Grace in Every Season

Renée Edmé
Dec 6
5 min read

Updated: Dec 6

Sunday, December 7, 2025 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]

Today's update is from Renée

As we step into this new week, my heart is stirred by the many ways God continues to breathe life, strength, and mercy into the work of Mission of Hope International. It often feels like we are watching His goodness spill over from one place to another, from the mountains of Haiti to the shores of the Dominican Republic, and even into our own homes as He reminds us of His faithfulness from one generation to the next. Scripture tells us, “From His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace” (John 1:16), and this has truly been our testimony.

Before we look back, let me remind you that this Saturday, December 13, is our annual Celebration of Hope. It is one of my favorite gatherings each year, a time to savor a meal together, reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and reflect on the journey God has carried us through. We will also share a glimpse of what lies ahead for MOHI in 2026. There is no charge for the meal. We simply ask that you register so that we can prepare well. Register here!

Hope Made Tangible in Haiti

This past year, our hearts have been full as we have watched so many lives strengthened through the medical lab and the medical and dental clinics in Grand-Goâve. The staff approaches every patient with tenderness and purpose, teaching them how their bodies work, what is normal, what is not, and how to care for themselves and their families. People leave feeling not only helped but also empowered.

We are deeply grateful for our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide, whose steady presence ensures that health, education, and dignity reach our students and neighbors. Their investment is seen in every diagnosis, every restored smile, and every mother who learns something new about her child’s well-being. Truly, “the Lord sustains all who fall and raises up all who are bowed down” (Psalm 145:14), and we see that truth lived out through this work every day.

Feeding Bodies, Minds, and Futures

Our MOHI students in Haiti are finishing their classwork and preparing for exams, and watching them brings back vivid memories from the earliest days of our school. I will never forget seeing so many young children drift off to sleep on the benches before we had a feeding program. I did not understand it at first. I never once fell asleep in class, not even during kindergarten nap time. But Lex told me the truth. They were not tired from boredom. They were hungry.

When God opened the door for us to begin feeding them, everything changed. Suddenly, the children were animated, energetic, playful, and very mischievous. I also learned a sweet cultural nuance that still makes me smile. Haitian parents love to boast that their child is “dezòd anpil,” which means “very naughty.” It is not a complaint. It is a celebration. A naughty child is a well-fed child. It is a parent’s proud declaration that they are providing for their child.

For twenty-five years now, feeding has been one of MOHI’s greatest joys and highest callings. It is impossible to separate academic success from nutrition. And today we feed not only our students but also babies through the START NOW program, which lays the foundation for full, healthy futures long before school even begins.

Seeds of Hope in the Dominican Republic

Although MOHI does not operate schools in the Dominican Republic, the children in our communities are learning every single day. They learn through the meals they receive, the kindness modeled by our staff, the respect shown to them, and the encouragement that shapes their sense of worth. They are discovering gratitude, generosity, and compassion one shared meal and one gentle moment at a time.

This spirit of care continues through our Community Healthcare Promoter program, where Nurse Marlouse ministers far beyond medical needs. She treats chronic conditions and provides first-aid care and medication, yet even more importantly, she embodies what it means for a woman of faith to lead, nurture, and uplift. She is quietly shaping the dreams of little girls throughout the villages, showing them that a life filled with strength, intelligence, and purpose is within reach.

We are also incredibly thankful for Jonathan’s presence in Luperón. His willingness to leave the comforts of the United States in order to invest in children who often see themselves as less valuable is not lost on them. It is a living reminder that they matter deeply to God and to all of us.

The Bless Back Business Academy students continue to learn, experiment, and apply the wealth of knowledge they receive in class. Aquilina walks with them through the process, visiting their businesses, helping them navigate challenges, and gently bringing them back to the principles they have been studying. This hands-on coaching is strengthening their confidence and helping them grow as purposeful, values-driven entrepreneurs.

A few days ago, Mèt Ben shared an update from the garden, marveling at how God continues to provide even when rain is scarce. His words were filled with gratitude: “It has not rained much in Luperón, but the Faithful God has blessed our bean garden and caused it to flourish from every tiny bit of moisture. It is a grace.”

Joy That Travels With Us

Our time in Arizona with our children and grandchildren wrapped up with many tears, the happy kind mixed with the ache of saying goodbye. Being with all four grandchildren made my heart feel so alive. Their laughter, curiosity, and boundless energy are gifts that overwhelm me in the best way. I am aware that this season of life is rare and precious, and I carry that blessing with me into every part of the mission.

“Children are a heritage from the Lord” (Psalm 127:3), and their joy reminds me why we do what we do. We long for other families to experience the fullness of God’s goodness as well.

I wanted to share a fun video Lex made for our friends in Haiti. He, Alain, and Alexis took a taxi ride in a Waymo driverless car! I had never seen one before, so I found the whole concept fascinating and immediately thought of the Jetsons!

Looking Ahead With Gratitude

As we prepare for a new year, my heart keeps returning to gratitude. Everything we see, every student thriving, every family fed, every patient cared for, and every child in Haiti and the Dominican Republic who knows they are loved is the result of your partnership. We cannot do this work alone. Your prayers, generosity, encouragement, and love continue to carry hope into places where it is desperately needed.

Please do not forget that our Celebration of Hope is this Saturday. If you have not registered yet, would you take a moment to do so? We cannot wait to be together. Register here.