Stories of Hope and Heartache

Sunday, December 15, 2024 - [click here to support the continuing work at MOHI]

As we approach the close of another meaningful year, we're filled with gratitude for the lives being impacted through Mission of Hope International. From the bustling energy of the Dominican Republic's entrepreneurial spirit to the profound healing taking place in Haiti's clinics, there's much to celebrate. Here are just a few highlights from this past week.

Empowering Entrepreneurs in the Dominican Republic The first cohort of the Bless Back Business Academy is nearing a significant milestone as students prepare for their final presentations. Next month, they’ll have the opportunity to showcase their business goals, and for the top five presenters, a cash prize will provide a boost to turn those goals into reality. One of the standout students is Yefany, a skilled hair stylist known for her intricate braids and stunning hairdos. Despite not having a formal place of business, Yefany’s client list continues to grow as her talent speaks for itself. This upcoming presentation will be a major opportunity for her to take her business to the next level.

A Growing Impact Across Haiti and the Dominican Republic The START NOW Early Childhood Intervention program continues to leave a lasting imprint on the youngest lives in both the Dominican Republic and Haiti. In Grand-Goâve, we are witnessing the arrival of refugee families from Port-au-Prince, many of whom have fled with little more than the clothes on their backs or a basket of essentials on their heads. Despite their challenges, it’s touching to see the care parents take in dressing their babies with dignity as they bring them for their daily meal. These little ones are growing stronger and healthier each day, and we’re so grateful to be a part of their journey.

Vibrant Worship at St. Etienne, Haiti Sunday worship at the St. Etienne campus was especially powerful as Pastor Edon joined the congregation for Communion Sunday. The atmosphere was electric with praise, as the vibrant church community worshiped with joyful freedom. It’s always a blessing to experience the deep sense of unity and faith shared during these moments of worship.

Healing Hands at the Clinic Our clinic staff in Haiti has been hard at work addressing a surge in ear infections and respiratory issues. This rise in health concerns has kept doctors and staff on their toes, and we’re beyond grateful for our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide. Their support ensures stability and access to the resources needed to treat each patient with excellence.

One heartwarming story from the clinic centers around Dr. Evens, who’s been affectionately dubbed “The Dermatologist” by the community. While he hasn’t pursued formal training as a dermatologist, his skill in creating effective lotions and treatments is well-known. One young woman, troubled by severe acne that affected her both physically and emotionally, found hope in Dr. Evens’ care. Following his treatment plan and using the medicine provided free of charge, she saw an incredible transformation. Her return to the clinic to personally thank him was a moment filled with gratitude and joy.

Heartbreaking Violence in Cité Soleil, Haiti Last weekend, tragedy struck the Cité Soleil community in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Gang violence claimed the lives of at least 184 people, many of them elders of the community. This horrific event began when a gang leader, after seeking answers from a local vodou practitioner about his ill child, was told that an older person in the community was to blame. In a tragic turn, he ordered the targeting of older community members, resulting in 60 elders being pulled from their homes and executed. The violence continued the next day as the gang used machetes and knives to kill at least another 50 people, with young people caught in the crossfire as they tried to help the elderly. The community remains on lockdown as the gang continues its brutal campaign.

While human justice may seem absent, we hold on to the truth of Romans 12:19, which reminds us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord.” We ask for your prayers for the people of Cité Soleil—that they would not return evil for evil but instead trust in the Lord’s justice and seek to follow good in the midst of unimaginable pain.

Celebrating a Life Well Lived in the Dominican Republic On Wednesday, we said goodbye to the oldest member of our community in the Dominican Republic, who passed away at 112 years old. She was a beloved figure who brought much joy to our Community Health Promotor, Nurse Marlouse, and to every mission team that met her. Many recall her sharing her story of shame and guilt from her younger years, believing she was unworthy of God’s love. But through the compassion of our team, she came to know the depth of God’s grace and love for her. Imagine discovering Jesus after 111 years of life. Her testimony echoes the words of Psalm 92:14: “They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” We are confident that she was welcomed into the Father’s arms with joy and love.

Exam Season in Haiti’s Schools It’s exam time in Haiti, a season of focus and determination for students of all ages. Even our youngest 3-year-old students take exams—a heartwarming sight to see! For high school students, these exams hold serious weight as they prepare for the national exams that determine if they will officially graduate from 13th grade. Students sit spaced apart to reduce the temptation to help one another, which reflects the commitment to integrity and excellence that’s being instilled in them. We’re reminded of Proverbs 22:6: “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

Sharing the Mission in the U.S. Back in the United States, we had the privilege of sharing about the mission with friends at Faith Christian Church. Their hospitality and generosity were a true blessing.

Later that day, we were at Chair City Church’s Winter Wonderland event, organized by a group of young adults preparing for a Hope Encounter trip to the Dominican Republic. Last year’s Winter Wonderland raised enough funds to put a roof on the first apartment building in La Grúa. This year’s efforts aim to continue the housing project, and we’re filled with gratitude for their faithfulness.

Looking Back to Look Ahead Nearly 25 years ago, we began registering children for school in Thozin, Grand-Goâve. It was the era of film photography, and we signed up 365 children, ages 3 through 3rd grade. Many of those 3rd graders were already two or more years behind due to missed schooling. When our trip home was delayed after being robbed, God used the setback to shift our future. We stayed to re-register students and retake photos. That unexpected turn eventually led us to live in Haiti full-time. It’s a testament to God’s promise in Isaiah 46:10: “I make known the end from the beginning.”

With Grateful Hearts To all who have journeyed with us through your prayers, generosity, and service—thank you. Your faithfulness fuels this mission, and we remain forever grateful for your partnership.