Heritage, Hope & Healing

Sunday, September 14, 2025 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]  

Today's update is from Renée

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Hope Shining Through in Hard Times

Our hearts are heavy this week. In the United States, the headlines have been filled with stories of targeted violence, innocent lives lost, and families left grieving. These moments of tragedy reveal the deep brokenness of this world. We join with so many others in lifting the loved ones left behind, and our country to the Father in prayer.

Amid the pain, God’s love has not diminished. It continues to shine through His people—through you, our partners, and through the many hands and hearts joined together across borders to bring hope. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).

Celebrating Heritage in the Dominican Republic

Monday, the town of Luperón came together to honor General Gregorio Luperón—the great Dominican leader who defended his people’s freedom in the 1800s and served as President of the Republic. He is celebrated as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and justice. The streets filled with schoolchildren, community leaders, musical groups, and flag bearers. It was a vibrant celebration of heritage and unity, showing us how valuable it is to cherish the past while pressing toward a hopeful future.

Seeds of Growth

Meanwhile, right here in Luperón, Boss Brazil and Willy, guided by the experienced hands of our friend Carlito, planted carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cabbage. The garden is growing strong. These vegetables will nourish many little bodies and illustrate that when we sow seeds—whether in the soil or in hearts—God brings the increase. “So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow” (1 Corinthians 3:7).

Learning and Leading

We are thrilled that another session of the Bless Back Business Academy has begun! Local entrepreneurs are once again gathering to learn, share ideas, and grow in confidence. Together, they are building livelihoods that strengthen their families and communities.

At the same time, Zamy has been faithfully meeting with the Hope Squad each day. Basketball, soccer, and good food always draw the children together.

And when the little ones from START NOW want to join in, how could anyone say no? (Although Wayner seems to think the soccer ball belongs to him alone!)

Thanks to the chickens in Luperón, we’ve been able to share more eggs with these little ones—something we deeply value.

Caring for the Youngest in Haiti

In Haiti, the START NOW program continues to meet a critical need for families struggling to feed their children. Each face is a picture of innocence and beauty. Despite the instability and hardship in the country—shortages of food, fuel, and security—hope is still alive in Grand-Goâve. Our Haitian staff members are daily demonstrations of that hope, showing up to serve with compassion, courage, and joy. They embody the love of Christ in tangible ways, keeping children fed and giving weary parents a reason to believe tomorrow can be better. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

Health Care with Dignity

We are also deeply grateful for the medical and dental clinics at MOHI in Grand-Goâve. They continue to offer quality, compassionate care focused on both human dignity and spiritual wholeness. Through our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide, our clinics have grown in excellence and reach. Whether treating an emergency or offering long-term care, our staff model Christ’s healing touch.

Joy in Caring for Others

In the Dominican Republic, our Community Health Promoter, Nurse Marlouse, continues to shine brightly. She brings joy to so many as she checks on chronic patients, refills necessary medications for the poor, and provides practical education that helps people stay healthy. Her care is more than medical—it is a ministry of encouragement that uplifts entire families.

Peanut Butter and Food Drive

It's that time of year again. The Peanut Butter drive has focused on collecting protein sources to add to the diets of our friends in Haïti. This year, due to the difficulties we face in obtaining staples locally, we are adding rice, beans, and cooking oil to the list of items. Please consider us when you go to the grocery store, when you talk with friends and family. Also, if your local church congregation would be willing to promote and collect at their house of worship, we would be so grateful. Reach out to us at support@mohintl.org and we will forward content for the church to share and connect for pick up/delivery details. Thank you!

Gratitude and Prayer

Friends, in every season, we see the power of partnership. Your prayers, your encouragement, and your generosity allow this work to go forward in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and beyond. We are so thankful for you and continue to lift you up in prayer, just as you faithfully pray for our staff, students, and communities. What a joy it is to walk this journey of hope together. Thank you.