Haiti Mission Trip Day Four: A July 4 to Remember

We are staying on site at New Life Children's Home and Rescue center. It's an orphanage with more than 100 children most of which have been rescued from the harshest of conditions.  

After an early breakfast, the two visiting churches and Wheatland Salem Church—Oswego departed for the beach with many of the children from New Life in tow. Along the way, we saw how the people of Haiti have coped with the recent disaster. 

Although there is still much work to be done, it was truly eye-opening to see them find solace in something as simple as a game of 3v3 soccer or the buying and selling of goods at the local market. 

Upon our arrival we quickly discovered the skill of our bus driver as he descended the steep, winding, 30-foot decline toward our beach.  After a quick prayer, the kids headed toward the waves with smiles on their faces.  While in the water, most spent their time playing games, while others enjoyed the comfort of the shade and a cool breeze. 

Other activities included rousing games of UNO, the collection of sea shells and beach glass, and, of course, the daily ritual of a friendly game of soccer. Later, lunch was served, which consisted of peanut butter sandwiches, BBQ chicken along with rice and beans. 

As usual, everyone enjoyed the meal just as much as the last, especially with the scenic view of the ocean tides and the mountains of Haiti in the background. It was truly amazing to see God’s hand extend to a land so impoverished. 

After lunch some took to the water to continue the fun and games while others played soccer and even a game of basketball with human hoops (thanks to Will Butler and Patrick Kaindl). 

A few hours later, it was time to head back to the orphanage.  Although, it surely disappointed the children to leave, we knew they enjoyed themselves with a full, active day of sun and fun as many fell asleep on the bus ride home.  On the way, we saw the grave site where many of the victims of the earthquake were laid to rest. 

Although sad, it was a moving display of Haitian pride to see the giant purple ribbon marking the burial site.  After dinner we headed back to the pitch for one final game of soccer before Devotions. 

While we all missed spending the 4th of July without families back home it was truly a blessing to be in a community filled with so much love.  This will surely be a holiday we all will not soon forget.

Blogged by: Kristin and David (thehuman)