Bonjour from Haiti!

Today we had the privilege of serving the "Mamas" (the caretakers of the orphans) by learning how to do laundry.  Mama Jina taught Kelsey, Tami, Ashley and Erica how to properly remove stains by scrubbing with a ball of soap. We washed and rubbed the clothes several times before they were laid out to dry. We were humbled by the Mamas patience because we had no idea what we were doing! They spoke a little English, so we got the opportunity to talk to them and figure out more of their background. It was a very enjoyable experience! The process was very rigorous and we now have a new found appreciation for our washing machines and our mothers! In the afternoon, we held a VBS, where we had a bible story, snacks and a craft. The children loved the necklaces we made, but their favorite thing is Play Doh. This occupied them for hours!

While we were doing this, Rick and Micah were out buying supplies for construction. This is not an easy process, so it took them all day. They were disappointed in the things that they accomplished, but it is no easy task to negotiate and buy products in Haiti. They started to hang wires in the classroom for the students to put their artwork on. The Haitians love to have their rooms decorated, so we are sure they will love this! Their project was interrupted though because we had church tonight. A friend that is staying at Moise's, Pastor Don, talked during the sermon and did a lovely job presenting the gospel. About thirty minutes into the service, all the children from the orphanage came running into the church. They all came and sat down next to us and they were fast asleep by the end of the service. How wonderful to be able to share those precious moments with the children.

The verse that we meditated on today was Acts 2 25-28. The verse talks about possessing a joyful heart and rejoicing through all circumstances. After church tonight, it was evident that nobody does this better than the Haitians. They love being at church and worshiping Jesus. It was incredible to come alongside our fellow brothers and sisters and worship one God. Even though the service was in another language, it was extremely powerful.

Needless to say, everything is going very well here in Haiti! Micah has a cough, but other than that everyone is healthy and happy to be here. We appreciate your prayers and we urge you to continue praying for the Vaval family, the students, and the orphans!

 Bonne Nuit!
 Erica and Tami