I realize it has been a few days since I posted an update... my apologies! I guess I was just too overwhelmed with everything to try to write it all down.
On Monday Indy (our school director) and Petion (Manis' brother) returned from Port-au-Prince. They had gone to take in some supplies and to check on family and our Lemuel kids. With them they brought cameras that we had sent with them, full of images from Port-au-Prince. I don't think I am even going to post them here. I am sure you have seen a lot on the news and some of them I wish I could erase from my own mind. That evening a trailer from Bruce Robinson arrived with all kinds of supplies for Bolosse. The men transferred everything over to our dump truck (no easy task!!!) and got it ready to leave
Tuesday Indy headed back in to Port-au-Prince with the dump trunk since the driver didn't know how to get to Bolosse Campus.
On the way back on Wednesday the dump truck broke down. It is now on the property of a mission that we work with (CAM). We are trying to figure out a way to get it fixed and back here. We would appreciate your prayers as it is really needed.
Below is the most recent update from Cindy McMartin on Bolosse campus...
Greetings!
This morning began with the 6.0 quake. There were at least 2 houses that fell down in the neighborhood around us. It was kind of discouraging because we thought maybe there wouldn’t be anymore big ones. Thank you for messages from you with encouragement from God’s Word. You continue to minister to us with your messages of love, prayers, and the Word.
This morning we had a medical group with another mission who was already in country arrive up here to give a hand. They spent all day up here seeing patients. It was so encouraging to have them here and to see people receiving some medical care. They are returning tomorrow.
A dump truck from our missionary family (Dilus/Robinson) in NW Haiti also arrived last evening. It was loaded with tools/equipment (jack hammer, bolt cutter, generator, wheel barrows, etc). Judy also sent in clothing and sacks of rice and gunny sacks full of plantains. Judy even had the driver get us some peanut butter in one of the cities they passed through on their way in – peanut butter and bread have become a major staple for us – it’s quick and seems to stick to our ribs.
The men who have been working so hard here on campus were running out of energy. Because we had received the food supplies, I had Eliette come and she cooked up some large pans of rice and plantains. All the workers and guards here on campus were able to receive some nourishment today.
Monday, the men went into the Seminary building to retrieve computers, files, and valuables in professors’ and administrator’s offices. Bruce climbed in a hole above his door – sure glad he told me that after he finished – and had a ladder inside so used that to climb back out. He got his laptop, office computer, monitor, printer, files, and a personalized desk calendar with pictures of our 2 grandsons that he’d gotten for Christmas – worth risking your life for, right?! Tuesday he helped the UEBH get into their offices to help retrieve things. After coming out of the finance office door that had been shut, it would not shut again – so he realized things were still shifting. He will not be going back in until we have some expertise help.
We had our kids clubs again today. I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to do mine because it had been such a busy day (and I didn’t eat lunch until 6 pm), but God gave strength and also a young Haitian lady who worked with me. She had such energy and enthusiasm and really got the kids involved. Yesterday I had been so surprised to see how little my group (5-7 year-olds) knew of Bible stories or even the simple choruses I was singing with them. Today I reviewed the Bible story with them and sang the same songs and it was great to see how much they had retained – one girl was even able to recite the Bible verse. After today, I think they all know the story, verse and songs. It was a good time with these dear kids.
So, it’s been a full day. God is answering your prayers and giving us health and strength and providing for our needs. Several Haitian friends (ladies) have brought us buckets of water these past few days. We are tired, and it’s not enjoyable living like this, but God has a plan and we continue on as He gives strength and direction. Please keep praying.
Must go to bed. Our love to each one of you,
Cindy for Bruce too
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
From Cindy Mc Martin
Please read all of this... especially the end. God's ways are not our ways...
Greetings!
I’ll start with good news – we all need some of that!!! Jehu and boys are all alive. The house they are renting collapsed. Only Jehu and Inocin were inside – a miracle they got out alive. David Schmid, Bruce and I made our first trip off the campus yesterday. Jehu’s was our first stop. When I saw the boys all sitting there in the driveway, I lost it. Just a lot of pent-up emotions and I was so thankful to see them alive…especially after all we had just driven through. Their new building on the property outside of the city is still standing. The walls that were going up on the last floor fell, but the rest of the building seems solid. I was able to obtain 2 boxes of some aid food during the day, so we dropped this by for the boys on our way back home. Anyhow, praise God with us for this blessing of safety for Jehu and boys.
Our goal in going off campus was to try and find medical supplies and to make contact with organizations/teams that could give us assistance up here. It was a long and tiring day, but we made some good contacts and did come back with some boxes of medical supplies. All we met said they had not seen any UN or US army troops out at all yet. We know aid has arrived here, but also realize that there is no structure/organization within the Haitian government to help get things mobilized. Today we have heard/seen many helicopters flying over so we believe things have begun to move.
I came home very discouraged. The sites around town were just so devastating. Even though I already knew it, it became even more clear that this will not be an easy fix/repair and that life will become even harder in the days ahead. The stench of death was terrible.
This morning we had a service here on campus in the yards. A time of singing and prayer and then Jacques Louis, a Seminary administrator and professor, brought a message from God’s Word. He challenged us to have the same attitude as David did towards God when he was in the midst of so many trials; to trust in God’s sovereign control and to not take revenge in our own hands; to let God give blessing in place of the hardships we are now facing in His own time. It was good to be together and to be encouraged from God’s Word. An opportunity was given at the end for those who wanted to put their trust in Jesus for salvation to come forward. About 15 boys and young men went forward. Seminary students, professors, and others talked/prayed with them individually after the service. Bruce came up to the house to get a bit of fuel and matches to burn the charms/fetishes of one young man. So, more good news: the addition of these men and boys to the family of God.
Tremors continue – had at least 4 today – the last two I was told were 4.7 and 4.6. So the people continue to be fearful to return to any structure that is left of their home.
We will be receiving a team of 4 men sent by CrossWorld this week. Two of the men are from Crisis Consulting International. They are coming to help us make a plan and to give us some training in what we’re doing here.
We have been so encouraged and ministered to by your emails sharing your prayers of scripture for us, verses to uplift us, your love and concern, and information from there to help us get connected with what’s going on here and some aid. Thank you all.
I know this is long, but there is one more thing I have to share. This morning I received some news – it was a report on a press conference of the President of Senegal. This is a short version of what it said: SENEGAL'S president on Sunday called for Africa to make room for victims of Haiti's earthquake to restart their lives on the continent from where their ancestors were snatched as slaves. His spokesman Mamadou Bamba Ndiaye gave further details of the proposals. 'If it is just a few people, we will offer them a roof and a patch of land; if they come in large numbers, we will give them a whole region.'
Does man every know or understand the plans of God?! What if this is his way to get 100’s of Haitian believers to this country and continent? We want to follow up on this so pray that God will continue to give direction and open doors.
Our love to you all. We continue to need your prayers,
Cindy for Bruce too
Greetings!
I’ll start with good news – we all need some of that!!! Jehu and boys are all alive. The house they are renting collapsed. Only Jehu and Inocin were inside – a miracle they got out alive. David Schmid, Bruce and I made our first trip off the campus yesterday. Jehu’s was our first stop. When I saw the boys all sitting there in the driveway, I lost it. Just a lot of pent-up emotions and I was so thankful to see them alive…especially after all we had just driven through. Their new building on the property outside of the city is still standing. The walls that were going up on the last floor fell, but the rest of the building seems solid. I was able to obtain 2 boxes of some aid food during the day, so we dropped this by for the boys on our way back home. Anyhow, praise God with us for this blessing of safety for Jehu and boys.
Our goal in going off campus was to try and find medical supplies and to make contact with organizations/teams that could give us assistance up here. It was a long and tiring day, but we made some good contacts and did come back with some boxes of medical supplies. All we met said they had not seen any UN or US army troops out at all yet. We know aid has arrived here, but also realize that there is no structure/organization within the Haitian government to help get things mobilized. Today we have heard/seen many helicopters flying over so we believe things have begun to move.
I came home very discouraged. The sites around town were just so devastating. Even though I already knew it, it became even more clear that this will not be an easy fix/repair and that life will become even harder in the days ahead. The stench of death was terrible.
This morning we had a service here on campus in the yards. A time of singing and prayer and then Jacques Louis, a Seminary administrator and professor, brought a message from God’s Word. He challenged us to have the same attitude as David did towards God when he was in the midst of so many trials; to trust in God’s sovereign control and to not take revenge in our own hands; to let God give blessing in place of the hardships we are now facing in His own time. It was good to be together and to be encouraged from God’s Word. An opportunity was given at the end for those who wanted to put their trust in Jesus for salvation to come forward. About 15 boys and young men went forward. Seminary students, professors, and others talked/prayed with them individually after the service. Bruce came up to the house to get a bit of fuel and matches to burn the charms/fetishes of one young man. So, more good news: the addition of these men and boys to the family of God.
Tremors continue – had at least 4 today – the last two I was told were 4.7 and 4.6. So the people continue to be fearful to return to any structure that is left of their home.
We will be receiving a team of 4 men sent by CrossWorld this week. Two of the men are from Crisis Consulting International. They are coming to help us make a plan and to give us some training in what we’re doing here.
We have been so encouraged and ministered to by your emails sharing your prayers of scripture for us, verses to uplift us, your love and concern, and information from there to help us get connected with what’s going on here and some aid. Thank you all.
I know this is long, but there is one more thing I have to share. This morning I received some news – it was a report on a press conference of the President of Senegal. This is a short version of what it said: SENEGAL'S president on Sunday called for Africa to make room for victims of Haiti's earthquake to restart their lives on the continent from where their ancestors were snatched as slaves. His spokesman Mamadou Bamba Ndiaye gave further details of the proposals. 'If it is just a few people, we will offer them a roof and a patch of land; if they come in large numbers, we will give them a whole region.'
Does man every know or understand the plans of God?! What if this is his way to get 100’s of Haitian believers to this country and continent? We want to follow up on this so pray that God will continue to give direction and open doors.
Our love to you all. We continue to need your prayers,
Cindy for Bruce too
Update
Hi everyone,
I am sorry I haven't updated in a while. We have been trying to contact relief organizations to tell them about what is going on at Bolosse. Yesterday our friend Lara in California was able to get a few on the phone and we wrote to any we could think of. We gave them all the address and GPS coordinates. Today I heard from Bolosse that a lot of helicopters were flying overhead so I pray that they were scouting them out and will get to them soon. Today Lara was also able to talk to the woman in charge of World Vision's efforts in Haiti right now. It was a miracle she got through... just as the woman was walking into a meeting to decide their next steps! Her phone hadn't been working at all and then it rang and it was Lara.
We are praying that help will get there soon.
Thank you all for your prayer support. Please pray specifically for strength and energy. I am beginning to feel the effects of the stress, lack of sleep, and days in front of the computer. I cannot imagine how it must be for those in Port. I know they are getting weary and the adrenaline is wearing off and reality is setting in. This is FAR from over and we will be dealing with the effects for a long long time. We need wisdom and perspective.
I am sorry I haven't updated in a while. We have been trying to contact relief organizations to tell them about what is going on at Bolosse. Yesterday our friend Lara in California was able to get a few on the phone and we wrote to any we could think of. We gave them all the address and GPS coordinates. Today I heard from Bolosse that a lot of helicopters were flying overhead so I pray that they were scouting them out and will get to them soon. Today Lara was also able to talk to the woman in charge of World Vision's efforts in Haiti right now. It was a miracle she got through... just as the woman was walking into a meeting to decide their next steps! Her phone hadn't been working at all and then it rang and it was Lara.
We are praying that help will get there soon.
Thank you all for your prayer support. Please pray specifically for strength and energy. I am beginning to feel the effects of the stress, lack of sleep, and days in front of the computer. I cannot imagine how it must be for those in Port. I know they are getting weary and the adrenaline is wearing off and reality is setting in. This is FAR from over and we will be dealing with the effects for a long long time. We need wisdom and perspective.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
The Body of Christ
I have been overwhelmed today at what we can do when we work together and help one another. Below is an email I received from a CrossWorld missionary. Some of you may remember the group of youth from here who went on donkey and mule to take IVs to the hospital in Passe Catabois after the hurricanes. I got tears in my eyes as I read this email...
Word from Bolosse is that you sent them some culligan water but Phyllis is worried that you are going to run short yourself. We filter our water here and have an unlimited supply. Do you need filtered water? There is a man who works with us whose life was probably saved by the IVs that you sent here after the hurricanes. If he needs to return the favor let us know. Bruce
We are fine on water right now. Aunt Phyllis is so sweet to worry about us when she is going through what she is going through! But I just think it is incredible how we can all help each other and work together if we are all willing to give a little.
Word from Bolosse is that you sent them some culligan water but Phyllis is worried that you are going to run short yourself. We filter our water here and have an unlimited supply. Do you need filtered water? There is a man who works with us whose life was probably saved by the IVs that you sent here after the hurricanes. If he needs to return the favor let us know. Bruce
We are fine on water right now. Aunt Phyllis is so sweet to worry about us when she is going through what she is going through! But I just think it is incredible how we can all help each other and work together if we are all willing to give a little.
Perspective
"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, 'Therefore I have hope in Him.'" Lamentations 3:21-24
Thank you Vladimir Jeune for this reminder.
Thank you Vladimir Jeune for this reminder.
Update from Cindy Mc Martin
Greetings, again, Everyone!
First of all, thank you everyone who has written expressing your concern, love, and prayers. It has been a huge encouragement to us.
There is not a lot new or different, but I realize it helps to hear some news from here.
We were awaken early this a.m. by a few strong tremors. Immediately the people all around started calling out to God, singing and praying. We soon realized that going back to sleep was going to be impossible. We lay in bed awhile though because we felt so weary. It’s hard to start a new day feeling this way, especially when we know what awaits us. It’s a combination of emotional stress and a lot of hard work on the men’s part – digging, slugging away at breaking up big cement columns, and pulling away the rubble.
About 5 p.m. the men finally succeeded in removing the body of one student that was trapped in the rubble. This student’s father had come up yesterday asking about his son because he hadn’t heard from him. Bruce told him the news that they believed he was trapped in the rubble. The man, a pastor, broke down and just clung to Bruce. He told Bruce that he had just found out his daughter was killed in a collapse of another building. We know circumstances like this have been repeated many times all over the city.
Last night we had more people come to the campus….if you can believe it. We have a tent up which is being used to put those seriously injured in. The dr. here on campus got some help yesterday from medical people that live in the neighborhood and they were doing what they could with the limited things available: Phyllis ripped sheets for bandages; there were many splints made out of cardboard and pieces of wood; strips of aloe were used on burns. We are still waiting for some aid to arrive here.
Our only communication remains via internet so it makes it very difficult to find out information – about people and about the possibility of aid. We have emailed numerous aid organizations making them aware of our situation here. I’m sure it has taken the groups that have arrived here some time to get organized here in country.
Please keep praying for us. Today Bruce had a student come over to the campus who had been sent by one of our professors. This professor lost his whole house and he was asking what we could do to help him. It is so hard for us because there is really so little we can do. But many keep coming to us – telling us their stories and needing help. We can pray with them, for them, and give what comfort we can, but not a whole lot else. We need wisdom and grace in relating to those around us. We need strength and health in the midst of so much possibility of sickness and disease.
CrossWorld is coordinating teams to come to give humanitarian aid when the airport is open for this. Later there will also be coordination for teams to come help with demolition and rebuilding. You can visit CrossWorld’s web site for updates and info and to see photos we have sent – all those not marked Red Cross were sent from us here at Bolosse.
We will continue to keep you updated. Thanks, again, for your prayers for this country, its people and us.
With love, Cindy for Bruce too
First of all, thank you everyone who has written expressing your concern, love, and prayers. It has been a huge encouragement to us.
There is not a lot new or different, but I realize it helps to hear some news from here.
We were awaken early this a.m. by a few strong tremors. Immediately the people all around started calling out to God, singing and praying. We soon realized that going back to sleep was going to be impossible. We lay in bed awhile though because we felt so weary. It’s hard to start a new day feeling this way, especially when we know what awaits us. It’s a combination of emotional stress and a lot of hard work on the men’s part – digging, slugging away at breaking up big cement columns, and pulling away the rubble.
About 5 p.m. the men finally succeeded in removing the body of one student that was trapped in the rubble. This student’s father had come up yesterday asking about his son because he hadn’t heard from him. Bruce told him the news that they believed he was trapped in the rubble. The man, a pastor, broke down and just clung to Bruce. He told Bruce that he had just found out his daughter was killed in a collapse of another building. We know circumstances like this have been repeated many times all over the city.
Last night we had more people come to the campus….if you can believe it. We have a tent up which is being used to put those seriously injured in. The dr. here on campus got some help yesterday from medical people that live in the neighborhood and they were doing what they could with the limited things available: Phyllis ripped sheets for bandages; there were many splints made out of cardboard and pieces of wood; strips of aloe were used on burns. We are still waiting for some aid to arrive here.
Our only communication remains via internet so it makes it very difficult to find out information – about people and about the possibility of aid. We have emailed numerous aid organizations making them aware of our situation here. I’m sure it has taken the groups that have arrived here some time to get organized here in country.
Please keep praying for us. Today Bruce had a student come over to the campus who had been sent by one of our professors. This professor lost his whole house and he was asking what we could do to help him. It is so hard for us because there is really so little we can do. But many keep coming to us – telling us their stories and needing help. We can pray with them, for them, and give what comfort we can, but not a whole lot else. We need wisdom and grace in relating to those around us. We need strength and health in the midst of so much possibility of sickness and disease.
CrossWorld is coordinating teams to come to give humanitarian aid when the airport is open for this. Later there will also be coordination for teams to come help with demolition and rebuilding. You can visit CrossWorld’s web site for updates and info and to see photos we have sent – all those not marked Red Cross were sent from us here at Bolosse.
We will continue to keep you updated. Thanks, again, for your prayers for this country, its people and us.
With love, Cindy for Bruce too
Hope Comes in the Morning
Yesterday was very hard. Between the first hand and news reports the situation seemed hopeless. But there IS hope. Haitian news reported that over 40,000 bodies were interred in mass graves. This is heart-breaking but at the same time, if they were not buried the situation would have quickly become much worse for those who are alive. The government ministers who survived have met together and gave a press conference yesterday. They are really doing all that they can to get the situation stable and roads cleared so help can get to where it needs to go. This will take time, but it IS happening. Please continue to pray for those who are working so hard to bring help and for those who are hurt and thirsty and hungry who cannot yet get help. This situation is massive and it is discouraging but it is NOT beyond God's power.
Below are two amazing stories from Pastor Edner Jeanty
My office manager at Barnabas was supposed to be in class at the University of Port-au-Prince when the earthquake hit. She "strongly felt" that she should not go inside the classroom but sit on a seat outside. Some classmates urged her to go in, but she said Jesus told her to sit in that chair until 5pm. She was amo...ng the 15 or so students who got out alive because she was not inside a room.
One bank employee from our church "felt" she should not go to work that day. Her boss called and insisted. She was willing to be fired over this. The 3-story building collapsed. She is still alive.
Below are two amazing stories from Pastor Edner Jeanty
My office manager at Barnabas was supposed to be in class at the University of Port-au-Prince when the earthquake hit. She "strongly felt" that she should not go inside the classroom but sit on a seat outside. Some classmates urged her to go in, but she said Jesus told her to sit in that chair until 5pm. She was amo...ng the 15 or so students who got out alive because she was not inside a room.
One bank employee from our church "felt" she should not go to work that day. Her boss called and insisted. She was willing to be fired over this. The 3-story building collapsed. She is still alive.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Petion arrived on campus
Petion arrived on Bolosse campus! He got to the bottom of the hill and didn't have enough gas to make it up so Uncle Dave went to get what we sent down at Lemuel. He said the roads were clear and he had no problems - this is an amazing answer to prayer.
*I guess I should clarify that the Lemuel house is at the bottom of the mission hill for those of you who have no idea what I am talking about!
*I guess I should clarify that the Lemuel house is at the bottom of the mission hill for those of you who have no idea what I am talking about!
Email address
I am having trouble checking the address at the bottom of the blog. Please use mjdilus@yahoo.com instead.
Petion arrived safely
After hearing reports that people, growing desperate, are robbing vehicles and sometimes killing those inside, we were terribly worried about Petion. However, we received word that he arrived at La Pleine where his brother's house was. We still don't know if he will be able to make it to Bolosse.
The reports from the two young men I mentioned before (Wenson and Aspil) were beyond imagination. Wenson was in PauP when the earthquake hit and listening to the story of how he survived is simply incredible. Aspil went in on Wednesday to check on family. I am sure you are seeing much of what they told me on tv so no need to repeat it all. We appreciate your continued prayers. Please pray especially for wisdom right now and for the people who are trying to help others in PauP but are exhausted.
The reports from the two young men I mentioned before (Wenson and Aspil) were beyond imagination. Wenson was in PauP when the earthquake hit and listening to the story of how he survived is simply incredible. Aspil went in on Wednesday to check on family. I am sure you are seeing much of what they told me on tv so no need to repeat it all. We appreciate your continued prayers. Please pray especially for wisdom right now and for the people who are trying to help others in PauP but are exhausted.
Miracle...
Two young men from this area who were in Port just arrived. I am still gathering news from them but I wanted to share a miracle that happened. There is a cistern under the Lemuel house that collects rain and city water. There are not a lot of people in the Lemuel house as people are afraid to be inside but people were asking for water. They kept giving everyone who came and by nighttime the cistern was almost dry. This morning when they woke up it was completely full - there had been no rain and city water is not working. This is truly a miracle. God hears prayer, please keep praying.
Wonderful News!!!
I just received word that all but one of our kids in Port are alive. One little one from the Barefoot school passed away in the earthquake. My heart aches for this little life but at the same time I am relieved that so many are alive. Most have lost their homes and family members. We are awaiting details from Indy.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Doing what we can
Indy was going to go by bus, if he could find one, but now Petion is going to drive in. This allows us to send what we can to help with the situation at Bolosse. We can't send a ton because when people see vehicles full they stop them and take all the stuff... they are desperate. We are able to get some medical supplies to them and some food and clothing. PLEASE PRAY that the vehicle will be able to make it SAFELY to the Bolosse campus.
Information from Bolosse
This is from Cindy McMartin...
Hi Judy,
Thanks for your message. We know it's hard for you all to be so close and wanting to do something, but unable to. It's a bit the same for us too. So much to do, but in some ways so little we can do. But we do what we can. I was going to gather some of the kids together in the upper yards and do a Bible story and singing, etc., but I've been so busy with other stuff today and now I don't think I have the energy to do it. So, I'll save it for tomorrow.
The people here are seeming to find all they need - water and food. I think the problem is all the prices have really gone up. So, we're not in a water crisis yet. Your Dad sent an email about a group that is helping with providing clean water so maybe it won't be a problem at all.
We have a lot more people here today and more injured being brot all the time. I've contacted World Relief and other organizations requesting immediate medical aid - no response yet. We here there is aid here in country but has not been organized as to how to distribute it and to where. So, we'll wait and maybe something will arrive.
We all slept a bit better last night and I'm a bit calmer today - it's just hard not to be jumpy and fearful every time there's a tremor or a loud noise, etc., etc. I keep trying to pray and claim Philippians 4:6-7.
Anyhow, all for now. We know you are praying and that's what we need. The men are tired beyond tired. I rarely see Bruce but try to keep him drinking.
Love, Cindy
****
Wawa and Jacques just did an interview for a Christian radio station in Dallas. Wawa told them about going to and from Pierre Payen and seeing 7 big garbage trucks full of bodies that they were taking to bury in one big hole. Not a nice sight. He had a lot of difficulty trying to find roads open to get thru.
Here's my email message from this a.m.
Hello Everyone,
We've received so many emails from you all asking about how we are and telling us of your prayers. We are so grateful for your prayers! I am writing a general response this morning that I can send to all of you.
Tuesday evening seems like eons ago. Yesterday we were all walking around functioning but still in shock. The earthquake was a terrifying experience and it has made us all jumpy. The tremors/aftershocks continue quite regularly and it's hard not to continue in fear. I've been praying myself and claiming Philippians 4:6-7, but I still find myself not completely at rest and not completely without fear.
Yesterday, Wednesday, our campus filled up even more. All our yards have become like one big campground. The men say we probably have about 2000 here now (if not more). Have you thot about where those 2000 are going to the bathroom? That's right...in our yards. We could have a real medical problem here real soon. Need to get some holes dug or something.
As the people have been digging out in the neighborhood, they carry those they find onto the campus. So, we have the dead along with those who are injured. I've seen some horrible sights and they are in a lot of pain, but handling it as best they can since there is no sense in taking them to a hospital. Some hospitals are down, others overflowing and there's really limited help. We have 2 doctors living on the campus and they've been doing all they can. They've used up all our peroxide, gauze, and stuff like that doing what they could to help those who are injured. They wished we had had supplies for doing stitches. Yesterday I walked around giving out Tylenol - about the only help we can give right now - and any comfort I could.
We realize what is going to be a problem for us all is clean drinking water and then food. We had just arrived back and I had only done a small market the day after we arrived and was planning on going out again to do more - so that never happened. Drinking water is more crucial tho. We've been told that for city water there are broken pipes so we don't know if we'd get any anyhow, and we're not sure it would be safe to use even if we did get it. So, just these basic necessities are a prayer request.
None of us have tried going out on the roads yet - just too many other things right here on campus that have kept us busy. We still have no phone service so we haven't had contact with those friends of ours who we are concerned about: Johny and Rosadite, Jehu and boys, our church family, and the list could go on and on. Jean Dorlus and his family are fine/safe.
Bruce and men continued to work at the rubble at the Seminary yesterday, but it's just a huge task. They have also begun trying to recover any equipment and files possible. We have no official word yet, but it seems very unlikely that STEP will be able to continue classes for the rest of the semester. Classrooms are destroyed and the profs offices are on the bottom floor and books, materials, computers, etc., etc., are mostly a piled mess inside and inaccessible - Bruce can not even get into his office. His computer, phone, and all that sort of stuff are there because he was down at his office/school building when all this started.
Many have asked about giving aid or what you can do to help. Please keep praying. Aid can be given thru CrossWorld - you can get this info on their internet site - about giving to the Haiti Relief Fund - and you can also give thru CrossWorld to our McMartin Needy Fund so that we can help those we know personally. There is a need for a lot of aid for the months/years ahead. As far as people coming to help, both Bruce and David have said it's too early to tell. We need a few more days to get organized and to find out what we're going to do here, to have a plan, etc. We will keep in touch with those of you who have asked about coming and let you know as things progress here and we have more of a plan. You can also contact CrossWorld and let them know you are willing and interested and they will help with organizing teams coming.
We have not succeeded in digging out the 2 students. It is assumed they are dead.
We are tired, there's a lot of stress with all this, a lot we don't know what to do about, and lots to do. Thanks for your concern, love, prayers and encouragement of us during this time.
We'll keep in touch. We're so thankful we have internet - a means to communicate.
Love, Cindy for Bruce too
Hi Judy,
Thanks for your message. We know it's hard for you all to be so close and wanting to do something, but unable to. It's a bit the same for us too. So much to do, but in some ways so little we can do. But we do what we can. I was going to gather some of the kids together in the upper yards and do a Bible story and singing, etc., but I've been so busy with other stuff today and now I don't think I have the energy to do it. So, I'll save it for tomorrow.
The people here are seeming to find all they need - water and food. I think the problem is all the prices have really gone up. So, we're not in a water crisis yet. Your Dad sent an email about a group that is helping with providing clean water so maybe it won't be a problem at all.
We have a lot more people here today and more injured being brot all the time. I've contacted World Relief and other organizations requesting immediate medical aid - no response yet. We here there is aid here in country but has not been organized as to how to distribute it and to where. So, we'll wait and maybe something will arrive.
We all slept a bit better last night and I'm a bit calmer today - it's just hard not to be jumpy and fearful every time there's a tremor or a loud noise, etc., etc. I keep trying to pray and claim Philippians 4:6-7.
Anyhow, all for now. We know you are praying and that's what we need. The men are tired beyond tired. I rarely see Bruce but try to keep him drinking.
Love, Cindy
****
Wawa and Jacques just did an interview for a Christian radio station in Dallas. Wawa told them about going to and from Pierre Payen and seeing 7 big garbage trucks full of bodies that they were taking to bury in one big hole. Not a nice sight. He had a lot of difficulty trying to find roads open to get thru.
Here's my email message from this a.m.
Hello Everyone,
We've received so many emails from you all asking about how we are and telling us of your prayers. We are so grateful for your prayers! I am writing a general response this morning that I can send to all of you.
Tuesday evening seems like eons ago. Yesterday we were all walking around functioning but still in shock. The earthquake was a terrifying experience and it has made us all jumpy. The tremors/aftershocks continue quite regularly and it's hard not to continue in fear. I've been praying myself and claiming Philippians 4:6-7, but I still find myself not completely at rest and not completely without fear.
Yesterday, Wednesday, our campus filled up even more. All our yards have become like one big campground. The men say we probably have about 2000 here now (if not more). Have you thot about where those 2000 are going to the bathroom? That's right...in our yards. We could have a real medical problem here real soon. Need to get some holes dug or something.
As the people have been digging out in the neighborhood, they carry those they find onto the campus. So, we have the dead along with those who are injured. I've seen some horrible sights and they are in a lot of pain, but handling it as best they can since there is no sense in taking them to a hospital. Some hospitals are down, others overflowing and there's really limited help. We have 2 doctors living on the campus and they've been doing all they can. They've used up all our peroxide, gauze, and stuff like that doing what they could to help those who are injured. They wished we had had supplies for doing stitches. Yesterday I walked around giving out Tylenol - about the only help we can give right now - and any comfort I could.
We realize what is going to be a problem for us all is clean drinking water and then food. We had just arrived back and I had only done a small market the day after we arrived and was planning on going out again to do more - so that never happened. Drinking water is more crucial tho. We've been told that for city water there are broken pipes so we don't know if we'd get any anyhow, and we're not sure it would be safe to use even if we did get it. So, just these basic necessities are a prayer request.
None of us have tried going out on the roads yet - just too many other things right here on campus that have kept us busy. We still have no phone service so we haven't had contact with those friends of ours who we are concerned about: Johny and Rosadite, Jehu and boys, our church family, and the list could go on and on. Jean Dorlus and his family are fine/safe.
Bruce and men continued to work at the rubble at the Seminary yesterday, but it's just a huge task. They have also begun trying to recover any equipment and files possible. We have no official word yet, but it seems very unlikely that STEP will be able to continue classes for the rest of the semester. Classrooms are destroyed and the profs offices are on the bottom floor and books, materials, computers, etc., etc., are mostly a piled mess inside and inaccessible - Bruce can not even get into his office. His computer, phone, and all that sort of stuff are there because he was down at his office/school building when all this started.
Many have asked about giving aid or what you can do to help. Please keep praying. Aid can be given thru CrossWorld - you can get this info on their internet site - about giving to the Haiti Relief Fund - and you can also give thru CrossWorld to our McMartin Needy Fund so that we can help those we know personally. There is a need for a lot of aid for the months/years ahead. As far as people coming to help, both Bruce and David have said it's too early to tell. We need a few more days to get organized and to find out what we're going to do here, to have a plan, etc. We will keep in touch with those of you who have asked about coming and let you know as things progress here and we have more of a plan. You can also contact CrossWorld and let them know you are willing and interested and they will help with organizing teams coming.
We have not succeeded in digging out the 2 students. It is assumed they are dead.
We are tired, there's a lot of stress with all this, a lot we don't know what to do about, and lots to do. Thanks for your concern, love, prayers and encouragement of us during this time.
We'll keep in touch. We're so thankful we have internet - a means to communicate.
Love, Cindy for Bruce too
On the way to Port-au-Prince
Indy Fortune, our School director who is from PauP is on his way there. He went to Anse-Rouge this evening and will get on a bus early tomorrow. He has received word that his family's house fell but no news from his family. He is going to see what he can find out.
He is also going to ask around about our students and staff. Please pray that his family is safe and that he can find information about our many Lemuel people. My heart aches for news about so many we love in PauP.
He is also going to ask around about our students and staff. Please pray that his family is safe and that he can find information about our many Lemuel people. My heart aches for news about so many we love in PauP.
Update
We just got word that the home of Armand Louis was flattened. Some of you may know him. His wife was pulled from under the rubble but they are all ok. I will continue to post as we hear from people. Here is what I just received from Phyllis Schmid at Bolosse...
I know you want to help but God providing. Just pray for the injured.
Still can't get down in the rubble to know if anyone is still there. I'm
prayinhg they were not here that day and we just havent' heard. Lots have
died all over the city though
Judy we have some water in cistern but not using it unless desperate.
Jacques' house has it and some people are going up there. I'm glad you
aren't here because David and I have not had a bath since the morning of the
earthquake. Not a good thing! No aftershocks since this morning - I hope
they have stopped. Were able to get a little water in buckets and have
enough filtered water. People are buying cases of Tampico etc too so so far
we're ok. People are cooking in the yard etc. It is like a tent city but
I'm so glad we can help. The basketball court is a clinic with tables lined
up for treating the injured. I shredded sheets for bandages and cut up aloe
for the 2 doctors who now live in Pasteur Joel's house to use - I asked what
I could do and that is what they told me. I wish I could be more help down
there but that is not my gift. I'll help in other ways.
Last night I fell asleep on cushions on the swing and looked at the stars
and listened to the people singing hymns and just thanked God for being here
at this time to help whoever we can. Mme Lucien and extended family (almost
20 people) were asleep beside me in the yard and david on the glider
cushions on the patio. Just pray the rain holds off so we don't have people
getting soaked. We have tarps up all over the front and back yards of the
house. Lots of people in Joel's yard too.
Haven't see Rosita - she fell and hurt her knees. I also fell after dark on
my steps the night of the earthquake as I hurried to get something at the
house. Banged up my right side so am sore as anything but nothing broken.
Motel can't be used anymore, our house has some major cracks but we are
hoping they don't really affect the structure.
Love Aunt Phyllis
I know you want to help but God providing. Just pray for the injured.
Still can't get down in the rubble to know if anyone is still there. I'm
prayinhg they were not here that day and we just havent' heard. Lots have
died all over the city though
Judy we have some water in cistern but not using it unless desperate.
Jacques' house has it and some people are going up there. I'm glad you
aren't here because David and I have not had a bath since the morning of the
earthquake. Not a good thing! No aftershocks since this morning - I hope
they have stopped. Were able to get a little water in buckets and have
enough filtered water. People are buying cases of Tampico etc too so so far
we're ok. People are cooking in the yard etc. It is like a tent city but
I'm so glad we can help. The basketball court is a clinic with tables lined
up for treating the injured. I shredded sheets for bandages and cut up aloe
for the 2 doctors who now live in Pasteur Joel's house to use - I asked what
I could do and that is what they told me. I wish I could be more help down
there but that is not my gift. I'll help in other ways.
Last night I fell asleep on cushions on the swing and looked at the stars
and listened to the people singing hymns and just thanked God for being here
at this time to help whoever we can. Mme Lucien and extended family (almost
20 people) were asleep beside me in the yard and david on the glider
cushions on the patio. Just pray the rain holds off so we don't have people
getting soaked. We have tarps up all over the front and back yards of the
house. Lots of people in Joel's yard too.
Haven't see Rosita - she fell and hurt her knees. I also fell after dark on
my steps the night of the earthquake as I hurried to get something at the
house. Banged up my right side so am sore as anything but nothing broken.
Motel can't be used anymore, our house has some major cracks but we are
hoping they don't really affect the structure.
Love Aunt Phyllis
Pickup arrived
Petion arrived last night with the pickup finally. Manis found them broken down about 45 minutes from home. Their reports from Port-au-Prince are harrowing. It is hard to imagine or believe that this could be real.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
More accounted for
I just received word that Samuel Bernard, whose home and school were destroyed, is ok. Praise God! There are still so many unaccounted for but we have heard that Maxime, one of our staff, and Wenson, a young man from the Plateau who is going to school in PauP are ok.
Manis just went to look for the pickup. It was on its way here but should have gotten here by now.
Manis just went to look for the pickup. It was on its way here but should have gotten here by now.
Tentative Plan
Petion, Manis brother, is on his way to the Plateau now with my mom's suitcases that didn't make it on her plane and other items that he had gone to Port-au-Prince to purchase. Tomorrow Manis is planning to send him back to Port-au-Prince to try to find out news about our kids and look at what can be done to help. He is a journalist so he has passage into any area, as long as he can physically get there. Please continue to pray for our kids. We only know of one so far that is ok. We haven't heard anything about all the others.
A little more news
Hi everyone,
We have found out a little more information. We know that Manis' family in Port-au-Prince is ok. His brother's house is flattened but they all got out safely. We also have heard from a few other youth whose parents live here on the Plateau. So far we have not heard any casualties but there are many we have not heard one way or another. We appreciate your continued prayers.
For those of you who have asked about giving, Extreme Response has opened a fund to receive aid. You can also send aid directly if you prefer (for more information please write to us at mjdilus@yahoo.com). At this point we are not in a hurry to get the funds into Haiti. That will come. Right now people are still digging out family and mourning losses. It is not the time to begin distributing money. As things calm down and people look to rebuild, or as we know what is needed as far as food etc. we will respond accordingly. Thank you for your understanding and for your kind hearts that want to help however possible. We so appreciate all of you!
We have found out a little more information. We know that Manis' family in Port-au-Prince is ok. His brother's house is flattened but they all got out safely. We also have heard from a few other youth whose parents live here on the Plateau. So far we have not heard any casualties but there are many we have not heard one way or another. We appreciate your continued prayers.
For those of you who have asked about giving, Extreme Response has opened a fund to receive aid. You can also send aid directly if you prefer (for more information please write to us at mjdilus@yahoo.com). At this point we are not in a hurry to get the funds into Haiti. That will come. Right now people are still digging out family and mourning losses. It is not the time to begin distributing money. As things calm down and people look to rebuild, or as we know what is needed as far as food etc. we will respond accordingly. Thank you for your understanding and for your kind hearts that want to help however possible. We so appreciate all of you!
Truck Arrived
The green truck that was on its way here from Port-au-Prince yesterday when the earthquake hit, just arrived. Praise God! It was carrying almost everything for the church roof and for the interns.
Update
Dear Friends,
We continue to receive bits and pieces of information but still cannot get in touch with anyone from Lemuel. We are hearing of massive destruction and loss of life. The national palace has been pretty much destroyed, the Bible School on the campus where Lemuel is collapsed, and we are hearing of lots of other government buildings, businesses and homes that have been reduced to rubble.
We just got word that the Lemuel house is still standing – praise GOD! We are assuming that means that everyone in the house is fine too. We have also heard that the multi story building where one of our youth (Samuel Bernard) lived collapsed. We have not yet heard if he was inside. We can only imagine, if more stable buildings have fallen, what the shanty towns all over Port-au-Prince must be like. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people live in those shacks and makeshift brick homes.
Please continue to pray. It is hard to even imagine what Port-au-Prince must be like this morning. We are working now on thinking through how we will address the massive amount of need that we will face as people begin to pick up the broken pieces of their lives and move on. We so appreciate the many, many of you who have asked how you can help. We will provide more details soon.
We continue to receive bits and pieces of information but still cannot get in touch with anyone from Lemuel. We are hearing of massive destruction and loss of life. The national palace has been pretty much destroyed, the Bible School on the campus where Lemuel is collapsed, and we are hearing of lots of other government buildings, businesses and homes that have been reduced to rubble.
We just got word that the Lemuel house is still standing – praise GOD! We are assuming that means that everyone in the house is fine too. We have also heard that the multi story building where one of our youth (Samuel Bernard) lived collapsed. We have not yet heard if he was inside. We can only imagine, if more stable buildings have fallen, what the shanty towns all over Port-au-Prince must be like. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people live in those shacks and makeshift brick homes.
Please continue to pray. It is hard to even imagine what Port-au-Prince must be like this morning. We are working now on thinking through how we will address the massive amount of need that we will face as people begin to pick up the broken pieces of their lives and move on. We so appreciate the many, many of you who have asked how you can help. We will provide more details soon.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Earthquake
Dear Friends,
By now I am sure you have probably heard about the earthquake that hit Port-au-Prince. We felt it here on the Plateau but we are fine. However we cannot get in touch with anyone from Lemuel in Port-au-Prince since the phones are down. We would really appreciate your prayers. Reports from Port-au-Prince are devastating. Thank you for your prayers.
By now I am sure you have probably heard about the earthquake that hit Port-au-Prince. We felt it here on the Plateau but we are fine. However we cannot get in touch with anyone from Lemuel in Port-au-Prince since the phones are down. We would really appreciate your prayers. Reports from Port-au-Prince are devastating. Thank you for your prayers.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Planting and Watering More trees!
Manis and the guys have been busy planting a lot of trees since the last rainfall. The other day they were able to use water from one of the water holes and the trash pump to water a lot of the newly planted trees.
The guys in the background are beside the water hole preparing the trash pump while Manis plants trees.
The guys in the background are beside the water hole preparing the trash pump while Manis plants trees.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Dec 30 Food Distribution
Here are a few pictures from the food distribution that the Krul family made possible...
Jason Krul, an MAF pilot, his wife, son, and parents flew in on Dec 30.
Before beginning the distribution everyone gathered for a photo with the MAF plane.
We divided up large sacks of rice, flour, and soy/corn mix into bags. We also had oil in large buckets that we measured out into bottles the children brought.
The children all sat so quietly and patiently. After singing a few songs, Jason introduced himself and his family and explained that while many in Canada help make the distribution possible, it was really God's provision. We then prayed and the distribution began!
This is Jason with Widlika, one of the children here on the Plateau.
The children went through the line and picked up their bags and oil. Some of the smaller children couldn't carry it all and needed some help!
A big THANK YOU to the Krul family and to all those in Canada who gave so generously to make this happen!
Jason Krul, an MAF pilot, his wife, son, and parents flew in on Dec 30.
Before beginning the distribution everyone gathered for a photo with the MAF plane.
We divided up large sacks of rice, flour, and soy/corn mix into bags. We also had oil in large buckets that we measured out into bottles the children brought.
The children all sat so quietly and patiently. After singing a few songs, Jason introduced himself and his family and explained that while many in Canada help make the distribution possible, it was really God's provision. We then prayed and the distribution began!
This is Jason with Widlika, one of the children here on the Plateau.
The children went through the line and picked up their bags and oil. Some of the smaller children couldn't carry it all and needed some help!
A big THANK YOU to the Krul family and to all those in Canada who gave so generously to make this happen!
Water Hole
The rains we've had have filled up a lot of the water holes! This one was dug by a group of men whom we paid with food, as we explained earlier.
Planting Trees
People from the community have been working all through Christmas vacation clearing land, gathering gravel, preparing for trees, planting trees, and watering trees!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Youth Program
Some of the youth put together a program for the youth in the area. They charged a small entrance fee and even sold food! We were so impressed by how well they did on only a few days notice. They held it on Jan 1st, since they didn't have time to get everything together for the 31st.
Old Blue...
Our blue Toyota pickup has served us so well! It has made countless trips from Port-au-Prince to the Plateau and back (a feat in itself) while carrying large amounts of supplies. But the poor thing is getting old and tired.
It was heading in from Port on the 31st when it broke down (again). The front left wheel was tilted completely in. So, Manis a a group of guys spent New Years Eve trying to get the pickup from where it had broken down, to here. They came back to get some supplies and the guys told Manis they would take care of it and he didn't have to go back out. I am not sure how they eventually did it but they succeeded! They arrived home after 4am on New Years Day. I am sure it is not how anyone wanted to spend their evening but we were so touched that so many from the community would come to help.
A few days later we found a mechanic who lives near us who actually worked in Port-au-Prince for a while. He is kind of a "jack of all trades" guy. We were so blessed to find him! He came and worked for several days on the pickup and got it running again!
It was heading in from Port on the 31st when it broke down (again). The front left wheel was tilted completely in. So, Manis a a group of guys spent New Years Eve trying to get the pickup from where it had broken down, to here. They came back to get some supplies and the guys told Manis they would take care of it and he didn't have to go back out. I am not sure how they eventually did it but they succeeded! They arrived home after 4am on New Years Day. I am sure it is not how anyone wanted to spend their evening but we were so touched that so many from the community would come to help.
A few days later we found a mechanic who lives near us who actually worked in Port-au-Prince for a while. He is kind of a "jack of all trades" guy. We were so blessed to find him! He came and worked for several days on the pickup and got it running again!
Food Distribution for Children
The Krul family (with MAF) raised money to do a food distribution for children in the area. These pictures are of us preparing the food by measuring it from big sacks into bags. Each child got rice, flour, a soy/corn mix and oil. The children were so excited! Some came from quite a distance and they all sat so quietly as they went row by row to pick up their food. I will post pictures of the actual distribution soon!
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