You can - DO SOMETHING...

From Theresa Grant, (Tonya's Mom) Missionary to the Farwest, Northwest Haiti Christian Mission.

I hope, through the help of churches in the states, to provide employment for some of the Haitian women. Work is very scarce in Haiti and while the Haitians are willing and eager to work, most are unable because no work is available. I am hoping to help change that a little bit. I am asking ladies and/or churches to help. I would like to have the following items donated. You can place all of these items in a gallon zip-lock baggy and then forward them to me.

2 yards of flannel

1 spool of matching thread

1 pack of needles

$5.00 placed in an envelope

This will employ a Haitian woman for one week. We are having them make baby blankets from the flannel. This will help us to provide blankets for the infant nursery and the birthing center and also provide a source of income for these women. (There are 5 babies a day born at the birthing center.) I know this does not seem like much, but it is enough to employ a woman and pay her wages for a week. By providing employment we can help Haitian women provide food and housing for their families.

Each Haitian woman who participates in “Sewing Hope” will be given, at no cost, their first zip-lock packet containing a needle, thread and 2 yards of flannel fabric to hem. This will make 2 blankets . When they return the finished blankets they will be paid the equivalence of $5.00 USD. At that time they can then purchase the next pack for a minimal fee of 50 cents.

My goal is to have the ladies come for bible study and prayer one day a week and pick up their packets. They can return them at the end of the week for pay and come again the next week for bible study and to receive their next packet.

If you need further information please contact me via email: MTinHaiti@mac.com

Because of Him,

Teresa Grant

(I will get information on shipping... and we can make collections at First Christian Church of Orlando.- Nora)

Please Pray...

From Mike Grant: (Tonya's Dad) Missionary to the Farwest of Northwest Haiti...


Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I definitely believe in the power of prayer. We are getting ready to
start a street crusade in Chansolme on Sunday evening, April 20th
through Wednesday April 23rd. Please pray for our team who will be
preaching and doing evangelistic calling during these days as we do
not have a church there and it may prove to be a difficult area.
Please pray that hearts and minds will be open and that the gospel
message will be received and that we may see a new church birthed.

Thank you and God Bless,

Mike Grant
NW Haiti Christian Mission
Far West

Gluttons

Did you know that gluttony is a sin.
It isn't one we talk about much.
But it is a sin.
I learned yesterday that gluttony is my sin.

Though the call to fast came on Tuesday, I didn't get the request until Wednesday. I had just finished my bowl of Frosted Flakes when I sat down for my morning blog reading. One of my favorite sites is Heather and Janiel's blog from NWHCM. It was there that I read Jody's call to fast for Haiti and decided now was as good of a time as any.

It was a great day of prayer. I found myself talking more to the Lord than I did when the kids were in Haiti. Mainly because I felt hungry all the time. (even though looking back, I never really got so hungry that it hurt) thoughts of food riddled my day. Every time I thought I was hungry, my thoughts went first to satisfaction, then to God. It was a great reminder to pray. Better than prayer bracelets, better than writing "quiet time" on my hand, better than post it notes on the bathroom mirror. I spent time in the word at lunch and journaled every chance I could. It was good.

It was also bad. Bad because I realized that I am spoiled rotten. Of course really, it's the being spoiled rotten that's bad, the realizing it - is good. I was overcome with gratitude that my biggest decision of the day was telling them we couldn't go out to eat before church and that we would have to eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches if they were hungry. I didn't have to decide which one of them could eat. I didn't have to decide if I would feed my 9 year old or my 16 year old, my 13 year old or my 18 year old. I don't have to abandon my two oldest kids to their own provision for existence. I drank water yesterday, but I didn't have to walk any where for it, and it wasn't dirty, I didn't get it out of my toilet. I got it out of a dispenser at work that is cleaned regularly because government regulations demand it.

I held a plate of birthday cake and thought I was doing a spectacular pat on the back job by not sticking my finger in it to taste. And though I really did hold it and pray for Haiti, thinking of them and their struggles... I found myself a little prideful that I was resisting.

I learned yesterday that I like food way too much. I have to read books on how to "Lose it for Life" because I enjoy it so much. I check my Body Mass Index to see if I am too fat - I don't eat to gain strength, I eat to entertain myself. I don't eat when I am hungry, I eat when I want to. I eat what I want to. And there are people in this world starving.

Now don't get me wrong. I know that it isn't a sin to live in America. And it isn't a sin to be blessed with the ability to fill my refrigerator and provide for my family. But it is a sin when the thoughts of food and eating come to my mind more frequently than the struggles and pain of others, than the desire to fellowship with God, than the thought to serve. When what are we going to have for dinner? and I think I want a cookie (as I sit down to eat 5 or 6 or 7) are the thoughts that consume my mind. Maybe my mind is on the wrong thing.

I think I have some work to do.

The POWER of Prayer

From Jody: recieved Weds. after the day of fasting on Tuesday.

Is it possible to have peace in the midst of such unrest? We woke up yesterday and over 120 employees gathered on the courtyard and circled up in prayer. I told them about what the Americans were doing for them...praying and fasting. Many of them told me that while they fast nearly every day.....today it will be with purpose. Today they will fast for God.

How beautiful to see people gathered in their work areas with Bibles out. How beautiful to see the tears that fall every day but today they fall for HIM. How beautiful the emails of encouragement we got.....churches fasting and praying.....people all over the USA...people in CANADA - even BRAZIL?? There was a group that was in Brazil doing a mission trip who happened to check email yesterday who got their people there to fast. How AMAZING is our Heavenly Father?

There are layers of darkness here in Haiti....I felt God peel them back yesterday. I went to the courthouse downtown to talk with the judge about a matter and he said to me - "thank the blancs for their prayers today. I know it was because of them that I was able to handle this case in the way that I did" What? They knew downtown we were praying? Stories after stories of people telling me about something good that happened to them today and gave GOD the glory because they knew that everyone was praying and fasting on their behalf.

I want to THANK YOU for remembering us and our family here.

THE POWER OF PRAYER:

**BANK MONEY CAME YESTERDAY

**DIESEL TRUCKS ARE IN PORT-DE-PAIX (ROAD OPENED FROM GONAIVES TO PORT-DE-PAIX)

**PRICE OF DIESEL DROPPED YESTERDAY LATE MORNING

**NO SHOOTINGS OR MAJOR CRIME IN OUR SURROUNDING VILLAGES

**NEWS THAT OUR CRATES MAY COME THIS WEEK AND THEY'RE FULL OF FOOD AND SUPPLIES

**PEOPLE WHO DON'T NORMALLY TAKE THE TIME TO BE WITH CHRIST....TOOK THE TIME.


I spent a few hours reading through Psalms and Proverbs today. What PEACE I had as I read through the verses....for Haiti.....for us as leaders.....for me as I grow. Did it take a country to crumble for me to open up the word and study as I did? Can I have that same peace everyday by forcing the time to be alone with God. I'm sure it's the same for you as it is for us here.....God doesn't give you the time to be with Him......you have to TAKE IT. There is always someone waiting to talk to us......always something else left to do and so I can choose to shut my office door and pray....or let Satan distract me all day long with random things.

I found some comfort in so many verses.......here are a few:

Psalm 135:14 For the Lord will give justice to his people and have compassion on his servants

Psalm 144:14 May there be no enemy breaking through our walls, no going into captivity, no cries of alarm in our town square. Yes joyful are those who live like this. Joyful indeed are those whose GOD is the Lord.

Psalm 145:8 The Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.

Psalm 146:7 He gives justice to the oppressed and food to the hungry.

Psalm 146: 9 The Lord protects the foreigners among us. He cares for the orphans and widows but he frustrates the plans of the wicked.


A COUNTRY DEDICATED TO SATAN WILL SURELY DIE. BUT IF WE CAN UNITE TOGETHER.....WITH GOD'S HELP AND WISDOM HE GIVES......HE WILL FRUSTRATE THOSE PLANS OF THE WICKED VOODOO......OF THE WICKED GOVERNMENT....AND WE WILL GAIN GROUND IN THIS COUNTRY FOR CHRIST.



In Kingdom Service,

Jody Castillo RN, BSN
Travel and Campus Manager
Northwest Haiti Christian Mission

FAST for Haiti

It may not be Tuesday anymore but who says we have to do this one particular day of the week only...

from Jody Castillo RN, BSNTravel and Campus ManagerNorthwest Haiti Christian Mission

I'm not qualified to write this....I'm not a pastor....not really in my character to step out on Faith like this....but I find myself here before you......very genuinely.....very humbly.I talked to Heather Owen for a long time - she is just so good.....just so good. I told her I keep having this nudging.....this voice that is telling me to speak and yet it's so not in my character that I'm afraid to even say it. She told me that was the Holy Spirit and don't ever be afraid to say what God is laying on your heart.It's been an emotional few days...I find myelf mentally exhausted - but more burdened than anything. I can't seem to stop the tears from falling. We had this beautiful prayer circle at the compound and there was almost an immediate peace that took place. While that burden was lifted it is not completely gone.I talked to my Haitian friends today about the burden to fast. It was kind of funny but not so really because he said we do it every day. They fast because they have to. I have felt this burden for the people - this overwhelming burden that has almost taken over me. They continue to come to work...they continue to Praise God - they're so REAL....I mean they're so REAL and yet I find myself frustrated that I might not be able to have power tonight and I think how selfish am I? And yet I know even if I fast I will have food tomorrow and they have only the hope to make it each day and I can't seem to just let it go that this isn't just somewhere in Africa - some place where the pictures of people are strangers...but this is my home....my neighborhood.....my family. While I'm not someone to step out there the Holy Spirit will not let go of me. Several people are fasting tomorrow - TUESDAY. I know the power of Prayer - I know it personally and I've seen it change Haiti....I've seen it change ME.Please join us as we fast for Haiti. That can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people......maybe you fast for a meal....for two meals....for all day.....maybe it's just shutting the TV off and fasting from that and spending that time in prayer. I don't know what it means....but join us tomorrow as we just give it all to HIM. If you get this email and it's the middle of tomorrow - start then. Janeil says Haiti can only change when the Christians unite. Maybe this is how we start........In Kingdom Service,Jody Castillo RN, BSNTravel and Campus ManagerNorthwest Haiti Christian Mission

Pray for Haiti

What a great day yesterday! As our team gave testimony and praise to our most marvelous God for His amazing provision and presence. I sat and watched as both of my kids and my niece expressed their relationship with God: one singing praise and worship, the other sharing His observations of God's presence and boldness in Haiti, and the later as her eyes welled with tears at her longing to continue to serve God with her life. It was a glorious day. The bible, the WORD of God, came alive in Haiti for 29 precious servants of God, and they returned with a translation that touched the hearts of a packed building. In the words of St. Francis- Preach the gospel and if necessary use words.

Even after the return of our team from Haiti, I still find myself surfing Janiel and Heather's blog looking for news. Today I stumbled upon a new post from Heather. It is worth the read. Check out the link to Janiel and Heather's blog. And then take a few minutes to pray for Haiti...

and thank God for your blessings.

I think Haiti has my heart.

Dieunika has surgery!

Awhile back, Marla Pergrem shared with our youth group about a little girl who was trying to get to Arnold Palmer Hospital from Haiti to have a surgical procedure performed that could not have been done in her own country. She is only two years old. Marla sent me this email today along with an article (pasted at the bottom) explaining her circumstances. She certainly needs our prayers and we feel very connected to her just because she is from Haiti. (Dieunika is not from NWHCM)

From Marla:

I wanted to let everyone know too that I just got out of the OR after Dieunika’s (pronounced Janeeka) case, the little girl from Haiti we brought over to have surgery. The case went very well and she will only be in the hospital here for 2 or 3 days. She will be back in about 3 weeks for some follow-up surgery and at that time we are trying to get a dentist to come in and do something to help her smile better since sugar cane has done a number on her teeth! She is a real cutie and tired of seeing all of the American doctors and nurses in scrubs. When I went in to see her this morning before her surgery (in my scrubs), she put up her little hand and told me in loud Creole to “go back to your house” (and leave me alone lady!) Please continue to keep her in your prayers through her recovery and long separation from her parents in Haiti. Below is the article that will run in Florida Today about her story.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

April 10, 2008

Loving gift given anonymously

Unidentified donor pays for girl's surgery

BY JOHN A. TORRES
FLORIDA TODAY

By all accounts, 2-year-old Dieunika San Vil shouldn't have survived this long. Sick children in Haiti don't stand much of a chance in a country where one out of 10 children dies before the age of five and where children die regularly of diarrhea. Dieunika (pronounced ja-NEEK-A) was born without a properly formed anus. The only thing medical facilities in Haiti could do was to perform a colostomy, leaving the little girl with an opening on her abdomen and no hope for a normal life. But thanks to a missionary who was moved by her story, Brevard Health Alliance, Air Mobile Ministries, an anonymous donor and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, the little girl arrived in Brevard County last week and is scheduled for life-saving surgery later today. An anonymous donor is paying the $117,000 bill for the surgery, hospital spokeswoman Robin Kraich said. Dieunika will recuperate in the home of Titusville missionary and founder of the nonprofit Air Mobile Ministries, Joe Hurston, and his family. Hurston lived in Haiti for more than 20 years and continues to make regular trips to the impoverished island delivering water purifiers. "The remarkable thing is that this little one has survived at all," Hurston said. "How she has survived we don't even understand, but we knew we had to be involved. This is a very special child." Through a missionary contact in Haiti, the Hurston family should be able to get word to the baby's mother who anxiously awaits her daughter's return. Haiti, which shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, is the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. According to UNICEF, the country has the highest rate of infant, under-five and maternal mortality in the western world. Violence and lawlessness have been a problem in Haiti, especially since 2004 when President Jean Paul Aristide fled into exile. And just this week riots broke out in the capital, Port-Au –Prince, as people rebelled against rising rice prices. The United Nations peacekeeping force fired rubber bullets at the crowd. Hurston's wife, Cindy, a registered nurse, serves as Dieunika's caretaker, playmate, friend and surrogate mother for the time being. "We are blessed to be able to take care of her," she said, adding that she had thought her days of helping raise babies were over. Her youngest is 10. "It all came back to me and my kids are great with her. It was never a question of whether we should do this. She needed a family and we were there."

Sittin' here with my kids...

Praise the Lord...

I'm sitting here with my kids!

God is good. A few were sick but all are back and safe...

thank you all for your prayers!

Love, Nora

From Linda Nichols...

Welcome back good and faithful servants....

Linda Nichols

Today's Itinerary

They're Coming Home!!!

7:30 Depart NWHCM (via tap-tap and commuter planes, I believe)
(time is approximate as it took 4 and a half hours for them to arrive at the mission from Port Au Prince I am figuring the same for departure.)
12:40 pm Departing Port Au Prince for Miami
3:50 pm Arriving Miami
( Dinner at Chillis in Miami... Tonya said they were looking forward to this!)
7:05 pm Departing Miami for Orlando International Airport
8:10 pm Arriving Orlando International Airport!

8:55 pm hot showers and warm beds!


Thanks to all the prayer warriors who have kept them in their prayers, and please keep on keeping on! -Robin

Safe Journey...

Dear Precious Heavenly Father,
You have been so faithful - Your protection, guidance and direction, your wisdom, understanding and compassion, have been so evident this week. As this day begins, we just ask that you would continue to watch over our loved ones. Give them safe travel and their drivers & pilots skills to keep them safe.

I am confident that the eyes of those we love have seen things that many of us cannot comprehend or even relate to. I pray you will give them words to bridge the gap. I pray you would guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Wrap them in your loving care. Use every experience, every memory, every encounter to continue to bring you glory today and all the days of their lives.

As they come home to a country where blessings abound, will you please turn any guilt to gratitude and action. Help us all to remember that though this trip is ending today for our team... many are beginning for others. Help us all to remember that though this trip is ending today for our team... many have dedicated their lives to living out this commission every day. Keep those people ever on our minds and hearts. Help us to be generous with our blessings to support the good work that they are doing, every day.

May the people of Haiti be overtaken by the Spirit of God. Send revival... Remove the blanket of fear that covers the people of that country and open their eyes to see the hope they have in Jesus Christ.

In His name I pray. Amen

Birthday wishes for Sarah... From Linda & Aunt Doris

Sarah, Happy Birthday!!! On this day 18 years ago God gave you as a gift to your parents knowing where you would be today. You have given God a gift today with your life and you willingness to serve Him. I know you have put a smile on His face . You can't get a better birthday gift than that...

Linda Nichols



Happy Birthday Sarah! - Love, Aunt Doris

Happy Birthday Baby Girl...

Hard to believe it's been 18 years since I was up all night long watching reruns of the Dukes of Hazzard and talking to Grandma on the phone trying to decide if I needed to wake up Daddy. We left at about 4 in the morning for the hospital in his 4x4 truck. That was a fun ride! Who knew 18 years later you would be celebrating in Haiti. Your Dad and I are so proud of you Sarah. We hope you have the best 18th birthday ever!

Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dear Sarah! Happy Birthday to you! (one more time???) LOL

Seth give your sister those 18 spankings for me! Love you both... more than you know...

Love, Dad, Mom, Caleb, and Chloe and the rest of the family too!

From Jacki- (Simmons)

Hi

thanks

and congrats on the birth of your lovely child!!!!

praying for you

jacki

From Sharon...

It was neat to see rainbows in the sky the last two nights on my drive home from work. In fact, one was even a “double” rainbow arching right over I-4, as if a special promise was being made once again to us. And it’s so good to hear the team is safely back together and (hopefully) getting to see some more of God’s beauty at the waterfall tomorrow.

I have had the honor of wearing the “MJ” aka Michael Johnson bracelet this week and am SO glad to hear of uneventful sleeping for him. I will confess, I stretched it to make sure all the Michaels on the trip were also covered in prayer J….. and now we all can “..lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make us dwell in safety.”

From Tonya... They're back!!!

Hey Robin,

We just arrived back from the Far West - we feel like we have been on Survivor for the last 3 days. We are all covered in a thick layer of dirt and most of us haven't showered since Saturday :) We've had some sick ones, but all are better and are ready for a real bed, real shower and a real toilet (versus the hole in the ground with a toilet seat)!!! The Far West is about 26 miles from the mission, but it takes 2 hours to get there via bus with no paved roads - Orlando traffic may not be so bad after all.

The revival was great - it will continue until Saturday. We got to hear a testimony from a voodoo witch doctor that has just converted to Christianity - God is so good and I'm won't spoil it by telling you anything else. We even sang special music on Sunday night. The baptistery in the church looks great - they will be finishing it out this week, but it is mostly done. Don't worry - we all slept on the roof and Michael stayed in his tent - and Audrey and Mackenzie and Zoe even got to ride a horse.

We are planning a fun day trip tomorrow to a waterfall so long as the river isn't too high and we are able to cross it. We're also having b'day cake for Sarah and Katie tonight so that will be a nice treat. Continue to pray for us. We will be leaving the mission at 4:30 am on Friday to begin our long journey home, but we are looking forward to Chili's in the Miami airport. Thanks for all your continued prayers, we can definitely feel them. God has blessed our trip and we look forward to seeing you all on Friday night!

Love, Tonya

for Lynette:

Lynette,
I am blessed to have your bracelet on my arm and I would just like to say that I have so enjoyed lifting you up before the Lord. I know your prayer was to simply be useful and I am confident that He has answered that prayer in more ways than one. It is such a priviledge to me to lift you up... I know that you were concerned that your nursing skills wouldn't come back or that you might just be in the way. I know that could never be the case. You have given a special gift to your Father - the gift of your self. Surrender. It is all He asks. He wants all of us, and I know that is what you have given.

May He continue to use you. May you experience His abiding love and faithfulness as you continue to serve Him.

Much Love, Nora

For Marla...

Marla,
I just wanted to let you know I have been wearing a bracelet with your name on it and I have been praying for you. Praying that you will be safe and healthy. Praying that you will see God work in ways you have never seen before and that your relationship with Him is stronger. Praying that your hands will be steady as you do His work. Your hands are so precious to Him because with them you show His love, mercy, grace compassion, kindness and comfort. Thank you for allowing God to use you to further His kingdom.

God Bless You,
Linda Nichols

from Robin...

Dear Lord and Father,

Thank-you for your love and compassion that brings us hopeful news as to the well being of our loved ones in Haiti through the empathizing nature driven by past experiences of Heather Owen. Thank-you that your promise to always hear and answer prayer sometimes comes in the form of modern technology, and sometimes comes through your word, and sometimes comes through a complete stranger who bears a story we most need to hear at just the right time. Thank-you that you are always faithful to hear our heart's desire. And to respond.

We know that you would not, and did not, place within the heart of parents and other concerned family members, a tender heart needing reassurance of their loved ones' safety and well being, only to chide them or cause them guilt at feeling so concerned. Though Jesus knew that Lazarus could and surely would be raised from the dead, yet He wept at his death. Sorrow. Compassion. Pain. Grief. "Man of sorrows," He was intensely familiar with them all. Our tears are so precious to you that you store them in a jar! You know every sparrow that falls, every lily of the field that grows, and the number of hairs adorning every person's head on the face of the planet; how much more do you care and empathize and watch over our loved ones in Haiti...and us waiting and praying for their safety and well being....and all your children! Thank-you for your immense love and compassion Father, and for the assurance of your understanding of our God given emotions and feelings.

Bless all your children in Haiti. Help the seed planted by all your ministering servants to take deep roots that will yield fruit for your kingdom throughout the ages. Thank-you for the unselfishness of all those who have gone to help in whatever way they are called to help. Continue to bless them all with good health, protection, safety, and everything necessary to equip them for every good work. Please bring them all home safely to us on Friday, as scheduled.

Thank-you for providing a way of escape from our burdens and weaknesses when the evil one comes knocking with fears at 3:00 a.m. And thank-you, Father, for the gift of those of like precious faith, who share their faith and confidence at times when ours ebbs low, and bear our burdens with us. Blessed be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love. We thank you and praise you, God of all comfort, from whom all blessings flow! Help us all get a good night's sleep tonight, resting in the assurance that YOU are in control, and there is no need for us to wrestle with that which you have already taken care of.

In Jesus name. Amen.

From Heather- of NWHCM

I love our God! He knows the desires of our hearts and He is faithful to quiet our spirits.

I was not sure how many of you would notice the comment portion of my last blog so I have posted it below. I received the comment from Heather Owen - of "Heather and Janiel"- NWHCM Directors. If you have read her blog she just found out she is going to be a mom for the third time! Congratulations Heather and Janiel!

She posted this information and I wanted to share:

Hello,
I found the link to your website on mine.:) I spoke with Janeil last night, he is with your group in Beauchamp. He said that everyone is doing really good. They began work on the baptistry and are having wonderful worship at the revival each night. I know how it feels to be in your shoes and thought this small amount of info would bring some comfort. I'm sure they are chilly at night and may even see some bugs, but the blessings far outweigh the small uncomfortabilities.
They will be back tomorrow afternoon or early evening.
In Christ,
Heather Owen


Thanks Jesus! I needed that one!

Be Still...

Be still and know that I am God.

There are times when I am not really crazy about that verse. I think because it goes against every control issue that lives in me. You see, I am not liking this no contact thing. I probably click on every link on this blog 14 times a day... looking for more pictures, more posts, some news.

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

Not crazy about that one either. Because I have hidden the verse "Be Still" in my heart and it keeps popping up in my head every time my search for news turns up empty. I wake up a few times in the night and pray myself back to sleep... thinking - are they sleeping outside under the stars? Are they cold? Are they OK? Are there BUGS?

Be Still...

So, I guess I will. But Lord, you've got to help me.
Love, Nora

As Promised- SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUESTS

29 members of the Body of Christ are wearing bracelets with a name of one of our 29 missionaries in Haiti and have committed to pray individually for their perspective missionary. As promised; following is a list of specific prayer requests that were given to me from each of them. (Unfortunately a few were not able to get with me but I have listed to the best of my ability what I think might be a good request.) Thank you to all of you who took a bracelet. If you didn't get one that does not mean you can't pray for these requests... please lift up these requests on their behalf.


ALEX- powerful impact on her walk with Christ
MIKE C.- clarity, wisdom and discernment
MEAGAN - health, peace for her family
TRISHA- prayer for her family's peace in her absence
MICHAEL - Health, Blood Pressure, NO Sleepwalking
AUDREY- Health & peace for her momma
KATIE- peace for her family in her absence
BRENDA- to be open to the Lord's leading, peace
HEITH - his family; his wife and baby girl
CAMI- diabetes would remain under control
SEAN- protection for his WHOLE family who is in Haiti
DAVID-soft hearts and a changed perspective
LYNETTE - to be useful
MATT B.- to be a servant (and his health, though he didn't ask for that.)
MALLORY- health, patience and opportunity
SARAH- patience and an opportunity to tell people about Jesus
TONYA- patience with Zoe and MacKenzie
LINDSEY- to stay focused
SETH- wisdom and spiritual strength
CATHIE- safety and guidance
MARLA- Dexterity and steady hands (hasn't hands on nursed in awhile)
CRAIG- Strength - he is exhausted
STEPHEN- Diabetes to stay under control, to effectively minister through music
MARK- (Sean's dad) effective teaching and preaching
BEV- (Sean's mom) effective teaching, clarity for those being taught
DAVE- health and strength (especially his back)
CINDY- pray for everyone and that she maintains her health.
ZOE- health, obedience and life changing experience
MACKENZIE - health, obedience and a life changing experience.

Pray without ceasing.

Ever Have that Feeling...

Ever have that feeling where the preacher at church is preaching right at you? Yeah, a lot of us had that feeling today at church. Shan skillfully reminded us - by the power of the Holy Spirit no doubt - that the same faithful, loving, PROTECTING, God has not changed since March 27th. In other words, God has been watching over our loved ones, long before they ever boarded a plethora (I like that word) of planes to travel to a fourth world country. He has not changed. He is the same yesterday, today and always.

That is the definition of comfort.

I am honored to know so many people who right now, are realizing what Paul preached to the Philippians... To Live IS Christ. They have remembered God's plan for their life; to advance the really good news of Christ's redemption! They have remembered God's protection over them, not letting fear keep them from traveling into a country that is dangerous. Knowing His plans to prosper us, and not harm us.

They are Living. I rejoice in that, and as a mom I can rejoice that despite my failures and inadequacies as a mom - My God is fulfilling His perfect plan in the life of my two oldest children and I am filled with awe. What a mighty, awesome, wonderful Savior we serve! To God be the glory for today and always!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good Night. Love, Nora

FROM ROBIN...

Dear Heavenly Father,

As David of old cried out to you from caves as he hid for his life, I, too, have found myself, in the "wee hours of the morning" besieged by fear from the evil one. Fear of the dangers that could threaten the well being of our loved ones in Haiti. Yet just as David of old, I have found you to be the same refuge for me, as a worried mother for her far away children, as you always were for your David. Thank-you for your promise to "never leave nor forsake" your children, whether they are in volatile countries, or comfortable, safe homelands. Thank-you for leaving and preserving your Word for us to show us how your servants weathered the storms of their lives.

Thank-you that your power over-powers the evil one on every score: strength, protection, guidance, healing, safety, glory, honor, wisdom, might, goodness, righteousness, peace, understanding, comfort, majesty... and the hope of a life forever with You and Your son, that banishes Satan's strongholds: sin and death! Please cradle in your arms, the hearts, minds, bodies and souls of those who are in Haiti this week serving you with all their might, and protect them from the evil one in every way. Help them to feel, see, and know your presence, Lord and Father. And help us all, both in Haiti, and here at home, to be still, and to KNOW that You are God, and that your eyes are constantly roaming over the earth, watching over those that love you. Thank-you for crushing the fear that the evil one uses to paralyze us, and for replacing it with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Praise your holy name, our God and our Father who loves us more than we earthly fathers and mothers love our own children!

Thank-you for loving and supplying all needs for: Cathie Brazell, Dave Brazell, Matt Brazell, Lindsey Broskie, Mike Corp, Stephen Corp, Trisha Cox, Cindy Dawson, Sarah Elkins, Seth Elkins, Alex Farber, Bev Frenier, Mackenzie Frenier, Zoe Frenier, Mark Frenier, Sean Frenier, Tonya Frenier, Heith Hennel, Audrey Johnson, Michael Johnson, Lynette Kemp, Cami Knoblock, Brenda Nell, Mallory Pergrem, Craig Pegrem, Meagan Reed, Katie Tavenner, and David Thomas. And for us who lift them up in prayer. That we may all serve in your name, and praise your name in all the earth. In Jesus name. Amen.


Can I just say!!! "Amen Sister! Amen!"

FROM SEAN... DATED FRIDAY 3.28.08

Hey Nora,
I couldn't figure out how to post on your blog (which is awesome by the way), so I thought I would respond to your e-mail and let you put this update on there. As you know we arrived safely but with about 100 other people here, we spent the majority of the evening trying to find places for all of us to sleep. We all slept on something. Cathie and Trisha even slept for a time in the pouring down rain. But there are NO complaints. We have food, shelter, work to do and God on our side.
Hopefully I can send you some pictures before we leave tomorrow (Saturday) to head to the far west. We have had an incredible first two days. Our students and adults have had a great time playing with the babies in the orphanage and playing with the special needs children in "Heaven's Waiting Room". We helped to put together and deliver belated Christmas packages for the "Gran Moun" program. Gran Moun means "old people" in Creole. We had a hard time trying to keep Lynette from getting mixed up with this group. 25 members of our team will leaving tomorrow after lunch to head to the far west. We will be building the baptistry, teaching, preaching revivals and doing whatever else they need. We will be there until Wednesday so news will be scarce. Our four nurses (Marla, Cathie, Lynette and Cindy) will be staying at the main mission campus to take care of the post operation patients. We have sorted lots of stuff that our church collected for the mission work. We have toured the entire mission and the Citadel church across the street. There is an amazing view from this church overlooking the ocean and the island of Tortuga.
Keep praying for us! There will be a converted Voodoo witch doctor speaking at the revival where we will be in the far west. He will try to make an impact for God in the Voodoo community. It is very difficult at times here but our entire team is doing a fabulous job. Many of the ladies and guys had there hair braided tonight. Seth Elkins was a little "tifi" when he had his hair braided. "Tifi" means little girl in Creole. We will talk to you soon. Two groups that were here when we arrived fly out tomorrow so keep them in your prayers. We love you al!
Sean

from Linda Nichols

Sent: Friday, March 28, 2008 10:27 AM

Subject: Prayer to be put on the blog..

Nora,

Here is my prayer......

Dear Heavenly Father,

I just want to pray that you will bless our group as they are being your soldiers.. bless them as they give of their time, love and they give the message of hope through your son .. I pray that you will bless the people receiving all of it that they will know without a doubt you are and how much you love them...

I also pray that you will bless all who have given back of what you have blessed them with such as money, items and other things that have made this trip possible. We all know that you have provided all and others have been good stewards .. We are all the body where some can go , some can give, some can create websites/ blog to connect us all, and some can pray. What a privilege it is to all be working for your kingdom..

Asking you, thanking you and praising you , in Jesus name, Amen

Side note: I don't know if we will be able to get back Marla, Lynette and all of those who hold those babies.. From the pictures it looks like they would love to just stay and hold them. They may have to leave them but I am sure they will hold them close in their hearts... Linda

Our Team

Cathie, Dave, Matt
Lindsey
Mike, Stephen & Katie
Trisha, Sarah and Seth
Bev, Mark, Sean, Tonya, MacKenzie & Zoe
Marla, Craig, Mallory and David
Audrey & Michael

Heith
Lynette
Cami
Brenda
Cindy (nurse friend of Cathie's)
Alex
Meagan

FROM SEAN...

>I got this from Sean last night... Shan
>
> From: Sean Frenier
> Sent: Thursday, March 27, 2008 10:02 PM
> To: Shan Wood;
> Subject: We made it to the mission!
>
> We just wanted you to know that we made it to the mission around 4:00
> PM. Our trip went as scheduled. We are waiting to see where we will
> all be sleeping and trying to do that before the rain comes. Thanks
> for your prayers and keep them coming.
> Sean and the Haiti team
>

Great Blog!

Check this out!
It is the blog for the directors of the mission- watch the video!
Wow! What a song!
What a Savior!

click here

Day 3 PRAYER REQUESTS (posting early since I will be at Believe )

5. Pray for God to use us in anyway necessary.
6. Pray for everyone to be healthy, no sickness!

Father God! You are amazing. You are wonderful! You are everything and we love you so much! Father it is the desire of our team in Haiti to be used by you. Their hearts long to serve you and to respond to the love you have shown them by loving others. We come together through the use of this tool - the internet - and we are brought together as the Body of Christ, to lift up the arms and hands and feet and minds and fingers and every other part of the Body that arrived in Haiti and ask that you would use them in ANY WAY necessary. If it means washing someone's feet or giving a hug. You know the needs of the people, you know the way in which they will each have eyes to see and ears to hear. You know the very thing that might break through the wall of a hard heart... Lord use our team to do that! Whatever your will. And Father as we lift them up and pray for that I can't help but ask you to do the same in all of us, whether we are in Haiti or our living rooms - Lord we can all be used by you. We just have to be willing. And we are. So please God, use us all, let us shine where ever you have placed us and let us bring you glory. Because you are worthy of it!

Father we also ask that you would be the great physician. Specifically for Matt as he left Orlando sick - yet still committed to serve you - make him well Lord. Keep the rest of our team healthy from illnesses that might present while they are serving or any illness they might take home. Place a hedge of protection around them and keep them healthy. Please. We pray all that knowing that you know what is best and that we live in a world that is not perfect so if there is a lesson in the sickness, if there is a way to bring you glory through it, if it is a thorn you choose not to remove then Lord - provide the grace to endure it. We trust you.

In Jesus Name we pray,
Amen.

Day 2 PRAYER REQUESTS

3. Pray for Janeil & Heather Owen, mission directors.
4. Pray (now a praise too) for a safe journey to Haiti and back. PRAY FOR OUR PILOTS!

Father God, our provider!
You are so good. What a comfort to see pictures of our team - having arrived safely. You are so good to hear our prayers. We are so silly to worry. Thank you for being patient with us!

Father we just would ask your special blessing on Janeil and Heather... Father pour out your spirit on them, give them wisdom and understanding... give them resources to accomplish the tasks you have set before them. Father you have not given them a spirit of fear, but a spirit of love and of sound mind. Place a hedge of protection around them and protect them from Satan and his motley crew who come to steal and destroy. Give Janeil and Heather a clear understanding of your will for their lives and the lives of the people they minister to. Bless them richly for their selfless service to you...

And Father we are just filled with awe at your amazing provision, we sing your praises for a safe journey for our 29 loved ones who we left at the airport yesterday. You know it was hard for those of us left behind and you have been so faithful to give us peace. Thank you for the skill of their pilots and drivers... for the strength of their planes and modes of transportation. Thank you for being so patient with us when we have worried about such little things. You are so good and we sing your praises. We find comfort in knowing that you will be in control on their trip home as well and just ask that you would keep every one, the teams leaving NWCM today, tomorrow and every day... we trust you and realize that you do this all the time and we take comfort in your care and wisdom. You are in control of everything O Lord, Everything in the Heavens and the Earth is yours O Lord. That leaves nothing out! Especially our team in Haiti.

May your glory shine today and everyday- through everyone that you have rescued and everyone who has trusted in the blood of Jesus for their salvation! We pray all this in His Precious Holy Name, Amen!

OH I LOVE TECHNOLOGY! - WE HAVE PICTURES!

I almost cried this morning... I went to the NWHaiti mission link (you can find it to the right of this entry) and found PICTURES! of our group... just the first two pictures are us... but I am sure they will post more!

YEAH!

click here!

Oh, I'm a Silly Momma!

Sent: Friday, March 28, 2008 1:51 AM

Subject: Oh, I'm a Silly Momma!

I too, kept checking my computer throughout the evening and finally fell asleep. I was trying to subscribe to my hubby’s motto of “no news is good news” but I will sleep more soundly now!

(I just wish I had checked your blog earlier! )

Many thanks to Robin for her resourcefulness and to you, Nora for your loving thoughts and prayers poured out from that big ole’ heart!

Sleep tight!

-Sharon

THIS JUST IN.... SAFE AND SLEEPING!

Robin and I were sitting by our computers most of the evening waiting for news... Robin - resourceful mom that she is- emailed Mike and this is his reply:

Sent: Thursday, March 27, 2008 10:44 PM

Subject: Safe and Sound...

Hey Robin --- They are here and all are fine. They arrived safe and sound about 4:00 at the main campus. They should all be asleep by now. Long day.

If all goes well we will go to the Far West on Sat. and not return until Wed. so we will be out of touch for those days.


Now I can go to bed! Goodnight! :-) - Love, Nora

Day 1- PRAYER REQUESTS

#1 - Please pray for every aspect of this trip!
#2- Pray for the people of Haiti to be receptive to the Gospel.

Father God,
You are worthy of all of our praise and we come before you now- through the use of technology and community to ask your blessing upon every aspect of this mission trip to Haiti. We know you have been working in this country for a long time, and even though Satan has a foothold there, we know that he has been defeated by the shed blood of the perfect sacrifice, the blood of the Lamb of God. Satan has already lost the battle and he is now just grasping at straws. We pray Father for you to reclaim this people whose minds have been polluted by the lies of the enemy and we pray that you would transform their minds to understand the truth of who you are and that you would remove the veil from their eyes so that these precious people can see the light of your love shining brightly through every believer who you have placed in Haiti. We pray that you would break the hearts of the people, that they would experience the Godly sorrow that leads to repentance. We want to see the waters around that island filled with people being baptized. We want to see a mighty army for Christ raised up so that there would be no need for a mission! May the land of Northwest Haiti be filled with your people from this day forward. May thousands be added to your number just like in Acts 2000 years ago! In Jesus name, everybody said! Amen!!!!

Thanks for praying with me guys! Love ya! Nora

Nora gone until Saturday Night

I just wanted to update all of you that Scott, myself and Brad & Jennifer will be leaving for our "mission trip" as we head to Christ in Youth's Middle School Believe Conference. We will be taking 14 of our Middle School students to Kissimmee for a great time of preaching, teaching and worship. As a result I will be unable to post or check email for most of Friday and all of Saturday.

Please continue to pray for our team and the hearts of those who will be ministered to in Haiti.

Sean left us a list of prayer requests... I will post them two or three at a time so we can focus on specific prayer requests for the next 10 days.

Trusting the God who hung the stars in the sky... the same sky that we see in Haiti and in Orlando. and there is one named for each of us. When you look at the sky tonight - know that our team looks on it too. - Nora

From Chuck Nell

Sent: Thursday, March 27, 2008 11:51 AM

Subject: Haiti Trip

Nora,

Maybe it is being married to your high school sweetheart for nearly 39 years, but I already miss Brenda and it's only the first day. At the same time I feel incredibly energized and proud of the team's desire and willingness to serve God through this trip. Brenda said it was out of her comfort zone, but she has been praying that through this mission trip her faith would be stretched and her walk with God would be even closer. I'm just loving her and feeling so proud of her step of faith. I'm convinced that each team member will come home changed forever. We serve a great and awesome God who is able to do more than we could ever imagine. I'm praying for His mighty arms to be wrapped around our team while they are in Haiti. I'm praying for them to be energized, humbled, peaceful, compassionate, safe, fulfilled and convinced that it was worth it.

Your prayer partner,

Chuck

Hello First Christian Family,

Hello First Christian Family,

I called American Airlines to check on the arrival of our crew, and found that their flight (1291) did arrive in Port au Prince, Haiti, at 11:23 a.m. Praise the Lord! Their next scheduled stop per Sean's itinerary, is Port au Paix, via Air Tortuga. I know you'll all continue to lift them up as they travel throughout the day and minister throughout the week-end and upcoming week. Thank-you for your prayers. As a mother of two teens on the trip, I deeply appreciate all the prayers on the whole crew's behalf. Feeling so utterly helpless is not something most of us mere mortals do very well, so please know how comforting your prayers are to me and David, and all the families of those on the trip. "Pray without ceasing."

Love,

Robin

They're on their way!

Sent: Thursday, March 27, 2008 10:43 AM


To all,

The Haiti Team is on their way! I received a call from Sean tha they arrived in Miami. They are probably boarding the plane to Haiti as I write this.

Shan Wood

Departure

Well, it is 5:38 AM! and less than 1 hour ago I dropped off my niece, church secretary, Trisha and my two kids, Sarah & Seth at Orlando International Airport. They met up with 26 other awesome people for a mission trip to Haiti.

I couldn't go but I can still be a part of what they are doing. In fact... anyone can. Many already have. The cost for this trip was 1100.00 per person. God provided it all. I still am not sure how, but then I never am. I just stand in awe of His amazing involvement in our lives. Which is why it is easier to trust them to His care. He is so faithful and there isn't one person on that plane or in Haiti who He doesn't care for and love deeply.

Todays Itinerary: (its a long one!)
depart OIA at 7:10am
arrive Miami at 8:10am
depart Miami at 10:30am
arrive Haiti at 11:30 am
(easy so far)
5 commuter planes (sigh) from Port au Prince to Port au Paix/St. Louis du Nord
Tap Tap (small truck- that you tap on to let the driver know to go or stop) fits somewhere in there too.

They will not arrive at the mission until late tonight.

Please keep them in your prayers. More updates and prayer requests to come.
Email me at selkins4@cfl.rr.com if you would like to have me post something for you on the blog. I 'll just copy and paste. I think this will be a great forum for us to communicate, pray and for our team to reflect on when they return.

Trusting Jesus,
Nora