Reflection

Insight and reflections from the team members.

David W.

“After just one short week in Haiti, I am convinced that:
1) We are all so blessed and should do more to help others less fortunate!
2) Getting out of our comfort zones can help us to grow in our faith.
3) Living angels such as Debbie, Gladys, and Marie do walk this earth doing
God's work. They sacrifice so much, although they probably would disagree,
to help others in great need. “

Pastor Keith
“I was awe-struck by the resilience and spirit of the citizens of Port au Prince following January’s earthquake. Only six months later, I was expecting conditions and attitudes to be a lot worse. (What do I know?) My joy revolved around watching how the Holy Spirit touched the hearts and employed the talents of each of the eleven members of our team for His purposes. Maybe our efforts were only a drop in the bucket. But I believe God was smiling all week. I believe our lives are, forever, a little changed... for the better. And to have had this experience with my daughter, Katelynn, gives me a sense of joy that I’m sure will extend to the day I meet Jesus face to face.”

Katie P
“My experience in Haiti will be one that I never forget. After coming back, I have a new appreciation for everything! From roads and stop signs to warm showers and air conditioning. I am
blessed. Most importantly I have a a bigger and brighter heart for helping God's people in need. The people of Haiti have such a great faith in God; they are the ones that inspired me!”

David B
“Overwhelmed and at a loss for proper words.
Joy – in the proud eyes of the parents, family and friends in seeing the accomplishments of the graduating kindergarten class. Their presentation in 3 languages (French, Creole and English) was awe inspiring.
Determination – clearing earthquake rubble of multi-story buildings by hand, bucket and shovel. How many of us would give up at such a seemingly insurmountable and daunting task?
Love – constantly outpouring and multiplying in the lives of everyone touching the missions of Little Children of Jesus, Food for the Poor, Marie’s Girl’s Orphanage and VOH school.

Judy S.
"Seeing, first hand, these places & purposes (VOH School, Little Children of Jesus, Food for the Poor, & Marie's girls orphanage) has given us plenty to evangelize to our congregation. Our visit, as well as the other teams before ours, should serve to strengthen and perpetuate our church's commitment to serving Haiti's suffering poor. If you want to make a difference in your life, and in the lives of many others, get involved!"

Chad N.
“I was amazed by the positive, happy and resilient spirit of the Haitian people, which includes the Director Debbie Berquist, Debbie's hospitality and her willingness to adjust the work, to get task's accomplish made the week!”

Liza K.
“The Our Savior 2010 Haiti trip was my second visit to Haiti. My first was 4 years ago in 2006. In between those visits, a massive earthquake hit Haiti in January of 2010 and an already poor and beleaguered country endured devastation beyond belief. It will take Haiti years, if not decades, to rebuild. But our congregation is making a difference in Haiti! The Village of Hope school and its children we support and The Little Children of Jesus handicapped orphanage are thriving! It was so rewarding to see the school grow to over 650 children who daily sing the praises of our Lord and Savior. The classrooms are now adequately furnished, there is a cafeteria that provides 2 meals a day and clean, fresh drinking water for the students. School improvements continue at an astounding pace and planning is underway for a health clinic that will serve students, their families and, in the future, the local, rural community. The Little Children of Jesus orphanage has improved dramatically. They moved from their old, cramped, inadequate facility, in to a new beautiful, spacious location. It was so touching to see the children so loved and well cared for because in Haiti, handicapped children are regarded as useless as garbage. In the end, I want to say thank you to our congregation for opening their hearts and supporting Haiti. Thank you for letting me represent the love, prayers and work efforts from all of you that are directed towards Haiti's poorest. We are making a difference in Haitian lives and fulfilling our mission....Connecting people to Jesus, faithfully, courageously, together for the sake of the kingdom.”

Darryl J
"I was touched by the resiliency of the Haitian people and their commitment to their faith. It was a very meaningful time for me."

Mary Anne J
"This trip really opened my eyes to the lives of third world nations, especially their fervent need for their "daily bread". We are so blessed in the United States, and it was humbling to be able to participate in this servant event."

Bob K
“Bringing hope to the hearts and minds of the people of Haiti. Pouring our hearts out with sweat and tears to those who are most gracious.”