Gratitude that Multiplies

Renée Edmé
Oct 12
4 min read

Sunday, October 12, 2025 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]

Today's update is from Renée

At Mission of Hope International, gratitude isn’t something we reserve for special occasions. It’s a rhythm of life. Each week, I look forward to our global leaders gathering to practice gratitude together. As we reflect on all that God is doing through the hands, hearts, and gifts of so many, we are encouraged to keep pressing forward!

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

So many stories surface from these gatherings that remind us of God’s goodness and the power of partnership. I’d love to share just a few with you this week.

Kindness in Action

In the Dominican Republic, Zamy saw a need and chose to meet it. He gathered clothing for the children in our Hope Squad program. What a joy it was to see their faces light up as they received them! Acts of love like this reflect the heart of Jesus, who said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

A Father’s Heart for the Next Generation

In Haiti, the new school year began with great excitement. Remy, one of our faithful leaders, shared his appreciation for Pastor Lex’s presence at the opening. “Everything is so much easier when he’s with us,” he said. “Sometimes the decisions he makes don’t make sense at first, but what he said would happen actually happens.”

That trust, built over years of walking together in faith, reminds us 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.”

During the visit, Pastor Lex noticed a missing face — a young man who should have been starting his senior year but whose family could no longer afford tuition. When Pastor Edon explained, Lex asked to see the boy. Through tears, the student shared his longing to finish school at MOHI. Lex told him simply, “Go home and get dressed for school.”

That moment spread quickly through the community: “MOHI does not abandon their students in times of distress.”

Would you help us keep that testimony alive by sponsoring this student’s senior year? The cost is just $492 for the year, or $41 per month. Together, we can ensure that no student has to give up on their dreams due to financial hardship. Click here, and in the memo write "Pastor Lex's Senior." Thank you!

Love That Heals

Zachary, one of our dedicated team members, recently witnessed the compassion that defines our medical staff. A young child had been burned by boiling water. He watched as Nurse Sarah carefully cleaned and bandaged the wounds with gentleness and care. “It feels so good to be a part of MOHI,” he said. Each bandage and each prayer over a hurting child are reminders that healing flows not only through medicine, but through love.

And in the Dominican Republic, our Community Health Promoter, Nurse Marlouse, once again showed that same compassion in action. When little Walner didn’t come for his daily lunch, she sought him out and found him feverish and weak at home. After giving him fluids and a fever reducer, it wasn’t long before he regained strength enough to run for his lunch and join the other children again.

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18

Preparing for a Move of God

I’m so thankful to be back in the Dominican Republic, working alongside Lex and Taran as we prepare for Cristo Esperanza de Vida — “Christ, the Hope of Life” — beginning this Thursday!

Our first group of visitors arrived yesterday, full of smiles and encouragement.

This morning, Taran shared a powerful message about unity according to Scripture. What a beautiful sight it is: 27 Dominican churches coming together with representatives from at least 8 churches in the United States! All of us serving together in unity is a living testimony to the world. Jesus prayed, “That they may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You... so that the world may believe that You have sent Me.” (John 17:21) The team participated in three different church services in Luperón this morning. Such a blessing!!!

Would you join us in praying for this event — for every speaker, musician, and participant? We believe that hearts will be transformed and lives will be forever changed by the presence of God.

Hope on Every Front

While the crusade team sets up, others are hard at work on special projects, including setting up a new sewing room and finishing the presentation wall. So far, the sewing machines are out of their boxes!

We’re also looking forward to connecting with our Bless Back Business Academy students in the English and Computer classes and learning from Summer Dey’s workshop on public speaking.

Our agricultural work continues as well. The land has been fully plowed, and seeds have been purchased. Now we wait and pray for the rains to come so planting can begin. As we look across the freshly turned soil and see papaya trees already heavy with fruit, we’re reminded that growth always starts with faith and patience. Please join us in praying for good rain and a plentiful harvest that will help feed many.

Meanwhile, in the U.S., our Spread Hope With Food drive continues! We’re collecting rice, beans, oil, peanut butter, and canned meats and fish through November 1st.

And don’t forget to save the date for our Celebration of Hope — it’s going to be a night to remember.

As I reflect on these moments, I’m overwhelmed by gratitude — for every partner who prays, gives, travels, teaches, and believes in the mission God has entrusted to us. You are part of the story that is unfolding in every smile, every healed wound, every restored dream.

Thank you for letting gratitude multiply through you. Together, we are building a hope that endures.