Bonjou from Haiti!

Bonjou from Haiti! We arrived in Haiti without any major problems. When we arrived in the airport we were led to a sweltering hot, airless, steamy warehouse we went through customs and baggage claim. It was quite the contrast from retrieving luggage at DFW!! This was, to say the least, the first point of culture shock. Once through customs we guided our luggage over rocky cratered sidewalks and streets to load our buses. Our departure was delayed while we waited on an additional bus to carry all of us and the depth of need to the Haitian people was abundantly clear all around us. We had been given strict instructions not to give anything to anyone: food, money, or belongings. This rule was set down not only for our own safety but also for the safety of the Haitian people. But the first desire of our hearts, believe me when I say this, was to give our sandwiches, which was purchased at the Miami airport, to the men and children surrounding us. I heard many people speak of the guilt they felt eating while these people stood in such despair.

Once we arrived at the Bethel House, things were much different than we expected. The accommodations are very comfortable and the climate is much more agreeable then down in the city. The staff is very hospitable and friendly. The view is marvelous and you can see the hand of God in the creation of this land. This truly is the land of contrast. The view doesn't compare to the desperate man-made conditions of the people in this country. It would be easy to look around and feel a deep sense of hopelessness. However, Dr. Jeff preached on Sunday and it is obvious our Lord is the same Lord here in Haiti as in Texas. He loves His people wherever they are and desires a relationship with them.

Please continue to pray that His work will be done in and through us this week. We will begin various missions on Monday at the construction sites: 2 orphanages and the Creche (orphanage for children under the age of 6). There is a couple staying here from Portland Oregon. They are adopting a little girl.

Below is a slide show of our arrival into Haiti and what we seen the first day.

May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. (1Peter 1:2),

-Doug Giles