There's been plenty of discussion over the past few months but last week was our first official Dominican Republic 2011 meeting. Most of the cast from 2010 appears to be on board at this point with at least 2 new members (Mark & Lance from CTR DePere) and possibly a few more yet to commit. The dates will be February 23 to March 3.
While many details remain up in the air yet (namely transportation and lodging) some things are known. We intend on working with the Rehab Center, Pablito, Pastor Wilfredo and hopefully Nataniel this trip. We will continue to mix some light construction with the food distribution, showing the Jesus film, visiting schools, the prison and Compassion and handing out bibles, crosses and tracts wherever we go. The Lord has always provided and guided us so our faith will continue to put things into His hands.
An important aspect to this trip is something I discussed in my personal letter to my sponsors but did not explain in this blog (which I realized only recently). On April 17 our dear friend and brother Ricardo (head of the Rehab Center) went to be with his savior when he was killed in a traffic accident. Within 2 months of this tragic event Ricardo's wife Carmen lost both their first child (who was due to be born only a month later) and her mother who slipped in the shower and hit her head.
As humans these events appear to us as gross injustices for a family so devoted to God. But we as Christians know that God's plan is so much bigger than our own. We will persevere and continue the mission of spreading the gospel and Christ's love to the people in Azua. The loss of Ricardo may impact our plans but not our ultimate mission.
On a lighter note, the final night in Azua will be especially joyful in 2011. Pastor Wilfredo (Haitian village) lost his wife to cancer two years ago and has been lonely since. Being the holy man he is, Wilfredo has been praying for a helper and companion and the Lord has provided! We will all celebrate Wilfredo's marriage the last night in Azua!
I will continue to update this blog as I feel necessary as we approach our travel date. I hope to again write daily while in Azua but this will depend on the availability of an internet connection. For now we ask mainly for your prayers. As we are self-funded, your financial support is also welcome if the Lord so moves you. Zion Lutheran Church in Wayside (8378 Cty. Rd. W, Greenleaf, WI 54126 ) will accept your tax-deductible donation for our trip.
God Bless
