wow this makes me sad

hi team

thanks for being such troopers on packing.  i am glad we fit all we did.  i wish the accordion could have come.  bill is also sending me a five pound bag of chick feed, he says if i don't bring it the chicks won't survive.  i don't want to be known as a baby chick killer, so I guess I will have to stuff it somewhere.

we need the following items from you at the airport:
prayer partners
a copy of your passport
what verse you will be teaching on from Luke 12

it's crunch time!
--
Lucas Simmons

be the center

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lucastheexperience/2626411707/in/set-72157605476220315/

So last week some lady said she had a bunch of fabric she wanted to donate to missions.  Alicia went to go pick it up.  A couple of days later I get an e-mail asking for fabric from one of the missionaries at the orphanage.  How cool is that?  God is totally providing!

packing meeting tonight!  bring a suitcase (and a second one if you have one!)  Bring your liquids, ALL of your project supplies, your receipts, and yourself.

I went to our King's Harbor prayer night, and got this verse from them.  There are so many things to be worried about and to get us frustrated, but Jesus should be the center.  God is so good, and I am so excited to be serving with you all!

Psalm 113

 ¹ Praise the LORD. ^[a]
       Praise, O servants of the LORD,
       praise the name of the LORD.

 ² Let the name of the LORD be praised,
       both now and forevermore.

 ³ From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets,
       the name of the LORD is to be praised.

 ⁴ The LORD is exalted over all the nations,
       his glory above the heavens.

 ⁵ Who is like the LORD our God,
       the One who sits enthroned on high,

 ⁶ who stoops down to look
       on the heavens and the earth?

 ⁷ He raises the poor from the dust
       and lifts the needy from the ash heap;

 ⁸ he seats them with princes,
       with the princes of their people.

 ⁹ He settles the barren woman in her home
       as a happy mother of children.
       Praise the LORD.

Schedule

Tuesday 7pm - Packing meeting/party at the Becks place.  Everyone should bring one suitcase, liquids, and receipts...  If you don't have a suitcase, let us know
Thursday at an unknown time - Prayer/breaking bread at david and melissa's house.  Please e-mail mjones80@ca.rr.com for more information
Thursday 8pm (totally optional) - http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2706/235/60/527346757/n527346757_2102993_1686536.jpg this is fundraiser for the Haiti ministry

Friday - 7:30pm be at the airport

--
Lucas Simmons

and now

a word of wisdom from dr. beck.  Mando Velasquez is a missionary in Puerto Escondido, Mexico for those of you non-King's Harbor church people

Visiting missionaries in the field

Last weekend something Mando Velasquez said registered in a new way with me. Mando and his family are serving as missionaries in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. He said:

"We miss you. Sometimes we get lonely. It doesn't mean we don't want to be there. It's just that God has called us somewhere else."

I always knew that missionaries gave up a lot to serve in the way they do. And I understand that they miss the comforts of America. But somehow Mando's quote got through to me in a unique way.

They like it here, but they were called there.

Going there was an act of obedience. Staying there is surrender. Enduring the pangs of loneliness is ongoing sacrifice. I am not saying that missionaries dislike where they are; only that their separation from the places and the people of their former home is a very real sacrifice.

This puts into a new perspective what it means for us to visit missionaries in the field. It is not so much that we are bringing them nostalgic reminders of the home they left behind. (That said, nostalgic reminders are often appreciated!) It is that we are visiting the lonely. We become like cups of living water, refreshing those who are parched by month after month of sacrificial service. When we come as the incarnational presence of Christ, we become the gift of God to them. "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint" (Jer 31:25).

For many of you, this might be received with a "Duh". But there was something about Mando's comment that resonated with me in a unique way. Maybe it is God preparing me for being in Haiti next week.

taken from http://tdavidbeck.blogspot.com/2009/04/visiting-missionaries-in-field.html

--
Lucas Simmons

what a weekend

it was really great to be able to share before our commissioning, I always get a little nervous in front of the crowd. Before we were getting commissioned I saw a little girl run up to her daddy when she saw him from a little ways away. It really brought me to tears thinking of these kids in Haiti and how God has rescued them and how they don't have an earthly father to run to and how He has become the Father they run to. How awesome, what a great thing to be a part of.

If you need to be reimbursed for items you have purchased to pack, bring the receipts on Tuesday night to the packing meeting. We need to keep our budget up to date and since everything needs to be purchased by then, it will be a great time to get all those from you.

Schedule

Monday 7pm - Prayer for the team at King's Harbor

Tuesday 7pm - Packing meeting/party at the Becks place, address will be sent in a later e-mail. Everyone should bring one suitcase, liquids, and receipts... If you don't have a suitcase, let us know
Thursday 8pm (totally optional) - http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2706/235/60/527346757/n527346757_2102993_1686536.jpg this is fundraiser for the Haiti ministry

Friday - 7:30pm be at the airport


WILLIE is a very energetic boy. He almost always has a big smile on his face. Referred to as "Pastor Willie" by the other boys at the home. Willie loves to pray and worship the Lord. During morning prayer time, and often on prayer walks, you will see him interceding fervently in prayer. When not doing homework, studying English or his Bible, Willie can be seen playing soccer or on the swings with the other boys at the home. He is a quick learner and a good student at school. He is also very helpful around the house. Willie's English is quite good and he loves to interact with visiting missions team members and our American missionaries. He continues to learn more about Jesus and the Bible through Sunday school, church, and Bible classes at the orphanage. Please keep him in your prayers as he continues to grow, that he would know and grow in the grace and love of Jesus.


YVES is a very special young man who has grown tremendously since coming to Maison de Lumiere. Starting out with a rebellious attitude and violent tendencies, he had many problems early on at the home. He decided to leave the home and return to the streets. Hiding from gang members, sleeping under cardboard boxes and begging for food truely humbled him and he returned greatly changed and repentant. He is our true prodigal and a dramatically changed young man who has a sincere and renewed faith in God. He is no longer a resident of the home and is transitioning out into independent life. He is in a one-year vocational training program to learn auto mechanics.

just in time

wow what in the world, took up like a good portion of our day.  don't forget we are getting commissioned tomorrow at the 9am service!

a very short e-mail tonight.  we are so close!  i can taste it!  i have got some questions on airport and times and what we are doing all to get there.  the limo will pick you up at, oh wait no.  sorry, everyone needs to arrange transportation to the airport for themselves and be there by 7:30


WALGENS is a kind, energetic, intelligent young man. His big smile and funny sense of humor make him popular at the home and at school. He is a good student and enjoys studying. Very orderly and organized, he always keeps his clothes and bed neat and tidy. He loves to play with all the other boys and gets along well with everyone, no matter their age. He has been learning English and his English has improved tremendously in a very short period of time. He loves to play soccer and looks forward to being big enough to play with the older boys. He has a heart for Jesus and serving others. One of his favorite things is worshipping, singing praise songs, and attending church. Please keep Walgens in your prayers as he continues to grow in his young faith and in the knowledge of God's Word.


WILLIE B. met us at a feeding outreach we held in his village. He was brought to us by residents of the village who said he needed medical help. Hunched over and barely able to walk, Willie needed both hands, resting on his knees to support his body. His leg muscles could not support the weight of his body. People in his village tried voodoo to cure him, but he only got worse. When we took him into the home, we prayed heavily over him, fed him healthy meals, and watched in awe as God worked miracles. Today, Willie is happy and healthy. He walks, runs, rides his bike and loves to try to teach the American visitors Creole! Willie loves to study the Bible and is active in an advanced discipleship class at the orphanage. Please continue to pray for his healing and that he would grow into a godly man as he learns more about the Lord and Scripture.


--
Lucas Simmons
619-277-5288
www.lucasyalicia.com

1 week!

i am really excited we are only ONE week away!

and i am excited to reconnect with you all tuesday night and see how much stuff we have to squish into 10 suitcases haha!

Schedule

Friday 7pm - Prayer for the team at college group - Becca I think you are going to have to represent
This whole weekend is what in the world weekend, if you are signed up for a table time please make sure you are there...

Sunday 9am - Commissioning at Kings Harbor Church

Monday 7pm - Prayer for the team at King's Harbor

Tuesday 7pm - Packing meeting/party at the Becks place, address will be sent in a later e-mail.  Everyone should bring one suitcase and their liquids  If you don't have a suitcase, let us know
Thursday 8pm (totally optional) - http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2706/235/60/527346757/n527346757_2102993_1686536.jpg this is fundraiser for the Haiti ministry

Friday - 7:30pm be at the airport


SEMY is a sweet natured, easy going young man, who likes to joke around and laugh a lot. Already considered a "professional" comedian of sorts, the other boys have been known to pay him to make them laugh. He enjoys school and his favorite subjects are math, spelling, and social science. He likes to play a lot and is one of our best soccer and basketball players. One of his favorite activities is watching Brazil play soccer on television. He also loves singing in church and reading the Bible. The Gospel of John is his favorite book of the Bible. He loves Jesus and loves to worship Him. Please pray for Semy's continued growth in the Lord and that he would know and be able to follow God's plan for his life.

BOHNEL, or Ti-Bo which means "little kiss," is one of the youngest boys at Maison de Lumiere. His father brought him to the orphanage in tears after the death of his wife. He was unable to care for his nine children. When Ti-Bo came to the orphanage, he only weighed 12 pounds at four years old. Today, he is a healthy, vibrant, energetic, and intelligent little boy. We thank the Lord for his healing, health and growth. He brings much life to the orphanage and is loved by all the boys. He loves school and is one of the top students in his class. At playtime, he can be heard practicing English while he is swinging on the swing set. He also loves to worship and sing about Jesus. Please pray for Ti-Bo, that God would work dramatically in his life and that he would grow up to become a Godly young man.

Matye 6:25-34 (Haitian Creole Version)

²⁵¶ Se poutèt sa, mwen di nou: Pa bat kò nou pou sa nou bezwen pou manje ak bwè pou viv, ni pou rad nou bezwen pou mete sou kò nou. Eske lavi a pa pi konsekan pase manje? Eske kò a pa gen plis valè pase rad?

    ²⁶Gade zwazo k'ap vole nan syèl la: yo pa plante, yo pa fè rekòt, yo pa sere anyen nan galata. Men, Papa nou ki nan syèl la ba yo manje. Eske nou pa vo pi plis pase zwazo yo?

    ²⁷Kilès nan nou, afòs li fè tèt li travay, kapab mete kèk lanne an plis sou lavi l'?

    ²⁸Poukisa pou n'ap bat kò nou pou rad pou nou mete sou nou? Gade ki jan flè raje yo pouse nan savann. Yo pa travay, yo pa fè rad.

    ²⁹Malgre sa, m'ap di nou sa, wa Salomon ki wa Salomon, ak tout richès li yo, pa t' gen bèl rad tankou yonn nan flè sa yo.

    ³⁰Se konsa Bondye abiye pye zèb yo ki la nan jaden an jòdi a, men denmen yo jete sa nan dife pou chofe fou. Nou pa bezwen mande si li p'ap abiye nou tou. Ala manke nou manke konfyans nan Bondye!

    ³¹Pa chaje tèt nou ak yon bann keksyon: Kisa n' pral manje? Kisa n' pral bwè? Kisa n' pral mete sou nou?

    ³²Tout bagay sa yo, se moun lòt nasyon yo k'ap kouri dèyè yo tout tan. Men nou menm, nou gen yon Papa nan syèl la ki konnen nou bezwen tout bagay sa yo.

    ³³Pito nou chache bay bagay peyi Wa ki nan syèl la premye plas nan lavi nou, chache viv jan Bondye vle l' la anvan. Lè sa a, Bondye va ban nou tout lòt bagay sa yo tou.

    ³⁴Se sa ki fè, pa chaje tèt nou pou denmen, paske denmen va gen zafè pa li. Chak jou gen kont chay pa yo.

--
Lucas Simmons

adore - (ah-door-ey) - how to say worship in haitian creole

adore - (ah-door-ey) - how to say worship in haitian creole
Originally uploaded by LucasTheExperience

This was our last meeting before we leave for Haiti next week. We had a great time of worship and then mostly sharing testimonies.

things one might bring to haiti

things one might bring to haiti
Originally uploaded by LucasTheExperience

here are some important items you might want to consider bringing...

from left to right:
permethrin to spray your clothes, it repels insects
campsuds, for pretty much cleaning anything
no-rinse body soap
no-rinse shampoo
a little bottle of all if you don't have camp suds
tissue
after bite, because there are a lot of mosquitoes
some wet tissue type things
more permethrin

hanging down above it all is a ultra thin towel

not pictured: sunscreen, safari shirt from REI

hi

i don't have a clever title for this e-mail.

let me know if you have any questions about packing... we are paying 19 bucks a pop for bags and are trying to bring as many donations down as possible... hopefully the e-mail i sent clears it up.  you need to have any supplies you are bringing for your project to the packing meeting on tuesday.  and anything you need to pack in the suitcase outside of your carry-ons, especially liquids that you won't be able pack (above 3 ounces).

we had a great meeting tonight dave, lauren, becca and I shared our testimonies.  we over some basic stuff but we are planning on revisiting this stuff when we come together on Tuesday and some more at the airport...

items to consider bringing:
http://www.rei.com/product/734901 - you can spray your clothes with this stuff before you leave and it repels insects...

please, do not buy clothing like this: http://www.rei.com/category/4500559  haha

this is similar to the shirt I have, it is expensive, but I think it's worth it since alicia and I try to go to Haiti as often as we can: http://www.rei.com/product/731444

here is a picture of some of the stuff we recommend you bring that we discussed at the meeting (not pictured: sunscreen): http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3507/3469519245_2bc6851c08_b.jpg

ephesians 3
¹⁴For this reason I kneel before the Father, ¹⁵from whom his whole family^[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. ¹⁶I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, ¹⁷so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, ¹⁸may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, ¹⁹and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Schedule

Friday 7pm - Prayer for the team at college group - Becca I think you are going to have to represent
This whole weekend is what in the world weekend, if you are signed up for a table time please make sure you are there...

Sunday 9am - Commissioning at Kings Harbor Church

Monday 7pm - Prayer for the team at King's Harbor

Tuesday 7pm - Packing meeting/party at the Becks place, address will be sent in a later e-mail.  Everyone should bring one suitcase and their liquids  If you don't have a suitcase, let us know
Thursday 8pm (totally optional) - http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2706/235/60/527346757/n527346757_2102993_1686536.jpg this is fundraiser for the Haiti ministry

Friday - 7:30pm be at the airport


ROBENSON, also known as Son-Son, is one of the non-residents of Maison de Lumiere. He used to live at the orphanage but now lives with and cares for his ailing mother. His younger brother, Elysee, lives at the orphanage and his older brother, Marval, is one of the staff members. He still participates in many of the orphanage events and activities and receives support for his educational and living expenses. Son-Son loves sports, especially soccer, and is an excellent student. He hopes to one day become an automotive mechanic. Please pray for Son-Son, that he would draw close to the Lord and seek God's will for his life.


SCHNEIDER is a kind, gentle and quiet boy. He loves learning English and enjoys practicing with missions teams and visitors. Generally shy, he does not like to initiate conversations, but loves to talk once someone takes an interest. He is a diligent student and enjoys soccer, school and studying. Schneider suffers from Hepatitis B, which makes him fatigued sometimes. Please pray for the Lord to heal his body, and to strengthen his immune system. Pray that he will continue to grow in the love and grace of Jesus.

--
Lucas Simmons

wednesday

are you excited yet?  only about a week and a half to go!

 

so funny story.  last night alicia and I were at the casa de backs and susan, dave's wife/lauren's mom was talking about how she could get toothbrushes for us to take down there.

 

today i am talking to a guy at the orphanage on skype and he messages me solely to ask me if we can bring toothbrushes down.

 

So here is a schedule of the next week or so, the items in bold are the ones I would love to have you at (with the packing meeting being required)

 

Thursday 7pm - Final team meeting

Friday 7pm - Prayer for the team at college group (can anyone represent us there? Alicia and I already have plans)

Sunday 9am - Commissioning at Kings Harbor Church

Monday 7pm - Prayer for the team at King's Harbor

Tuesday 7pm - Packing meeting/party at the Becks place, address will be sent in a later e-mail.  Everyone should bring one suitcase and their liquids  If you don't have a suitcase, let us know

Friday - 7:30pm be at the airport

 

Please remember we need to get your prayer partners from you and also what verses you will be teaching to the kids.  You can e-mail us all this.  There was also some items to read in previous e-mails for the meeting tomorrow, please come prepared to discuss...

 

You should pretty much all have the budgets for your projects.  If you are confused on anything, please let us know.  That's why we're here.

 

 

PATRICK is a very nice and sincere young man. Already displaying strong leadership skills, Patrick is often known as an arbitrator and peace maker. He also looks after his sister Phara, who is living at the girl's home. School is very important to him and he works hard on his studies. He loves sports and plays hard; and he always looks forward to Sunday soccer competitions at the orphanage. Patrick loves learning God's Word, worshipping and praying. He has a passion for Jesus and is growing daily in his biblical knowledge, love for the Lord, and in his heart to serve others. Please pray for Patrick that he would learn what God would have for his life and that he would continue to grow in his passion for Jesus and others.

 

RICHARD is a sweet and energetic boy. Both Richard and his brother, Willie, are extremely helpful, always looking to assist others. Richard's passion is worship and his high, loud singing voice can be heard above all the other boys during our praise and worship times. He loves to worship, sing praises and listen to Bible stories. He also enjoys playing soccer and doing work projects around the home. He will often follow an adult around waiting for a new "project." Both Richard and his brother are well loved by the other boys and staff. Please pray that Richard would grow in his young faith to become a Godly and devoted young man.
--
Lucas Simmons

what we've been working on

hi team -

 

just to give you an update we have set our budget for each project.  We are allowing some wiggle room because we know that things come up during the trip, but it isn't a whole lot.  If you have any questions, feel free to ask. 

 

We had a little meeting going over what crafts we could purchase last night and made great headway.  Please still be considering what verses you will be going over from Luke 12.

 

Also, Dave Beck is going to be heading up the morning devotions.  I am really looking forward to this.  We will be each sharing individually at our nighttime debriefing/devotions.  I am also really looking forward to that!

more to come tomorrow!

 

Prayer Partners - We still don't have these for a good many of you!  Bring them on Thursday!  Or e-mail them to us.

 

KESO is a sweet and energetic boy. He and his older brother, Daniel, came to us after suffering much hardship. They would often go days without food and were severely neglected. Today, however, Keso is a very happy boy. He enjoys all his "brothers" at the orphanage and now feels loved and very much part of a family. He enjoys playing on the swings, soccer, marbles and board games. School is one of his favorite things to do and he is a very good student. Usually the first one to run up and greet new visitors, he loves meeting them and sharing his life with those who take an interest in him. Please pray for Keso as the Lord continues to heal his heart and reveal His great love for him.

 

MARCHEROLD, or Macorel as the kids call him, is an independent and creative child who loves sports and games. He is well-known amongst the boys at the orphanage for creating incredible kites from trash lying on the ground. Very resourceful, he can make a game out of an old shoe and a wire that will keep him fascinated for hours. He is a shy boy with a sweet personality and gentle nature. He loves to have fun and play with the other boys at home. A jokester, he will always try to get a laugh out of you with some silly practical joke or goofy expression. Please pray that Macorel grows in his young faith and that he will seek God's direction for his life.


--
Lucas Simmons

11 days and some hours until take off

Hi All -

 

Alicia and I have been working on getting our insurance and we also ordered some monitors for the computer lab set up we are doing.  The monitor shipped to California cost 25 bucks more than the one shipped to Amy because of taxes and electronic disposal fees.  So weird. 

 

We really need to consider what we want to teach the kids in terms of daily Bible studies...  Alicia and I have thought about it and we think Luke 12 would be a great one to go over with the kids. 

 

To do for Thursday:

We do have some other items we want you to read for this week, but I am asking that you make this your priority: Come up with a section of Luke 12 that you would like to go over with the kids this week.  IF you are not going to be there, e-mail the section to us you want to cover.  Having overlap is fine, everyone will have something different to say.  We will be going over this on Thursday.  We will also be going over your projects and items purchased or that need to be purchased.

Please also read the attached, but the priority is the above items.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=LUKE%2012

 

I also created a site to put new info and docs and cool sites I have found on: http://sites.google.com/site/khchaititeams/

 

JONAS is a quiet and likeable young man who loves school and is always looking to help out. He enjoys flying his own custom made kites and teaching the other children his kite construction secrets and techniques. He loves sports and plays as often as he can, even though he suffers from epilepsy which prevents him from actively participating in all the sports he enjoys. A good student, Jonas enjoys school and studies hard. He says his best friend is Jesus and he loves to read his Bible every chance he gets. Please pray for Jonas as he grows in the knowledge of Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

 

JUNIOR is a likeable and friendly boy who tends to be shy. An outstanding student, Junior loves school and studying. He wants to one day serve the Haitian people. Academically, he has consistently been at the top of his class. His favorite subject is Bible. He also enjoys sports and is a serious competitor – soccer being his favorite – and he is one of the best players. Junior speaks English very well and loves to practice with visitors. He has a heart for the Lord and is often seen reading his Bible in his free time. Please pray that Junior will continue to grow in Jesus and his love for Him.

--
Lucas Simmons

elections in haiti

today was election day in haiti, if you didn't know.  elections can be a time where unrest starts up in haiti, but that doesn't seem to be the case so far.  here is the report straight from haiti from some missionaries i have met down there:

 

http://livesayhaiti.blogspot.com/2009/04/political-pundit-speaks.html

 

so here is our basic schedule for the next two weeks

1. Buy all our stuff for projects over the next week (please confirm before making purchases)

2. Meeting Thursday at 7pm at alicia and my house

3. Sunday morning get commissioned

4. The following Tuesday is our packing meeting

5. Be at the airport on that Friday by 7:30

 

JOCELYN is our in-house comedian and jokester. Always smiling and ready to joke around, he loves to have fun and is quite social. He will gladly greet and meet any new visitors to the home. Soccer is his favorite sport and he tries to play often. Having a big heart for the younger kids at the orphanage, Jocelyn readily chooses to play with and teach them over playing with the older boys. He also has a very serious side and is passionate about things that are important to him. He loves Jesus and wants to one day serve full-time in ministry, to share the hope he has found in Jesus. He loves Bible study, and praise and worship time. Please pray that the Lord will continue to shape and mold Jocelyn into a Godly man that will dramatically impact Haiti for Jesus.

 

(renise is on the right)
RENISE came to the streets of Port-au-Prince from northern Haiti, with her sister, to beg and raise money to help her poor family. Life on the street, however, turned out to be more difficult than she expected and she experienced much trauma. She used to regularly stutter, speaking only one word every few seconds when she got nervous or upset. She does not speak of specifics in her life or what she has experienced, claiming to have forgotten most of what occurred over the last few years. Today, she is very confident, and an outstanding student. For the last few years, she has been at the top of her class. She also has made many friends at school. She is a precious little girl who glows when someone hugs her and shows a true interest in her. Having a deep profound faith, she wants to one day dedicate her life to helping share Jesus with other children living on the streets. Please pray for her continued growth in the Lord and knowledge of His Word.

--
Lucas Simmons

this next sunday

hi everyone

 

just a reminder or an update that we are getting commissioned next Sunday at 9am.  Please let me know if you can make it or not.

 

You should have received a few emails from me today about your projects, please keep me updated on how you are doing on all of that.

 

JEFF is a serious boy. He loves to be a part of any conversation or activity – listening, observing, or jumping right in to whatever might be happening. He always likes to be included. Jeff enjoys speaking and practicing English and hopes to one day attend an English-speaking school. He enjoys playing soccer and is quite good at it; he also likes playing board games. He likes to listen to music on his portable CD player. Please pray for Jeff as he continues to grow and mature, that he would come to know Jesus more and embrace the Lord's love and grace for him.

 

PHARA is Patrick's sister, one of the residents at the boy's home. Since she was very young, she lived with and helped her invalid, crippled mother. She would run to the market, carry things for her, and help her out around the house. There was not a lot of time to be a kid, and this was difficult for her. She tried to attend school at one point, but got an eye disease and had to quit school. Her mother asked that Phara be admitted to the home to give her a chance for a better life. Phara's older sister and another brother now care for their mother. She is a very sweet girl who loves her new life at the girl's home. She loves school and all her new friends at the orphanage. Please pray that Phara will grow in her new faith, and in her love for and knowledge of Jesus.

--

Lucas

we are like totally two weeks away

We have a meeting next week: Thursday at 7pm.  THIS IS one week before we leave, amazing!  Then the next Tuesday is our packing meeting, location TBA. 

We need to have everything we are purchasing ready by then so please let us know what you need to get so we can help you. 

Don't forget to get your money in ASAP, the next  absolute deadline being Tuesday.  If you are having trouble getting funds in please let us know

don't forget to pass our blog along to your friends,enemies,co-workers, and prayer partners

----

a short review from last night's meeting

dah, DAH DAH DAH DAH DAH.  dah? dah.

 

did somebody mice in here?

 

how to count to ten in japanese

 

one up one down

 

it's ok and good to make mistakes when learning a new language

 

everybody else knows more than me, about something

 

everybody has a different way of learning

 

what did you learn?

 

embarassing videos to come in future e-mails lol

----

i love the surprises God gives us in our lives.  With Haiti there is always something and I feel like between looking for a job and Haiti I am about to go crazy, but I love it nonetheless.  There are just always things that don't go as planned or to put it more the way it is in my mind the way I would have planned them.  Wahh.  To me it seems crazy to go to Haiti when I don't have regular work, but:

 

²⁵"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? ²⁶Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life^[a]?  ²⁸"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. ²⁹Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ³⁰If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? ³¹So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' ³²For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."  - Matthew 6:25-34

 

Please be praying this morning for our team and where God is taking it.  I have nothing like serious or groundbreaking to say, I just want you guys to pray.  That would be super-rad. 

 

this morning I went to a prayer/bible study thing and we went over giving thanks to God.  I was thinking how much Haiti makes me thankful for life, community and what God has blessed me with.  Everytime I go down to Haiti I get that renewed and I am sad I have to come back.  I'm sure you will feel the same if you haven't been there before.  You will see these kids and adults, their lives transformed completely by Jesus jumping and dancing for joy in worship.  It's amazing.  I am excited.  I am excited to have connected with all of you and had a great time at the meeting... I hope you all did too, Melissa you REALLY missed out.  You will just have to come again so you can hear this guy speak.

 

I didn't sign up for snackimony, but I hope I will have time to share my testimony while we are in Haiti.  Part of the reason I am so thankful is because of the "randomness" of the story.  I love me some randomness.

 

ok enough rambling, i hope I made some sort of sense.  Here are today's kids

 

GREGORY is one of the newest residents at Maison de Lumiere. With both parents dying in the same year, Gregory ended up with his grandmother. She died three years later. A missionary helped him find a family to care for him but when they moved back to the country, he was left homeless. After sleeping on rooftops and roaming the streets, the same missionary found him and brought him to Maison de Lumiere. Since arriving, Gregory has taken well to his new home and is well-liked by the children. He is a helpful, friendly boy that is a true joy around the orphanage. He loves school, playing soccer and learning the Bible. Please pray that Gregory will grow in his faith and in his relationship with Jesus.

 

OLINE is our newest arrival to the girl's home. She was one of the neighborhood children that Child Hope International sent to school through the education program. When we heard her mother was ill, we sought medical care and eventually hospitalization to help her. Unfortunately, Oline's mother died in the hospital leaving Oline alone. There were no other relatives available to care for her so she joined the girl's home. Since moving in, she has done remarkably well. She is a happy young girl and is adjusting well to her new home. All of the girls welcomed her in, and she has a lot of new best friends. Please pray for Oline that she would grow in her new faith and become a strong woman of God.
--
Lucas Simmons

today, tomorrow, etc.

in our small group we are reading this book called Simple Spirituality.  some of you are in this small group, but anyways this week there was a chapter on community that we should have all read.  I have to admit I got the cliffs notes version from Alicia but am reading a part I found intriguing which basically talks about this guys organization and how they made community more central to all their perceived ministry activities.  Personally, I am constantly thinking about what we are doing or supposed to be doing on this trip versus trying to start with being in community with all of you and let God work through that.  I think it's going to be a learning and growing experience just like I had many of those on the last trip we lead.  Anyways, I am very excited about this trip and to see what God has in store.  I am excited to get out of my comfort zone a little more and I hope you are too, especially if you haven't been to Haiti. 

 

Another reminder is that the remainder of your support funds are due tomorrow.  Please let us know where you are at with that. 

 

i will be sending you some more stuff today or tomorrow.

 

We will see you at 7pm tomorrow!  kim and kelly, you will be the snackimony people.  i believe i heard tale that kelly is making spaghetti and hot dogs, which is a traditional haitian meal at the orphanage.  we will also be having a special speaker which should be quite entertaining.  please try to be there right at 7 so we can leave on time.

 

GIBSON is Evans' younger brother and a very sweet child also. He grew up begging on the streets of Port-au-Prince and struggling to survive. Since arriving at the orphanage, Gibson and his brother have not stopped playing – almost as if they were trying to make up for lost time. He is also a quiet child, certainly not the voice you will hear above all the others, but you will notice his sweet and genuine demeanor right away. His mother works at the home as a cook and brings his youngest brother, Lickson, each day. Gibson is able to be with his family, grow together with them, and also be provided for and learn about Jesus. He loves his home and all his friends in the home. An excellent student, he consistently places in the top three places in his class; and more often the number one spot. His favorite subject in school is reading and his favorite thing to do at the home is to play soccer with the other boys his age. Please pray for Gibson's continued growth in the Lord.

 

MIKERLINE has had a very difficult life. When her mother's newest boyfriend at the time decided he did not want Mikerline and her sister Cherley living in the house, they were sent away. They lived with relatives who made them into family servants to earn their keep. Mikerline's entire life is one of being sent away to live with people who did not want her and would eventually throw her out. She and Cherley were homeless before they came to Maison de Lumiere where they were offered a safe refuge from the dangerous and abusive life they had known most of their lives. Mikerline is a quiet, soft spoken and mature young lady who desires to do what is right. She enjoys school and is a very good student. She is still learning about Jesus and the Bible. Please pray that she receives healing through her relationship with Jesus and that she grows in faith and love for him.

 

Thanks -

Lucas

see you thursday! we definitely all have homework to be doing!

remember that you will be giving a devotion at least once during the trip to the rest of the group. we also will be leading bible studies with the kids.

aside from that there is
crafts
nursing stuff (what more do we need to do on this?)
volleyball
computers
garden revamp
prayer walking
community outreach, with the possibility of going to a remote village

We need to make sure we are taking everything down there that we won't be able to get down there. this means starting to purchase it now. Please be thinking about this and we can help you plan for that if you are unsure.

don't forget to be telling your friends and family about http://khchaititeams.blogspot.com/ that's our blog and i WILL be updating pretty much daily.


EVANS is a very sweet boy. He was well known on Delmas, the main street through Port-au-Prince, where he and his brother Gibson would walk down the center of the street, red cloth in hand, wiping windshields for coins. No longer worrying about his survival, he is a happy and healthy boy who now loves Jesus, and loves to worship at home and in church. His brother Gibson, who also lives at the home, is his best friend. His mother now works at the home as one of our cooks. Evans favorite subject is God's Word and he enjoys worshipping and singing praise songs. An excellent student, he consistently places in the top three places in his class; and more often the number one spot. He is an excellent soccer player, and is kind to everyone. Please pray for Evans as he grows in his passion for the Lord.


LOVE-MITA is a friendly and helpful girl who loves to play, especially with the younger kids. One of her favorite things to do is play with her dolls. Love-Mita and some of the other girls created their own little doll house up on top of the wooden play set in the orphanage's back yard. She is very imaginative and can keep herself entertained for hours by painting her nails, making beaded bracelets and necklaces, coloring or creating arts and crafts. She is a good helper at home and is always asking where she can be of service. She likes school and works hard on her homework. Also, she loves to sing worship songs and is a prayer warrior. Please pray for Love-Mita that she would know more of Jesus' love and grace for her.
--
Lucas Simmons

happy easter monday!

in some countries, it is common to eat fish that has been buried underground for the festival of the smelling of the breeze.  in other cultures early in the morning boys awake girls by pouring a bucket of water on their head and striking them about the legs with long thin twigs or switches

 

how nice.

 

the world's largest Dyngus Day celebration is in Buffalo, NY.  So if you are ever looking to celebrate one of the above customs, you might want to head out there.

 

all this has absolutely nothing to do with our trip to Haiti.  We won't be celebrating Dyngus Day, sorry.  Plus I think us guys are outnumbered on this trip and we might lose any type of Dyngus Day contest. 

 

anyways today I went through the computers that Ian found amongst the trailer of stuff the manasseros have and they are all workable.  We will probably be purchasing some monitors with project money and setting up a small computer lab, which will involve table building of some sort. 

Ecclesiastes 3

A Time for Everything

 ¹ There is a time for everything,
       and a season for every activity under heaven:

 ² a time to be born and a time to die,
       a time to plant and a time to uproot,

 ³ a time to kill and a time to heal,
       a time to tear down and a time to build,

 ⁴ a time to weep and a time to laugh,
       a time to mourn and a time to dance,

 ⁵ a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
       a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

 ⁶ a time to search and a time to give up,
       a time to keep and a time to throw away,

 ⁷ a time to tear and a time to mend,
       a time to be silent and a time to speak,

 ⁸ a time to love and a time to hate,
       a time for war and a time for peace.



EMILIEN is a quiet and somewhat shy child who loves sports (soccer being his favorite), and is well-liked by all the children at the home. He came to Port-au-Prince from the northern Haitian countryside, near Cap Haitian Because his family could not longer afford to feed him, he and his brother came to the city to beg and raise funds to assist their family, He found refuge at Maison de Lumiere and is enjoying being a normal young man. Emilien enjoys school and loves his job at the home taking care of the outside grounds of the orphanage. He is always helpful and enjoys helping others. His favorite subject is God's Word. Please pray for Emilien, that he would grow in his faith and seek a closer relationship with the Lord.

KATRINA is a special little girl who came to Maison de Lumiere with her sister Katiana. Although they both experienced some very difficult times in their lives, Katrina is always smiling and has a very sweet disposition. Very animated and active, her curious and outspoken nature makes her a lively part of any gathering. She loves to play with the other children and has energy to spare. We love Katrina and look forward to watching her grow up to be a Godly young woman. Please pray for her as she grows, that she will see and understand God's love for her.
--
Lucas Simmons

a real quick update

hi team -

 

happy easter!  i hope you had a great day reflecting on the sacrifice made for us.  we had a long day, so i am just sending the kid info and that's it.

ELYSEE is a sweet, sensitive child with energy to spare. A very active young man, Elysee loves sports and anything that keeps him busy. He can be a practical joker, as well, with a great sense of humor and a friendly disposition. Elysee is also very compassionate and serious about things important to him. An excellent student, he consistently places in the top three places in his class; and more often the number one spot. He loves to learn and speak English, and takes every opportunity to practice with the missionaries or English speaking visitors. He loves to study God's Word and has a heart for those who are suffering. Please pray for Elysee as he is growing in his passion for the Lord and his desire for Elysee's life.


KATIANA is a beautiful and elegant young girl who came to Maison de Lumiere with her younger sister Katrina. She is a good big sister and you can often find her spending time with her or braiding her sister's hair. She enjoys school and studies hard. She is learning English quickly and also very knowledgeable about the Bible. She loves Bible class at the orphanage and will often raise her hand to answer a Bible fact or character question. She loves playing on the swing set or doing crafts. Please pray for her as she learns more about Jesus, that she will grow in His grace and love.
--
Lucas Simmons

mete confiance ou na Jezi

Put your confidence in Jesus, yeah!

 

Just 3 weeks from now we will be there so exciting.

 

Please don't forget that this thursday we are having another meeting at 7pm.

 

Attached is a lesson the corresponds to part of the Creole CD I gave you.  I believe it is tracks 1-7.

 

DIENE came to us with his brother Ti-Bo from a very poor family who lived in the countryside. His father, a poor itinerant farmer, had recently lost his wife and was left to care for 9 children. The meager living he made growing corn on borrowed land could not support his family. He brought his sons, who were ill and malnourished, to the home out of desperation. Since coming to Maison de Lumiere, Diene and his brother are doing great and are very healthy. Diene loves the home and going to school. He gets along fantastically with all the boys. He also has a very tender, loving heart and always makes sure to watch out for his younger brother. Please pray for Diene as he grows into a man of God.

 

ISGUERDA comes from a poor village in Northern Haiti and was begging on the streets of Port Au Prince before moving into Maison de Lumiere. She now loves living at the home. She loves the privilege of going to school and takes her studies very seriously. She especially likes math and excels in it. Isguerda has a soft, sweet spirit about her, and always has a smile. She is a leader amongst the girls. Her heart is full and grateful now that she has Jesus and His love; she is so thankful for what He has done for her and is growing in her knowledge of Him daily. Pray that her faith would continue to grow and her love for Jesus and her confidence of His love for her.

--
Lucas Simmons

Only 3 more weeks

We have 3 weeks left until we leave for Haiti!  So exciting.

 

Ian brought me the computers today so I will be reviewing them and letting you know if they are usable or not.  Please be thinking about your projects and what you need to bring to Haiti because we have very limited space and need to know ASAP.  Alicia or I will be sending out some updates soon (a review of our last meeting, stuff for our next meeting, etc.)

 

Thanks!

Lucas

 


DAVID is always smiling and will be the first to come and give you a hug. He came from a family with two mothers, six sisters, and four brothers. Before he came to Maison de Lumiere, he says he was a vagabond – wandering on the streets of Port-au-Prince. He was brought to the home by his cousin. He is a very loving child and quite a talker. He understands and can speak English very well. He is also very inquisitive and always loves to know what is going on. Whether cleaning out the office or setting up a game, he will be right there to help out. He also loves to listen and learn new things. His passion is the Bible and he never misses Bible studies and discipleship classes. One day, he wants to be a pastor. Please pray that David's love for Jesus and God's Word continues to grow, and that his dreams of serving God in full-time ministry will blossom.

DENUITE has a twin brother and is one of eight children. At a young age, Denuite's mother died and her father, a poor farmer in northern Haiti, tried to take care of the kids. As survival became difficult, Denuite, her new step-mother, and three brothers came to the city to see if they could raise enough money to feed the family. Her mother was able to start selling cookies on the street but was robbed a number of times by street thugs. Denuite would beg, but would get injured and harassed by other street kids and could not earn much. She consistently walked in fear of others on the street, getting hit by cars or being shot at. Denuite finally feels free. She loves her school, her new home, being able to help out around the home, and all her new friends. She has a funny sense of humor and has been nicknamed Ti-Comic (little comedian) by the other kids at the home. Please pray for that Denuite would grow in her faith to become a committed woman of God.

--
Lucas Simmons

tonight!

hey everyone,

 

we are really looking forward to seeing you all tonight and amy we will be all ready to skype at 7pmish.

 

only 3 weeks left!!!

 

please try to read through 1st corinthians 12 before you come. 

 

DANIEL and his brother Keso had been living in the neighborhood near Maison de Lumiere since the orphanage opened. They lived with their widowed mother and two sisters in a vacant lot. Their mother got very ill and could no longer care for her children, so they were offered to stay at the orphanage. Since moving into Maison de Lumiere, he has adapted well and truly loves the home and his new "family." Daniel started school this last fall and is doing well. He is learning English and French in classes. He loves playing basketball, cops and robbers, singing worship songs, and learning about the Bible. Please pray for Daniel as He learns more about the Lord, and as he grows in his faith.


DAPHNE was brought to Maison de Lumiere by an aunt who had cared for her since both of her parents died. The aunt, who was very poor and had 7 children of her own, struggled to care for Daphne and could not adequately provide for her. Because she was malnourished, Daphne is very small for her age, weighing only 12 pounds when she arrived. She was very sad and withdrawn when she first arrived, but now she has blossomed and is well-loved by all the staff and other children. Please pray for her as she grows up, that she would learn to love and follow her Savior.

--
Lucas Simmons

today

i am feeling a little bit like I am in Haiti.  Our hot water is definitely lacking and has been for days.  Unfortunately it is not Haiti hot so a cold shower is not so appealing.  haha.

 

Alicia and I are trying to get in touch with the travel agent to purchase tickets.  I am expecting the transaction to be completed by tomorrow, we will keep you updated for sure.  Can't wait to see you all on Thursday!  The reading assignment is a little up in the air, so for now just don't worry about it until we tell you further. 

 

Keep thinking of more ideas for projects and just being praying that God would reveal our gifts and that we would be able to pour out love and blessings to the people of Haiti and the missionaries.

 

¹³Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." ¹⁴Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. ¹⁵Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." ¹⁶As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. ¹⁷Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. - James 4:13-17

 



CLIFFORD (TI-JOHN) is a very shy child who loves music, sports and worship. He had a very difficult life growing up in Cite Sole, one of Haiti's poorest slums. Clifford and his older brother used to walk the streets of Port-au-Prince, wiping down cars and begging just to survive. Since coming to Maison de Lumiere, he is more confident and happier. He is one of our best athletes exceeding in basketball and soccer. Often wearing a set of headphones, he enjoys listening to worship music every chance he can. He also loves to sing and play drums. Please pray for Clifford, that God would continue healing his broken heart and that he would grow to be a solid man of God.

 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lucastheexperience/3141907357/in/set-72157611333604717/
CHERLEY is Mikerline's sister, our oldest resident at the girl's home. She, like her sister, was sent away at a very young age when her mother's boyfriend at the time decided that they should not live with them. Living with an aunt, she received money from her mother to attend school. One condition of her staying at the aunt's house was that she was to be the servant, or "restevec." Her aunt had a large house and Cherley was responsible for keeping it clean. At 8 years of age, that was a tremendous responsibility and a great deal of pressure. She came to Christ at a crusade and her new relationship with the Lord helped her endure her daily hardships. Today, she loves her new life, learning more about Jesus, and the opportunity to attend school. Please pray that Cherley would daily draw closer to the Lord.

--
Lucas Simmons

WOW

So, the baked goods for haiti fundraiser, was an amazing success!  Wow!  God is so good! 

 

If you don't go to King's Harbor or weren't there this weekend: the passage we learned about was John 6:1-21.  It just seems to relate to the generous giving of the church today, I will let you dwell on how it all connects yourself.

 

¹Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), ²and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the miraculous signs he had performed on the sick. ³Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. ⁴The Jewish Passover Feast was near.  ⁵When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?" ⁶He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.  ⁷Philip answered him, "Eight months' wages^[a] would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!"  ⁸Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, ⁹"Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?"  ¹⁰Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." There was plenty of grass in that place, and the men sat down, about five thousand of them. ¹¹Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.  ¹²When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted." ¹³So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.  ¹⁴After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, "Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world." ¹⁵Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.

Jesus Walks on the Water 
¹⁶When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, ¹⁷where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. ¹⁸A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. ¹⁹When they had rowed three or three and a half miles,^[b] they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified. ²⁰But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." ²¹Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

 

CLAIRMOND, with his brother Clifford, mother and sister, would move from one relative's house to another prior to living at Maison de Lumiere. His father died when he was young and his mother struggled to care for her children. When his mother got very ill, she brought Clairmond and Clifford to the home because she could no longer feed them. Fortunately, Child Hope was able to provide a job for Clairmond's mother as a cook at the orphanage where she still works. Clairmond enjoys his life at Maison de Lumiere and all his friends. He is a friendly, loving, and sweet young boy. He is also very creative and likes to make things to play with around the home. Once, he attached two cups to a string to make his own walkie talkie. Clairmond also loves Jesus and has a kind and sensitive heart. Please pray that he will grow into a Godly young man who is passionate for the Lord.

 

CHEDLINE has seen much pain in her life. Her grandmother raised her since infancy, due to her mother's poor mental health. She came from a severely impoverished life in Cap Haitian where she often went days without food. When her grandmother could no longer take care of her, Chedline came to Port-au-Prince begging on the streets to survive. Despite her past, Chedline maintains a sweet disposition and gets along with everyone at the home. She loves studying God's Word and says she wants to be a seamstress when she grows up. Please pray that the Lord will continue to heal Chedline and that she will grow in her faith and into a Godly young woman.
--
Lucas Simmons

Oops!

For shame, I did not send out an e-mail yesterday.  Well looking at the plane tickets, we are either going to be flying Spirit or paying more than we thought.  We are hoping and praying Spirit works out. 

 

Don't forget we have another meeting this Thursday at 7pm sharp.  We are still working on the reading for this week, but just be thinking about community.  The different ways you get involved in a community and think about how God uses community. 

 

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  - Hebrews 10:24-25

CLIFFORD (TI-JOHN) is a very shy child who loves music, sports and worship. He had a very difficult life growing up in Cite Sole, one of Haiti's poorest slums. Clifford and his older brother used to walk the streets of Port-au-Prince, wiping down cars and begging just to survive. Since coming to Maison de Lumiere, he is more confident and happier. He is one of our best athletes exceeding in basketball and soccer. Often wearing a set of headphones, he enjoys listening to worship music every chance he can. He also loves to sing and play drums. Please pray for Clifford, that God would continue healing his broken heart and that he would grow to be a solid man of God.

 

CHABINE is a very smart, friendly girl with definite leadership skills. One of six children, Chabine grew up in a small village near Cap-Haitian in northern Haiti. At a young age, her father went to the Dominican Republic and never returned. This devastated her and her family. When it became too difficult, Chabine, her mother, brother moved to Port-au-Prince looking for other opportunities. Even though this pained her mother, they all ended up begging on the streets to survive. Her mother was happy when Chabine was invited to live at Maison de Lumiere and no longer have to risk her life on the streets in Port-au-Prince. Today, she is happily living at the girls' home where people love and care for her. She especially loves school and writing is her favorite pastime. She wants to be a teacher one day. Please pray for Chabine's continued healing and for her faith to grow as she seeks to be a woman of God.

--
Lucas Simmons

Haiti April 2nd

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you wil find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; he who seek finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened" - Matthew 7:7-8

 

Hi all, there is not much of an update today.  We are a bit closer to buying plane tickets, but only because another day has passed and we need to do it.  We are shooting for early next week, at least in my mind that would be the best time.  We will see.  We are talking with Susette about projects, I hope to have updates for all of you shortly on that.

 

ANDERSON is a strong and kind boy. He is healthy and an excellent, self-taught gymnast. He works almost everyday on his backflips, handstands, and other stunts. An excellent soccer player, he has no problem keeping up with the other boys playing soccer. Anderson occasionally struggles in school, but he is also one of the most diligent students, working regularly with the tutor. Shy and quiet, you will find him often in the background with a big smile on his face. Sometimes on weekends, he can be quite the cook. After dinner, you may find him cooking up another "dinner" or after dinner "treat." He also enjoys art and craft projects. Please pray that Anderson would grow in his young faith and learn to know how much Jesus loves him.

 


CINDY is a precious little girl who has grown in so many ways since coming to Maison de Lumiere. She interacts well in school and is very smart. An active, healthy young girl, she loves to play on the swing set and with her dolls. All of the other girls act as her "big sisters" and love to watch over her. Please pray for Cindy as she continues to grow, that the Lord would heal her heart and she would come to know how much Jesus loves her.

--

Haiti Team: April 1st

We are a month away.

 

So for this month, I will do my best to send out e-mails everyday.  Alicia and I really want to keep you updated on the trip and the planning and how everything is going.  So it is not just over here planning everything and surprising you when we get to Haiti.  I also want to get you pictures and bios of two kids everyday since none of you have been there, I thought it would be good for you to get familar with them.  Between Alicia and I we know most of the kids names so if you ever forget one don't hesitate to ask us.

 

I was going to try to tell you that the trip was cancelled, but April Fooling via e-mail is just so tough.

 

Alicia and I are working on plane tickets this week.  It is super duper important that you get your 600 or whatever monies you have to the church ASAP.  The prices are going up, so we need to get these soon.  We will be departing late night May 1st, and returning sometime on the 9th. 

 

I don't use the phase super duper very often, but there it is... in 1s and 0s.  Just for you. 

 

I also keep forgetting to let you know that our updates while we are gone will be posted at http://khchaititeams.blogspot.com  I am also posting these daily updates there.

 

Don't forget our meeting that is not a meeting is this Thursday night.  Let us know if you are coming and feel free to bring friends.

 

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Colossians 4:2

ALEX is an incredible young man with a deep love for the Lord. He stands out as one with a very sensitive heart and seriousness in his relationship with Jesus. Alex wants to be a pastor and/or serve in full-time ministry. He also loves to joke around and often tries to play tricks on others, particularly the staff. He likes to have fun and is well-liked by all the children. He enjoys reading his Bible and being a teacher/mentor to the younger children. Please pray that Alex's faith will and love for God's Word would grow and that he may become a Spirit-filled Christian leader.

 

ADELINE is a sweet, precious little girl. She loves to be silly, make funny faces, and just make others laugh along with her. This is a big contrast to her dark days of begging on the streets of Port-au-Prince. Today, she is finally able to be a little girl and not worry about surviving or providing for her family or even finding food for herself. She loves Jesus and is thankful for all He has done for her. She is learning God's Word and loves to sing songs of praise and worship. School is one of her favorite things to do. She enjoys learning and studies diligently. She also plays hard and has a true passion for life. Please pray for Adeline, that the Lord will continue to heal her heart and fill her with His life, love and grace.
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Lucas Simmons