Update - July 2010

While there are continuing significant needs among Haitian Christians and the general population, Haiti earthquake relief efforts are moving very slowly. Relief efforts for all groups are moving slowly because of the magnitude of the disaster and the difficulties within the country to make key decisions that would pave the way for significant rebuilding efforts. We are continually in communication with brethren associated relief efforts to determine where and how we can be of assistance.

Thankfully, due to the generosity of the Lord’s people, we have sufficient funds on hand to meet all the needs that can be addressed at this time for Haiti. CMML will therefore not accept any additional funds for Haiti earthquake relief. We will communicate any change in the situation. Please do not hesitate to communicate with us if you have any questions.

 

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UPDATE: HAITIAN RELIEF EFFORTS

 Adapted from a report by Al Adams 

It’s been half a year since the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti on January 12, and although Haiti is largely out of the news, the people of Haiti still need our prayers and support.

Some of you may have heard of the protests that have recently occurred in the capital Port of Prince. Business people, farmers and street vendors are concerned that as long as humanitarian organizations are giving away food, medicine, clothes, tents and other basic goods at no cost, they are unable to sell their wares or food. This has led to tighter controls at the border crossings, duties being charged, and the government becoming more involved in what enters into the country. It is now more difficult to transport relief supplies into the country.

Omairis (a sister from the Dominican Republic who is responsible for a medical triage unit at the Presidential Palace) is in such good standing with the secret police that they have told her she is welcome to stay in their compound for another year. The triage unit serves an average 500 people per day. The critical medical needs are being met and some simple needs such as food, water and some clothing are also being provided. Cooked lunches have been provided by the wife of the President of the DR who has so much respect for what Omairis is doing, that she has provided enough food to feed everyone who is allowed into the compound. Every person receives a gospel tract, a New Testament and hears a brief gospel message while waiting.

Omairis has requested more tents and tarps as the rains are become more regular. The cost of these in the DR is prohibitive. However, there is a large tent manufacturer in Tampa, Florida and we are in the process of negotiating and making decisions as to which tents to purchase.

Assemblies in the DR have provided essential help along with other organizations when it comes to medical personnel. The doctors, nurses, psychologists, pharmacists and helpers donate their time and funds to make the trips to Port of Prince. For many this is a substantial sacrifice as they have to leave family, fellowship and usually a few days of work to travel the 8 ½ hours one way. They sleep in tents in the compound and then work long days.

A dear believer and wonderful sister felt led by the Lord to offer a piece of property in Port of Prince to be used for His work. The Committee of brethren in the DR who are overseeing the earthquake relief effort is assessing the value of this property and its legal status. They must eventually be able to establish a clear title with a Haitian church corporation. 

The Committee of brethren believes that the triage work is of great help to the people but limited in its spiritual scope. There is a desire to establish a strong base of believers who will be the beginning of a network of assemblies in Haiti. Meetings are being held with brethren from many assemblies in the Dominican Republic to make decisions as to how the future help and ministry should proceed. Please pray that wisdom will be given by the Lord for the best use of people, funds and supplies. Different options are under consideration. 

a.                   Ask two or three mature brethren who are currently in full-time work to go to Port of Prince for several weeks. Their goal would be to establish direction for where, how and who would carry out this formidable pioneer work.  

b.                  Work with existing independent churches in Haiti whose leadership currently has little or no New Testament teaching or knowledge. Many leaders are extremely desirous to learn more of the Scriptures so that they in turn can teach their people. They love the Lord, have trusted Him for their eternal salvation through faith and have a desire to serve Him. The challenge is to find those that are independent with no direct affiliation to any headquarters to work with the brethren.  

c.                   Decide when the humanitarian efforts should cease or be significantly reduced. 

We want to express great appreciation to those who have given for the benefit of Haitians. The humanitarian agencies seem to be moving out into the more rural areas and the vast sea of people and tents that are Port of Prince are still there.  It is a dark moment for Haiti and much wisdom and prayer on the part of the church here and abroad is indispensable.  

Note from editor: Due to the generous giving of the saints there are sufficient funds on hand to meet the anticipated needs.