I welcome all students of the High School to leave a comment to this post to show their appreciation.
Click on the "comments" word below to leave a comment.
Thanks.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Saturday, January 14, 2012
On approach. . .
Our team is on the last leg of it's return home. We were up at 6 am, bags ready to go by 7 am, off to Jeremie's gravel airfield by 7:45 am, wheels up on a 19-passenger twin-turbo prop by 9 am, in Port au Prince by 10 am, wheels up to Miami by 2:30 pm, and wheels up to Detroit a little after 8 pm. Our flight from Port au Prince carried a number of mission teams, and there was a lot of clapping in the cabin on landing in Miami.
A bite to eat in TGI Friday's elicited a similar response from our team once we had made our way through immigration and had time to kill before boarding the plane to Detroit. I looked for goat and spam delicacies on the menu but had to settle for something, well, comfortably familiar!
We had a wonderful wrap-up dinner with our host, Reverend Chrisnel, last night. . .after throwing a small party for the Haitian wall crew late yesterday afternoon. . .which was preceded by a heartfelt thank you from the clinic and orphanage crews. We have so many pictures to sort through and create an album to be shared with the congregation and other followers of our blog. Over 1400 visits to our blog have taken place, and we were daily encouraged by the mounting tally.
We did a lot this week, keeping the Reverend and his team hopping. While I'm sure he appreciated seeing our puddle-jumper take off from Jeremie this morning, he wouldn't have it any other way. . .heck, he's visiting one of his furtherest-flung churches tomorrow. . .one way, it's a 2 1/2 hour drive followed by a 1 1/2 hour walk!
While it has been some years since FUMC was on the ground in Haiti, our work, our spirit, our helping hands, were welcomed as old and true friends. We will be welcomed back with open arms and loving hearts, and by a people that for the most part want help helping themselves. . .and the team that is presently catching up on some lost zzzzs at the moment, to a person, wants to be part of this good and uplifting sequel. Thanks and blessings to you all. John, Nancy, Jeff, Mixie, Deanna, Duane, Scott, Jill, Peter, Brian, Kerry, Jerry.
A bite to eat in TGI Friday's elicited a similar response from our team once we had made our way through immigration and had time to kill before boarding the plane to Detroit. I looked for goat and spam delicacies on the menu but had to settle for something, well, comfortably familiar!
We had a wonderful wrap-up dinner with our host, Reverend Chrisnel, last night. . .after throwing a small party for the Haitian wall crew late yesterday afternoon. . .which was preceded by a heartfelt thank you from the clinic and orphanage crews. We have so many pictures to sort through and create an album to be shared with the congregation and other followers of our blog. Over 1400 visits to our blog have taken place, and we were daily encouraged by the mounting tally.
We did a lot this week, keeping the Reverend and his team hopping. While I'm sure he appreciated seeing our puddle-jumper take off from Jeremie this morning, he wouldn't have it any other way. . .heck, he's visiting one of his furtherest-flung churches tomorrow. . .one way, it's a 2 1/2 hour drive followed by a 1 1/2 hour walk!
While it has been some years since FUMC was on the ground in Haiti, our work, our spirit, our helping hands, were welcomed as old and true friends. We will be welcomed back with open arms and loving hearts, and by a people that for the most part want help helping themselves. . .and the team that is presently catching up on some lost zzzzs at the moment, to a person, wants to be part of this good and uplifting sequel. Thanks and blessings to you all. John, Nancy, Jeff, Mixie, Deanna, Duane, Scott, Jill, Peter, Brian, Kerry, Jerry.
How to Climb a Coconut Tree
It all started with a coconut break. During one of the hottest and dustiest days on the construction of the wall, the construction guys took a break. One of the guys disappeared into the jungle and came out with 3 to 4 coconuts. With a couple of whacks of the machete, he carved up the coconuts, put holes in them for drinking, and shared them with us.
So how do you climb a coconut tree? Later that day, I tried the brute force method. I selected a small, easy tree away from the crowd to minimize potential for humiliation. Walked around it. Stared at it. Walked around it some more. I bucked up my courage, grabbed the tree, and started scooting up the tree. After about 7 feet up, a bunch of people started hoopin' and hollerin'. The Haitian group had gathered during my distraction with the tree to lend their support and encouragement, but also to be entertained. With the 'road rash' developing on my arms, that was enough of a spectacle for one day.
I shared this story with John and he described the straps he saw someone use to climb a coconut tree. Ah.
The next day, I fashioned some straps and headed for the nearest tree. After scooting up 20 feet, I convinced myself that this is the way to climb a coconut tree. The straps made it easier but it was no picnic. It still took me 20 minutes to catch my breath after inching my way down.
Like other things in Haiti, it isn't as easy as it looks, but you can do a lot with a little teamwork and encouragement. Thanks for all the support and encouragement.
jerry
So how do you climb a coconut tree? Later that day, I tried the brute force method. I selected a small, easy tree away from the crowd to minimize potential for humiliation. Walked around it. Stared at it. Walked around it some more. I bucked up my courage, grabbed the tree, and started scooting up the tree. After about 7 feet up, a bunch of people started hoopin' and hollerin'. The Haitian group had gathered during my distraction with the tree to lend their support and encouragement, but also to be entertained. With the 'road rash' developing on my arms, that was enough of a spectacle for one day.
I shared this story with John and he described the straps he saw someone use to climb a coconut tree. Ah.
The next day, I fashioned some straps and headed for the nearest tree. After scooting up 20 feet, I convinced myself that this is the way to climb a coconut tree. The straps made it easier but it was no picnic. It still took me 20 minutes to catch my breath after inching my way down.
Like other things in Haiti, it isn't as easy as it looks, but you can do a lot with a little teamwork and encouragement. Thanks for all the support and encouragement.
jerry
Friday, January 13, 2012
Kerry's Friday Post
As we pack our bags and get ready to return back to our normal lives there is an overall sadness we all have leaving Jeremie, Haiti.
It is sad to leave the beautiful Haitians. Also, it will sad not being around the great people that came on this trip on a daily basis. However, very happy about the great friendships we've developed.
One main point I wanted to make tonight was how moved and inspired I am by wittnessing, on several occasions, their overwhelming love and dedication to our glorious Lord, Jesus Christ. It is contagious and I pray that some day I will be as devoted to the Lord as them. And I also pray that all who read this will want their faith strengthened also. We need more American's to be like the Haitian's. :)
I am going to try to upload some pictures from our party yesterday at the orphanage. The kids were super excited and happy.
God bless,
Kerry
It is sad to leave the beautiful Haitians. Also, it will sad not being around the great people that came on this trip on a daily basis. However, very happy about the great friendships we've developed.
One main point I wanted to make tonight was how moved and inspired I am by wittnessing, on several occasions, their overwhelming love and dedication to our glorious Lord, Jesus Christ. It is contagious and I pray that some day I will be as devoted to the Lord as them. And I also pray that all who read this will want their faith strengthened also. We need more American's to be like the Haitian's. :)
I am going to try to upload some pictures from our party yesterday at the orphanage. The kids were super excited and happy.
God bless,
Kerry
Weary?
Friday morning of the last day...
Roosters up first at 4:25 am--quite noisy. Yesterday was what I would label as a weary day. Temps well into the 80's making work on the wall more challenging. Bricks seemed a little heavier, the road a little rustler, and the distance a little longer. Work is progressing. Hopefully the right side of the wall will be completed today. If so, a celebration party "on the wall" will take place end of day with Haitian laborers side by side with FUMC team.
Yesterday was a national holiday of grief, marking the second anniversary of the devastating earthquake. Hard not to think about it has affected these people. They need prayers.
We remain focused in our projects. Dr. Scott has more than enough patients-----went over the radio waves that an American physician is in the clinic and the sick form a steady stream leading to Gebeau clinic.
A "ribbon cutting" of sorts is scheduled at the high school, unveiling of all the computers. Some of the team will go to market today to help purchase necessities noted at the orphanage. Will need driver and translator...should be interesting as these "shops" hardly compare to the meager of souks.
We also have the desire to visit the elderly home which is supported by the church. It was in horrible condition in August, yet Reverend Chrisnel has taken an interest in it's improvement so we hope to see some positive change. Nancy
Roosters up first at 4:25 am--quite noisy. Yesterday was what I would label as a weary day. Temps well into the 80's making work on the wall more challenging. Bricks seemed a little heavier, the road a little rustler, and the distance a little longer. Work is progressing. Hopefully the right side of the wall will be completed today. If so, a celebration party "on the wall" will take place end of day with Haitian laborers side by side with FUMC team.
Yesterday was a national holiday of grief, marking the second anniversary of the devastating earthquake. Hard not to think about it has affected these people. They need prayers.
We remain focused in our projects. Dr. Scott has more than enough patients-----went over the radio waves that an American physician is in the clinic and the sick form a steady stream leading to Gebeau clinic.
A "ribbon cutting" of sorts is scheduled at the high school, unveiling of all the computers. Some of the team will go to market today to help purchase necessities noted at the orphanage. Will need driver and translator...should be interesting as these "shops" hardly compare to the meager of souks.
We also have the desire to visit the elderly home which is supported by the church. It was in horrible condition in August, yet Reverend Chrisnel has taken an interest in it's improvement so we hope to see some positive change. Nancy
Haiti by the numbers
35,000 pounds of cinder blocks "schlepped" (carried/lifted/moved/moved again). . . .17 tons, with the FUMC crew handling about half of that
38 kids in the Gebeau orphanage all taking turns "helping" to paint their digs, enjoying a rare party and sing-along lead by Scott, and all wanting to be adopted by Mixie!
12 intrepid FUMC members for whom no day was too full, and no imperative was left to later relief teams
2 Detroit-area hospitals (Beaumont, St. Joe's) who contributed laptops for John Wesley College, Gebeau Clinic, the orphanage, and the Jeremie Methodist Church office (our host this week).
1 Detroit-area hospital (St. John's) who contributed over 100 gallons of medicines for the Gebeau Clinic. . .who began dispensing vitamins the minute they were unpacked.
1500 Christmas cards purchased by FUMC members, in part making all of the smiles possible.
1 giving and supportive FUMC Missions leadership team, who made this FUMC Haiti Relief trip the success it was because of their commitment to success
Too many smiles, handshakes, hugs and. .yes, tears. .to count after working alongside the Haitian people to make things better. . .
. . .and 1 shared spirit of service that will keep a big place in all of our hearts for the people of Haiti who need and deserve our support for years to come. JOHN
Infinite
38 kids in the Gebeau orphanage all taking turns "helping" to paint their digs, enjoying a rare party and sing-along lead by Scott, and all wanting to be adopted by Mixie!
12 intrepid FUMC members for whom no day was too full, and no imperative was left to later relief teams
2 Detroit-area hospitals (Beaumont, St. Joe's) who contributed laptops for John Wesley College, Gebeau Clinic, the orphanage, and the Jeremie Methodist Church office (our host this week).
1 Detroit-area hospital (St. John's) who contributed over 100 gallons of medicines for the Gebeau Clinic. . .who began dispensing vitamins the minute they were unpacked.
1500 Christmas cards purchased by FUMC members, in part making all of the smiles possible.
1 giving and supportive FUMC Missions leadership team, who made this FUMC Haiti Relief trip the success it was because of their commitment to success
Too many smiles, handshakes, hugs and. .yes, tears. .to count after working alongside the Haitian people to make things better. . .
. . .and 1 shared spirit of service that will keep a big place in all of our hearts for the people of Haiti who need and deserve our support for years to come. JOHN
Infinite
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Smiles
Not much success in changing my biorhythms to Haitian time---still awake at 4:30 am and quietly up and about by 5:00, albeit in the darkness this morning as the power and backup systems have minds of their own---but this is Haiti!
I love the wee morning hours, but unlike at home where I usually plow into emails, bill paying or breakfast for John, here I find myself with time to listen to the sounds that fill the early morning air and reflect on all I have done and hope to do. I am soaking in the crowing of the roosters (who have no sense of time as they begin their chorus at 2am), the yelping dogs, church bells from the Catholic Church and chanting-type evangelism from a nearby revival.
Knowing that my time here is short, I wonder whether I am really making a difference in this impoverished country. I haven't written much about the deplorable conditions here, but they are worse than one can really imagine. Most striking is the sheer breadth of the poor conditions. It is vast! I know I cannot make huge changes, but at the same time I know I can change the lives of a few. I hope that my shared love and kindness will help build hope and courage to not despair.
Dear God help me to help them in any small way I can in my remaining days. Thank you to all of you at home who have made it possible for this team to be here on the ground. We are grateful for your open and generous hearts and gifts. Please know that even the smallest gift is received with joy---a single rubber band to a child, 1/2 a granola bar to a Haitian worker, the remnants of cutoff jeans to the seamstress and best of all smiles, smiles, smiles!
Nancy
I love the wee morning hours, but unlike at home where I usually plow into emails, bill paying or breakfast for John, here I find myself with time to listen to the sounds that fill the early morning air and reflect on all I have done and hope to do. I am soaking in the crowing of the roosters (who have no sense of time as they begin their chorus at 2am), the yelping dogs, church bells from the Catholic Church and chanting-type evangelism from a nearby revival.
Knowing that my time here is short, I wonder whether I am really making a difference in this impoverished country. I haven't written much about the deplorable conditions here, but they are worse than one can really imagine. Most striking is the sheer breadth of the poor conditions. It is vast! I know I cannot make huge changes, but at the same time I know I can change the lives of a few. I hope that my shared love and kindness will help build hope and courage to not despair.
Dear God help me to help them in any small way I can in my remaining days. Thank you to all of you at home who have made it possible for this team to be here on the ground. We are grateful for your open and generous hearts and gifts. Please know that even the smallest gift is received with joy---a single rubber band to a child, 1/2 a granola bar to a Haitian worker, the remnants of cutoff jeans to the seamstress and best of all smiles, smiles, smiles!
Nancy
Sounds of Haiti
Thought I might share something a little different today. Others will probably recap the day's work, which was extensive. .and in fine, albeit hot weather. . .hot enough that our Haitian wall masons even were asking for water, for the first time this week.
I'd like to share some sounds of Haiti.
Like the steel band welcoming you to Haiti at the airport.
Like the roosters, which. .here. . .are on the job all the time, and very often perched in trees right outside your 2nd story window!
Like the nightlife in downtown Jeremie, which you can hear very clearly (given the prevailing winds that blow off the sea, across the outdoor gaiety, and up the hill to our guesthouse). How can you not learn to appreciate the music when it's available "live". . .from midnight to 6 am!
Like motorbike and (rickety)heavy truck horns, everyone of them nearly always on, attached to vehicles going way too fast on loose gravel roads. . .kicking up whole sandstorms of dust for the endless foot traffic to cope with!
Like the gentle and genuine "Bon jour/Bon soir", attached to a warm smile, from nearly Haitian you meet.
Like the giggles and snickers from the Haitian little ones seeing their image for the first time in the camera display.
Like the collective sighs of relief when the water in the shower starts to work again, after a hot and dusty day like today (when the wall team was enlarged in the afternoon by "nubie schleppers", who proved themselves worthy but also carted home a mountain of road dust).
Like the silence at the dinner table in the guest house, as my compadres devour dinner after a full day. .like every day this week. . .and the silence of our individual thoughts about positively affecting the lives of quite a few new friends so far this week. JOHN
I'd like to share some sounds of Haiti.
Like the steel band welcoming you to Haiti at the airport.
Like the roosters, which. .here. . .are on the job all the time, and very often perched in trees right outside your 2nd story window!
Like the nightlife in downtown Jeremie, which you can hear very clearly (given the prevailing winds that blow off the sea, across the outdoor gaiety, and up the hill to our guesthouse). How can you not learn to appreciate the music when it's available "live". . .from midnight to 6 am!
Like motorbike and (rickety)heavy truck horns, everyone of them nearly always on, attached to vehicles going way too fast on loose gravel roads. . .kicking up whole sandstorms of dust for the endless foot traffic to cope with!
Like the gentle and genuine "Bon jour/Bon soir", attached to a warm smile, from nearly Haitian you meet.
Like the giggles and snickers from the Haitian little ones seeing their image for the first time in the camera display.
Like the collective sighs of relief when the water in the shower starts to work again, after a hot and dusty day like today (when the wall team was enlarged in the afternoon by "nubie schleppers", who proved themselves worthy but also carted home a mountain of road dust).
Like the silence at the dinner table in the guest house, as my compadres devour dinner after a full day. .like every day this week. . .and the silence of our individual thoughts about positively affecting the lives of quite a few new friends so far this week. JOHN
New worship experience
Our interpreter attends a church that is just a few blocks away from the guesthouse, and they've been waking us up every morning between 4 and 6 AM with their music and speaking. Turns out they're doing a revival this week, taking advantage of the fact that today was a holiday for the second anniversary of the earthquake, knowing that everybody would have the day off work and school. So when our interpreter invited me to join him this morning at 6 AM, I jumped at the opportunity!
We got there as they were getting started, and for the next hour and a half the pastor did a bit of teaching on the subject of prayer, we prayed, sang songs, and read several Scriptures. The preaching was to be done by American missionaries but they hadn't arrived when we left at about 8 to get back for breakfast. Singing was all a capella and the man next to us was kind enough to let me look off his French hymnal. I felt good about my French translation as I got word for word what the translator told me. :> Then the fellow beside me was even kinder by running his finger along the French Bible as the pastor read the Scripture in Creole. And he had a nice singing voice, too, so it was a fortuitous place to sit! Enjoyed it thoroughly, but would've liked to have seen the preaching to see how they handled the translation.
By the time we left for breakfast, the seats under the covered area were all filled, so people started gathering on the grass around the open-air building. As we walked back toward the guesthouse, we were the *only* ones going downhill as we passed a steady stream of people walking uphill toward the revival meeting. At that rate, it was going to be packed by mid-morning!
*Pastor Brian
We got there as they were getting started, and for the next hour and a half the pastor did a bit of teaching on the subject of prayer, we prayed, sang songs, and read several Scriptures. The preaching was to be done by American missionaries but they hadn't arrived when we left at about 8 to get back for breakfast. Singing was all a capella and the man next to us was kind enough to let me look off his French hymnal. I felt good about my French translation as I got word for word what the translator told me. :> Then the fellow beside me was even kinder by running his finger along the French Bible as the pastor read the Scripture in Creole. And he had a nice singing voice, too, so it was a fortuitous place to sit! Enjoyed it thoroughly, but would've liked to have seen the preaching to see how they handled the translation.
By the time we left for breakfast, the seats under the covered area were all filled, so people started gathering on the grass around the open-air building. As we walked back toward the guesthouse, we were the *only* ones going downhill as we passed a steady stream of people walking uphill toward the revival meeting. At that rate, it was going to be packed by mid-morning!
*Pastor Brian
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Kerry's Post
Hi all from Jeremie!
This trip is going so well. We all are working very hard at our assignments and getting as much done as we can in our short time here. I knew going to a third world country would be an eye-opening experience but I am surprised by a few things. The first thing that surprises me is how happy people are here. They seem to always be smiling and cheerful. Another thing is that this the poorest conditions I have ever seen but people are walking around with cell phones everywhere. It is amazing to me that they are so behind the times in some things ... like carrying huge baskets on their heads and going down the street on a burrow. But still able to make cell phone calls. Mixie and I are on a mission to get a picture of a Haitian riding on a burrow while talking on a cell phone! That would be a sight. Others have written much more eloquent than I and have given y'all a great mental picture and summary of what we see and are doing. I have spent the most of my time in the orphanage painting and trying not to completely fall in love with the kids. They are just sooooooo cute and genuine!! They are truly beautiful gifts from God. I feel blessed to get to see them every day and get hugs from them. I will really miss them when we go. Tomorrow will be exciting when we throw a party for them and give them all the things we brought for them. Thanks to your generous and wonderful donations it is possible for us to do this....it will bring so much happiness to their world. Thank you!!
God bless,
Kerry C
This trip is going so well. We all are working very hard at our assignments and getting as much done as we can in our short time here. I knew going to a third world country would be an eye-opening experience but I am surprised by a few things. The first thing that surprises me is how happy people are here. They seem to always be smiling and cheerful. Another thing is that this the poorest conditions I have ever seen but people are walking around with cell phones everywhere. It is amazing to me that they are so behind the times in some things ... like carrying huge baskets on their heads and going down the street on a burrow. But still able to make cell phone calls. Mixie and I are on a mission to get a picture of a Haitian riding on a burrow while talking on a cell phone! That would be a sight. Others have written much more eloquent than I and have given y'all a great mental picture and summary of what we see and are doing. I have spent the most of my time in the orphanage painting and trying not to completely fall in love with the kids. They are just sooooooo cute and genuine!! They are truly beautiful gifts from God. I feel blessed to get to see them every day and get hugs from them. I will really miss them when we go. Tomorrow will be exciting when we throw a party for them and give them all the things we brought for them. Thanks to your generous and wonderful donations it is possible for us to do this....it will bring so much happiness to their world. Thank you!!
God bless,
Kerry C
What a day
Super full day. Completed the sorting and organizing of the supply room. They can finally find those 4x4 gauze sponges! Moved onto further cataloging eyeglasses and reading prescriptions while Dr.Scott thoroughly examined his patients and Jill moved patients ever so gently and effectively through the eye dilation process.
Lunch at orphanage was made extra special by the arrival of the kids from school. So many hugs and kisses.
Filing cabinets were finally delivered and everyone who saw them were so excited. Their arrival finally provides a proper home for hundreds of patient files which up to now are loose everywhere.
Most fun of all was the return truck ride home....in the open bed through the 'subdivisions' of Jeremie. Waves, hellos, smiles, photos and of course an occasional teenager tossing green peas at us, which of course got tossed back to great laughter. They truly love Americans!
We spent our last meal with Dr.Marcellus before he returned to Port au Prince. We enjoyed getting to know him, and he us...but I must admit I think he knows more US history than most of us!
We also said so long to Augustine Axary as he also needed to return to PAP in preparation for his entrance exam to hopefully enter university. Au revior and good luck.
Nancy
Lunch at orphanage was made extra special by the arrival of the kids from school. So many hugs and kisses.
Filing cabinets were finally delivered and everyone who saw them were so excited. Their arrival finally provides a proper home for hundreds of patient files which up to now are loose everywhere.
Most fun of all was the return truck ride home....in the open bed through the 'subdivisions' of Jeremie. Waves, hellos, smiles, photos and of course an occasional teenager tossing green peas at us, which of course got tossed back to great laughter. They truly love Americans!
We spent our last meal with Dr.Marcellus before he returned to Port au Prince. We enjoyed getting to know him, and he us...but I must admit I think he knows more US history than most of us!
We also said so long to Augustine Axary as he also needed to return to PAP in preparation for his entrance exam to hopefully enter university. Au revior and good luck.
Nancy
Great Experiences
Hello from Jeremie:
We had another great day preparing, sorting, and cleaning approx 2-3,000 eyeglasses.
Dr. Scott and Jill Wilkinson have been seeing many eye patients each day, many which only see a Dr. after having very serious or almost emergency conditions. Also, some patients have had a very difficult trip in order to make it to this Methodist clinic. Many of them may not see an eye Dr. again for several years. It is interesting that as badly as they may need glasses, they still are very selective with the appearance of the glasses. The completely unsorted conditions of their inventory of glasses was next to impossible to find without their storage becoming organized. In fact, as Deanna and I were sorting glasses today, Dr. Marselles who visits here from Port au Prince frequently, was trying to convince us that we should return again next year.
Probably the highlight of the day was when we were having lunch at the Methodist Children's Project (many of which are orphans) with the rest of the team, the children returned from their morning school. As they returned, they came up to us to shake our hands or (the girl's) also give us a kiss.
The week has been moving very quickly and we are delighted that we have been able to accomplish quite a bit in the name of the Lord!
As enlightening as the experience has been, we are looking forward to being in church with you all on Sunday.
Duane
We had another great day preparing, sorting, and cleaning approx 2-3,000 eyeglasses.
Dr. Scott and Jill Wilkinson have been seeing many eye patients each day, many which only see a Dr. after having very serious or almost emergency conditions. Also, some patients have had a very difficult trip in order to make it to this Methodist clinic. Many of them may not see an eye Dr. again for several years. It is interesting that as badly as they may need glasses, they still are very selective with the appearance of the glasses. The completely unsorted conditions of their inventory of glasses was next to impossible to find without their storage becoming organized. In fact, as Deanna and I were sorting glasses today, Dr. Marselles who visits here from Port au Prince frequently, was trying to convince us that we should return again next year.
Probably the highlight of the day was when we were having lunch at the Methodist Children's Project (many of which are orphans) with the rest of the team, the children returned from their morning school. As they returned, they came up to us to shake our hands or (the girl's) also give us a kiss.
The week has been moving very quickly and we are delighted that we have been able to accomplish quite a bit in the name of the Lord!
As enlightening as the experience has been, we are looking forward to being in church with you all on Sunday.
Duane
Typical Day in Haiti
What a day in Haiti...We've been asked what our days and food are like so I have chosen to share this with you.
We started with a breakfast of pancakes, pineapples. bananas, and of course coffee...good energy food for a full day. The line at the clinic was long and waiting for us so we jumped right in. I continued as autofractor girl/dilating drops and sometimes pressure check (when the tonopen would work). Scott worked with Dr. Marcellus and as a team we took care of 60+ patients in one chair in the clinic today. At lunch we broke away for a quick lunch of spam sandwiches (yes, for real, we ate spam!) and bottles of water over at the orphanage.
We worked until 5:30 seeing patients and closed the place down. We had to catch a ride back to the guest house along with the other hospital workers. Nancy Smith and I rode in the back of the pick-up truck with some of the staff while Scott squished in the "back seat" with three others. It was like riding on the homecoming float for the big parade. Nancy was waving and smiling at everyone along the way as the homecoming queen and I was her page! They were smiling, waving, and running along behind us...pretty fun even if it was really dirty!
We drove through Jeremie taking in the refugee tents, the very spare housing of scavenged boards and tin with dirt floors, cement block housing partially finished and yet definitely in use. Many had their laundry drying as lay on the roof. The roads are a combination of gravel and brick pavers. Many places have large sections of pavers missing causing large divets in the road. The streets are narrow and I'm pretty sure the right-of-way is determined by who is bigger. The communication system between drivers is the constant use of horns saying "I'm coming, get out of my way." We pass a section of the beach which is a garbage dump complete with goats and wild pigs rummaging for the good stuff.
Quick clean up then dinner. We enjoyed our goat stew, red beans and rice, fried plantains, green beans and carrots! A delicious dessert of some kind of pudding preceded our nightly review of special moments as a team. This was followed be a good bye to Dr.Marcellus who will return to Port Au Prince tomorrow morning to spend the national holiday of remembrance of the earthquake with his family. We will have to brave the clinic tomorrow without him as we have chosen to be open and continue to serve despite the holiday. We ended with devotions tonight led by Deana Ralston.
That's a typical day for the clinic workers! hope that helped you get a taste of what we are up to!!!
Jill Wilkinson
We started with a breakfast of pancakes, pineapples. bananas, and of course coffee...good energy food for a full day. The line at the clinic was long and waiting for us so we jumped right in. I continued as autofractor girl/dilating drops and sometimes pressure check (when the tonopen would work). Scott worked with Dr. Marcellus and as a team we took care of 60+ patients in one chair in the clinic today. At lunch we broke away for a quick lunch of spam sandwiches (yes, for real, we ate spam!) and bottles of water over at the orphanage.
We worked until 5:30 seeing patients and closed the place down. We had to catch a ride back to the guest house along with the other hospital workers. Nancy Smith and I rode in the back of the pick-up truck with some of the staff while Scott squished in the "back seat" with three others. It was like riding on the homecoming float for the big parade. Nancy was waving and smiling at everyone along the way as the homecoming queen and I was her page! They were smiling, waving, and running along behind us...pretty fun even if it was really dirty!
We drove through Jeremie taking in the refugee tents, the very spare housing of scavenged boards and tin with dirt floors, cement block housing partially finished and yet definitely in use. Many had their laundry drying as lay on the roof. The roads are a combination of gravel and brick pavers. Many places have large sections of pavers missing causing large divets in the road. The streets are narrow and I'm pretty sure the right-of-way is determined by who is bigger. The communication system between drivers is the constant use of horns saying "I'm coming, get out of my way." We pass a section of the beach which is a garbage dump complete with goats and wild pigs rummaging for the good stuff.
Quick clean up then dinner. We enjoyed our goat stew, red beans and rice, fried plantains, green beans and carrots! A delicious dessert of some kind of pudding preceded our nightly review of special moments as a team. This was followed be a good bye to Dr.Marcellus who will return to Port Au Prince tomorrow morning to spend the national holiday of remembrance of the earthquake with his family. We will have to brave the clinic tomorrow without him as we have chosen to be open and continue to serve despite the holiday. We ended with devotions tonight led by Deana Ralston.
That's a typical day for the clinic workers! hope that helped you get a taste of what we are up to!!!
Jill Wilkinson
Kids helping build the wall
I Schlep You Schlep We Schlep
Who knew that our most important vocab word this week wouldn't be in French or Creole but in Yiddish! John started describing our wall building task as "schlepping" at the beginning of the week, and it's the accurate term for what we're doing! A whole mountain of cinderblock has now been schlepped and the wall has been two thirds built. Meanwhile we've been schlepping bags of cement and buckets of mortar. Tomorrow we may be schlepping the small boulders they'll use to form the foundation for the remaining 75 feet of wall to be built on the other side of the driveway. They're very meticulous and I think the final result will be excellent!
I did a bit of shoveling but let him use the pick!
Pastor Brian
Dusted donuts. . .
Now, some of you might think the headline means we're eating pretty good, which we are. . .adjusted for local circumstances! Plantains, bananas, goat, papaya. . .even some fresh coconut today for the "schleppers" One of our local crew shinnied up a tree and knocked down several, which the wirey old fella who's being singing his weight in pickaxe proceeded to carve up with the deftness of a Japanese teppenyaki chef! But I digress. . .
. . .dusted donuts refers to the wall crew, building the wall next to the main thoroughfare, which is a gravel road and dusty since we haven't had rain in two days.
Of course, we have nothing on the painting crew, since every kid in the orphanage seemed to take a turn with the roller after school!
Spamwiches made their much anticipate return at lunch today, and the price for the brought-along power bars on the Haiti team black market nearly doubled!
We bring arts and crafts/puzzles and games/sewing supplies/school supplies/stuffed animals to the orphanage tomorrow afternoon, and something sweet to share with them all. .aka party time.
We'll be looking in on the old folks home sometime in the next day or so, which needs some help. And we visit the high school computer lab on Friday for a kind of ribbon cutting.
We've recapped each day after dinner, then take some time for very thoughtful reflections prepared before the trip by Brian. For the most part, our "plans" seem to be getting done. There are daily adjustments we've had to make to reflect local conditions, etc.
While I might like to describe things around some big idea or great insight, this week is split between helping lots of people in little ways (like someone getting vitamins at the clinic, which had run out before we arrived), "nurturing" (like delivering the laptops to to the school, so the students might have access to the vast resources of the Internet)' and plain 'ole pitching in. JOHN
. . .dusted donuts refers to the wall crew, building the wall next to the main thoroughfare, which is a gravel road and dusty since we haven't had rain in two days.
Of course, we have nothing on the painting crew, since every kid in the orphanage seemed to take a turn with the roller after school!
Spamwiches made their much anticipate return at lunch today, and the price for the brought-along power bars on the Haiti team black market nearly doubled!
We bring arts and crafts/puzzles and games/sewing supplies/school supplies/stuffed animals to the orphanage tomorrow afternoon, and something sweet to share with them all. .aka party time.
We'll be looking in on the old folks home sometime in the next day or so, which needs some help. And we visit the high school computer lab on Friday for a kind of ribbon cutting.
We've recapped each day after dinner, then take some time for very thoughtful reflections prepared before the trip by Brian. For the most part, our "plans" seem to be getting done. There are daily adjustments we've had to make to reflect local conditions, etc.
While I might like to describe things around some big idea or great insight, this week is split between helping lots of people in little ways (like someone getting vitamins at the clinic, which had run out before we arrived), "nurturing" (like delivering the laptops to to the school, so the students might have access to the vast resources of the Internet)' and plain 'ole pitching in. JOHN
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
The Orphanage Crew
Jeff, Kerry and I are the paint team. The most unexpected joy thus far has been two boys who jumped right in yesterday, picked up the paint rollers and have been at our sides the whole time. Kerry is the trooper who has been on the ladder doing the top and Jeff has painted wherever the boys are not. Mixie took on the wrought iron gate and then the boys joined the effort. We heard a truck coming down the road and it was an old black pick up truck with the school children riding in The back. Wide yellow hair ribbons, matching their school uniforms blowing in the wind. They all jumped out, had hugs and kisses for us. After they changed Clothin g and had a snack, Kerry led us all in a round of "Hokey Pokey" and then the kids put on a VBS CD and we danced. They are so loving and appear to be well fed and happy. We have decided to return tomorrow to tackle the bathrooms. You would want to also if you could see them. then again maybe you would not. Great day. Mixie Hockman
Tuesday post
Good evening Haiti followers. A very full day at the clinic. As an old ICU nurse I must admit I know very little about eye patients, so using a lensometer was certainly a new skill. Thanks to Dr. Scott, he made short work of teaching an old dog new tricks. So, the morning was spent with Deanna using the lensometer to figure out the powers of donated prescription glasses such that they could be offered to needy patients. And just like our home computers, this machine often needed rebooting to function reliably---meaning we pulled it's plug every 15 minutes or so to keep it running!
Following that task it was off to the general storage area to make heads or tales out of the chaos within it's walls. We still haven't gotten the job completed but for now one might be able to find a 4x4 gauze in a big hurry. The staff is amazed at the progress we're making.
We are finding joy as we help in small ways. Haitian nurses are trying to teach us Kreyol and are curious to learn more about us personally---asking about our families and children and anything about the USA which they hold in high regard.
I look forward to another jam packed day tomorrow and hopefully spending more time in the eye clinic...honing my new skills!
Love to my family at home! I miss you all but know you are with me in spirit!
Au revoir for now. Nancy
Following that task it was off to the general storage area to make heads or tales out of the chaos within it's walls. We still haven't gotten the job completed but for now one might be able to find a 4x4 gauze in a big hurry. The staff is amazed at the progress we're making.
We are finding joy as we help in small ways. Haitian nurses are trying to teach us Kreyol and are curious to learn more about us personally---asking about our families and children and anything about the USA which they hold in high regard.
I look forward to another jam packed day tomorrow and hopefully spending more time in the eye clinic...honing my new skills!
Love to my family at home! I miss you all but know you are with me in spirit!
Au revoir for now. Nancy
Tuesday doins'
The team is filtering into the guest house after a very full day. The last crew. . .Dr. Wilkinson, Jill and Nancy. . .are finishing up a number of eye patients at the clinic.
All laptops are up and running, a connection made with the faculty member who will be responsible for the equipment, and a fly-by by 20 or so students completed. Peter will be able to help from a distance, including remote diagnosis of problems should they arise.
The orphanAge painting wrapped up today as well, and enjoyed lots of audience participation just like the computer crew experienced. The color used suits Mixie, Kerry and Jeff, and quite a bit can be seen on their clothing!
Nancy and Deanna finished up the meds inventory with the clinic's pharmacist, then switched over to documenting the power ofnthe many, many donated eyeglasses. Duane pitched in of this work in afternoon, after the computer work was done.
The "schleppers" had a bit of a slow morning, as the local crew painstakingly ensured that the first coarse of cinder block on about 70' of wall was perfect. In the afternoon, they/we knocked off 4 more coarses. . .and trenching/foundation work commenced on the other side of the road. To the mortar and cinder blocks we have been helping cart around, tomorrow we'll add small boulders. .which will be part of the new wall sections's foundation. There will be some new schleppers tomorrow to add to the crew of Brian, Jerry and moi.
The foundation wall is being dug by two Haitian men, and smallest of the two was swinging his weight in pickaxe all afternoon. When the pick came loose, he used his machete to fashion a wedge piece from green wood, whacked it into place to secure the pick, and jumped back into the trench. He had work to do. .and so do we, certainly juiced by the commitment of those around us. JOHN SMITH
All laptops are up and running, a connection made with the faculty member who will be responsible for the equipment, and a fly-by by 20 or so students completed. Peter will be able to help from a distance, including remote diagnosis of problems should they arise.
The orphanAge painting wrapped up today as well, and enjoyed lots of audience participation just like the computer crew experienced. The color used suits Mixie, Kerry and Jeff, and quite a bit can be seen on their clothing!
Nancy and Deanna finished up the meds inventory with the clinic's pharmacist, then switched over to documenting the power ofnthe many, many donated eyeglasses. Duane pitched in of this work in afternoon, after the computer work was done.
The "schleppers" had a bit of a slow morning, as the local crew painstakingly ensured that the first coarse of cinder block on about 70' of wall was perfect. In the afternoon, they/we knocked off 4 more coarses. . .and trenching/foundation work commenced on the other side of the road. To the mortar and cinder blocks we have been helping cart around, tomorrow we'll add small boulders. .which will be part of the new wall sections's foundation. There will be some new schleppers tomorrow to add to the crew of Brian, Jerry and moi.
The foundation wall is being dug by two Haitian men, and smallest of the two was swinging his weight in pickaxe all afternoon. When the pick came loose, he used his machete to fashion a wedge piece from green wood, whacked it into place to secure the pick, and jumped back into the trench. He had work to do. .and so do we, certainly juiced by the commitment of those around us. JOHN SMITH
Monday, January 9, 2012
HAITI'S FUTURE
My 1st observation for this trip to Haiti is the excitement of working with passionate Haitians for the improvement and advancement of Haiti. There are several Haitian leaders at work here in Jeremie who are committed to lift their community by improving the lives of their people. You have heard of Rev. Chrisnel through out the other blog entries. His determination to see his people become responsible and successful community members is so encouraging. He expects much from his people. There is a true appreciation for the work we are doing, but it is not instead of the Haitians doing for themselves.
I would also like to introduce you to Dr. Marks (spelling?). He is the internist who runs the clinic. A high energy physician who is committed to bringing quality healthcare to his corner of Haiti. He is generous with his time, talent and resources to make the clinic a place that can be counted on at all times. He is kind to those who are fearful and fearless to those who try to impede the work before him.
We also have the privilge of working with a young Haitian opthalmologist who serves the Jeremie community 1 week per month from Port au Prince. He also loves Haiti. In his words "this is is home, he loves what he is doing". Scott worked along side him today and they had a great time sharing ideas for treatment of some seriously ill people and the international comraderie was fun and exciting.
Experiencing these young and committed Haitian leaders gives us an optimistic view of Haiti's future. It is very special to have the opportunity to work along side these wonderful people.
Jill Wilkinson
I would also like to introduce you to Dr. Marks (spelling?). He is the internist who runs the clinic. A high energy physician who is committed to bringing quality healthcare to his corner of Haiti. He is generous with his time, talent and resources to make the clinic a place that can be counted on at all times. He is kind to those who are fearful and fearless to those who try to impede the work before him.
We also have the privilge of working with a young Haitian opthalmologist who serves the Jeremie community 1 week per month from Port au Prince. He also loves Haiti. In his words "this is is home, he loves what he is doing". Scott worked along side him today and they had a great time sharing ideas for treatment of some seriously ill people and the international comraderie was fun and exciting.
Experiencing these young and committed Haitian leaders gives us an optimistic view of Haiti's future. It is very special to have the opportunity to work along side these wonderful people.
Jill Wilkinson
My Sunday Reflections
Sunday January 8th,
An amazing morning at the very rural church of Bois Neuf Malor..one of Rev. Chrisnels 35 churches in his circuit. The road to church was noteworthy....people doing their morning chores among wandering goats and cows and others dressed in their finery, complete with lace socks and hair bows---making their way on foot to church---sometimes for mileson gravel and mud laden terrain---such commitment!
This small church packed with approximately 125 people awaiting Reverend Chrisnel's appearance who would preach only once at this church this calendar year. Children holding children sat in the center aisle, flanked by their parents along the church sides. Not a peep, besides singing, was heard from these kids throughout the 2 hour service.
Guitarists strumming the hymns with the aide of bull horns for amplification! Interesting sound quality.
Our own Rev.Brian did us proud at the altar...duel preaching with Rev. Chrisnel offering the translation in Haitian Kreyol.
Adults approached us with smiles and warm Bon Jours, while the children remained curiously skeptical...at least untils the cameras were made visible. Then havoc reigned king as they all not only wanted their photos taken, but all wanted to see themselves. Smiles and giggles abound....what an easy way to share joy!
More joy was shared with the purchase of a 'samosa' of sorts from a vendor on the church property. They were so excited that we made the purchase and ate the snack in front of them. They were delighted that we even entertained the idea of sharing their meager snack.
Loving every moment of this time. Love sharing our gifts with our Haitian brothers and sisters. More to come tomorrow from the clinic......Nancy
An amazing morning at the very rural church of Bois Neuf Malor..one of Rev. Chrisnels 35 churches in his circuit. The road to church was noteworthy....people doing their morning chores among wandering goats and cows and others dressed in their finery, complete with lace socks and hair bows---making their way on foot to church---sometimes for mileson gravel and mud laden terrain---such commitment!
This small church packed with approximately 125 people awaiting Reverend Chrisnel's appearance who would preach only once at this church this calendar year. Children holding children sat in the center aisle, flanked by their parents along the church sides. Not a peep, besides singing, was heard from these kids throughout the 2 hour service.
Guitarists strumming the hymns with the aide of bull horns for amplification! Interesting sound quality.
Our own Rev.Brian did us proud at the altar...duel preaching with Rev. Chrisnel offering the translation in Haitian Kreyol.
Adults approached us with smiles and warm Bon Jours, while the children remained curiously skeptical...at least untils the cameras were made visible. Then havoc reigned king as they all not only wanted their photos taken, but all wanted to see themselves. Smiles and giggles abound....what an easy way to share joy!
More joy was shared with the purchase of a 'samosa' of sorts from a vendor on the church property. They were so excited that we made the purchase and ate the snack in front of them. They were delighted that we even entertained the idea of sharing their meager snack.
Loving every moment of this time. Love sharing our gifts with our Haitian brothers and sisters. More to come tomorrow from the clinic......Nancy
Building a wall
I've preached on Ephesians 2 where Christ tears down the walls, but this week I find myself *building* a wall. At the entrance to the Methodist compound at Gebeau, containing an orphanage, clinic, TB clinic, and administrative offices is a gate but no wall. Other Methodist churches from Michigan have completed significant portions of the wall around the compound, but this stretch remains unfinished. Today we got maybe a quarter of it done, with about 10 Haitian workers building the walls while we did the "schlepping" (as John Smith describes it) -- hauling tons of cinderblock, sacks of cement, and mortar.
Throughout, grateful for the amazing talents of my team members and the amazing generosity of all those who helped bring us here and provide the computers and medicines we brought!
What a day!
Mon ami. . .er, friends, we had a wonderful day! Peter and Duane lit up the computer-less computer lab at John Wesly College today, firing up 20 laptops donated by both St. Joe's and Beaumont Hospitals. Staff and kids alike were so anxious to get behind the wheel and join the world. Thanks as well to my friends at General Motors for the 500+ thumb drives. . .something's we all take for granted, but has value and empowerment beyond description here. We'll have a ribbon cutting on Friday and have lots of pictures of smiling faces to share.
Speaking of smiling faces, the painting crew of Jeff, Mixie and Kerry were surrounded by smiling faces after school let out and the kids returned to the orphanage this afternoon. We may not speak French but there is no language problem. .and it was a bit of Tom Sawyer action as the "pros" invited the littler ones to join in!
Nancy and Deanna delivered and nearly completely inventoried the over 100 gallons (by volume)of medicines and vitamins, largely contributed by St. John's hospital. Dr. Wilkinson and wife Jill worked with the visiting Haitian eye doctor and saw 25 patients at the same clinic.
Jerry, Brian and yours truly slung mortar and schlepped cinder blocks for the skilled Haitian masons as we worked to build a 150' x 9' wall near the entrance to the compound housing the clinics and the orphanage. . .rained delayed our start, anD created a puddle that a Haitian motor bike managed to share with Jerry's backside, but we managed to get about a qurter of the way home today.
We had a great day thanks to the support of a generous congregation, and the contributions of the hospitals and General Motors noted above. Our hosts are working just as hard as we are, even thinking about what more we might be able to squeeze in yet this week! By the way, we had Spamwiches for lunch, on the job, and you didn't! JOHN
Speaking of smiling faces, the painting crew of Jeff, Mixie and Kerry were surrounded by smiling faces after school let out and the kids returned to the orphanage this afternoon. We may not speak French but there is no language problem. .and it was a bit of Tom Sawyer action as the "pros" invited the littler ones to join in!
Nancy and Deanna delivered and nearly completely inventoried the over 100 gallons (by volume)of medicines and vitamins, largely contributed by St. John's hospital. Dr. Wilkinson and wife Jill worked with the visiting Haitian eye doctor and saw 25 patients at the same clinic.
Jerry, Brian and yours truly slung mortar and schlepped cinder blocks for the skilled Haitian masons as we worked to build a 150' x 9' wall near the entrance to the compound housing the clinics and the orphanage. . .rained delayed our start, anD created a puddle that a Haitian motor bike managed to share with Jerry's backside, but we managed to get about a qurter of the way home today.
We had a great day thanks to the support of a generous congregation, and the contributions of the hospitals and General Motors noted above. Our hosts are working just as hard as we are, even thinking about what more we might be able to squeeze in yet this week! By the way, we had Spamwiches for lunch, on the job, and you didn't! JOHN
Computer Lab
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Deanna's Post
Part of the group was privileged to share the morning worship at the Jeremie Church.
From a musicians eyes and ears it was a wonderful morning. There were 3 choirs from a grade school choir to an adult women's choir doing all their number a capella. No music, so not one eye was anywhere except on the director. Boy, would Casey love that!
At lunch the Rev. explained there are so many choirs that each Sunday 3 or 4 different choirs take their turn. And I thought we had a lot of choirs!
Hope our choirs had a great morning! I missed singing in Birmingham but what a time we have had so far and tommorow the work begins!
Deanna
From a musicians eyes and ears it was a wonderful morning. There were 3 choirs from a grade school choir to an adult women's choir doing all their number a capella. No music, so not one eye was anywhere except on the director. Boy, would Casey love that!
At lunch the Rev. explained there are so many choirs that each Sunday 3 or 4 different choirs take their turn. And I thought we had a lot of choirs!
Hope our choirs had a great morning! I missed singing in Birmingham but what a time we have had so far and tommorow the work begins!
Deanna
$100 donation on the plane
Catching up!
We are here!
Saturday was a long day. .up at 4 am in Miami, then to Port au Prince, then to Jeremie. . .then to bed! And we hauled 1000 pounds of gear (medicines, computer gear etc.) through countless checkpoints. On the way here, a complete stranger gave us $100 because she just wanted to help. .another example of everyone's generosity in supporting the team.
Today, we were at church. . A few of us with Brian at a small church about 30 minutes east of Jeremie. Brian gave the sermon, which was translated into French by our host this week, Reverend Chrisnel. Brian's sermon was recorded and everyone should want to see if at Shine sometime soon! Most of our group was at the main church in downtown Jeremie, filled to the gills (600+. .. .including over 100+ of the quietest kids for the entire 2-hour service)...JOHN
We were transported in a truck in two loads and returned all in one truck with a bunch of our group hanging on in the pick up portion. The service was focused on the children and many of us were mesmerized by their charm. we heard a number of choirs and a sermon in French Creole that was really hard to understand but moving just the same. . .MIXIE
The weather is great! Can't believe we are here. What an honor!!
Rev Chrisnel is so great and speaks English well.
We start up tomorrow and we are anxious to get started. Hope we can upload pics soon. Internet and cell service is shoddy. So more to come! KERRY
Hopefully we will be able to load photos on the blog tomorrow when we set up at the school.
We are Jeremie and have been warmly welcomed by the Haitian people. Rev. Chrisnel has opened up his house to our weary crew. We are almost over our sleep deprivation and looking forward to a challenging week. Until then, au revoir. JERRY
We had a great trip to Haaiti inspire of an early rise in Miami on Saturday morning. the flight to Port au Prince was very good.
John and Nancy did a great job with the arrangements to et us from the main airport, there, to walk and ride (along with many "volunteer" porters). We arrived in plenty of time to wait for the "puddlejumper" ride to Jeremie.
We have had a great evening in the home of Rev. Crisnel. The sleeping arrangements have been great for a Mission trip.
The church service at the Jeremie UM church was very inspiring this morning with a "packed" house of approx 500 in attendance. Some of us rode in a pickup truck to return to the Reverend's house for lunch.
We look forward to the coming week's activities with great anticipation!
Duane R
Saturday was a long day. .up at 4 am in Miami, then to Port au Prince, then to Jeremie. . .then to bed! And we hauled 1000 pounds of gear (medicines, computer gear etc.) through countless checkpoints. On the way here, a complete stranger gave us $100 because she just wanted to help. .another example of everyone's generosity in supporting the team.
Today, we were at church. . A few of us with Brian at a small church about 30 minutes east of Jeremie. Brian gave the sermon, which was translated into French by our host this week, Reverend Chrisnel. Brian's sermon was recorded and everyone should want to see if at Shine sometime soon! Most of our group was at the main church in downtown Jeremie, filled to the gills (600+. .. .including over 100+ of the quietest kids for the entire 2-hour service)...JOHN
We were transported in a truck in two loads and returned all in one truck with a bunch of our group hanging on in the pick up portion. The service was focused on the children and many of us were mesmerized by their charm. we heard a number of choirs and a sermon in French Creole that was really hard to understand but moving just the same. . .MIXIE
The weather is great! Can't believe we are here. What an honor!!
Rev Chrisnel is so great and speaks English well.
We start up tomorrow and we are anxious to get started. Hope we can upload pics soon. Internet and cell service is shoddy. So more to come! KERRY
Hopefully we will be able to load photos on the blog tomorrow when we set up at the school.
We are Jeremie and have been warmly welcomed by the Haitian people. Rev. Chrisnel has opened up his house to our weary crew. We are almost over our sleep deprivation and looking forward to a challenging week. Until then, au revoir. JERRY
We had a great trip to Haaiti inspire of an early rise in Miami on Saturday morning. the flight to Port au Prince was very good.
John and Nancy did a great job with the arrangements to et us from the main airport, there, to walk and ride (along with many "volunteer" porters). We arrived in plenty of time to wait for the "puddlejumper" ride to Jeremie.
We have had a great evening in the home of Rev. Crisnel. The sleeping arrangements have been great for a Mission trip.
The church service at the Jeremie UM church was very inspiring this morning with a "packed" house of approx 500 in attendance. Some of us rode in a pickup truck to return to the Reverend's house for lunch.
We look forward to the coming week's activities with great anticipation!
Duane R
Sunday, January 1, 2012
New Years Day
The First United Methodist Church of Birmingham, MI, USA is sending a mission team to Jeremie, Haiti. We leave Jan 6th, 2012 and return Jan 14th, 2012.
Today our team was blessed during morning service.
In Jesus Christ,
Today our team was blessed during morning service.
In Jesus Christ,
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)