt. Pleasant currently. They will be running through the fall and winter. Brethren are traveling from West Virginia and Woodstock for the classes. If you are interested give Janet Elsea a call at 271-3000. Classes will be suspended for a month in July and you'd be welcome to catch up and start up with us again in August.
That's all the news I have for now. God's richest blessings to you all. Take care to pray for the people of Haiti as the Hurricane season comes upon us.
Still there are obstacles to overcome. Some of these were discussed and a Building Committee of four were chosen to make a trip to Petit Goave ~ our Calab/Joshua Team that will go, evaluate, pray, meet with the Pastoral Elders there and report back to the group.
It was a good meeting of the minds. It was the beginning of a project ~ a vision for the future ~ a future that begins now.
Churches are invited to join hands in the fund raising efforts. Mt. Pleasant has begun with a recent steak dinner. Another is being planned for October. Middle River and Rileyville are joining in also. If you have interest in this ongoing plan, give a call to Janet Elsea, Becky Miller or Doug Southers. We're all on the same page, heading in the same direction. Progress we can see in a project that God is in.
In other "news", the orphanage in LaJeune is almost complete. Their garden is in and others are being planted. Allen Bowers from Antioch is headed down in July to work in a variety of areas in LaJeune. We are hoping to get updates from him upon his return.
Creole classes are being taught by Patrick Eugene at Mt. Pleasant currently. They will be running through the fall and winter. Brethren are traveling from West Virginia and Woodstock for the classes. If you are interested give Janet Elsea a call at 271-3000. Classes will be suspended for a month in July and you'd be welcome to catch up and start up with us again in August.
That's all the news I have for now. God's richest blessings to you all. Take care to pray for the people of Haiti as the Hurricane season comes upon us.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Some Updates
Hello All,
Information is slow coming in these days. But, as an update I would like you to know that over $2800.00 was raised at the Steak Dinner at Mt. Pleasant. Another is being planned for October. Those who attended enjoyed it, so be sure and ask around. Pastor Eddy was able to join us for the evening only. A special thanks to Doug Southers who brought him in and to those special folks from Mill Creek that got him back to where he needed to be early on Sunday .
Monetary donations are beginning to slow down into the island of Haiti. Unfortunately the people still need to eat and need jobs desperately along with the education.
Haitian Creole classes are being taught by Patrick Eugene from Hinche at the Mt. Pleasant church in the library. They are every Monday evening from 6:30 - 8 at a cost of $15 per class plus books. Patrick is a student at JMU and will be leaving shortly for a trip home. He is a great, patient teacher! If you are interested in the classes, now is the time!! They should continue through October. Contact Janet Elsea 271-3000 for more information.
Once again, please contact me with any information you might have about the work going on in Haiti.
Til next time... keep praying!
Information is slow coming in these days. But, as an update I would like you to know that over $2800.00 was raised at the Steak Dinner at Mt. Pleasant. Another is being planned for October. Those who attended enjoyed it, so be sure and ask around. Pastor Eddy was able to join us for the evening only. A special thanks to Doug Southers who brought him in and to those special folks from Mill Creek that got him back to where he needed to be early on Sunday .
Monetary donations are beginning to slow down into the island of Haiti. Unfortunately the people still need to eat and need jobs desperately along with the education.
Haitian Creole classes are being taught by Patrick Eugene from Hinche at the Mt. Pleasant church in the library. They are every Monday evening from 6:30 - 8 at a cost of $15 per class plus books. Patrick is a student at JMU and will be leaving shortly for a trip home. He is a great, patient teacher! If you are interested in the classes, now is the time!! They should continue through October. Contact Janet Elsea 271-3000 for more information.
Once again, please contact me with any information you might have about the work going on in Haiti.
Til next time... keep praying!
Monday, May 24, 2010
News for the week
Please be aware that Mt. Pleasant is still selling tickets for the ALL YOU CAN EAT STEAK DINNER For June 5th. Tickets are sold in advance only. If you would like tickets please call Henry Elsea at 271-1533 before Friday, May 28th. Tickets are $14.00 each and $7.00 for children. Proceeds will go to help rebuild Pastor Eddy Sanvil's church in Petit Goave.
~~~~~
CREOLE CLASSES in Harrisonburg. Mt. Pleasant will be sponsoring Creole classes this summer. Cost will be $15 per class. For more information, please call Janet Elsea at 271-3000
~~~~~
CREOLE CLASSES in Harrisonburg. Mt. Pleasant will be sponsoring Creole classes this summer. Cost will be $15 per class. For more information, please call Janet Elsea at 271-3000
Friday, May 14, 2010
Some Updates
I apologize for being so tardy in updates. Unfortunately I am not given too many. Communication is difficult sometimes :)
Some recent information includes the travel of Doug Southers and family to Haiti next week. Please pray for them as they travel.
"Choose Haiti" is traveling to Seattle this week to meet with the leadership at Starbucks. Would you buy a Fair Trade Haitian Blend from Starbucks?
Also the Mt Pleasant church is sponsoring an ALL YOU CAN EAT! STEAK DINNER on Sat. June 5th. Tickets are $14.00 per person and must be bought in advance. For more information and to purchase your ticket please call Henry Elsea at 271-1533.
Please let me know your updates on what is happening in missions at your church!
Some recent information includes the travel of Doug Southers and family to Haiti next week. Please pray for them as they travel.
"Choose Haiti" is traveling to Seattle this week to meet with the leadership at Starbucks. Would you buy a Fair Trade Haitian Blend from Starbucks?
Also the Mt Pleasant church is sponsoring an ALL YOU CAN EAT! STEAK DINNER on Sat. June 5th. Tickets are $14.00 per person and must be bought in advance. For more information and to purchase your ticket please call Henry Elsea at 271-1533.
Please let me know your updates on what is happening in missions at your church!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Working in Haiti NBC12
Sister Nadene Brunk was featured on Richmond's NBC Channel 12 about the Haiti midwife program since the January earthquake. Nadine's website is midwivesforhaiti.org. Nadene and, husband David served in Shenandoah District until they recently moved on to West Richmond Church of the Brethren.
The feature can be viewed at: www.nbc12.com/global/story.asp?s=12247278
The feature can be viewed at: www.nbc12.com/global/story.asp?s=12247278
Monday, March 29, 2010
Just a few updates
Want to take the time to update everyone on what is happening locally that I am aware of ~
Henry and Stan Shifflett took eleven tents up to Chester Fisher in WV today to put in his container that is going to the area of Petit Goave. This is the second trip they've made with tents. The container is to leave via Monarch later this week.
Pastor Geordany left today to go back to LaJeune. Kellie Davis, Diane Diehl and myself drove him to Brooklyn NY on Thursday morning so he could visit with his grandchildren there before he left for home. He had a great reception The Valley, speaking at Columbia Furnace, Antioch, New Dale, Fairview/Endless Caverns and Evergreen while here for 3 weeks.
Fund Raising Events coming up include a Ham Pot Pie Supper on April 10th at Mt. Pleasant. This is a joint effort with folks from Mt. Pleasant and Mt. Zion/Linville. Service begins at 4 p.m.
Also please mark your calendar for September 11, 2010 ~ Haiti Mission Benefit Sing at Middle River Church of the Brethren September 11th. Time and groups to be announced. A chicken BBQ supper will be available. More info will be forthcoming as details are worked out. If you have a church group that would be willing to sing for this event, please contact Becky Miller ~
Looking for other news from the District Churches. Give me a call and let me know what your church is doing!
Henry and Stan Shifflett took eleven tents up to Chester Fisher in WV today to put in his container that is going to the area of Petit Goave. This is the second trip they've made with tents. The container is to leave via Monarch later this week.
Pastor Geordany left today to go back to LaJeune. Kellie Davis, Diane Diehl and myself drove him to Brooklyn NY on Thursday morning so he could visit with his grandchildren there before he left for home. He had a great reception The Valley, speaking at Columbia Furnace, Antioch, New Dale, Fairview/Endless Caverns and Evergreen while here for 3 weeks.
Fund Raising Events coming up include a Ham Pot Pie Supper on April 10th at Mt. Pleasant. This is a joint effort with folks from Mt. Pleasant and Mt. Zion/Linville. Service begins at 4 p.m.
Also please mark your calendar for September 11, 2010 ~ Haiti Mission Benefit Sing at Middle River Church of the Brethren September 11th. Time and groups to be announced. A chicken BBQ supper will be available. More info will be forthcoming as details are worked out. If you have a church group that would be willing to sing for this event, please contact Becky Miller ~
Looking for other news from the District Churches. Give me a call and let me know what your church is doing!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
New Updates
Newest updates for the Shenandoah District Missions to Haiti events are:
March 23 7:00 p.m. Pastor Geordany Joseph will speak at Fairview/Endless Caverns COB
March 24 6:30 p.m. Pastor Geordany Joseph will speak at Antioch COB in Woodstock, VA
April 5 Middle River COB team leaves for Petit Goave, Haiti
April 10 4-7 p.m. Ham Pot Pie Fund Raiser for Haiti at Mt. Pleasant COB in H'burg.
This is a joint venture with Mt. Zion/Linville COB
April 17 4-8 p.m. Haiti Mission Supper at Mt. Vernon COB in Stuarts Draft.
They have members from the community that have been in Haiti
on Mission trips and worked with rescue teams. They will share
their experiences. Haitian foods will be served and all
donations will go to the Disaster Relief Funds for Haiti
~~~~~~~
Mt. Pleasant continues its requests for your used or new 4 man or above tents and cots. Four man waterproof tents can be purchased at Walmart for $32.88. However, larger tents, which will be more useful, can also be purchased for a little more than $100.00 These tents and cots will be loaded onto a sea container and sent directly to those in need. Contact Henry Elsea at 271-1533 for more information.
March 23 7:00 p.m. Pastor Geordany Joseph will speak at Fairview/Endless Caverns COB
March 24 6:30 p.m. Pastor Geordany Joseph will speak at Antioch COB in Woodstock, VA
April 5 Middle River COB team leaves for Petit Goave, Haiti
April 10 4-7 p.m. Ham Pot Pie Fund Raiser for Haiti at Mt. Pleasant COB in H'burg.
This is a joint venture with Mt. Zion/Linville COB
April 17 4-8 p.m. Haiti Mission Supper at Mt. Vernon COB in Stuarts Draft.
They have members from the community that have been in Haiti
on Mission trips and worked with rescue teams. They will share
their experiences. Haitian foods will be served and all
donations will go to the Disaster Relief Funds for Haiti
~~~~~~~
Mt. Pleasant continues its requests for your used or new 4 man or above tents and cots. Four man waterproof tents can be purchased at Walmart for $32.88. However, larger tents, which will be more useful, can also be purchased for a little more than $100.00 These tents and cots will be loaded onto a sea container and sent directly to those in need. Contact Henry Elsea at 271-1533 for more information.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Monday March 15th
What's new in Missions? Yesterdays event at Trinity Episcopal Church was a great success. $9837.43 was raised for the benefit of Haiti. Approximately 500 people attended to enjoy over two full hours of various types of music including the Trinity Youth Choir and Adult Choir, Chris Bono on the pipe organ, Rhythm Road and several wonderful, inspiring solos by Ernest Holley. Speakers included Patrick Eugene, a Haitian JMU student from Hinche and Altesse Geffrard of Staunton and Port au Prince along with Jody Wagner who served on a medical mission shortly after the earthquake. The end of the music program included the National Anthem of Haiti featuring Patrick, Altesse and Pastor Geordany Joseph holding aloft the Haitian flag.
After the music concert McCracken Hall was open with various displays of local mission efforts on the island. Middle River COB had a display of their efforts with Fisher International.
The Mission Advisory Team has talked about the opportunities that we might consider for the future including musical events that would include island music and opportunities to share what locals are doing in Haiti. We also want to encourage each church to appoint a Mission contact person and let the district office know that name. Your ideas are important to us. Please feel free to contact us with them!
Til next time, keep that information coming!
After the music concert McCracken Hall was open with various displays of local mission efforts on the island. Middle River COB had a display of their efforts with Fisher International.
The Mission Advisory Team has talked about the opportunities that we might consider for the future including musical events that would include island music and opportunities to share what locals are doing in Haiti. We also want to encourage each church to appoint a Mission contact person and let the district office know that name. Your ideas are important to us. Please feel free to contact us with them!
Til next time, keep that information coming!
Monday, March 8, 2010
More Updates
Isn't this spring weather beautiful? Pastor Geordany has been outside in the sunshine all morning. It's not too cool even for a Haitian :)
Updates for Haiti Happenings follow:
Pastor Geordany will be meeting with Mr. Blair at Volunteer Farms tomorrow afternoon and will be speaking at Evergreen Church of the Brethren at 11 a.m. on March 21. He will be speaking at Antioch Church of the Brethren at 7 p.m. on Wed. March 24th.
The Columbia Furnace Church of the Brethren will be leaving for Haiti on April 5th. Your prayers are asked as they go to build a church there and build bunk beds for the Orphanage at LaJeune (Pastor Geordany's).
Please let me know of other items of interest in Haiti Missions. We don't want to miss a thing to share :)
Updates for Haiti Happenings follow:
Pastor Geordany will be meeting with Mr. Blair at Volunteer Farms tomorrow afternoon and will be speaking at Evergreen Church of the Brethren at 11 a.m. on March 21. He will be speaking at Antioch Church of the Brethren at 7 p.m. on Wed. March 24th.
The Columbia Furnace Church of the Brethren will be leaving for Haiti on April 5th. Your prayers are asked as they go to build a church there and build bunk beds for the Orphanage at LaJeune (Pastor Geordany's).
Please let me know of other items of interest in Haiti Missions. We don't want to miss a thing to share :)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Setting Up
Trying to find a "free" web master tutor has resulted in trying this blog format to keep the information flowing, especially to those who are not Facebook "savvy". Life is a bit busy here at the moment, but I'm inviting all of you Haiti travelers to send pictures that can be used on this blog from time to time.
Currently here are updates that I have of interest to Shenandoah District Churches of the Brethren:
* A Haitian style meal will be offered at the home of Mark and Diann VanHuss on March 13. Tickets are $10.00 each and proceeds will go to Haiti Missions. Contact Mary Anna Cline 433-1871 or Mary Sue VanHuss 434-0260 for more information.
* Trinity Episcopal Church of Staunton, VA is sponsoring a musical event from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on March 14 to benefit Haitian ministries. Various churches involved with Haiti are invited to put up displays or have items for sale to raise money. Please call Becky Miller for more information.
* Kits are still needed for Haiti. Contact the District website for more information
* Speakers are available for your church to learn about Haiti Missions and also about how to plan a mission trip. Please contact Janet Elsea 271-3000 for more information.
* Pastor Geordany Joseph of LaJeune, Haiti is currently in the US. He will be speaking at Mt. Pleasant on the 7th; New Dale on the 14th and others are being scheduled at this time. Watch this blog for more information.
* Family size, quality tents and cots are still needed to be sent to Port au Prince and surrounding localities to provide shelter to homeless during the rainy season. Please contact Henry Elsea, 271-1533 for more information on that endeavor.
* A Ham Pot Pie supper is scheduled for April 10th at Mt. Pleasant. More information will be forthcoming.
Currently here are updates that I have of interest to Shenandoah District Churches of the Brethren:
* A Haitian style meal will be offered at the home of Mark and Diann VanHuss on March 13. Tickets are $10.00 each and proceeds will go to Haiti Missions. Contact Mary Anna Cline 433-1871 or Mary Sue VanHuss 434-0260 for more information.
* Trinity Episcopal Church of Staunton, VA is sponsoring a musical event from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on March 14 to benefit Haitian ministries. Various churches involved with Haiti are invited to put up displays or have items for sale to raise money. Please call Becky Miller for more information.
* Kits are still needed for Haiti. Contact the District website for more information
* Speakers are available for your church to learn about Haiti Missions and also about how to plan a mission trip. Please contact Janet Elsea 271-3000 for more information.
* Pastor Geordany Joseph of LaJeune, Haiti is currently in the US. He will be speaking at Mt. Pleasant on the 7th; New Dale on the 14th and others are being scheduled at this time. Watch this blog for more information.
* Family size, quality tents and cots are still needed to be sent to Port au Prince and surrounding localities to provide shelter to homeless during the rainy season. Please contact Henry Elsea, 271-1533 for more information on that endeavor.
* A Ham Pot Pie supper is scheduled for April 10th at Mt. Pleasant. More information will be forthcoming.
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