Faith That Sustains

Sunday, August 17, 2025 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]  

Today's update is from Renée

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This week I’ve been reflecting on the things that sustain us—both physically and spiritually. Some foods may be bland to the taste, but they carry the power to nourish and strengthen the body. In the same way, our faith in Christ may not always look flashy on the outside, but it is steady and strong, sustaining us through trials and leading us into joy.

The Apostle Paul wrote: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7) Faith is the unseen foundation that carries us through every season of life and ministry. Across the island of Hispaniola and even as far as Zambia, we’ve witnessed how this sustaining faith is alive in God’s people.

Zambia – Shima and the Bread of Life

Lex and our dear friend Lenny traveled to Zambia this week to minister at Worldwide Lighthouse Missions, alongside our alongside our partners from the Full Gospel Interdenominational Church (Manchester, CT).

Their time was full—visiting shut-ins, celebrating a birthday with orphans, and ministering in a church conference.

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Bishop Nicolas, who leads this work, shared these powerful words:

“I always get blessed when I meet people who shares the same burden with me, to meet the needs of people. The thing that motivate a leader is not the position but the impact they leave when they are gone to meet the Father in heaven.”

Lenny reflected on the local diet of Shima (a maize dish), saying:

“At first you interpret ‘Shima is life’ as a simple saying. But very quickly you realize it is the truth—Shima sustains life daily. Bland and humble though it may be, it is the foundation of survival. And then you see how Jesus fills their soul. Shima and Jesus—that is all they need to live fulfilling lives.”

What a picture of the sustaining Bread of Life! Lex, of course, delighted in opportunities to feed and play with children. He also preached about trusting our good, good Father—an encouragement that lifted many hearts.

Haïti – Quiet Trust in the Midst of the Storm

Back home in Haïti, our teams continue walking by faith. The START NOW program is welcoming new babies, providing nourishment, vitamins, and hope for their mothers.

Our churches remain vibrant—gathering for worship, encouraging one another, and being living testimonies of God’s love.

Many ask if anything has changed in Haïti. Outwardly, not much seems different, though the nation is receiving more attention in the media. Yet we hold to the truth of Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” We continue to listen for the Lord’s direction in prayer, knowing His wisdom will carry us safely through the storm.

Dominican Republic – Families Built on Values

In the Dominican Republic, we see God’s sustaining hand through both practical initiatives and spiritual growth. Children in Baraguana are being registered for the Hope Squad after-school program.

Zamy, who served as a translator with our recent teams, couldn’t resist joining Mèt Ben to see the children again—his heart tied to theirs after two weeks of service. What joy to see little ones in the START NOW program thriving, thanks to sponsors and agricultural projects in Luperón.

Our friends Damnias (Boss Brazil) and Willy have embraced the agricultural ministry with all their strength, preparing fields and pouring sweat into the new rabbit project. Their dedication blesses us all.

Through our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide, Nurse Marlouse brings healing and comfort to vulnerable communities, embodying Matthew 25:36: “I was sick and you looked after me.”

The recent Market Survey conducted by the young adult team revealed significant opportunities for local businesses. Dr. Ron Pedemonte from Bless Back Worldwide shares these key highlights from the report:

42% of businesses earn under RD$250k (US$4.2k); none exceed RD$8M (US$133k). 50% operate informally, with limited access to bank loans. 63% sell only within Luperón, and over one-third have no online presence. 92% expressed interest in training, especially in bookkeeping and digital marketing.

Already, 13 new students have enrolled in the upcoming Bless Back Business Academy cohort—hungry to learn skills that will sustain their families for years to come.

Finally, the integration of Mèt Ben and Marlouse’s family into the community continues to bear fruit. Recently, they ministered alongside Pastor Jonel on the theme “Families Built on Values”—living examples of faith shaping family and community life.

Gratitude for Our Partners

Every story we share—whether from Zambia, Haïti, the Dominican Republic, or at home in the USA—points back to the sustaining hand of God. But it also points to you, our partners. Your prayers, your volunteer hours, and your generous giving make these moments possible.

From the depths of our hearts, thank you for standing with us. Thank you for feeding children, nurturing businesses, supporting families, and bringing hope to the hopeless. Together, through faith in Christ, we are sustained—and together we are leaving an eternal impact.