Days 1 & 2

Day 1

We have arrived!  Haiti is beautiful, and the team is excited. Many of our team members are traveling for the first time and are eager to get started.

  

We piled in the van and headed for the compound; there was much to see along the way. The tent cities are disappearing but the country itself looks the same; there is much more to be done.

For our team members who are visiting Haiti for the first time, it has been a culture shock. 

Josh (age 12), who is traveling to Haiti for the first time stated, “It was breathtaking.  We have so much, like everything, when they have almost nothing."  

Vicki, who has traveled to Haiti before said, “I enjoyed the reactions of those who have traveled to Haiti for the first time.  After you have traveled to Haiti a few times, you aren’t shocked, but it is so important not to grow numb."

Upon our arrival at the compound, we were greeted with smiles and a delicious lunch. With our first party beginning Wednesday, we knew we had to hit the ground running.  Some of us prepared badges and bags, worked the assembly line packing gifts, as well as, played with the girls at the Girl’s Home. 

We concluded our day with devotion, and today’s devotion truly resonated with each of us. Pastor Chris read Philippians 2:1-5; it was a strong reminder of why we are here.

"So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.  Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also the interests of others.  Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus." ~ Philippians 2:1-5

Day 2

 "Veet Veet!"  This was the phrase of the day and will more than likely be the phrase of the week.  

Our Christmas parties begin tomorrow, with an estimated 6,000 kids.  Everyone was busy packing bags of gifts and practicing for the puppet show.

The children will be receiving awesome gifts this year such as helicopters, police cars, and Barbie dolls.  The team was excited and worked tirelessly.

We are developing new friendships and enjoying fellowship with one another.

Tomorrow is going to be a great day.  Keep us in your prayers as we minister to the children.

THE HAITI TEAM