Alan Dietrich, live from Croix de Bouquet, Haiti
Remember that show with Mr. T – the A team has come to stand for the best team assembled for a mission. Well, tonight I had privilege of meeting with an A team. Pastor Moise Vaval, our GO Haiti Field Director, met with an amazing group of individuals who are making up our GO Haiti leadership team – including Joseph, Kender, Carmelle, Joseph, Jenette, Gladys – and a few more to come. They are following God’s call in their lives to rescue orphaned and abandoned children in Haiti, and bringing them into orphan villages, lead by the local church. As we talked tonight about what God has done in our lives since the quake, it was thrilling to hear how they have an urgency and life purpose to play their part in this mission. I could not even dream of a more gifted group of people to serve with here, it is another reason why it is so hard to leave Haiti. Thank you for your support that we can assemble such a team to carry out these God-sized plans, and please pray for them by name – to press on for the cause.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Starting Here, Starting Now March 23, 2010
Alan Dietrich, Live from Croix de Bouquet, Haiti
There is a new work being done here. A movement that we are all blessed to be a part of. This new work is about rescue, hope, joy, salvation and growth in our Lord. It is in some of the most insignificant places, yet its impact is undeniable. We are now beginning the phase of mapping out the new orphan villages that will be planted in Haiti this year – God is leading us to new places where the needs are great. This foundation, pictured below, is the start of new life at Pastor Moise Vaval’s church campus, Source De La Grace. It’s a home funded by Isabelle Redford’s cards, and it will house some orphan girls and their momma. It will be filled with giggles and prayers, hair braiding and hugs. Our prayers are for many more this year for so many who need it. Thank you so much for your generosity that provides for this, its starting here and now.
There is a new work being done here. A movement that we are all blessed to be a part of. This new work is about rescue, hope, joy, salvation and growth in our Lord. It is in some of the most insignificant places, yet its impact is undeniable. We are now beginning the phase of mapping out the new orphan villages that will be planted in Haiti this year – God is leading us to new places where the needs are great. This foundation, pictured below, is the start of new life at Pastor Moise Vaval’s church campus, Source De La Grace. It’s a home funded by Isabelle Redford’s cards, and it will house some orphan girls and their momma. It will be filled with giggles and prayers, hair braiding and hugs. Our prayers are for many more this year for so many who need it. Thank you so much for your generosity that provides for this, its starting here and now.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
March 21, 2010
This morning, the team and I attended Pastor Moise Vaval’s church - some of our group really needed to be uplifted after the KU loss last night. We arrived in time to share in worship, and it was ‘all out’ – especially when the church began singing “I’ll fly away” in Creole, and we joined in English. Moise’s church building was severely damaged during the quake and his congregation were all impacted in some way. To hear us all lift our voices praising God for our eternity in heaven puts it in perspective. Moise’s church, Source de la Grace, is one of our 10 village plants in Haiti for 2010.. Much to be done there – and its a great work that God is doing – reaching scores of new folks with the love and hope in Christ.
Pastor Jimmy Dodd preached this morning on Mark 2, and you could imagine their damaged tin roof opening up to welcome the paralyzed man brought in by his friends. Then, one of the folks on our visiting team here, Magalie, was joined by her dad – who she has not seen for 10 years since she was last in Haiti. Reunions are a beautiful thing – here and in heaven.
And, tonight – while some of you watched about Haiti and orphans on 60 minutes (
www.60minutes.com), we were enjoying Mary Poppins (in french)! The kids here now have a new word
Pastor Jimmy Dodd preached this morning on Mark 2, and you could imagine their damaged tin roof opening up to welcome the paralyzed man brought in by his friends. Then, one of the folks on our visiting team here, Magalie, was joined by her dad – who she has not seen for 10 years since she was last in Haiti. Reunions are a beautiful thing – here and in heaven.
And, tonight – while some of you watched about Haiti and orphans on 60 minutes (
www.60minutes.com), we were enjoying Mary Poppins (in french)! The kids here now have a new word
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Haiti Update 3/17/10
From Trace Thurlby live in Haiti:
His Children
“Can we do something about the kids who don’t have parents? See me after church.” – Sage (age 7)
This note from seven-year-old Sage to the Sr. Pastor at Faith E-Free launched the church’s orphan care ministry, Sage’s Hope. Led by a child’s heart, the question being asked is how, not if, every member of Faith E-Free will help orphans.
Two days ago at the OTV, Pastor Chris walked up to Pierre who had his finger in a pink Bible he carries. Chris decided that he would read to Pierre in English the passage on that page.
“Vindicate the weak and the fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; Deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 82:3-4
God was speaking to Chris through the well-placed finger of a 10-year-old Haitian orphan. No surprise. God loves His children! Seven-year-old note writers, eight-year-old artists, ten-year-old Haitian orphans, thirteen-year-old violinists…He loves to involve His kids in His work…His kids of all ages.
Two of His children that I met this week are Danny and Karen Logan. They’re a successful farming family. They’ve been married for 50 years. They love God and they love their neighbor.
Now in their 70’s, they’ve been to Haiti six times in the last three years. This trip, they slept on the ground for six days, eating military-based MRE’s, and making sure their Haitian brothers and sisters have clean water. Retired? Are you kidding? They’re just getting started!
Danny and Karen, Sage, and God’s other children aren’t out to save the world. They just want to help people, because they love them. It’s that simple. The best things usually are.
In Psalm 131, King David said, “I do not involve myself with things too great or too difficult for me. I am like a little child.”
In Haiti, God shows us what King David knew: God loves His children, no matter what their age! And that’s Good News from one of His kids to another.
His Children
“Can we do something about the kids who don’t have parents? See me after church.” – Sage (age 7)
This note from seven-year-old Sage to the Sr. Pastor at Faith E-Free launched the church’s orphan care ministry, Sage’s Hope. Led by a child’s heart, the question being asked is how, not if, every member of Faith E-Free will help orphans.
Two days ago at the OTV, Pastor Chris walked up to Pierre who had his finger in a pink Bible he carries. Chris decided that he would read to Pierre in English the passage on that page.
“Vindicate the weak and the fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; Deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 82:3-4
God was speaking to Chris through the well-placed finger of a 10-year-old Haitian orphan. No surprise. God loves His children! Seven-year-old note writers, eight-year-old artists, ten-year-old Haitian orphans, thirteen-year-old violinists…He loves to involve His kids in His work…His kids of all ages.
Two of His children that I met this week are Danny and Karen Logan. They’re a successful farming family. They’ve been married for 50 years. They love God and they love their neighbor.
Now in their 70’s, they’ve been to Haiti six times in the last three years. This trip, they slept on the ground for six days, eating military-based MRE’s, and making sure their Haitian brothers and sisters have clean water. Retired? Are you kidding? They’re just getting started!
Danny and Karen, Sage, and God’s other children aren’t out to save the world. They just want to help people, because they love them. It’s that simple. The best things usually are.
In Psalm 131, King David said, “I do not involve myself with things too great or too difficult for me. I am like a little child.”
In Haiti, God shows us what King David knew: God loves His children, no matter what their age! And that’s Good News from one of His kids to another.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Haiti Update 3/15/10
From Trace Thurlby live in Haiti:
I’m sitting beneath Juli’s beautiful mango tree. With its shade and the March breeze, I may have one of the country’s best seats on this sunny day in Haiti.
If it weren’t for the tree, I wouldn’t recognize this place. Three weeks ago it was rubble and shovels. Today it’s beds, rice bowls and smiles. Gift bags from Faith E-Free started a kid-led fiesta. The frenzy has now given way to bubbles, suckers and soccer balls.
Juli is part of our GO Project family now. We love the story God is writing (from earthquake to refugee camp back home), but it is far from finished.
We’re looking at an addition and raising the wall to give this family more space and more security. They need it, and you all make it possible. Thank you! We love you!
I’m sitting beneath Juli’s beautiful mango tree. With its shade and the March breeze, I may have one of the country’s best seats on this sunny day in Haiti.
If it weren’t for the tree, I wouldn’t recognize this place. Three weeks ago it was rubble and shovels. Today it’s beds, rice bowls and smiles. Gift bags from Faith E-Free started a kid-led fiesta. The frenzy has now given way to bubbles, suckers and soccer balls.
Juli is part of our GO Project family now. We love the story God is writing (from earthquake to refugee camp back home), but it is far from finished.
We’re looking at an addition and raising the wall to give this family more space and more security. They need it, and you all make it possible. Thank you! We love you!
Haiti Update 3/14/10
From Trace Thurlby live in Haiti:
Great day! Church was God-filled this morning. See the blog entry below for more.
Moise and I spent this afternoon with our new friends at Living Water. They have a solar-powered water purification system that will make the most cynical skeptic smile. We were at the launch ceremony of their latest site. I had my first glass of “tap water” in 7 trips to Haiti. Fantastic!
Living Water wants to install another system at Moise’s church and maybe more with other GO Project partners after that. Bottom line: clean water helps people in a big way. Having this system makes the church an even more effective servant leader in the community. Moise and I meet with well diggers on Tuesday, but this is headed in a crazy, good direction.
Then we went to Leogane with Danny, Karen and John from Living Water. I heard Leogane was hit hard by the quake. True. Very true, and sobering, but amidst surreal devastation, we saw hope.
We met Pastor Jean-Claude. He cares for 85 children on probably 4-5 acres of land. His church was pancaked, but was cleared by the Canadian and, get this, Chinese Gov’t as well. Jean Claude needs some help, but he’s doing great work!
God is on the move! GO is feeling called to Leogane. Pastor Jean-Claude is established and caring for God’s kids. The land and location are excellent. We trust God will raise the right partner. He is faithful and active!
Great day! Church was God-filled this morning. See the blog entry below for more.
Moise and I spent this afternoon with our new friends at Living Water. They have a solar-powered water purification system that will make the most cynical skeptic smile. We were at the launch ceremony of their latest site. I had my first glass of “tap water” in 7 trips to Haiti. Fantastic!
Living Water wants to install another system at Moise’s church and maybe more with other GO Project partners after that. Bottom line: clean water helps people in a big way. Having this system makes the church an even more effective servant leader in the community. Moise and I meet with well diggers on Tuesday, but this is headed in a crazy, good direction.
Then we went to Leogane with Danny, Karen and John from Living Water. I heard Leogane was hit hard by the quake. True. Very true, and sobering, but amidst surreal devastation, we saw hope.
We met Pastor Jean-Claude. He cares for 85 children on probably 4-5 acres of land. His church was pancaked, but was cleared by the Canadian and, get this, Chinese Gov’t as well. Jean Claude needs some help, but he’s doing great work!
God is on the move! GO is feeling called to Leogane. Pastor Jean-Claude is established and caring for God’s kids. The land and location are excellent. We trust God will raise the right partner. He is faithful and active!
Haiti Update 3/14/10
From Trace Thurlby live in Haiti:
Can’t get enough
What would happen if we got on our knees and prayed for 40 minutes to open our worship service? What would happen if we sang songs of praise with all our heart for 40 more minutes, and then spent another hour in the Word? Some people wouldn’t come…I agree. People concerned with checking the church box, being at the game for kick off, or beating the church across the street to lunch – those people would be gone in a Sunday or two.
But, let me tell you what else would happen. God would receive our small sacrifice of worship, and the power of His Spirit would move in such a mighty way that most “church goers” wouldn’t recognize it. He would free us from the chains of sin. He gives grace to the humble.
Grace. God’s grace. People want that, so much that we’d fill the church….and churches would have a new problem, they’d run out of chairs.
That’s what happened at church today in Haiti. And don’t believe for a second that it wouldn’t “work” in America. The team from Colorado is loving it, as I always do, as you will when you come.
Thank you for worshiping the King with us. We just can’t get enough of Him!
Can’t get enough
What would happen if we got on our knees and prayed for 40 minutes to open our worship service? What would happen if we sang songs of praise with all our heart for 40 more minutes, and then spent another hour in the Word? Some people wouldn’t come…I agree. People concerned with checking the church box, being at the game for kick off, or beating the church across the street to lunch – those people would be gone in a Sunday or two.
But, let me tell you what else would happen. God would receive our small sacrifice of worship, and the power of His Spirit would move in such a mighty way that most “church goers” wouldn’t recognize it. He would free us from the chains of sin. He gives grace to the humble.
Grace. God’s grace. People want that, so much that we’d fill the church….and churches would have a new problem, they’d run out of chairs.
That’s what happened at church today in Haiti. And don’t believe for a second that it wouldn’t “work” in America. The team from Colorado is loving it, as I always do, as you will when you come.
Thank you for worshiping the King with us. We just can’t get enough of Him!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Haiti Update 3/10/10
Pastor Calix is praying for you.
Earlier this week, we celebrated as Juli and her 47 children moved into their new home, which was built on the same piece of property where they were living before the quake. Today, we’re watching another new beginning. Local Haitians are hard at work to give Pastor Calix and his 33 children a permanent place to call home. Remember, we met Calix living in the rubble of his pancaked orphanage. Over the last month he has become a good friend and trusted partner. Several times, we’ve heard Pastor Calix pray blessings over The GO Project. He’s praying for God’s blessings over you and your family! Most of you haven’t met Pastor Calix, but he loves you. In a time of uncertainty and despair, God used your generosity to provide answers full of hope to this gentle pastor with a big heart for kids! He’s part of our GO Family now. Soon, we hope to show you pictures of Calix’s kids moving into their new home!
Earlier this week, we celebrated as Juli and her 47 children moved into their new home, which was built on the same piece of property where they were living before the quake. Today, we’re watching another new beginning. Local Haitians are hard at work to give Pastor Calix and his 33 children a permanent place to call home. Remember, we met Calix living in the rubble of his pancaked orphanage. Over the last month he has become a good friend and trusted partner. Several times, we’ve heard Pastor Calix pray blessings over The GO Project. He’s praying for God’s blessings over you and your family! Most of you haven’t met Pastor Calix, but he loves you. In a time of uncertainty and despair, God used your generosity to provide answers full of hope to this gentle pastor with a big heart for kids! He’s part of our GO Family now. Soon, we hope to show you pictures of Calix’s kids moving into their new home!
Haiti Update 3/9/10
The GO Project continues to see hope abound in Haiti, like the new beginning for Juli and her kids.
After the earthquake destroyed their home, Juli led her children on foot to the Dominican Republic, 50 plus miles away. For weeks, Juli’s kids lived in makeshift refugee camps. Then, in early February, Juli and her 47 orphans came to The GO Project’s Orphan Transition Village. There, Juli told us that, “Home is where people love you.”
From Adrien Lewis live in Haiti:
They won’t forget the day they were all huddled under the mango tree watching everything around them crumble. In fact there was a bit of commotion and one of the little girls began to cry…she was afraid the earth was shaking again. They won’t forget walking to the DR and then being shipped back to Haiti to find themselves in a new orphanage with 200 other children.
They also won’t forget all the people that loved on them the last 30 days…all of you! Some of you came to Haiti to love on them with your time, others continue to love on them through prayer and support. Now, less than 2 months after losing everything, they are home again. So in some ways they are better off than they were before this mess, because they have felt your love from across the ocean. They know, that in the name of Jesus, the one they call on as Lord and savior, they have been protected and provided for.
Thank you for being His hands and feet.
Thanks to you, Juli and her kids found “home” in our GO Project family, but today, with the help of Burns & McDonnell, Juli and her kids are back in their new, permanent home. Juli can now sit on her porch and watch her kids play beneath her beloved tree. Home. Hope. Haiti.
After the earthquake destroyed their home, Juli led her children on foot to the Dominican Republic, 50 plus miles away. For weeks, Juli’s kids lived in makeshift refugee camps. Then, in early February, Juli and her 47 orphans came to The GO Project’s Orphan Transition Village. There, Juli told us that, “Home is where people love you.”
From Adrien Lewis live in Haiti:
They won’t forget the day they were all huddled under the mango tree watching everything around them crumble. In fact there was a bit of commotion and one of the little girls began to cry…she was afraid the earth was shaking again. They won’t forget walking to the DR and then being shipped back to Haiti to find themselves in a new orphanage with 200 other children.
They also won’t forget all the people that loved on them the last 30 days…all of you! Some of you came to Haiti to love on them with your time, others continue to love on them through prayer and support. Now, less than 2 months after losing everything, they are home again. So in some ways they are better off than they were before this mess, because they have felt your love from across the ocean. They know, that in the name of Jesus, the one they call on as Lord and savior, they have been protected and provided for.
Thank you for being His hands and feet.
Thanks to you, Juli and her kids found “home” in our GO Project family, but today, with the help of Burns & McDonnell, Juli and her kids are back in their new, permanent home. Juli can now sit on her porch and watch her kids play beneath her beloved tree. Home. Hope. Haiti.
Haiti Update 3/8/10
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti:
We got back from Cayes last night. Overall, this was a busy and positive leg of the trip.
We were able to go to St. Louis, Cayes, and Cambry – and see Cavaillon. All are in pretty rough shape. Many of you have gone to visit these places. To us, they’re not much to look at. But, the villages mean much more than buildings to the kids. The kids settle into their home environments more than we can imagine. Such a dramatic disruption like this devastates them.
By God’s grace, they are all OK. And they will get through this. We do have a lot of work ahead.
This flash flood was a freak of nature. The area where Cavaillon sits, for example, has never flooded in Dony’s life time. The people in that community and surrounding communities are seriously confused and rattled.
The pipeline of help to the kids is flowing. As soon as we get that truck from DR, it’ll really flow. Please pray for that.
It was a blessing to worship at Cayes and Cambry. No matter what’s going on around them, these folks will not be moved from Jesus. They sang louder than ever. They praised harder than ever. They smiled more certain than ever. Experiencing God like that – in the midst of crisis – is like mainlining Truth.
So we left Cayes full up. And we got back to the OTV to see soccer games and welcoming children.
Today is move day for Juli and the kids. They were buzzing this morning. It’s good.
Today is my exit day. Moise is back. He’s doing great – healing and eager to serve. So our fearless leader is back. Adrien’s here on his wing. I’m taking off in 15 mins in peace, excited to see my Julie and my kids at home.
Thanks for your prayers, and for making this part of your walk.
See you soon.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
We got back from Cayes last night. Overall, this was a busy and positive leg of the trip.
We were able to go to St. Louis, Cayes, and Cambry – and see Cavaillon. All are in pretty rough shape. Many of you have gone to visit these places. To us, they’re not much to look at. But, the villages mean much more than buildings to the kids. The kids settle into their home environments more than we can imagine. Such a dramatic disruption like this devastates them.
By God’s grace, they are all OK. And they will get through this. We do have a lot of work ahead.
This flash flood was a freak of nature. The area where Cavaillon sits, for example, has never flooded in Dony’s life time. The people in that community and surrounding communities are seriously confused and rattled.
The pipeline of help to the kids is flowing. As soon as we get that truck from DR, it’ll really flow. Please pray for that.
It was a blessing to worship at Cayes and Cambry. No matter what’s going on around them, these folks will not be moved from Jesus. They sang louder than ever. They praised harder than ever. They smiled more certain than ever. Experiencing God like that – in the midst of crisis – is like mainlining Truth.
So we left Cayes full up. And we got back to the OTV to see soccer games and welcoming children.
Today is move day for Juli and the kids. They were buzzing this morning. It’s good.
Today is my exit day. Moise is back. He’s doing great – healing and eager to serve. So our fearless leader is back. Adrien’s here on his wing. I’m taking off in 15 mins in peace, excited to see my Julie and my kids at home.
Thanks for your prayers, and for making this part of your walk.
See you soon.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
Haiti Update 3/6/10
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti:
Today’s been a humbler.
For some reason, the govt is making it tough to get supplies across the border from the DR. We had a much needed shipment destined for Cayes turned back. Why? A paperwork issue.
We’re bringing in food, tents, and meds by the truckload, and the Haitian govt didn’t like some paperwork. Like we had a truckload of guns and ammo.
Speaking of Cayes, I’m here. This freak flood has wreaked havoc on the ESMI system, and they are busting their humps. Dony and I spent time starting to plan next steps. We’ll hit it again in the morning.
Right now, I’m about to crash for the night… In a seat in a tap tap… Next to the driver… Who has serious toe jam issues…
There’s no room in the inn tonight.
Humbling day.
On the great side, I spent an hour at Cambry snuggling Erinese and Clar (Clarence), Erinese’s little bro. Man that was something. I have a special bond with those 2, and that made my day.
God’s in control. Same as yesterday. Same as tomorrow.
Goodnight.
Joe
Today’s been a humbler.
For some reason, the govt is making it tough to get supplies across the border from the DR. We had a much needed shipment destined for Cayes turned back. Why? A paperwork issue.
We’re bringing in food, tents, and meds by the truckload, and the Haitian govt didn’t like some paperwork. Like we had a truckload of guns and ammo.
Speaking of Cayes, I’m here. This freak flood has wreaked havoc on the ESMI system, and they are busting their humps. Dony and I spent time starting to plan next steps. We’ll hit it again in the morning.
Right now, I’m about to crash for the night… In a seat in a tap tap… Next to the driver… Who has serious toe jam issues…
There’s no room in the inn tonight.
Humbling day.
On the great side, I spent an hour at Cambry snuggling Erinese and Clar (Clarence), Erinese’s little bro. Man that was something. I have a special bond with those 2, and that made my day.
God’s in control. Same as yesterday. Same as tomorrow.
Goodnight.
Joe
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Haiti Update 3/4/10
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti:
“In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes.” Andy Warhol
You know I got a shine for Pierre. Today he had his 15 minutes (15 seconds really). We did a little Skype interview with CNN international – with an emphasis on use of social media and our blog. (It hasn’t aired – we’ll let you know when it will.) Pierre jockeyed into position to see what was happening. Right on time. We got to hold him up to say ”Bonjou” to the world. He thought that was really, really cool.
That boy is amazing. You recall we found him by himself, wearing only a tattered T-shirt, laying in a hospital yard with an untreated broken femur. He’s gone through a lot here. He’s had happy times. He uplifts with his mischievous laugh and winning smile. And he’s also kept us in check, showing that this is not a tea party. These are broken, battered little ones. Hearing a child scream for his dead mother in the pitch black of night – knowing the reality – empties the spoken word. Pierre’s life since Jan. 12 has covered the gamut.
Pierre’s had a broken leg set and casted. His bone is mending. The cast is off. He’s beginning to walk without a walker. I believe Pierre’s heart progress is tracking his leg.
Today he stole the social media show, and got his 15 minutes. Bravo, Pierre Petiel Joseph!
Thanks to you all, GO Family, for given this fella a shot.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
“In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes.” Andy Warhol
You know I got a shine for Pierre. Today he had his 15 minutes (15 seconds really). We did a little Skype interview with CNN international – with an emphasis on use of social media and our blog. (It hasn’t aired – we’ll let you know when it will.) Pierre jockeyed into position to see what was happening. Right on time. We got to hold him up to say ”Bonjou” to the world. He thought that was really, really cool.
That boy is amazing. You recall we found him by himself, wearing only a tattered T-shirt, laying in a hospital yard with an untreated broken femur. He’s gone through a lot here. He’s had happy times. He uplifts with his mischievous laugh and winning smile. And he’s also kept us in check, showing that this is not a tea party. These are broken, battered little ones. Hearing a child scream for his dead mother in the pitch black of night – knowing the reality – empties the spoken word. Pierre’s life since Jan. 12 has covered the gamut.
Pierre’s had a broken leg set and casted. His bone is mending. The cast is off. He’s beginning to walk without a walker. I believe Pierre’s heart progress is tracking his leg.
Today he stole the social media show, and got his 15 minutes. Bravo, Pierre Petiel Joseph!
Thanks to you all, GO Family, for given this fella a shot.
Faithfully yours,
Joe
Haiti Update 3/4/10
Video clip of flooding in Casa Major and southern Haiti that Pastor Louis St. Germain describes as unprecedented. See Louis’ commentary below:
Flooding in Casa Major from The Global Orphan Project on Vimeo.
Haiti Update 3/3/10
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti:
A most gracious 60 Mins crew has been with us nearly 3 weeks. They’re telling a story of Haiti’s hurting children, a story far bigger than GO Project. Today, our part of that story concluded with some final interviews.
No matter how the story unfolds, I’m grateful for 2 special producers and their staff. They loved on these kids well beyond a story. They loved on Moise and Francoise, well beyond a story.
Join us in praying that God will use all involved to advance His global movement to care for orphaned and abandoned children.
We’ll let you know when the story will air.
Three highlights from yesterday…
1. El Shaddai
Louis, Dony, Doudou and the entire ESMI crew has shown life saving leadership. They made snap decisions to rescue hundreds of orphans. And they are tirelessly working day and night in communities in the south in chaos. We need to continue equipping the ESMI church networks. So many of you know these men. They are amazing. We are humbled to serve with our brothers.
2. Vaval Family
Moise and family left for a family respite in the Dominican Republic. Moise Jr was busting at the seems when they left. Apparently, he never stopped. Moise said last night at bed time that Jr was still eating and jumping around.
Pray for some deep family unity and healing.
3. Renise
It’s definitely a girl! Mommy Fox took Renise for a sonogram. Renise has confirmed she wants her baby to be adopted into a family here in Haiti. And it seems the Lord may have brought to us the parents. We shall see soon! I’m awestruck at Renise’s transformation.
Today’s a full day! Here’s what’s going down:
1. Doing Rounds
Deliver to some of our circuit of orphanages that collapsed.
2. Start Calix Rebuild
Finalize the land details. The contractors are ready to rock.
3. Explore Fond Parisien New Village Site
We’re giving thought to a Fond Parisien village plant. Land’s there. Great location. Strong ag possibilities (Kevin and Janet – your new home??? Hmmmm?)
Exploring deeper today.
4. Cayes Support Planning
We’re lining up resources we can quickly access to take the ESMI work in the south to an even higher level.
5. Clothing Biz
We’re about to launch a school uniform business to (a) creat jobs, and (b) generate funds from biz to help pay for orphan care. More tomorrow on why the biz component is so critical in the relief and redevelopment effort.
6. Juli’s Home
Make final completion and move plans. Looks like Juli and her 47 will return home Saturday.
That covers about 60% of it. As Trace says, God’s doing with you there and us here what he did with the little boy’s lunch.
That’s all for now GO Family. It’s a great day to be alive in God’s grace.
Joe
A most gracious 60 Mins crew has been with us nearly 3 weeks. They’re telling a story of Haiti’s hurting children, a story far bigger than GO Project. Today, our part of that story concluded with some final interviews.
No matter how the story unfolds, I’m grateful for 2 special producers and their staff. They loved on these kids well beyond a story. They loved on Moise and Francoise, well beyond a story.
Join us in praying that God will use all involved to advance His global movement to care for orphaned and abandoned children.
We’ll let you know when the story will air.
Three highlights from yesterday…
1. El Shaddai
Louis, Dony, Doudou and the entire ESMI crew has shown life saving leadership. They made snap decisions to rescue hundreds of orphans. And they are tirelessly working day and night in communities in the south in chaos. We need to continue equipping the ESMI church networks. So many of you know these men. They are amazing. We are humbled to serve with our brothers.
2. Vaval Family
Moise and family left for a family respite in the Dominican Republic. Moise Jr was busting at the seems when they left. Apparently, he never stopped. Moise said last night at bed time that Jr was still eating and jumping around.
Pray for some deep family unity and healing.
3. Renise
It’s definitely a girl! Mommy Fox took Renise for a sonogram. Renise has confirmed she wants her baby to be adopted into a family here in Haiti. And it seems the Lord may have brought to us the parents. We shall see soon! I’m awestruck at Renise’s transformation.
Today’s a full day! Here’s what’s going down:
1. Doing Rounds
Deliver to some of our circuit of orphanages that collapsed.
2. Start Calix Rebuild
Finalize the land details. The contractors are ready to rock.
3. Explore Fond Parisien New Village Site
We’re giving thought to a Fond Parisien village plant. Land’s there. Great location. Strong ag possibilities (Kevin and Janet – your new home??? Hmmmm?)
Exploring deeper today.
4. Cayes Support Planning
We’re lining up resources we can quickly access to take the ESMI work in the south to an even higher level.
5. Clothing Biz
We’re about to launch a school uniform business to (a) creat jobs, and (b) generate funds from biz to help pay for orphan care. More tomorrow on why the biz component is so critical in the relief and redevelopment effort.
6. Juli’s Home
Make final completion and move plans. Looks like Juli and her 47 will return home Saturday.
That covers about 60% of it. As Trace says, God’s doing with you there and us here what he did with the little boy’s lunch.
That’s all for now GO Family. It’s a great day to be alive in God’s grace.
Joe
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Haiti Update 3/2/10
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti:
A signature moment here at the OTV came late last night, when the Fox crew arrived. Renise had her hair all done up, and a cute sundress on – waiting for Momma Fox. When we pulled in, Renise knew what was happening. Giddy, she started jumping up and down. She stumbled in her flip-flops and fell on her bum, laughing hysterically the entire time. What a blessed re-union. Things are well here, and this allows us to focus hard on Cayes now and in the coming weeks.
Cayes is a mess. Louis and Dony and the entire ESMI crew are, as you’d imagine, leading with courage. It’s a true privilege to serve them.
Here is the good news… All of our children are safe.
Here is the bad news… This is a highly unusual flood, as it’s neither rainy season nor hurricane season. We have more than 400 displaced children from 3 villages: Cavaillon, Cherette, and Casa Major.
The Cavaillon children have been re-located to the clinic in Cayes. Pastor Nerva took the Cherette children to higher ground, where they have “settled” for now. Pastor Cloitaire has done the same with the Casa Major children. There will be large scale losses of food, clothing, and stuff. Stuff can be replaced. Kids cannot. So we’re thankful.
We have formed and launched (immediately upon the news of the flash flooding) a GO Project / ESMI relief effort. Obviously, priority one is getting the displaced children food, water, clothing, and shelter where they are – and resettling them elsewhere if and as necessary. That process is underway. Long Hollow, your container couldn’t be more perfect in its timing and content. About 3/4 of that container – shelter, clothing, emergency food rations – will immediately go to Cayes on Thursday or Friday (depending on when it hits here at the OTV).
We will keep you posted with more detail on Cayes as we receive it.
We continue to seek your prayers for our kids, for Louis, for Dony, for ESMI, for Cayes, and for all of Haiti.
Thanks for going deep with us!
Faithfully yours,
Joe
A signature moment here at the OTV came late last night, when the Fox crew arrived. Renise had her hair all done up, and a cute sundress on – waiting for Momma Fox. When we pulled in, Renise knew what was happening. Giddy, she started jumping up and down. She stumbled in her flip-flops and fell on her bum, laughing hysterically the entire time. What a blessed re-union. Things are well here, and this allows us to focus hard on Cayes now and in the coming weeks.
Cayes is a mess. Louis and Dony and the entire ESMI crew are, as you’d imagine, leading with courage. It’s a true privilege to serve them.
Here is the good news… All of our children are safe.
Here is the bad news… This is a highly unusual flood, as it’s neither rainy season nor hurricane season. We have more than 400 displaced children from 3 villages: Cavaillon, Cherette, and Casa Major.
The Cavaillon children have been re-located to the clinic in Cayes. Pastor Nerva took the Cherette children to higher ground, where they have “settled” for now. Pastor Cloitaire has done the same with the Casa Major children. There will be large scale losses of food, clothing, and stuff. Stuff can be replaced. Kids cannot. So we’re thankful.
We have formed and launched (immediately upon the news of the flash flooding) a GO Project / ESMI relief effort. Obviously, priority one is getting the displaced children food, water, clothing, and shelter where they are – and resettling them elsewhere if and as necessary. That process is underway. Long Hollow, your container couldn’t be more perfect in its timing and content. About 3/4 of that container – shelter, clothing, emergency food rations – will immediately go to Cayes on Thursday or Friday (depending on when it hits here at the OTV).
We will keep you posted with more detail on Cayes as we receive it.
We continue to seek your prayers for our kids, for Louis, for Dony, for ESMI, for Cayes, and for all of Haiti.
Thanks for going deep with us!
Faithfully yours,
Joe
Haiti Update 3/2/10
From Joe Knittig live in Haiti:
Right now, if you’re like me, at least a part of you is thinking: “What’s the point?”
Hurricanes in ‘08. An earthquake hits in ‘10. Poor! Poor! No, extremely poor! Devastating. We rally with all that we have. The whole world does. Progress. The news fades a bit. Then Chile. And now, an “also ran” – an unusually brutal torrent and flood before Rainy Season in the south of Haiti. A flood that otherwise would have rightly garnered global headlines is a but a blip on the radar screen. We’re all a bit weary.
It’s just Haiti. Pathetic.
Do you speak or think these thoughts, as I sometimes do in the deep recesses of my mind?
Emotion has worn thin, and logic and self-interest invades.
But GO Family, here’s where God really shows-up: when we’re feeling a bit beaten down.
So what, exactly, is the point?
Here is the point. People matter to Jesus. We’re all that matter to Him. No matter what your bent. The people here – orphans here - concern Him a great deal. Ergo, they concern us. They concern us enough to give them what we can out of love. A home. Some food. Some water. Some clothes. Even if these things could get buried beneath rubble or swept away by water, they matter. They represent more than things. They represent our hearts.
And what’s at stake in taking these risks with our hearts? Money. Time. Some thoughts when staring at the back of our eyelids at night. Maybe some embarassment.
It’s so worth it. When love makes no earthly sense – when it brings about a crisis of belief – there we find the real Jesus who ignites a passion that spills over into every area of life.
So, if you’re still tracking this (or just starting), think of it this way: this is just as much about you as about them. Maybe Haiti, Malawi, Uganda, Cambodia have something for you.
Let’s see the river cards. We’re holding pocket aces in Christ.
Faitfully yours,
Joe
P.S. Cayes update coming tomorrow. Mixed bag. But the kids are OK!
Right now, if you’re like me, at least a part of you is thinking: “What’s the point?”
Hurricanes in ‘08. An earthquake hits in ‘10. Poor! Poor! No, extremely poor! Devastating. We rally with all that we have. The whole world does. Progress. The news fades a bit. Then Chile. And now, an “also ran” – an unusually brutal torrent and flood before Rainy Season in the south of Haiti. A flood that otherwise would have rightly garnered global headlines is a but a blip on the radar screen. We’re all a bit weary.
It’s just Haiti. Pathetic.
Do you speak or think these thoughts, as I sometimes do in the deep recesses of my mind?
Emotion has worn thin, and logic and self-interest invades.
But GO Family, here’s where God really shows-up: when we’re feeling a bit beaten down.
So what, exactly, is the point?
Here is the point. People matter to Jesus. We’re all that matter to Him. No matter what your bent. The people here – orphans here - concern Him a great deal. Ergo, they concern us. They concern us enough to give them what we can out of love. A home. Some food. Some water. Some clothes. Even if these things could get buried beneath rubble or swept away by water, they matter. They represent more than things. They represent our hearts.
And what’s at stake in taking these risks with our hearts? Money. Time. Some thoughts when staring at the back of our eyelids at night. Maybe some embarassment.
It’s so worth it. When love makes no earthly sense – when it brings about a crisis of belief – there we find the real Jesus who ignites a passion that spills over into every area of life.
So, if you’re still tracking this (or just starting), think of it this way: this is just as much about you as about them. Maybe Haiti, Malawi, Uganda, Cambodia have something for you.
Let’s see the river cards. We’re holding pocket aces in Christ.
Faitfully yours,
Joe
P.S. Cayes update coming tomorrow. Mixed bag. But the kids are OK!
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