Recently Reporter Colleeen Dillion at the Wilmington News Journal contacted us on behalf of the paper and did an newspaper article on Haiti. Here is the full version.
Introduction:
Regina and I are missionaries with the Baptist Bible Fellowship International in the Dominican Republic. We have set up a base in Croix des bouquet Haiti to support local Baptist churches and their families. You can find out more about what we have been doing in Haiti at www.dr4christ.blogspot.com The trip into our sister nation with Hillsboro Bible Baptist Church this week will be our 14th trip in since January.
Colleen: What will they (Hillsboro Bible Baptist Church) be doing?
We have three goals.
1.) Take food aid to a church who's building has collapsed in Leógane, Haiti. (This is close to the Epicenter)
2.) Build a temporary church and school shelter (larger than normal) using Ondura corrugated roofing panels for a church whose building was destroyed in the earthquake. This is a new material that has recently arrived in the Dominican Republic. You can learn more about that at www.ondura.com
3.) Begin removing columns and digging footers at the First Baptist Church of the Truth. You can learn more about our long range goals for the church, Pastor Destini, and the school at www.dr4christ.com/projectimpact
Colleen: How may what they see in Haiti affect them? How many groups have assisted you since the earthquake?
In my opinion each person and group that has come is affected differently. We do exit evaluations and looking over them, no two are alike. I can say that God most definitely uses trials and tribulations in our life and the lives of other for His purposes. I think it is tough, no matter how strong you are to see people go through so much. When things get bad I remind myself that God has a plan and that He has everything under control. My faith is increased when a new morning comes after such heartache and seeing this impossible situation made possible by our Lord. In my opinion Hillsboro is in tune with this and is fulfilling a command rather than seeking some type of personal gain or affect. I know this is pretty deep but consider this: Galations 6:10 - As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Jer 32:12 Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee. I think the counter question is: What affect would not going have on Hillsboro when they have the resources, time, talent and ability? In missions and many times in life it comes back to sewing and reaping. I believe by responding by Faith to this crisis that there are great blessings in store for Hillsboro and their people. What do you think Colleen?
Colleen: How are these groups helping or not helping?
Most definitely helping, Hillsboro is not only getting involved, but as others, has committed financially to helping build back better Pastor Destini's church and school. The church for numerous reasons is vital to the lives of those it ministers to and the school is a bonus. The earthquake that hit January 12 is more than likely the largest disaster in the Western Hemisphere of record. Admittedly, Haiti has complex political and social problems but partnering with local churches and specific people to see projects to the end, like what Hillsboro is doing is a vital part (in my opinion) of long term spiritual change that is so desperately needed.
