I finished the video for 2011 and hope you enjoy. The link is to the right. The song became our unofficial theme song while on the bus so it has a special meaning for the team members. It is currently posted on youtube but that may need to change due to copyright issues with the music.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Epilogue
This is the planned final blog entry for the 2011 DR mission trip. While the daily blogs detailed our travels this entry is meant to recap the trip and detail to our financial backers where our/their (God's) money was spent.
That being said, we want to be careful as not to appear to the reader that these accomplishments are an end-all and self-congratulatory. When we do that we are relegating what we have done to a "work". This team is very aware of that pitfall and is constantly on the watch. What we do is because of our love for these people and that love comes from Jesus. These "works" are a result of our faith.
Donated and member money for this year's trip helped to purchase these items:
Adult Bibles - 220
Children's Bibles - 2200
Food - 1.1 tons of rice & beans plus oil (400 family sized bags)
Gospel Tracts - 1100
Plastic Church chairs - 60
Materials for church bathroom
Concrete floor in house (labor & materials)
Foundation and concrete slab for pavilion (labor & materials)
Soap for prisoners
Money for eye surgery to restore sight in Christian girl
Money for leg prostesis (Haitian rehab boy from earthquake)
Continue and expand Haitian orphan feeding program for another year
Truck for Pastor Wilfredo
Love offerings to Nataniel, Pablito, Pablo, Genesis and Cesar.
In addition to those direct purchases the team distributed these donated items:
12 suitcases of donated clothes
Various toys and candy
900 wooden cross necklaces
I know I have said it before but it cannot be emphasized enough. THANK YOU! Your generosity in prayers and donations allowed us to be very productive in reaching those who do not know Christ and encouraging those who do.
While we had a large group in 2011 the Lord was very wise in selecting members. The various God-given gifts and personalities of the individual members formed a complete body working for His good. There was no conflict or strife; only positive attitudes working for His purpose (with a lot of fun in between).
This was truly a Christ-centered trip. So often we witnessed God at work through us and between us. It was a combination of feelings of humility and awe.
To God we give the glory. We thank Him for our (and our families) health and safety while away. We thank Him for His guidance. We thank Him for allowing us to be his hands, feet and voice. We thank Him for Grace and we thank Him for sending His son and our savior Jesus Christ to Earth to free us from sin and eternal punishment.
Amen
That being said, we want to be careful as not to appear to the reader that these accomplishments are an end-all and self-congratulatory. When we do that we are relegating what we have done to a "work". This team is very aware of that pitfall and is constantly on the watch. What we do is because of our love for these people and that love comes from Jesus. These "works" are a result of our faith.
Donated and member money for this year's trip helped to purchase these items:
Adult Bibles - 220
Children's Bibles - 2200
Food - 1.1 tons of rice & beans plus oil (400 family sized bags)
Gospel Tracts - 1100
Plastic Church chairs - 60
Materials for church bathroom
Concrete floor in house (labor & materials)
Foundation and concrete slab for pavilion (labor & materials)
Soap for prisoners
Money for eye surgery to restore sight in Christian girl
Money for leg prostesis (Haitian rehab boy from earthquake)
Continue and expand Haitian orphan feeding program for another year
Truck for Pastor Wilfredo
Love offerings to Nataniel, Pablito, Pablo, Genesis and Cesar.
In addition to those direct purchases the team distributed these donated items:
12 suitcases of donated clothes
Various toys and candy
900 wooden cross necklaces
I know I have said it before but it cannot be emphasized enough. THANK YOU! Your generosity in prayers and donations allowed us to be very productive in reaching those who do not know Christ and encouraging those who do.
While we had a large group in 2011 the Lord was very wise in selecting members. The various God-given gifts and personalities of the individual members formed a complete body working for His good. There was no conflict or strife; only positive attitudes working for His purpose (with a lot of fun in between).
This was truly a Christ-centered trip. So often we witnessed God at work through us and between us. It was a combination of feelings of humility and awe.
To God we give the glory. We thank Him for our (and our families) health and safety while away. We thank Him for His guidance. We thank Him for allowing us to be his hands, feet and voice. We thank Him for Grace and we thank Him for sending His son and our savior Jesus Christ to Earth to free us from sin and eternal punishment.
Amen
Friday, March 4, 2011
Back Home
Day 8 - Thursday
Today was a travel day. After a 3:30am wake-up the team travelled to the airport in Santo Domingo and then connecting flights in Miami and Chicago before finally arriving in Green Bay to waiting family members at 4:30pm.
Keep checking back to this blog and within the next few days/weeks I will have more video, pictures and a wrap up of this year's trip.
Thanks to everyone for their positive comments, prayers and financial support. You are all a supporting member of the team.
Today was a travel day. After a 3:30am wake-up the team travelled to the airport in Santo Domingo and then connecting flights in Miami and Chicago before finally arriving in Green Bay to waiting family members at 4:30pm.
Keep checking back to this blog and within the next few days/weeks I will have more video, pictures and a wrap up of this year's trip.
Thanks to everyone for their positive comments, prayers and financial support. You are all a supporting member of the team.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Wrapping Up
Day 7 – Wednesday
Today was the start of the journey home. Devotions were led by Jim and covered a wide selection of verses. After a quick breakfast the team went in separate groups to tie up a number of loose ends.
Pablito has not been able to take Dorcas back to his home of Puerto Rico. This is because of her Haitian nationality and the U.S. Homeland Defense. A few of the team met with a lawyer to better their chances with signed avidavits as to their marriage.
Meanwhile the rest of the team was back at the house and had time to hear Nataniels story of how he came to Christ. This is a powerful story of God's ability to regenerate any human being to include violence, ship wreck, selling drugs and being on the run from the law.
The rest of the morning consisted of packing up and cleaning the house, delivering some last purchases, setting up accounts with our contact at the bank, last goodbyes at the rehab center and meeting with Pastor Wilfredo about a huge blessing the team decided to bestow upon him (thanks be to God).
After saying our goodbyes to Carmen and the Puerto Rican families the team loaded the bus shortly before 1pm for the 2 hour ride to the capitol.
After arriving in Santo Domingo we found a nice place to eat along the ocean. The setting sun, warm tropical air and blue water made for a wonderful time. This was probably the first moment the team was able to relax and start to unwind since leaving Green Bay over a week ago.
We had a couple of hours to spend shopping in the tourist plaza and supermarket before checking into our hotel. While clean, it was a far cry from the place we stayed last year. We shared beds and a very tight space but they were beds (not mattresses on the floor) and the showers were hot.
A team meeting outside of the old (c.1525) cathedral ended the evening. Dan and Paul went over the mission fund expenditures. Dan talked about how the mission trip came to be and how important each one of the team was to the success of this trip. Others gave heartfelt speeches of praise and thanks and the meeting ended with prayer and the first verse of Amazing Grace. A beautiful scene it was.
As the team had a 3:30am wake-up time for their 6:45am flight the night couldn't go on forever so everyone walked back to the hotel for about 5 hours of sleep.
Good night and God's Blessings
Today was the start of the journey home. Devotions were led by Jim and covered a wide selection of verses. After a quick breakfast the team went in separate groups to tie up a number of loose ends.
Pablito has not been able to take Dorcas back to his home of Puerto Rico. This is because of her Haitian nationality and the U.S. Homeland Defense. A few of the team met with a lawyer to better their chances with signed avidavits as to their marriage.
Meanwhile the rest of the team was back at the house and had time to hear Nataniels story of how he came to Christ. This is a powerful story of God's ability to regenerate any human being to include violence, ship wreck, selling drugs and being on the run from the law.
The rest of the morning consisted of packing up and cleaning the house, delivering some last purchases, setting up accounts with our contact at the bank, last goodbyes at the rehab center and meeting with Pastor Wilfredo about a huge blessing the team decided to bestow upon him (thanks be to God).
After saying our goodbyes to Carmen and the Puerto Rican families the team loaded the bus shortly before 1pm for the 2 hour ride to the capitol.
After arriving in Santo Domingo we found a nice place to eat along the ocean. The setting sun, warm tropical air and blue water made for a wonderful time. This was probably the first moment the team was able to relax and start to unwind since leaving Green Bay over a week ago.
We had a couple of hours to spend shopping in the tourist plaza and supermarket before checking into our hotel. While clean, it was a far cry from the place we stayed last year. We shared beds and a very tight space but they were beds (not mattresses on the floor) and the showers were hot.
A team meeting outside of the old (c.1525) cathedral ended the evening. Dan and Paul went over the mission fund expenditures. Dan talked about how the mission trip came to be and how important each one of the team was to the success of this trip. Others gave heartfelt speeches of praise and thanks and the meeting ended with prayer and the first verse of Amazing Grace. A beautiful scene it was.
As the team had a 3:30am wake-up time for their 6:45am flight the night couldn't go on forever so everyone walked back to the hotel for about 5 hours of sleep.
Good night and God's Blessings
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Nearly Done
Day 6 – Tuesday
It's hard to believe that soon we will be back home. The team is now relying heavily on the power of the Holy Spirit to keep them going physically. Spirits are high but the physical and mental strain of the past week is starting to show in fatigue and some sickness. As we will start the journey back tomorrow afternoon, most are now looking forward to reuniting with their families.
With that in mind we should caution the families of the first time team members. Those that you sent will return changed. In the past week they have seen the hand of God many times. This has changed them emotionally and spiritually. Please be patient with them as they adjust to home life. This change is for the glory of God so you will benefit, rest assured.
This morning's devotions were led by Paul. He asked us to tell about a favorite bible verse and/or story. This led to many interesting discussions.
Breakfast of ham and cheese empinadas was brought to the house. Today was Compassion day. The day where those members who sponsor children through Compassion International in the Azua area see their children and spend a little time walking them home, giving them gifts, meeting their families and praying over them. Dan, Eric, Shawn, Paul and Duane each sponsor children. The kids were waiting for them with a poster. Of the 1 million children in Compassion schools worldwide less than 1% get visits from their sponsors. It's a joy to see first-hand how God's blessings to us can be leveraged for His kingdom.
Lunch (chicken and rice) was served at the El Bambu before the bus was loaded for a village near Carmen's church. Some of the team poured concrete for a floor in a house while the others walked the streets witnessing.
At 4pm the team met with the center for the blind which they do each year. This is a Christian organization that does not consider the lack of sight a disability. They inspire us through their perseverance and faith. Another “God thing” occurred as through a series of special events the team will hopefully be able to restore the sight to a 23 year old college student who is going blind.
The last night is always special and tonight was no different. We went into the hills to the house that we stayed in 2 years ago. It is a gorgeous and secluded setting under a large pavilion. Pizza and soda followed by Dominican coffee was the fare. Of course, as 2 years ago, the Lord allowed the lights to fail just after eating. Candles added a serene effect to the many speeches given by the team members.
Everyone was present to include all those support people who make this trip possible: the american team, Nataniel and Iris, Pablito and Dorcas, Pablo and Ruth, Carmen, Wilfredo and his wife, Genesis, Wilson and his wife, Cesar and his wife, Pedro and the rehab boys and others I'm forgetting. Rejoicing, prayers, thank-you's, singing and tears filled the half-lit pavilion. It's hard for this not to happen with so many like-minded and spirit-filled people involved. Another “God thing” night to cap the final day.
Good Night
It's hard to believe that soon we will be back home. The team is now relying heavily on the power of the Holy Spirit to keep them going physically. Spirits are high but the physical and mental strain of the past week is starting to show in fatigue and some sickness. As we will start the journey back tomorrow afternoon, most are now looking forward to reuniting with their families.
With that in mind we should caution the families of the first time team members. Those that you sent will return changed. In the past week they have seen the hand of God many times. This has changed them emotionally and spiritually. Please be patient with them as they adjust to home life. This change is for the glory of God so you will benefit, rest assured.
This morning's devotions were led by Paul. He asked us to tell about a favorite bible verse and/or story. This led to many interesting discussions.
Breakfast of ham and cheese empinadas was brought to the house. Today was Compassion day. The day where those members who sponsor children through Compassion International in the Azua area see their children and spend a little time walking them home, giving them gifts, meeting their families and praying over them. Dan, Eric, Shawn, Paul and Duane each sponsor children. The kids were waiting for them with a poster. Of the 1 million children in Compassion schools worldwide less than 1% get visits from their sponsors. It's a joy to see first-hand how God's blessings to us can be leveraged for His kingdom.
Lunch (chicken and rice) was served at the El Bambu before the bus was loaded for a village near Carmen's church. Some of the team poured concrete for a floor in a house while the others walked the streets witnessing.
At 4pm the team met with the center for the blind which they do each year. This is a Christian organization that does not consider the lack of sight a disability. They inspire us through their perseverance and faith. Another “God thing” occurred as through a series of special events the team will hopefully be able to restore the sight to a 23 year old college student who is going blind.
The last night is always special and tonight was no different. We went into the hills to the house that we stayed in 2 years ago. It is a gorgeous and secluded setting under a large pavilion. Pizza and soda followed by Dominican coffee was the fare. Of course, as 2 years ago, the Lord allowed the lights to fail just after eating. Candles added a serene effect to the many speeches given by the team members.
Everyone was present to include all those support people who make this trip possible: the american team, Nataniel and Iris, Pablito and Dorcas, Pablo and Ruth, Carmen, Wilfredo and his wife, Genesis, Wilson and his wife, Cesar and his wife, Pedro and the rehab boys and others I'm forgetting. Rejoicing, prayers, thank-you's, singing and tears filled the half-lit pavilion. It's hard for this not to happen with so many like-minded and spirit-filled people involved. Another “God thing” night to cap the final day.
Good Night
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Labor of Love
Day 5 – Monday
A note to the reader. This writer some times finds it difficult to put into words things that happen while doing mission work. We call it “God things”. Things that can't be explained any other way except to know that the Holy Spirit was at work. Things that may not be miracles but are far from coincidences. Things that are beyond chance and happen for a reason. These “God things” have been happening on a regular basis during this trip and it is incredibly humbling to realize that He is using us for His purpose. I ask that you talk to us upon our return and we will be happy to tell our stories.
Morning devotions were led by Shawn and included Proverbs 29 and Romans 12. Romans 12 was one of those “God things”; ask Lance.
Breakfast was then served at the El Bambu and consisted of fried cheese, eggs, ham and plantain. As today was a construction day, Eric and Paul went to the site to get the project going. The rest of the team took a trip through the marketplace as Monday is the busiest day. It's always quite an experience to walk through the Azua marketplace. Solid people for blocks with vendors selling everything imaginable. Piles of clothes, meat (not always so fresh), vegetables, grains, electronics, housewares, etc. It's a great place to hand out tracts and about 250 were delivered. Pictures never due justice to the chaos, sounds and smells.
The team then travelled to the construction site in El Quatto. We visited this village last year and were impressed with the pastor and his wife. A section of a thatched pavilion had collapsed so a concrete footing and slab were poured for a base to replace/improve it. Eric was in his prime and Paul, Duane, Betsy and Hank helped him all day. It was difficult work in the hot sun but much was accomplished. The rest of the team spent the day with the children and/or witnessing through the streets. Many miles were walked, many bibles were handed out and many lives were impacted. So many stories with all of those visits.
Around 5pm the job was done and most of the team headed back to the house to clean off the concrete and rest from a strenuous day. Dan and Betsy attended a local church service and each gave a message. The congregation was literally dancing in the aisles worshipping (including Dan & Betsy).
Paul, Mark, Shawn, Jim, Lance and Pablito stayed in El Quatto to show the Jesus film for the last time on this trip. After a few songs the crowd was only 4 older ladies and a small handful of kids. They started the film and within 15 minutes the crowd had grown to about 100 with many young adults. After the film Jim and Shawn gave a message followed by the pastor and his wife. The Holy Spirit was at work again as these people received the message with enthusiasm.
The men also held another men's meeting during the film and about 25 attended to hear raw testimony and hard-hitting truth about their role as men and what God expects. About half decided to give their lives to Christ tonight! God is great and faithful to those who heed his Word.
Another late night was finished off with ice-cream back at the house.
Jesus te ama (Jesus loves you)
A note to the reader. This writer some times finds it difficult to put into words things that happen while doing mission work. We call it “God things”. Things that can't be explained any other way except to know that the Holy Spirit was at work. Things that may not be miracles but are far from coincidences. Things that are beyond chance and happen for a reason. These “God things” have been happening on a regular basis during this trip and it is incredibly humbling to realize that He is using us for His purpose. I ask that you talk to us upon our return and we will be happy to tell our stories.
Morning devotions were led by Shawn and included Proverbs 29 and Romans 12. Romans 12 was one of those “God things”; ask Lance.
Breakfast was then served at the El Bambu and consisted of fried cheese, eggs, ham and plantain. As today was a construction day, Eric and Paul went to the site to get the project going. The rest of the team took a trip through the marketplace as Monday is the busiest day. It's always quite an experience to walk through the Azua marketplace. Solid people for blocks with vendors selling everything imaginable. Piles of clothes, meat (not always so fresh), vegetables, grains, electronics, housewares, etc. It's a great place to hand out tracts and about 250 were delivered. Pictures never due justice to the chaos, sounds and smells.
The team then travelled to the construction site in El Quatto. We visited this village last year and were impressed with the pastor and his wife. A section of a thatched pavilion had collapsed so a concrete footing and slab were poured for a base to replace/improve it. Eric was in his prime and Paul, Duane, Betsy and Hank helped him all day. It was difficult work in the hot sun but much was accomplished. The rest of the team spent the day with the children and/or witnessing through the streets. Many miles were walked, many bibles were handed out and many lives were impacted. So many stories with all of those visits.
Around 5pm the job was done and most of the team headed back to the house to clean off the concrete and rest from a strenuous day. Dan and Betsy attended a local church service and each gave a message. The congregation was literally dancing in the aisles worshipping (including Dan & Betsy).
Paul, Mark, Shawn, Jim, Lance and Pablito stayed in El Quatto to show the Jesus film for the last time on this trip. After a few songs the crowd was only 4 older ladies and a small handful of kids. They started the film and within 15 minutes the crowd had grown to about 100 with many young adults. After the film Jim and Shawn gave a message followed by the pastor and his wife. The Holy Spirit was at work again as these people received the message with enthusiasm.
The men also held another men's meeting during the film and about 25 attended to hear raw testimony and hard-hitting truth about their role as men and what God expects. About half decided to give their lives to Christ tonight! God is great and faithful to those who heed his Word.
Another late night was finished off with ice-cream back at the house.
Jesus te ama (Jesus loves you)
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Sand & Surf
Day 4 – Sunday
This morning's devotion was led by Eric and focused on the relationship of faith and works (Romans 4, James 2). After a quick breakfast of cereal and pb&j the men travelled to the prison for their yearly Sunday morning message.
Before entering the prison building our bus driver Genesis gave a great message to the prison guards. Genesis is a relatively new believer but has the heart of a pastor. It is evident that he has been annointed and baptized by the Holy Spirit and he has become an important part of the team. We have a strong feeling that one day soon Genesis will find his calling as a shepherd of his own flock.
While with the prisoners, nearly all of the men gave a message directed specifically to men and sin. Many talked of their own past ways. While it is a “captive” audience, many decided today that they wanted to give their lives to Christ. It is amazing to see how God works and even more amazing that he uses a bunch of sinners like us to do His will.
After stopping back at the house to collect the girls the entire team went out to the Haitian village. The area was canvassed to bring all of the children to the pavillion that the team built over the past 2 years. Here the children sang songs for us and Pastor Wilfredo and Genesis gave messages. After team introductions sweet rice was served. While living in deplorable conditions, these people are so beautiful and special to us. We only wish we could serve them more.
Returning to the rehab center the team took turns playing basketball with the rehab boys. While the rehab boys have youth on their side, the team has experience (a nice way of saying they are old). Laura and Pedro tended to dominate. At least no one hurt anything but their pride.
A quick stop at the house and then the team went to the beach (only about 3 miles south of the house) to enjoy an hour in the surf. A small team went with Pablito and passed out tracts along the beach. They couldn't stay long as Pablo was making his famous burgers and fries at the rehab center.
It was another typical night schedule with some of the team setting up the Jesus film and the other half helping with a church service. After some difficulties with the forces of evil the Jesus film was shown to about 100 people in a dusty field. The church service went well after Jim was able to borrow reading glasses from someone in the crowd.
The trip is going fast. It's hard to believe that the end is already in site. While we want to be back with our families in Wisconsin and Washington it will be hard to leave Azua. It seems too soon. These people need so much what God can offer using us.
Spirits, camaraderie, health and focus are high. This is a spiritually equipped group of men and women and each member serves the body well. It has become so obvious that God chose this team. Our love for these people is only surpassed by our love for Christ. We thank you so much for your prayers. It is apparent they are being said. Please continue until we arrive safely home.
Gracias Jesus (Thank You Jesus)
This morning's devotion was led by Eric and focused on the relationship of faith and works (Romans 4, James 2). After a quick breakfast of cereal and pb&j the men travelled to the prison for their yearly Sunday morning message.
Before entering the prison building our bus driver Genesis gave a great message to the prison guards. Genesis is a relatively new believer but has the heart of a pastor. It is evident that he has been annointed and baptized by the Holy Spirit and he has become an important part of the team. We have a strong feeling that one day soon Genesis will find his calling as a shepherd of his own flock.
While with the prisoners, nearly all of the men gave a message directed specifically to men and sin. Many talked of their own past ways. While it is a “captive” audience, many decided today that they wanted to give their lives to Christ. It is amazing to see how God works and even more amazing that he uses a bunch of sinners like us to do His will.
After stopping back at the house to collect the girls the entire team went out to the Haitian village. The area was canvassed to bring all of the children to the pavillion that the team built over the past 2 years. Here the children sang songs for us and Pastor Wilfredo and Genesis gave messages. After team introductions sweet rice was served. While living in deplorable conditions, these people are so beautiful and special to us. We only wish we could serve them more.
Returning to the rehab center the team took turns playing basketball with the rehab boys. While the rehab boys have youth on their side, the team has experience (a nice way of saying they are old). Laura and Pedro tended to dominate. At least no one hurt anything but their pride.
A quick stop at the house and then the team went to the beach (only about 3 miles south of the house) to enjoy an hour in the surf. A small team went with Pablito and passed out tracts along the beach. They couldn't stay long as Pablo was making his famous burgers and fries at the rehab center.
It was another typical night schedule with some of the team setting up the Jesus film and the other half helping with a church service. After some difficulties with the forces of evil the Jesus film was shown to about 100 people in a dusty field. The church service went well after Jim was able to borrow reading glasses from someone in the crowd.
The trip is going fast. It's hard to believe that the end is already in site. While we want to be back with our families in Wisconsin and Washington it will be hard to leave Azua. It seems too soon. These people need so much what God can offer using us.
Spirits, camaraderie, health and focus are high. This is a spiritually equipped group of men and women and each member serves the body well. It has become so obvious that God chose this team. Our love for these people is only surpassed by our love for Christ. We thank you so much for your prayers. It is apparent they are being said. Please continue until we arrive safely home.
Gracias Jesus (Thank You Jesus)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
God is Good
Day 3 – Saturday
After morning devotions led by Mark, the team enjoyed another wonderful Dominican Breakfast. Some of the team was hoping to lose a few pounds on the trip but the abundance of good food is making that hard.
A small victory was had concerning this blog this morning. After walking up and down the street looking for free wifi Shawn was able to find a connection and get the password from the corner store.
The team is showing a little wear from the combination of long days, noisy sleeping conditions (traffic, dogs, and snoring by Betsy) and the emotional stress of witnessing but spirits are high and health is good. This is a very real blessing for a group this size. While about half of the team is new this year, they have gelled extrememely well for one purpose: showing God's glory.
The team split three ways in the morning. A purchasing team went with Dan and Paul to buy needed items. Witnessing teams led by Jim and Shawn went out from the El Bambu restaurant passing out tracts, children's bibles and witnessing to whoever they would come across. As Azua is a typical third-world city, the streets are very busy during the day so there is no end of people to talk about Jesus.
The team then loaded up and travelled to two villages outside of town. While things are poor and lives hard in town, life in the rural villages is more difficult yet. Sweet rice, toys, and crosses were given to the children and the women on the team spent time with the vilage girls painting their hands or faces.
It was really special at the second stop. The church was too small for the crowd we had so the work of the Holy Spirit quickly took over. In a matter of minutes a team was leading the children in the church, a team was leading the women in the yard of a bar and a team was leading a group of men. It's amazing how this village which appeared to be in the control of Satan was now cherishing new bibles. It was another example of how the Holy Spirit can work when His disciples step out in faith.
When the team arrived back to the house around 4pm a meal was served and then an hour or so of down-time to recoup. Around six we went out for the night's activities. It was another night of one group worshipping in a local church and a second group showing the Jesus film. The film was shown in an especially tough part of town but the Lord gave us who he wanted to. The church service again went very well with Hank & Laura making a special impact.
With a team this size it's impossible to report on everything that may happen during the day. So many individual stories are experienced by each of the 14 team members and all the people they come in contact with. Some of these will become special memories that I am sure they will be happy to share with you on their return.
The evening was finished on a celebratory note as the team enjoyed cake and ice-cream at Nathaniel's in-laws in celebration of Dan's and Lance's birthdays. Sonia presented Dan with a present from one of her travels. Another late night but the Holy Spirit is keeping everyone energized.
Until tomorrow, Dios te bendega (God Bless You)
After morning devotions led by Mark, the team enjoyed another wonderful Dominican Breakfast. Some of the team was hoping to lose a few pounds on the trip but the abundance of good food is making that hard.
A small victory was had concerning this blog this morning. After walking up and down the street looking for free wifi Shawn was able to find a connection and get the password from the corner store.
The team is showing a little wear from the combination of long days, noisy sleeping conditions (traffic, dogs, and snoring by Betsy) and the emotional stress of witnessing but spirits are high and health is good. This is a very real blessing for a group this size. While about half of the team is new this year, they have gelled extrememely well for one purpose: showing God's glory.
The team split three ways in the morning. A purchasing team went with Dan and Paul to buy needed items. Witnessing teams led by Jim and Shawn went out from the El Bambu restaurant passing out tracts, children's bibles and witnessing to whoever they would come across. As Azua is a typical third-world city, the streets are very busy during the day so there is no end of people to talk about Jesus.
The team then loaded up and travelled to two villages outside of town. While things are poor and lives hard in town, life in the rural villages is more difficult yet. Sweet rice, toys, and crosses were given to the children and the women on the team spent time with the vilage girls painting their hands or faces.
It was really special at the second stop. The church was too small for the crowd we had so the work of the Holy Spirit quickly took over. In a matter of minutes a team was leading the children in the church, a team was leading the women in the yard of a bar and a team was leading a group of men. It's amazing how this village which appeared to be in the control of Satan was now cherishing new bibles. It was another example of how the Holy Spirit can work when His disciples step out in faith.
When the team arrived back to the house around 4pm a meal was served and then an hour or so of down-time to recoup. Around six we went out for the night's activities. It was another night of one group worshipping in a local church and a second group showing the Jesus film. The film was shown in an especially tough part of town but the Lord gave us who he wanted to. The church service again went very well with Hank & Laura making a special impact.
With a team this size it's impossible to report on everything that may happen during the day. So many individual stories are experienced by each of the 14 team members and all the people they come in contact with. Some of these will become special memories that I am sure they will be happy to share with you on their return.
The evening was finished on a celebratory note as the team enjoyed cake and ice-cream at Nathaniel's in-laws in celebration of Dan's and Lance's birthdays. Sonia presented Dan with a present from one of her travels. Another late night but the Holy Spirit is keeping everyone energized.
Until tomorrow, Dios te bendega (God Bless You)
Another Great Day in the DR
Day 2 – Friday
The day started with some “mission trip housekeeping”. That meant going through and sorting about 12 suitcases full of donated clothes, exchanging money and finding internet access to update the mission blog. The house has wifi but we can't track down the password. The DR has an interesting communication infrastructure. No land-line phones or mail but cell phones. Breakfast was sweet rice and the ever-present and very delicious bananas and pineapple.
Around 11 am the team loaded up the bus and truck and travelled northwest to a town called Oregano Grande. This is a town located about 45 minutes from Azua and across a river. One familiar with this trip will remember that this is a village visited two and three years ago. It's secluded and in a beautiful setting between the mountains but very poor. The adventure is that the team needs to wade across a fairly quick moving river to get there. This is always a great time for photos and laughs.
The team participated in a worship service, delivered bibles and handed out tracts, crosses and candy. Of course, any time we come into contact with people we tell them that we are Christians from America and want them to know Jesus. Many prayers are offered for them to not only know Christ but for any personal issues they may experiencing. A seven year-old boy recited Psalms. It was especially moving when we found out his father was buried the day before. The new young pastor told us that they have not been visited by missionaries for two years (maybe us?).
After a late lunch of chicken, spaghetti, potatoes and rice Dan, Paul, Sonia, Megan and Betsy got dressed and attended Pastor Wilfredo's wedding. The rest of the team loaded the bus and truck and traveled to a neighborhood in the city to show the Jesus film.
It truly turned out to be a special night. The writer of this blog finds it difficult to put into words certain things of a spiritual nature that can happen during a mission trip. “Surpassing all human understanding” is a fitting description.
Part of the team set up the sound and video in a church while the others canvassed the area with Pablito encouraging people to attend. After prayer a good turn-out was realized to include Shawn's family's Compassion child Jenkys. Prayer and worship was followed by a greeting from each team member.
Prior to the movie the men of the community were called to join a group across the street from the church in the secluded yard of a house. Using Pablito for interpretation Jim, Mark, Eric and Shawn witnessed to about 10 men detailing their own sinful lives prior to knowing Christ. If you know anything of the culture here in the DR you understand how amazing this was. Men do not respect, lead or serve their wives and children are usually only considered a result of an act of desire. Men certainly do not confront their own sin in this culture. The Lord used these 5 team members for exactly the length of the film (His length) to plant the seeds of change. We can only pray that these seeds will root and produce fruit.
After the team had packed up and were boarding the bus Nataniel called and invited everyone over to Wilfredo's wedding reception at the rehab center. Never would we have imagined eating a wedding feast on the basketball court poured by this team last year! The bride was beautiful, the groom handsome and the dinner tasted especially good as the best man was paying for it (Dan). There was a lot of question as to the origin of the meal itself because of the near-dark conditions but that and Laura leading the group singing Happy Birthday (in Spanish) to Lance made for a memorable ending to a late, but great day.
The day started with some “mission trip housekeeping”. That meant going through and sorting about 12 suitcases full of donated clothes, exchanging money and finding internet access to update the mission blog. The house has wifi but we can't track down the password. The DR has an interesting communication infrastructure. No land-line phones or mail but cell phones. Breakfast was sweet rice and the ever-present and very delicious bananas and pineapple.
Around 11 am the team loaded up the bus and truck and travelled northwest to a town called Oregano Grande. This is a town located about 45 minutes from Azua and across a river. One familiar with this trip will remember that this is a village visited two and three years ago. It's secluded and in a beautiful setting between the mountains but very poor. The adventure is that the team needs to wade across a fairly quick moving river to get there. This is always a great time for photos and laughs.
The team participated in a worship service, delivered bibles and handed out tracts, crosses and candy. Of course, any time we come into contact with people we tell them that we are Christians from America and want them to know Jesus. Many prayers are offered for them to not only know Christ but for any personal issues they may experiencing. A seven year-old boy recited Psalms. It was especially moving when we found out his father was buried the day before. The new young pastor told us that they have not been visited by missionaries for two years (maybe us?).
After a late lunch of chicken, spaghetti, potatoes and rice Dan, Paul, Sonia, Megan and Betsy got dressed and attended Pastor Wilfredo's wedding. The rest of the team loaded the bus and truck and traveled to a neighborhood in the city to show the Jesus film.
It truly turned out to be a special night. The writer of this blog finds it difficult to put into words certain things of a spiritual nature that can happen during a mission trip. “Surpassing all human understanding” is a fitting description.
Part of the team set up the sound and video in a church while the others canvassed the area with Pablito encouraging people to attend. After prayer a good turn-out was realized to include Shawn's family's Compassion child Jenkys. Prayer and worship was followed by a greeting from each team member.
Prior to the movie the men of the community were called to join a group across the street from the church in the secluded yard of a house. Using Pablito for interpretation Jim, Mark, Eric and Shawn witnessed to about 10 men detailing their own sinful lives prior to knowing Christ. If you know anything of the culture here in the DR you understand how amazing this was. Men do not respect, lead or serve their wives and children are usually only considered a result of an act of desire. Men certainly do not confront their own sin in this culture. The Lord used these 5 team members for exactly the length of the film (His length) to plant the seeds of change. We can only pray that these seeds will root and produce fruit.
After the team had packed up and were boarding the bus Nataniel called and invited everyone over to Wilfredo's wedding reception at the rehab center. Never would we have imagined eating a wedding feast on the basketball court poured by this team last year! The bride was beautiful, the groom handsome and the dinner tasted especially good as the best man was paying for it (Dan). There was a lot of question as to the origin of the meal itself because of the near-dark conditions but that and Laura leading the group singing Happy Birthday (in Spanish) to Lance made for a memorable ending to a late, but great day.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Off and Running
Day 1 - Thursday
A great start to our trip. After a devotion led by Jim from 1 Peter 4 the team went to the rehab center to repackage food. Over 1 ton of beans and rice were divided into family-sized portions, bagged and then bagged again with a bottle of cooking oil. They were able to package 400 family bags which would feed a family of 4 for a couple of days.
The team spent some time getting to know the guys at the rehab center. That included some basketball where the rehab boys were stunned at Laura's ability. Carmen was there and more than a few tears were shed on her arrival. A couple from Florida that have worked with Pablito and Ricardo in the past were also in attendance. Some powerful testimony was given – it has become clear early that the Holy Spirit is at work with this team.
After leaving the rehab center the team travelled to the Haitian village to visit Pastor Wilfredo. He showed everyone around and had a meeting with the team explaining where his ministry his now, where he would like to see it go for the future and what his needs are. Wilfredo is getting married on Friday (Dan is best man) and he introduced us to his wife-to-be.
After a late lunch of chicken, rice and fried banana the truck and the van were loaded up for the evening's activities to the north. The team split in two with the first team setting up in Cavuyita to show the Jesus film. After hearing the children sing in church and canvassing the area, they sang, showed the film, witnessed and handed out bibles.
The second team went to Los Lomas and participated in a worship service and delivered bibles and food. It was standing room only with estimations of about 300 people in attendance. While very poor in material goods, this village is rich in their faith and on fire for the Lord. Because of this fire the team wonders if their energies are better spent on areas that don't have such a heart for the Lord.
A late supper of passion fruit smoothies and ham & cheese sandwiches finished the evening and the team was back to the house by 11pm. A special message of love from Lance to his wife and girls for the birthday card.
No internet access yet but hope for tomorrow.
Gloria Dios (Glory to God)
p.s. the teachers are on strike on Azua
We're Here
Today was a travel day. After a minor delay in Green Bay our flights were uneventful (just like we like). We got through customs in Santo Domingo by 9pm and were greeted by Dan, Paul and Nataniel. It was a bit of a challenge for 17 of us (with luggage) to board our rented mini-bus but we arrived safely in Azua shortly after 11pm and after unpacking and a quick meeting found our mattresses around midnight.
This year's trip will see some changes. Ricardo is with the Lord but Nataniel is back in the fold as our principal contact. Pablo and Ruth have come from Puerto Rico and Pablito and Dorcas are here for us also as they live in Azua. Our Wisconsin team consists of Dan, Paul, Jim, Eric, Shawn, Duane, Jaimee, Lance, Mark, Betsy, Hank and Laura. We were also joined in Miami by Sonia and Megan (a surprise for Jaimee).
Because of the size of our group we have rented a mini-bus for the week. It may not be as adventurous as riding in the back of a pickup but practicality and safety need to rule. We will also split up most days to keep everyone busy and be the most effective for His Kingdom. We are staying upstairs in a rented house with enough bed/bath rooms for the 14 of us to live quite comfortably (according to Azua standards).
God's Blessings Until Tomorrow
This year's trip will see some changes. Ricardo is with the Lord but Nataniel is back in the fold as our principal contact. Pablo and Ruth have come from Puerto Rico and Pablito and Dorcas are here for us also as they live in Azua. Our Wisconsin team consists of Dan, Paul, Jim, Eric, Shawn, Duane, Jaimee, Lance, Mark, Betsy, Hank and Laura. We were also joined in Miami by Sonia and Megan (a surprise for Jaimee).
Because of the size of our group we have rented a mini-bus for the week. It may not be as adventurous as riding in the back of a pickup but practicality and safety need to rule. We will also split up most days to keep everyone busy and be the most effective for His Kingdom. We are staying upstairs in a rented house with enough bed/bath rooms for the 14 of us to live quite comfortably (according to Azua standards).
God's Blessings Until Tomorrow
Monday, January 31, 2011
Planning Update
Yesterday our entire team met for two hours. It was the first and will be the last time this year's team will be together until February 23rd in the Dominican. After introductions and a short devotion we went over the tentative daily itinerary, transportation and housing, the budget and the many checklists so that everyone is up-to-speed.
It will be a trip very similar to the past few years; working with the Rehab center packaging food, handing out bibles and tracts, showing the Jesus film at night, participating in worship at churches, visiting the prison and schools, seeing our Compassion kids and doing some construction. It will be a very busy, but with God's blessings, a very productive week for His Kingdom. Nathaniel and Pablito will be our principal contacts in Azua with Big Pablo and Carmen also part of the team. Dan and Paul are going down on the 21st as the advance team. Eric, Jim, Shawn, Duane, Jaimee, Betsy, Mark, Lance, Hank, and Laura will be joining them two days later.
We ask for your prayers now and during our trip. Please pray that we can put aside worldly things and be a witness for our risen Lord Jesus to those who don't know Him yet.
Until the 23rd. God's Blessings.
It will be a trip very similar to the past few years; working with the Rehab center packaging food, handing out bibles and tracts, showing the Jesus film at night, participating in worship at churches, visiting the prison and schools, seeing our Compassion kids and doing some construction. It will be a very busy, but with God's blessings, a very productive week for His Kingdom. Nathaniel and Pablito will be our principal contacts in Azua with Big Pablo and Carmen also part of the team. Dan and Paul are going down on the 21st as the advance team. Eric, Jim, Shawn, Duane, Jaimee, Betsy, Mark, Lance, Hank, and Laura will be joining them two days later.
We ask for your prayers now and during our trip. Please pray that we can put aside worldly things and be a witness for our risen Lord Jesus to those who don't know Him yet.
Until the 23rd. God's Blessings.
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