Thursday, May 19, 2016

Grace Village and Elder Visits

Our first stop today was Grace Village in Titanyen. As we stepped out of our taptap, the beautiful view of the mountains and ocean welcomed us. While touring Grace Village, we got to see what God is doing there through Healing Haiti and all the hands and feet of Jesus. There are four family style homes that house orphans and give them the opportunity to grow up in a family, a medical and dental clinic, church, food center, school, and a soon-to-open bakery that will create jobs for Haitians in Titanyen. A cool thing we got to witness was the unpacking and preparation of the Feed My Starving children Manna Packs. Seeing the food that many of us have packed before arrive at its final destination was a heartwarming experience. We also got to play with the children of Grace Village during their recess time. The children were glowing with smiles and eager for our attention.

Our second stop was visiting three elder's homes that Healing Haiti sponsors. Both of us had the opportunity to rub and massage one of the elder's feet, hands, and face. Her face was overcome with delight as we showed her our love with a simple touch. We were also able to worship with them in both English and Creole. Before we left each elder's home, we asked them what they would like prayer for and then we prayed over them.

Our last stop of the day was a visit to the mass grave of the Haitians who were killed in the devastating earthquake in January 2010. We got the privilege to hear one of our interpreters, Emmanuel, share his experience on the day of the earthquake. He said that the people of Haiti were not educated on how to handle earthquakes, resulting in panicked chaos and hundreds of thousands of deaths. The memorial above the mass grave is big and beautiful. With the loving quotes on the walls, shiny marble floors, and flowers, the memorial was a celebration of the many lives lost.

We finished our day with a salsa lesson from Jean, one of the Haitian leaders. There is nothing quite like ending a busy day dancing in the moonlight on a balcony in Haiti.

We cannot believe that we are already halfway done with our trip, but we are excited to see what else God has in store for us the rest of the week. #GlwaPouBonye!

Yours truly,

Veronika and Cora