Breaking Ground; A Quick Look at the Building Projects

Almost immediately when we returned to Haiti, the work began on the future church building and orphanage, and continued on a small house for Pastor Bazalet.    For Barry, managing such a project isn't without glitches and trials, but things are mostly moving along nicely.  These projects, like before, are a good opportunity to employ some people from church, some old neighbors and usual go-to guys, as well as get to know and witness to a good number of others. 

Just outside the walls near the work-site is a good place to sit and have a visit with some of the ladies who attend church with us there. Sometimes its a blessing, and other times it's mind-blowing. Some of their extended family members like to hang around, and for lack of better words, "let it all hang out." However, this does also give a nice chance to be a light. Some of them have started coming to church and seem to be learning.

Unfortunately, there are cases that seem almost hopeless. Right outside the gate every morning while the work is going on, a 30-something lady, a regular attendee at church, sets up a little cooking shack and sells fried breadfruit and other various fried foods. She's a lady that will sing her heart out whether in a service or outside. She's heard all about sin, repentance, and redemption. She's asked for us to make her dresses. She's asked for baptism. But, she's also got a fiery temper and a stubborn will. When she was asked about her four children and their four different fathers whom are all nowhere to be found, she said that's not something that needs to be repented of because it was good for her. She got a blessing from those actions (her children.) The next day, she had beer in her cooler of drinks for sale. When she was asked not to sell them as she was on church property, she refused, because in her opinion, beer is good. When she finally sees the light, she'll be able to use all that fire for the Kingdom. In the mean time, may the Lord grant us the wisdom to know how to handle her.

A view of the existing "Little stick church" behind the recently dug outline for the new building.

Discussing building plans with the boss and Pastor Bazalet

Dumping rocks to form the foundation

Frido, an old friend and neighbor, works to bend wire to hold the re-bar together.

He's also been a school teacher, but he's thankful for any work he can get.

Taken from inside the existing church; the foundation is done and the center is being leveled and prepared for concrete.

The small building on the other side is a latrine/bathroom that still needs finished.

A house for Pastor Bazalet to live in is taking shape within the same walls as the church.

There's still a long way to go and likely some daily trials ahead while this project continues, as well as the many regular church events and meetings, and still traveling to preach. Thank you for your support and prayers!