The Quiet Strength of Community

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

Today's update is from Renée

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As we move deeper into this season of Advent, I am reminded that hope is not something we merely wait for. Hope is something we live out, often in quiet, faithful ways that may seem ordinary at first glance but carry eternal weight. Scripture tells us that “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). This week, that light was evident in so many corners of Mission of Hope International, shining through relationships, perseverance, learning, and service.

We received an urgent prayer request this evening from José. The mayor of Luperón was ill and underwent surgery in Santiago. His wife reached out to José, asking that we pray and reach out to all our partners to ask them to pray for his healing. Would you join us in lifting him up to the LORD in prayer?

Last night was a lovely evening with friends and partners at our Celebration of Hope. The room was filled with warmth, laughter, meaningful conversations, and a shared commitment to seeing lives changed through love and faithful action. I am deeply grateful for everyone who joined us and for the many volunteers who worked behind the scenes to make the evening so special. It was a beautiful reminder that hope grows best in community.

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One story that especially encouraged me this week came from Nurse Cadet at our medical clinic in Grand-Goâve. She shared about a patient who lives quite far away and first visited our clinic several years ago while he happened to be in the area. The care he received, the kindness of the staff, and the effectiveness of the treatment left such an impression that when he recently became ill, he made the long journey back to our clinic. Seeing a patient return with that level of trust and confidence was deeply encouraging and affirmed the importance of consistent, compassionate care. We are continually thankful for our partnership with Bless Back Worldwide, whose partnership in the medical and dental clinics and lab in Haiti helps make stories like this possible.

In the Dominican Republic, the impact of relationships built over time was beautifully illustrated through Mèt Ben’s experience this week. His recovery from surgery has been slower than expected, and he began to worry about how this might affect his responsibilities at the mission. Instead, he was overwhelmed by the number of people who stepped in to help, often with nothing more than a phone call. It gave him a powerful glimpse into what years of investing in people and communities can produce. As Scripture reminds us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).

Across our Haiti campuses, learning continues with energy and focus. Our students are wrapping up classwork, making presentations, and studying diligently as exams begin. Roselande has been especially excited about this year’s preschoolers, marveling at how quickly they are learning and how much joy they bring to each new skill they master. Their eagerness is a reminder to “train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

Spiritual life remains central in the communities we serve. Seeing the church in Haiti filled with vibrant colors and beautiful faces brings me such joy. There is a reverence and intentionality in how people prepare themselves and the space where they gather to worship. It reflects a deep desire to honor the Lord with excellence, echoing Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”

Health education and prevention continue to be an important part of our outreach as well. This week, Nurse Marlouse spent time teaching parents about hygiene practices after several children developed ringworm on their scalps. She patiently cared for the children, treated them, and reinforced simple habits that can make a significant difference. These moments highlight the value of trusted Community Health Promoters and healthcare workers who serve not only with skill, but with love.

There was also joy in some very practical blessings. Children in the START NOW and Hope Squad programs have been enjoying yucca root, eggs, and chicken from the Luperón agricultural project, a tangible reminder of how sustainable initiatives can directly support nutrition and well-being.

At the Bless Back Business Academy, students in both levels have been preparing for their final presentations with focus and care. Under Aquilina’s guidance, first-level students refined their business ideas, clearly identifying the problems they address, their target audiences, and the foundations of sustainable income. Second-level students organized market analysis presentations, examining opportunities and challenges with thoughtful insight. Aquilina reminded them that diligence honors God, sharing Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent certainly lead to abundance.”

Bruno continues to be a favorite among the computer and English students, offering patient, clear instruction and genuine encouragement as they grow in confidence and skill.

As I reflect on all of this, my heart overflows with gratitude for our partners. Every clinic visit, lesson taught, exam studied for, meal served, and relationship strengthened is possible because of people who choose to walk alongside us. We can only do the things we do because of you. Your prayers, generosity, encouragement, and trust allow hope to take root and flourish in ways that continue to amaze us. Thank you for being such an essential part of the Mission of Hope International family.