Feeding the thousands

Today's gospel recalls the miracle of feeding the thousands. The disciples were concerned that the people needed to eat and Jesus asked them to share what they had-- two fish and five loaves. In themselves, the loaves and fish were inadequate much like our talent and resources in the face of life's challenges. But when we are grounded in the Lord and trust Him our meager offerings are transformed and can meet the challenge. Look at what we have been able to accomplish by trusting in God and working together. Over 2,500 children are being educated in southern Haiti, 3,000 meals are prepared daily for hungry children, caring homes are provided for 650 vulnerable children, pro-active medical care is available to all our children and neighbors...this is nothing short of a miracle because we put our faith in God. We are very grateful to you, our benefactors, for supporting our efforts. May God bless you abundantly!

Coming and going

The day I returned from my trip to the states, Hannah and Mark (both of North Carolina) departed to go home. They were with us for a good chunk of the summer and quickly put themselves to work. Here's a photo of Hannah teaching English creatively. Hannah put together our first library and trained one of our older, stellar boys to maintain it. Mark got a team of youngsters to help him with painting the children's homes which look 1,000% better. We are in their debt and want them to know how much we appreciate their sharing of themselves with us. God bless you both.

Water balloon fight

Paige, Scoubie, MaTante, Nicole and Will

The kids responding

A water balloon fight broke out last evening between the visitors/volunteers and the children. The v/v team had the advantage of height but the children had the numbers on their side. It ended with much laughter and promises of reprisals in the near future.

East meets West

Arnie, top, and Rob come from opposite coasts. Rob is from my home state of Maine and Arnie hails from Washington State. They are two of the six current visitors here and we are enjoying their company. Will have photos of the other four shortly.

Water on wheels

Our young welders fabricated this water tank on wheels which will accompany the well-digging truck. It is amazing how they managed to do this with with so few tools-- a testament to their ingenuity and the guidance provided by Kevin Scobie.

Update on the vocational school

As you can see from the above photos all the masonry work is done on the first vocational workshop. Doors are going in on Monday and then the place will be wired. Painting will follow and it will be ready to receive young students looking to become metal craftsmen.

Travels

I am in southern California for three weeks to raise consciousness on the plight of the Haitian children, to raise funds and to thank our many supporters here. It is also a time to check in with my dermatologist and dentist (Ouch!). This is my fifth July here and the folks have always been very welcoming. Check in often as Paige, Hannah, Kevin, Dan... will be feeding me photos and stories. I ask for your prayers for the safety of the children while I am absent and that I may be successful in touching the hearts of people here. Thank you and God bless.