Stepping Into What God Is Preparing

Sunday, December 28, 2025 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]  

Today's update is from Renée

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Celebrating Christ, Carrying Hope Forward

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. Lex (aka Papi) and I (aka Mèmèy) were blessed with a sweet, meaningful time with our daughter, son-in-law, and their children. Our son, daughter-in-law, and our two-month-old grandson joined us for a bit by video chat, and my heart was whole. We even hosted a birthday party for Jesus—singing “Happy Birthday,” blowing noise makers, and joyfully “blowing out” the candles. It was simple, childlike worship, and it reminded me again that “the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us” (John 1:14).

Across the ocean, the little ones at our schools in Haïti were celebrating too. Thozin was alive with music—loud, joyful, and absolutely essential to a festive gathering. Music in Haïti is loved and celebrated by all ages, and the joy on those faces was contagious. “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).

This week also found Aquilina visiting students in the Bless Back Business Academy, meeting them right in their places of business. For many, Christmas brought increased sales—and with that, grateful smiles. As students prepare their final presentations, Aquilina offered personalized guidance, answering questions and strengthening structure, content, and effectiveness. The gratitude expressed by these entrepreneurs is humbling. We give thanks to God for partners who make discipleship-centered economic empowerment possible. “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3).

So many friends in the States have been battling the flu, and I find myself frequently lifting our partners up in prayer for good health. I am deeply thankful for our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide. Together, we are able to walk alongside individuals in Haïti and the Dominican Republic as they learn what is happening in their bodies. Through education, testing, and accurate diagnosis, people are empowered to make informed decisions about their health. When needed, access to medicine can make all the difference. Jesus and prayer remain the foundation of it all. “Lord my God, I called to You for help, and You healed me” (Psalm 30:2).

Throughout the year, our youngest students delight in their meals. Their energy tells the story. We love seeing them full of life, knowing those meals play such an important role. This week, Samy and Marlouse were especially excited to sort through donations to share, and once again we were reminded of God’s faithful provision. “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).

There are also moments that simply make you smile. Ben and Marlouse’s girls are so active in church—and yes, Micha on the keyboard! There is no holding that girl back. She approaches new skills with fearless joy, and it is a gift to witness. I also love knowing that the preschoolers in St. Etienne will treasure their 2026 calendars for many years to come—small gifts that become lasting memories.

We are grateful for rain in Luperón. The gardens are flourishing, and we are planting even more. God continues to teach me how faithfully He brings growth in every season, often in ways that are new and unexpected.

While I love sharing joyful stories, I also know many of you are faithful prayer warriors. Immigration challenges in the Dominican Republic are having very real and painful consequences for many of our program participants—young and old alike. Along with our staff, we are seeking the LORD for wisdom and direction as we walk forward. If you are willing, please join us in prayer. I am confident He has a plan for us to continue being His hands, feet, and voice in some very dark places. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we close 2025 with grateful hearts, we are also stepping forward in faith toward several priorities for the year ahead.

In Luperón, we are in the final stages of financing and purchasing the mission house. So many of you have given generously, and we are deeply thankful. Completion is near—we are just $5,000 from the goal.

In Haïti, the Thozin campus urgently needs a dedicated cafeteria. More than 600 students currently eat in classrooms or outdoors, making it difficult to maintain a clean and focused learning environment. This new space will support daily meals and also serve as an activity center for classes, assemblies, and after-school programs. ($148,000)

In the Dominican Republic, the community of La Grúa urgently needs access to safe sanitation. A bathhouse with toilets, showers, sinks, and a full septic system will provide dignity, improve public health, and increase safety—especially for women and children. ($95,000)

We are also planning several community development projects across the Dominican Republic in 2026, many of which will be completed with the help of mission teams. These include clean water improvements in Baraguana, agricultural projects in La Grúa (chickens and gardens), completion of the interior of the community center, and a playground. Together, these efforts strengthen communities and create meaningful service opportunities. ($105,000)

Giving with Gratitude

The generosity of our partners continually humbles us. As this year draws to a close, thank you for prayerfully considering how you might continue walking alongside us in this work. There are several ways to give, including online giving, mailing a check (PO Box 884, Gardner, MA 01440), or donating appreciated stocks.

Gifts of stock can be a particularly thoughtful, tax-efficient way to support the mission, potentially allowing more resources to go directly toward impacting lives. If this is something you would like to explore, I encourage you to consult your financial or tax advisor and feel free to reach out to me directly at renee@mohintl.org.

As we step into a new year, please know how deeply grateful we are for you. Happy New Year to all our friends and partners. We are praying that 2026 would be marked by health, provision, and spiritual growth—that you would know the LORD in a deeply personal way and reflect His grace, humility, and kindness wherever He leads you.