JiHM

The angels really do walk among us

2010-02-04T20:32:00.000-06:00

Hi from Haiti,

This morning I received a phone call from a visiting pastor friend who is helping a medical team and has been utilizing my boys to translate. He said he had a connection with an American Colonel and we could get all the food we needed. We had an hour to get there. This short notice made it impossible for me to contact some police friends who I use for security.

Off I went with 9 of my boys, in 3 trucks. We met pastor Murph, and soon were inside the giant warehouse. Sure enough, we backed all three trucks up and loaded 50 tarps and over 5000 meals into the truck. These are MRE's ready to eat meals.

We took 3 of the tarps and tried to hide the food for the trip home. Half way, several boxes fell from the back of my truck, the first one. We pulled over and quickly saw people starting to converge on the food. Just as we were about to be swarmed, 4 Angels walked up with sub machine guns, wearing police uniforms after exiting their police truck. They stood guard while we reloaded and left. Never knew angels needed guns.

Yesterday we got our bridge on the road to our house fixed and were not supposed to drive on it for 2 days. We had no choice but to roll the 3 trucks over it, and then home. We messed it up and I had to pay the guys a little more to "cover our tracks".

I was so proud of Claudy and Manel driving the other trucks, and the rest of the boys as we had a successful mission getting food.

Two of my staff, Fondi and Jony took a truck to pick up food from marines who brought it to us by helicopter. They then rolled in and boy do we have the food. We already took 30 cases of food to 3 pastors in our ministry area, including our former pastor, Pastor Jackie.

I am bummed I can't use the bridge tomorrow to deliver more food but Saturday we will hit it hard. My boys did deliver 30 meals tonight to the small, 28 child orphanage by our house that we have been helping.

We are going to move this food quickly to people who need it, mostly women with children and the kids at the Good Samaritan orphanage. Speaking of them, as of this week, they are now all sleeping in tents.

Did you pick up on it when I said, "We took all 3 trucks". A visitor this week said, "You need another truck? Let's go get one." And we did just that. A big people mover, which will help so much.

We also had a motorcycle club donate money for us to buy a motorcycle, which we did. This will come in so handy to make short runs and runs through the terrible bottleneck traffic. God has blessed us as we roll on.

I didn't really get the rest I had hoped for but do feel somewhat rested. Since I can't go anywhere tomorrow because of the cement on the bridge, I may get some rest tomorrow. Don't hold your breath.

I do understand there is a Superbowl on Sunday, and of course, I will be cheering for my home-state COLTS TO win it all. The Saint's ain't got a chance against the Colts.

Jony has youth group tomorrow (had 700 last week) and we have our first baptism at our property Sunday at 9am. Whew, so much going on including re-starting school this upcoming Monday. So much more to share but will stop. I love you guys, thanks for your support.

Tominhaiti

ps- Oops, forgot to tell you we are re-building our first house this week. My staff member Jony lost his house, so for $475 dollars it is being rebuilt. I will send pictures.

A few good men, and one woman

2010-02-02T22:18:00.000-06:00

Hi from Haiti,

Today was a long day but a very productive day.

Auddy: It began with me taking "my" 10 year old girl, Auddy, to an orphanage, as we expect her to go to the states, maybe this week to be with her adoptive parents, in Minnesota. It was a sad good bye for all of us but knowing what lies ahead, we are excited for Auddy. Please pray this is finalized this week.

Another good-bye: Then it was on to the airport to drop off our 4 visiting guests, Mr. and Mrs. Nuest and their daughter Ashley. Also board member, Linda Neal, who arrived the day of the earthquake, finally was able to go home.

Dr Matthew: Then we went to Pettionville to pick up my son Matthew who was helping a team of doctors who were working in a very terrible situation, Matthew said the saddest thing he saw was a 4 year old who lost both of her feet. He was grateful to be able to help. Now another of my sons, Tito is there for the next couple days.

While coming back home, we received a phone call saying the Marines were on their way to our property with supplies. We rushed there with two trucks for the drop, when we got a call saying the helicopter was too big for our property and had to land at a cement factory a mile away. We then rushed to the cement factory only to find out the security guards would not let us enter.
Finally, after much debate, they let just me go inside accompanied by a security guard.

I reached the marines and what a great bunch. The leader asked if I could bring truck inside the facility to the helicopter but security said no. Finally, we talked him into contacting his boss, which took another half hour, and we got clearance. We then loaded 60 boxes of MRE's, (meals ready to eat) and that was fun. I know I don't have to tell you this but to see these young men, and one woman, in action, filled me with pride. They were taking pictures of our truck load and with us and were so pleased when we thanked them.

Trip home: Then on the way home we passed out these meals to folks we knew on the road by the dump. They were so hungry and grateful. To help them was a joy for us.

Home alone: Here I sit, for the first time, by myself since the quake-no American friends. I am tired, sad my friends are gone, but with a huge to-do list.

Tomorrow morning we have a teachers meeting as the government says we can start school. This will happen Monday and we have so much to do to prepare. Then my staff will be taking relief supplies to over 100 families, all tomorrow.

Another good-bye: Our dear friend Stephanie who has been the kids' nanny for 2 years, and was Mommy Tia's caretaker, has left us. She takes with us her two little girls: Kayley and Beverly. This was a very sad goodbye for all of us. In one day, I lost 4 of my 5 girls. We have 8-year-old Kimberly still. I am going to hire an older woman to come help with Kimberly and the other little ones.

Rest: Tomorrow at 6pm, I plan to start a 36 hour rest period. I think things are in place for this to happen but, I am not holding my breath. We hired someone to fix our bridge coming down our road so I can't leave Thursday even if I want to.

Relief funds: God has blessed us greatly through your sacrificial giving and we are putting it to good work. Daily relief is going to the Good Samaritan orphanage, our 95 school children, the folks in the garbage dump, and our church family, as well as many others. Tomorrow my boys are taking some MRE's to their classmates who have been struggling to survive.

THE UN: I know you will hear all kind of bad things said about the UN and the relief effort but let me tell you this, from someone who is here. The men and women of the UN and other relief agencies have come to Haiti to help and care very much about these people. I know many UN troops and I see them in action near our ministry area and near our home.

This is a massive relief effort, with many logistical nightmares and, of course, they can do better but...........they are here, they are working hard, things are getting done AND things will get better.

I am so sad that we lost probably 200,000 of these precious people but I know God is going to use this event, to not only get the attention of the Haitian people, but the attention of the world. This will lead to great things, and a new start for Haiti. Besides your giving, please pray daily for the spiritual relief that Haiti so badly needs.

Emails: My emails are going down, down, down, day by day. I love hearing from you even if I can't respond often.

closing: I got nothing, goodnight,

tominhaiti

My apologies, Sunday update

2010-01-31T22:22:00.002-06:00

Hi,

I am sorry for lack of communication from me. I know you all care so much and many of you wait for the updates. I have been so busy, I just could not email. Please forgive me.

This weekend was a lot of running, a visit from two different groups, doctors and builders and church. Today for lunch, I had my 35, and another 18 Americans with us for a total of 53 people.

We are continuing to help people get food and water. We were able to help two different orphanages in the past two days. Then tonight we visited a little Haitian run orphanage near our home and put all the kids...............in sleeping bags, what a thrill that was. I forgot my flashlight so we did this in pitch dark, using my cell phone for light.

Church today was another SRO, (standing room only) with nearly 800 people. We had Mark Murphy, a visiting pastor from Fort Wayne, preach and just an incredible service.

Some of you may question why we have been giving money as opposed to distributing food. Today, in our village, some military helicopters made a food drop and, when people rushed the 'copter, a little boy was trampled to death. It is a dangerous situation.

Tomorrow we are delivering 74 food boxes to the homes of our school families, taking them rice, oil, beans and such. This is an ongoing, daily process of helping these folks.

Today at church an out-of-work carpenter came to me and said he had no money and needed food for his family. I asked him to give me a quote to build 2 new tables and 12 chairs for my home. He gave me a good price, and I paid him to build the tables, killing two birds with one stone and allowing him to earn his money.

Also, today I ordered 10 new church pews for church. We do not have this in our budget and would not qualify for relief so, can you help me pray in $700 for this much needed expense .................by Saturday. I will let you know when you prayers are answered.

By the way, I forgot Jovens, our little 7 year old blind boy, in my list of family members last week. Can't believe none of you caught that one. So is that 34 then? I have not added to my family in 3 days....I must be slipping.

Tonight my visiting board member's wife, Connie Nuest, and board member Linda Neal made pancakes for the boys, a welcome treat for all, including poppa who had 2 or 3 or 7.

Did I tell you this, our well just drilled before the quake, was damaged by the quake and we had to re-drill this weekend. Well, they found water, good drinking water at 25 feet. We bought a water pump so in the next day or so, we will have clean water at our mission, which fits our nickname, the Oasis.

I could ramble on but, will stop. You have a lot to digest and pray about but know this, we are being Jesus in Haiti every single day, and we know many of you are being Jesus in ............wherever you are. Keep it up; you don't need the earth to open up to be Jesus.

tominhaiti

Another Busy Day

2010-01-29T20:28:00.000-06:00

Hi from Haiti;

As busy as I was the first two weeks, seems I am getting busier every day....can't wait for November 3rd and that day off.

This morning we took a load of food, blankets and water to a small orphanage near us and they were so excited as they needed the help so badly.

We are having discussions with an organization that wants to partner with us to help rebuild the homes in our area. We are very excited about this. Pray that if this is God's will, it will happen.

Today was youth group, I stayed home to rest and I got a call that one of the boys coming to youth group was hit by a car. My son Claudy loaded him up, looked for medical help but could not find it. Claudy finally connected with a US army team and their doctor fixed him up and sent Claudy and the boy to a US hospital by the US Embassy. As I write this, they are enroute. Pray for the young boy, Bobby, who was hit by the car.

We continue to give aid daily to anywhere between 25-30 families who are so appreciative.

One shortcoming for me is that, because I am so busy, I have not connected with the 10 new ones and have not been a dad to the 22 old ones. I am starting to correct this as we speak, as I know I must be a dad to my own before I can do anything else.

They are still all sleeping outside, all but us crazy Americans who are inside. That includes me, 3 board members and the daughter of one husband-wife team.

Pre-quake, I told you we struck water with our well drillers on our mission land. However, the well we were drilling is now ruined so we are re-drilling at another spot on our property.

Much, much more is to be done in Haiti. As I have said, this is not a short fix but, instead, will be years. 90% of Haitian schools were destroyed so no one knows when school can resume. We can't legally have school unless the government says so. However, we can have "kids club" at our mission for our school kids AND we can teach them whatever we want.... so stay tuned, kids club is coming to a tent near you.

In case you lost count of names, here is the entourage God has me in the middle of:
The younger ones: Jony, 4, Peterson 5, Kaylye 5, Adrianno 6, Beverly 8, Robenson 8, Marckendy 10, Kimberly 8, Ricardo 12, Bony 10, Steven 13, Jay 1.

The 16-20 year olds: Shadrach, Matthew, Sonson, Claudy, Tito, Derson, Sonal, Maxim, Reggie, Berthony, Georgie, Louis, Edward, Jimy 1, Jimy 2, Toby, Kenel.

And staff: Roger, Altimay and Stephanie, and me. Seems like more but I think that is all the permanent ones, do ya get 33?

Great bunch, I am blessed, keep the prayers coming and, please don't forget we have a monthly budget we must meet--the quake relief is just for that. We still need 10 grand per month to run mission and do ministry in our 5 points of light.

Not sure if I told you this, yesterday my girls from the ministry team came to my house and made 100 rice and bean dinners. We then took them to the garbage dump where there were about 50 people. We gave them the meal and drinks, then drove up and down the road giving meals to stragglers. What a joy. Thanks for making this possible.
tominhaiti

They fell through the cracks, but landed safely

2010-01-27T17:18:00.000-06:00

Hi from Haiti,

Today as we were visiting and providing relief for our 100 school children and their families, we could not find two little brothers. We had heard they were okay but just couldn't find them. When going to their house, a man told my staff that their mom had been killed in a building in Port Au Prince and they have been living in the woods for 2 weeks.

My staff member Pierre quickly called me, found them and I went to meet them. I brought 8-year-old Robenson, and 10-year-old Marckendy home. I took them aside and asked what happened. With tears falling, they said how their mom had died and that they had not eaten for 2 weeks. I asked them if they would come live with me, and if I could be their poppy. They both said yes. They got a shower, new, clean clothes, and a meal. They are now playing and laughing with the kids.

Folks, it don't get any better than this. Keep your Pulitzer Prize, your World Series rings, your medals of honor, your academy awards.......I have two prizes to top them sitting 4 feet from me, and I will keep them.

Your prayers, your help, your support, are making it possible for us to continue to be Jesus to these little ones. I have no idea what lies ahead, but am pretty good friends with the one who does know the future, so it is in His hands. At this moment, I feel like the most blessed man in the world. Out of all of you, and anyone else, God chose me, to safe guard and care for these two little guys, Robenson and Marckendy.

I must stop before the tears ruin my keyboard. More later, promise.

Tom

A busy weekend

2010-01-24T22:22:00.000-06:00

Hi,

I apologize for the lack of communication but I think all of you know that writing emails is number 3,456 on my priority list. Someone emailed me and said "you gotta keep them coming if you want to raise money". Folks, that is not why I send emails. If that is a result, praise God.

Saturday was a day spent in traffic, Gas had just become available for the first time and the Western Unions opened up, meaning thousands of Haitians would have cash for the first time. The country was a bottle neck and we were stuck in it as we picked up 3 friends from the airport.

Our friends volunteered for an aid organization, which hitched them a ride here free. They are spending a couple days with us away from the airport.

Sunday was incredible. Recall, our church attendance before the tent was about 200. Then the tent happened and, in the past few months, our attendance has been creeping up toward 500. Well yesterday, and you better sit down, we had 914 people at church. Can you believe that one?
You probably just swallowed your teeth but............it gets better, much better because we had 50 people accept Christ as their personal Savior, becoming followers of Christ. Here is the kicker, 11 came early to church asking to become Christians.

This quake has rocked this nation and shaken people and made them think about life, and about death. Praise God we are here able to meet their needs, physically, emotionally, financially, and most important, spiritually.

We have seating for about 650 so it was standing room. What a praise service it was, at least that is what they tell me. You see, we had a shipment coming in on a missionary flight that I had to pick up at the airport. My staff did a great job.

I was at the airport from 8 a.m. until noon, then rushed to our mission as everyone was leaving to meet a 2pm helicopter full of food, rice, bread, beans, jelly, peanut butter, etc,,,,

We loaded the truck and went straight to the Good Samaritan orphanage with the food, much to the delight of the kids and staff there. It was our FIRST food from outside Haiti and we were so blessed.

This morning, a few minutes, before daybreak I am headed to Pettionvile to a Christian school. There is a team of doctors there and one of them was sent with some cash from my treasurer which I am going to pick up. We still can't find a way to cash a check or get cash.

Then it is to the airport to pick up a board member who will be helping me plan and strategize the upcoming months. Please know that anyone that comes always comes on their own dime. We don't use any our ministry money or relief funds ever to bring people here.

This and a million other things are on the agenda. Keep praying, keep sending emails, I know I am busy but it takes seconds to read an email, and they encourage me so much. Today's goal, 50 emails from YOU.

tominhaiti

These folks, wow

2010-01-24T09:32:00.000-06:00

Hi,

We picked a pastor up at the airport, a man who was involved in the Tsunami relief and been in many disaster areas. He said he was amazed at these people and how they are bouncing back, their attitude and what is going on, so quickly. He is amazed at these folks largely because he has never seen this spirit in the other places.

I knew that, but am biased and hadn't been anywhere to compare. These people are fighters and they won't quit. You are helping build a new Jaiti, give new direction and I am convinced that Haiti will become a place where God will be glorified.

Today I'll make an airport run for our water filters while my staff runs church. Then a helicopter drop of 600 pounds of rice at 2pm, then,,,,,,wait a minute, isn't today a day of rest, or is that tomorrow? Keep praying.

Love you guys,

tominhaiti

A prayer for all of us

2010-01-24T07:56:00.000-06:00

Lord, I just want to say THANK YOU,

because this morning I woke up and knew where my children were,

because this morning my home was still standing,
because this morning I am not crying because my husband, my child, my

brother or sister needs to be buried out from underneath a pile of concrete,

because this morning I was able to drink a glass of water,

because this morning I was able to turn on the light,

because this morning I was able to take a shower,

because this morning I was not planning a funeral,

but most of all I thank you this morning because I still have life and a voice to

cry out for the people of Haiti.

Lord I cry out to you, the one that makes the impossible, possible, the one

that turns darkness in to light,

I cry out that you give those mothers & fathers strength, that you give them

peace that surpasses all understanding,

that you may open the streets so that help can come, that you may provide

doctors, nurses, food, water, and all that they need in a blink of an eye.

For all those that have lost family members, give them peace, give them

hope, give them courage to continue to go on!

Protect the children and shield them with your power.

I pray all this in the name of Jesus. AMEN.

Thank you for all your support and continued prayers. tominhaiti

Buses, cash and radios flow amid Haiti's rubble

2010-01-23T14:05:00.000-06:00

This is being passed on from Tom for your reading.

Patrick Markey And Matthew Bigg - Fri Jan 22, 4:54 pm ET

PORT-AU-PRINCE (Reuters) - Cash became available and buses started running in Haiti's rubble-clogged capital on Friday but there was still not enough food to feed desperate earthquake survivors who were expected to need emergency aid for months.

"We can do this 24 hours a day for the next six months and we still won't meet the need," said First Sargent Rob Farnsworth, part of a U.S. Army airborne unit handing out food packs at a squalid camp where survivors lived in the open air.

Up to 1.5 million Haitians lost their homes in the January 12 earthquake that rocked the small Caribbean country, devastated its capital Port-au-Prince and killed up to 200,000.

Relief agencies estimated one-third of Haiti's 9 million people would need emergency food, water and shelter for an extended period.

Haitians struggled to find food, water and medical care. Even those whose homes withstood the magnitude 7 quake were too traumatized by aftershocks to sleep under a roof.

There were signs of daily life resuming. Taptaps, Haiti's small, colorfully decorated private buses, circulated in Port-au-Prince, sharing streets with the earth-movers and digging machines clearing debris.

Banks were scheduled to reopen on Saturday and money transfer agencies did brisk business after opening on Friday.

"I want to get some cash sent by my family from Canada. It's $500 but it's difficult. There are so many people," said businessman Aslyn Denis, 31, waiting in a line with hundreds of people, some of them jostling each other, outside a Unitransfer office.

The dead body of a young man lay in a street, his head swollen and bloody. Residents said he tried to steal money and was stoned by a crowd. He wore socks but his shoes were gone and his pockets had been pulled out.

MOB OVERWHELMS 'THE BEAST'

Edmond Mulet, acting head of the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Haiti, said coordination in delivering aid was getting better every day. The World Food Program distributed 1.2 million food rations to hospitals and orphanages on Thursday and hoped to give out 10 million in the next week.

"We may be able to scale up even quicker," said Josette Sheeran, executive director of the U.N. World Food Program. "We finally have supplies and food coming in from all over the world."

The seaport in Port-au-Prince was repaired enough to partially reopen for cargo ships, while airstrips outside the capital and in the Dominican Republic received relief flights.

But nearly 1,000 hungry people swarmed a U.S. military truck as an 82nd Airborne company known as "the Beast" handed out food and water at an encampment on a soccer field. Overwhelmed, the troops pulled out after distributing 600 packaged meals, leaving 250 food packs still on the truck.

A large supermarket, Big Star Market, reopened in the Petionville suburb on Friday, selling everything from slabs of ham and goat meat to Valentine's Day chocolates. But the store manager said they had only a week or two of stocks left and had received no deliveries.

Haitians are realizing it could take months or years to regain some sense of normalcy.

"We want it to be over, but it's not finished yet, things are bad," said Jeanette, a 53-year-old architect shopping at the market. "I've lost my office. I've lost a whole year of work. We have no stability, no direction, we've been left to fend for ourselves. We can't plan for the future, we're just living day-to-day."

The United Nations counted nearly 450 encampments in Port-au-Prince alone where the homeless huddle, cook and sleep amid mounds of garbage.

More than $1.2 billion has been pledged to help rebuild roads, government buildings and homes, but the World Bank said much more would be needed to get Haiti on its feet.

"My anticipation is that $1.2 billion is just the floor," the bank's director for the Caribbean, Yvonne Tsikata, told France 24 television.

The International Monetary Fund urged donors gathering in Montreal next week to adopt a Marshall Plan for Haiti, similar to the U.S. effort that helped rebuild Europe after the Second World War.

"It is not unrealistic to imagine that the country can be rebuilt as a prosperous nation. But it needs help over a prolonged period," IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn wrote on the Huffington Post.

FREE RADIOS

U.S. Navy helicopters ferried in boxes of water to distribute to Haitians lined up at a sprawling camp that covered a golf course. Actor Sean Penn stopped by to deliver antibiotics, painkillers and water filters. "The whole city has collapsed," he said.

U.S. troops were giving away 50,000 solar- and crank-powered radios to help displaced Haitians receive announcements telling them where aid was available.

More than 13,000 U.S. military personnel are in Haiti and on ships offshore, flying in supplies, evacuating the seriously wounded and protecting aid distribution points. The United Nations is adding 2,000 troops and 1,500 police to its 9,000-member peacekeeping mission.

But for many, life remained precarious.

At another camp in Port-au-Prince, a woman tried not to moan in pain as a student doctor bandaged her badly-injured leg. In the dirty tent where he worked, cooking pots bubbled and a dog slept inches from the open wound.

"Of course there is the risk of infection," said Alexi Guyto, 26. "For the most part, we have lost the people who came with major traumas after the earthquake but we still have lots of head and other injuries."

Friday night update from Haiti

2010-01-22T22:54:00.000-06:00

Water distribution at the dump

Hi all,

I told you two per day, here is number 2. Today was a day like no other, just like that past 10.

I did something with youth group that I had never done before, and probably will never do again. I felt such a depression in the villages today, the people are so, so hungry. NO food for 10 days. Tonight 300 teens walked to our mission. My heart bled for them. I knew we have money, and I could not let them walk home hungry, until who knows when. If you want to kind of understand their hunger, eat a half a cracker for the next ten days, and take a cup of water from your clean water in the toilet bowl. Doing that for 10 days will give you an idea how these folks are living in the villages.

I devised a plan to give each teen 100 gourdes, or $2.50 which is like giving an American teen 100 dollars. However, I didn't plan on so many kids so, as Jony was wrapping up, I told Linda I could not do this anymore as my plan might cause a riot. She agreed and I prayed. Then I felt peace and I decided to stick to my plan.

I stationed my team at our gate and sent 10 youth at a time. A team member would give them their 100 gourdes and they would leave. 10 by 10, 30 groups got their money and left. Not a glitch.

We then left to see these 300 kids walking home with a bounce in their step, happy, laughing full of hope. And know this, those 300 will feed at least 5 each, you do the math.

The total was about 600 US dollars. I had to do it for the kids. They, like you and I, will go to bed not only full tonight, but knowing they are loved. The PR angle will be great, but that is not why I did it. They were hungry, we fed them, period.

Today I drove by Phenix where my Arab friend Fadi works. He lost 3 family members, and his wife, who lost her sister, left him for the United States, never to return. His face was worn, but he had a smile. His store was in disarray, everything on the floor. While his store was closed we got in the locked doors, past armed guards and Linda, Shadrach, Tito and I shopped till we dropped. My bill was $68, but did we get the stuff. He gave me an $85 discount.

He also is loading up all the damaged food for us, like cereal boxes that fell in liquid on the floor. The cereal is good but the box is trashed. We will get this food tomorrow to use for our ministry. He had 20 people working and is planning on opening tomorrow...I'm not sure how.

After the supplies came by helicopter today, I gave each boy stuff and they hit the villages passing out 5 gallon water tanks, blankets and set up 3 very nice tents, I bet these tents cost over $1000 each. The 3 families our guys set up for were so, so thankful. We will set up 3 more tomorrow.

Tomorrow morning we have to drive 2 hours up the coast to pick up some money from a group that is in Haiti, and then 2 hours back. Then 2 hours into town to pick up supplies and medicine sent by my board via some doctors. Then home, 8 hours later, to rest. My team will be hitting the villages with supplies and putting up more tents.

Some of you are worried about me not getting a day off. I have thought about this and checked the calendar. I found day, November 3rd I plan to take off, and boy am I looking forward to that day.

Last item: Hundreds and hundreds of you have emailed me and I have read every one but in no way could I respond. I am sorry for this but know your personal email meant so much to me. Please keep them coming knowing I am not at the point of answering them.

Okay I fibbed, one more thing. My brother Mark's surgery was a success today, thanks for your prayers and concern.

tominhaiti

Full speed ahead

2010-01-21T22:49:00.000-06:00

Hi,

We have not had power or internet service for the past day or so and I apologize for the lack of communication. Our generator has been fixed. We found the owner of company, who lost his company but still sent the tech man to put in a new gas pump. Praise God. Internet service is back. For now.

So, so busy. I have been going 18-20 hour days for 10 or 11 days now. It caught up with me yesterday afternoon. I went and crawled in bed, and was there until 5am today. A nice rest. I am ready to roll.

I have too much to tell you in one email but will start two per day, if we have service. We have divided our relief into 11 geographic areas, with 3 teams of 9 people each giving out relief. We finally got into Merjay yesterday. They did not lose too many houses but, with the food shortage, they are all hungry. We helped 30 families, more to come.

Every day since the quake hit, we have driven a 5-mile stretch between the edge of our town, Bon Repos, and Merjay. We take food and water to nearly 100 men and women who are all rummaging the debris from town that has been discarded. What a joy and thrill to pull up and see my boys sprinting 100 yards to provide help to someone out in the field. The men now come to us when they see us and devour whatever we give them so quickly. My boys are loving it and so is their very proud dad. God has blessed me with 20 young men in my care who are becoming full time ministry partners, as well as sons.

We are helping about 50 families per day. We have not received one drop of food or supplies from outside Haiti yet. Dozens of people are trying to get to us but there are 1400 planes waiting, just to come to Haiti. Plus, once they get here, you can't get to the airport.

The good news is, and you can pray for this, between 10am and 11am, we expect a helicopter from Air Calvary and one from the coast guard to bring supplies to our mission. We are getting ready to leave to go to the site to secure it and await these desperately needed supplies.

Speaking of 10am, my younger brother is having prostate surgery at this time in Indiana and please pray for him. Mark is his name.

I am probably sharing about 2% of what is happening, so know that much more is going on. I am just realizing how my family is suffering. They have lost their country, their classmates, no school, and no idea of the future, I am working with this.

The good news is the 10 little ones have no clue and we will keep it that way, for now. Another huge quake the other day, then last night one that scared me and we ran for the door, as it "shook the house pretty good". We think we have an engineer coming today to inspect our 3 houses on our compound to see if they are safe to live in.
Fuel is back, we are loaded for a couple months as we speak. I can never repay my board for what they are doing. They have dropped their lives for 10 days and focused 100 percent on our well being: mine, my families and that of the people we work with. My board member Linda Neal, who is here, has saved me. What a great help; she was sent by God.

Keep praying, keep raising money, we need it all and yes, 100% is still coming this way.

Love you guys,

tominhaiti

Not stopping at that gas station anymore

2010-01-20T23:54:00.000-06:00

Hi from Haiti,

Last night I finally got to sleep about 2am. At 5am I woke up to a 6.1 earthquake. Okay, they call it an aftershock, IT IS AN EARTHQUAKE.

It lasted about 10 seconds and wow, was it scary. By the time I got to the yard outside-- in 15 seconds--my entire family was already there to greet me. The ironic thing was that I finally convinced everyone they could sleep inside again.

It was a tough night as our big generator was not working. We got it fixed today, Praise God. This morning was spent getting supplies and sending my team out. At one point I think we had 28 people out providing relief in some form. At 3pm, I was ready to hit the road and I took 9 of the boys and Linda, our board member who is "stuck" here. We went to see the men from the garbage dump and gave them water, rice and bread. Then we just drove up and down the road sharing our supplies with the poorest of the poor. We served about 100 men, women and children.

On the way home we saw a line of only about 4 cars at the gas station. I pulled in to fill up with diesel fuel and, while waiting there, a young man I know named Jimy, 16, came walking to the truck. Normally Jimy runs to my truck yelling, "Tom Tom" and I buy my phone cards from him. Today, a subdued Jimy came over and said hi. I asked him what was wrong. He said nothing, he was okay. When I said, "Come on Jimy, something is wrong", I found out that his mom was dead, and his dad was missing in Port-au-Prince, probably deceased, and he knew it.

I told him if he ever needed a place to stay, he was welcome at our house. He looked at me with pleading eyes and said "today?" I said, "Yes, right now." The boy had been homeless and climbed in the back of the truck, with a small back pack with all he owned. Jimy came here and ate and drank lots of water.

The worst part is, I pulled up to the pump and they were out of gas, giving the last to the truck before me. As I pulled away I thought, wow, came for gas, going home with Jimy. Not going to that gas station anymore. Of course I am kidding, like I was about God not reading my e-mails. For you new folks, you will catch my very dry, poor sense of humor.

Earlier today I felt the weight of the whole world on my shoulders. I got a headache and so badly just wanted to crawl in bed for a day or so. I cannot. We must keep pushing on. Today we were able to provide hope and supplies for over 200 people. We continue to await thousands of pounds of food promised on its way to the airport.

Thanks to all of you for making this relief effort possible. I heard someone say that if any organization says 100% of your money goes to the people, they are lying". I can tell you this in not a lie, at least for us. You see, we did not come just for the relief effort. I have been here 12 years. We have a system, trucks, supplies, and a staff and don't need to spend a penny to get ready to provide relief. We already do that, on a much smaller scale. So yes, 100% of your money is coming here for food, water, medical supplies and to help rebuild homes.

So much more but I will quit for now, keep praying, thank you so much,

tominhaiti

God Doesn't Read My Emails

2010-01-19T23:47:00.001-06:00

Two weeks ago I sent an email to my board saying "I don't plan on taking any new kids in this year", today is January 19th and just took number 3, 4 and 5 into my home to live permanently --also 5 short term). I guess God didn't check his email or He would have known what I said.

This morning at day break we were off to pick up supplies, from a wonderful mission named Haiti for Christ run by two wonderful missionaries, Pastor Joel and his wife Yvonne Trimble. We picked up blankets, cots, tarps, food and were on our way home.

We then came home, unloaded and then headed off to pick up the two little ones who lost their mom, Kimberly and Bony. On the way we stopped and gave water to the garbage dump people collecting rebar. I saw a young teen boy looking at me. He had scarf covering most of his face, and he was covered with dirt. He came to the truck and said, "Pastor Tom, you were in my village two weeks ago. Because of my bible knowledge, you called me pastor." Of course I remembered. I found out his house had collapsed and his mom died. Then the trucks took the debris away, with his mom inside. He had been homeless under a tree.

This was a no brainer. I asked if he would be my son, he said yes and into our truck he crawled. We then went to pick up the two siblings and headed home. The only thing they still had to bring along was their Grace School bag. We then stopped to deliver some of the supplies we had picked up that morning.

When we arrived home, all of the children welcomed the 3 new ones. Bony and Kimberly have been running around this house smiling from ear to ear. Not sure what will happen now as my house grows daily--sure wish God would read my emails.
Tominhaiti

Making a Difference

2010-01-18T23:10:00.001-06:00

Relief workers prepare to head out.

Hi from Haiti,

Today was day 7, and another incredibly busy, emotion filled day.

We thought we had a flight of supplies coming in early. We were at airport, but by satellite phone we were told the flight didn't make it in. There was a huge traffice jam in front of the airport. What made it worse were the dead bodies decomposing on the road, next to our truck.

Later in the day going to the villages, we saw dump trucks full of bodies being dropped off and buried in a mass grave. The situation is so sad and I will never get immune to it. The day my heart doesn't break for what I experience here, I will know it is time to leave Haiti.

However, in spite of the devastation, horror stories and pain, many good things are happening. As you see on CNN, the UN can't even distribute food without danger to themselves. The plan I have put in place is utilizing the 18 teenage young men currently staying with me. While the 10 children and 4 young adults are home, the 18 young men have become my team.

We are sending them out in teams of 6 with their back packs loaded with ready to cook bags of rice, bread and cash. They are visiting the homes of the people from our church and ministry area, and giving them these much needed supplies and money. They must have money for charcoal, matches, drinks and other necessities.

As the boys come home, I am thrilled to see their joy as they tell the stories of hope they are bringing people. One young lady said to one of my boys "just think if Tom had never moved to Haiti" as she shook her head.

My boys love their part and when this is over I believe they will have established themselves as real leaders in our ministry. By distributing supplies this way, in private, there is no mob, no chaos, no danger. We are working our way through a list of 200 families, most with small children.

Several days ago, we saw men from the garbage dump where we minister. They were taking rebar from cement brought from town. We gave them all fresh clean water and promised to be back every day. We have returned every day. It was awesome to give each of them 5 bags of water today and see their joy from a simple thing like water.

We were able to get our cash and change it to Haitian currency. We are going full speed. One of the men who works with us took care of changing the money. He knew we needed diesel fuel. On his own, after changing the money, he went to the gas company where he knew the owner. Mark then showed up at our home with a 55 gallon drum of diesel fuel, or two weeks worth. What a blessing that was. We now have fuel for a month.

Lawlessness is running wild; gangs are driving around shooting the drivers and taking their supplies. Today as we were out, we were able to share bread and help to many strangers. They all looked hopeless.

The US marines began to take control of downtown today and at one
point, ordered thousands of people to leave the city within two hours. The people left, and ended up in our suburb of Bon Repo. They were waiting for a free ride on a greyhound type bus. They were being driven north to Cap Haitain with the promise of food and shelter. Very smart to clear the city so rescue and rebuilding can move forward.

I have several more exciting chapters to share but...............will stop. All of my family is doing well. They are a great help to our ministry. Manel my oldest had the funeral of his aunt today.

To those of you scheduled to visit us in January and February, I just don't know what to tell you. I don't believe you will even be allowed to enter the country since there are no commercial flights. We will have to play this by ear. We will need your help in the months and years ahead. We look forward to you serving alongside us as we share Jesus in Haiti.

Okay, 2 last things, in the morning, sadly we will be bringing two of our school children to live with us. Kimberly and Bony Flesh. They lost their mom and dad and have been orphaned since Tuesday. We spoke to their uncle, who cannot care for himself let alone them, so.................I have two more children. They are like 8 and 9 years old. Two of you sponsor these sweet children. Their mom Natasha was the cook at our school.

Today while driving home with a load of bread, I thought of a young lady and her family. This girl Natalie used to be the girl friend of my son Manel. She is a sweet girl and I thought I would check on she and her family. We went down this alley and found the family. They had no food or water for several days. With tears in her eyes the mom hugged me and hung on, as we gave them fresh drinking water, and money. We left a very happy family.

Folks, this is what you are allowing me to do, and much more, thank you for those who can't thank you, tominhaiti

A day of praise and worship

2010-01-17T22:10:00.002-06:00

Hi from Haiti,

Today was an incredible morning for us. As we arrived at our mission, hundreds of people lined the street walking to church. An hour before church, our “tent church” was full. Something that we just realized today is that we may be the only church in Haiti that people don't have to worry about falling on them.

Many churches are damaged and will be torn down including the beautiful church we rented for 4 years. People are afraid to enter the remaining churches, as the tremors are still coming. Over 100 tremors since Tuesday's quake.

In church we did a special tribute for the noble people that Haiti has lost, including 15 from our church. The relatives of each person came to the front, and of course in a very emotional time, gave their deceased loved one’s name, and shared about them and how they died.

We then did some worship and had testimony time. We had over 30 testimonies of people whose lives were spared. It was a very exciting time with lots of clapping. Roger and I each spoke about the situation and we ended with all of our nearly 600 people going to the middle of the yard, forming in a big circle and praying for Port-au-Prince. It was a remarkable morning.

On the way home, we again stopped and gave fresh, cold water for over 50 men working in the garbage dump, taking what they could from the debris brought from town. The one bright spot, if you can say it this way, is that these men will benefit greatly from the steel they will sell. We plan on bringing them water every single day, even as the cost of water has already doubled from pre-Tuesday prices.

A real God-thing happened. We have run out of emergency cash and this morning some doctors flying in near us were supposed to bring us cash from our quake fund. I went where they were supposed to be, but they had not made it in. As we were headed home, I saw them coming on a bus. We did a u-turn, stopped the bus, and received our cash plus a satellite phone.

First thing tomorrow morning, we will begin to care for hundreds of families in our villages, with food and money. I can't wait.

I could go on for an hour sharing what God is doing and how we are impacting these folks. Yesterday I saw a man with some little kids, I went and introduced myself, and saw his house and met his family. I never once mentioned God, or church. Today, this man and his family were sitting in church. You see, I didn't need to talk about church, I needed to BE the church, and that is what I did.

Before church, I was standing on our property line with my foot on the fence. I was looking over the water at Port-au-Prince. I saw the lines of hundreds on the road to my left coming to our mission. I looked behind me at a church filling with people. Tears began to well in my eyes. An incredible feeling of responsibility came over me. And for a brief moment, just a brief moment, I thought "I wonder if this is how Moses felt the day before he lead the Jewish nation out of Egypt".

Not comparing myself to Moses but, had a “Moses moment”. A moment of feeling overwhelmed for what is ahead, a feeling of "God, I can't do this but with your help, I will give it my best shot". I am ready to lead. Pray for the upcoming days, weeks and months.

This week will lead to many, many challenges- challenges we accept. We accept them on behalf of a people who have been beat, battered and knocked down for the past few years, but continue to fight on. We are fighting with them with your help. Thank you.

tominhaiti

The waiting game continues

2010-01-16T20:30:00.002-06:00

Dear Friends,

I want to again thank so many of you who have given of your funds for these precious people. Many have questions about things I said concerning my family and our points of lights and other items. Please go to our http://www.jesusinhaiti.org/ and most questions should be answered.

Today was another day of giving help, and hope. We left early for another part of the village of Source Matles. The people love to show you their damaged home and know that we care. We were able to help dozens of people with aid for food. They have a spring in this village so water is not an issue here. However, what is really becoming a problem in this area of 80,000 or so is that THEY ARE ALL VERY, VERY HUNGRY. We can't help them all and that is frustrating. We are able to help many but so many more haven't eaten in days.

On the way home from the village, we spotted the men from the garbage dump by the road going through debris from Port au Prince. I had water and rice stocked under the back seat so we stopped and the boys passed out 3 bags of cold water and 2 bags of rice to every person there working. They were jumping up and down and raising their hands and praising God. I promised to bring them water often.

We then saw an owner leaving a grocery store. I quickly stopped and asked if he had food. He said two tremors just hit and he was afraid the store would collapse. I asked if I could go in and get groceries so while he stood outside, two of my boys and I went in and got supplies: peanut butter, spam, cooking oil, salt, toilet paper, juice, and much more. I spent about $400 getting this food.

I am now home, so thrilled that we could help so many. Tomorrow is church and, as Haitians respond in crisis by going to church, I'm sure we will have a full crowd. We plan a time of testimony and lots of praise and worship.

What lies ahead for next week, we have no idea. This is going to be a very, very long process with us doing a lot of reacting to what happens in front of us.

Thanks again for your financial help, and your prayers. We have been Jesus in Haiti to these people for 12 years and we won't stop now.

tominhaiti

Day 3 in the books

2010-01-15T21:53:00.002-06:00

Hi,
Wow what a week it has been, here is a sampling of what we have been able to do and events of the week:

A lady was wandering the streets today with a little baby. The baby's hand was crushed by a fallen wall. We gave her money, a ride to the hospital and hope.

Visited hundreds of people in the villages, all who have lost their homes. We have been able to help many with money for medical help, food and water, they were very appreciative.

We are up to about 50 homes we will help rebuild in the months ahead. Everyone needs a roof over their heads.
We are setting up a food pantry at our church.

Our home has been made available to kids, teens and families who are homeless. We have doubled from 22 to 44 in the past couple days.
There is no fuel in Haiti, NONE, and the ports are destroyed so gas may not be coming for weeks or months. We have enough for 3 weeks.

People from our church have been coming to our mission compound and we have been helping them with food and money.

A boy is at our home who lost both parents and was with his grandma. Her house was destroyed.

Houses are still falling with the aftershocks

No Haitians are sleeping inside, all outside, including those in my yard.

A cook for our school was killed in her falling home. We are caring for her two children.

We are providing care for people at the garbage dump who need it.

We are helping feed and care for 150 Plus children and adults at the Good Samaritan Orphanage.

We have invited a church that was destroyed to worship with us and be part of our church, until they rebuild, if they are able to rebuild.

I have been caring for my family of 22, including Jovens, the little blind boy.

We have been feeding our neighbors.

This, and much more has happened, in just 3 days. We thank you for your help, you have brought hope to hundreds. Remember, this is not a 3 to 5 day event. The earthquake, like Katrina, has changed our lives forever. It will take years to rebuild Haiti. For reasons unknown, many missionaries have been evacuated, we praise God we are able to stay and be the hands and feet of Jesus, here in Haiti. Long after CNN has gone, we will be helping rebuild homes and lives. You are a big part of that. Your generosity is making and will make a difference for years. Thank you so much. tominhaiti

Haiti has lost it's smile

2010-01-15T05:13:00.002-06:00

Hi,

It is Friday morning, 5:30am, 3 days after the quake and the tremors have not stopped. I was awaken this morning about 20 minutes ago with a very large shaking of the house. We only had 6 or so tremors yesterday and then another one 5 minutes ago.

We continue to monitor the folks in our points of light. It is so hard being 5 miles or so from the center of the quake, and not really being able to help. If you don't have large earth moving equipment, or are a doctor with supplies, or food for a million, you can't do anything in Port au Prince.

Even distributing food or water is very dangerous. People are desperate and will fight to death for a cup of water. Yesterday we drove looking for food and water, and saw bodies on the street and as we got closer to downtown, the traffic was so jammed up we made a u-turn and came home.

Our folks in the villages need blankets and we are working to find some. I have board members coming on the first flight in on the 21st bringing a large supply. My number has grown to 32 and climbing at our home here. We are helping the neighbors with food and water.

There is no place to cash a check or get money, even Western Union is shut down. Cash flow will be a huge problem for myself, and all missionaries. My board members next week might be my first way to get money. Praise God I had enough for emergencies in the safe. This has allowed us to help many people and care for my family.

Kind of lost in the shuffle is the fact that we found water at our mission this past weekend. We have been praying for this and since water is in such demand in Haiti, this is a huge blessing for our mission. Water is not flowing yet with a pump or anything but very soon we will have fresh water at our mission. This is quite a blessing.

Also I told you about the little 7 year old blind boy that I brought home a week or so ago. We found him being abused in the village at a kids club. Kids were slapping him, because he could not see the hits coming. He is a sweet little guy who is smiling non stop now.

We will continue to be Jesus in Haiti, to assist the people in our area and any others we are in a position to help. To those of you who have given so sacrificially to help these wonderful people, I thank you on the behalf of so many people who have no voice to thank you.

Your donation will give hope and will help people get back on their feet, and to a normal life in the coming weeks and months. Thanks so much for your prayers and support. We have a big day today as I head to the villages. May God bless, tominhaiti

Quake Update in Haiti - Wednesday

2010-01-13T20:31:00.001-06:00

Dear friends,

The past 30 hours have been incredible and very sobering. Without knowing if there is any damage to our homes, our entire family slept in the courtyard on mattress's. Our security guard didn't show up so I was the guard all night, It was a long night.

By 5:30 am we were up and getting ready to head to the villages where we do ministry. We arrived just after sun up and first went to our mission compound. Praise God we have NO damage, everything intact.

I along with Linda Neal one of our board members and 7 of my boys then began to walk the village of Source Matles. Let me be clear on our role in this crisis. We are not part of search and rescue. We were involved in that in our neighborhood moments after the quake hit but not today. The search and rescue is going on in Port au Prince. In the villages there are NO 2 story buildings or houses.

What we found in the village is nearly 100% of the folks homeless. Last night they all slept on the ground in front of their small homes. All the homes were damaged, entire walls falling in, roofs caving in and walls cracking. We heard many stories of babies nearly killed. I held two little babies, one had a scratch on his lip and one had a scratch on his neck, this from a falling cement block that hit them. The moms were praising God.

We toured the village for over 3 hours, hearing every story, seeing everyones' destroyed homes. We were able to help many people who still needed medical care. We also promised about 25 families we would help rebuild their home.

What a joy to see their faces, and the hope that we had given. This is just one of our 4 villages. The other villages have been destroyed just as badly.

I have taken in 5 teens into my home who are homeless and we will help rebuild their homes. The cost to help each family rebuild will be about $300-$500.

We are working on food distribution tomorrow for those who need meals. Water is not an issue in Source Matles as they have a fresh spring water.

We are still sleeping in court yard. The after shocks keep coming, and are very strong and very scary. Of course all schools are canceled and may be for the rest of the year.

Tomorrow we hope to be able to get back to the Good Samaritan orphanage, as well as begin to meet the needs of our 100 school children.

What you are seeing on CNN is not happening in the villages but they are all homeless and need our help so badly, which we are doing.

Think of everything in your home, in ruins, lying under cement blocks. You have no money, no food and can't even think about rebuilding. We are giving hope back.

Today we had one meal at our home, a 3pm pot of rice and beans, and popcorn tonight as we ration the food.

I am very sad as we have reports that the French Grocery store I have been going to for 12 years, was leveled. I made dozens of friends in 12 years with the owners, the cashiers, the bag men and I am so sad that most of them are probably dead.

The garbage dump people of Merjay are doing fine. Two men came to my house today and said "God spared us, no injuries, no structural damage". We still have Titiyan, Cabaret and Minnotree to visit in up coming days.

There is NO where to buy food or gas at this point. I do need to try to find blankets tomorrow as the people are very cold at night. I know it is still 70 but that is cold for these folks,. Imagine your temp dropping from 70 to 40, you would be cold. I hope to get 100 blankets to distribute.

I could go on but I will stop. Our guard is here today so I can sleep in my shaky bed tonight. The boys think I am crazy for sleeping in the house but the bugs are so bad outside. We will have pictures on our website that are amazing and really paint the picture of what has happened in the rural areas.

tominhaiti

2nd Earthquake Update

2010-01-12T22:04:00.002-06:00

hi from haiti

This is the worst thing to ever happen to Haiti. The worst news will come tomorrow. My heart is so heavy. We just got our 15th or so after shock tremor. Some last for 10 seconds. It is very scary.

By tomorrow morning, our webmaster will have a donate button for you to help with this crisis. We will be helping as many people as we can, in our points of light, and neighborhood in the next few days and weeks. We will be helping with medical help, food and drinking water. No amount of money will be enough but whatever we get, every single penny will go to help these poor people. Sadly, we already have some deaths in our points of light, we will need to help with that.

We are all sleeping in the courtyard outside as the houses keep shaking. Much of our inside stuff was broken but house seems solid. we will check in the morning on structural damage.

We plan on leaving at 5am before sun up to visit our villages. Several motorcyles have come to our house from the village checking on us, with terrible reports of death and destruction.

Our Roger came home 30 minutes ago, fell into our arms, He was at Bible school in a building that collapsed, he was injured and walked the 5 miles home. He lost some classmates.

Our board of directors were scheduled to come this week but we have cancelled the meeting. This will last for a long time. Just now another tremor, about number 17. We have reports of much looting going on. Our guard did not show up today so I am standing guard duty over my sleeping family in the courtyard.

We just got full supplies this morning, praise God. God placed us here for such a time as this. We will do our best to be Jesus to these people and bring relief.

Side note, I brought a little blind boy home last week, 7 year old and blind since birth. What a sweetie, Jovens. We will seek medical help to check out his eyes.

Also, just heard the UN headquarters collapsed. checking the report, will give you update tomorrow afternoon or night. Pray will ya, still unaccounted for is Manel, Jony and Clasimay., tom

First Earthquake Update

2010-01-12T20:15:00.000-06:00

Our family is safe. The buildings, homes, businesses, and hospitals of Port-au-Prince are flattened. We stand outside and weep as we hear thousands of crying people. Thousands have died, many, many around our house. Ten of the boys were out rescuing people from under fallen walls and buildings.

One of our guys from Minnotree just came by on motorcycle, The big rice factory, with 500 men working, collapsed. Titiyan, Source Matles, Minnotree, flat, except a few houses; Pastor Jackie's house still stands tall.

Gas station near our house, market, all flat. Several hospitals have collapsed, and, therefore, no place to take people. My boys who have families in these villages are weeping and praying in the yard. We feel it is too unsafe to drive with power lines down and total chaos.

Our houses shook and swayed back and forth for at least ten seconds. I was driving and thought the axle fell out. Roger is not here. He was in Port-au-Prince at bible college. Pray for Manel, Roger, Jony and Deckenson, Claismay, Bobby and our entire staff.

The air is full of wailing. We just got after shock, about four of them since the big one, and the boys are afraid to come in the houses. More later. Not sure what lies ahead. God is in control. Pray for the people of Haiti. tominhaiti.

Wrapping Up 2009

2010-01-01T02:50:00.000-06:00

Greetings from Haiti,

I am not much into looking back but think it worth a little look over our shoulder. When I think of this year, I think what pops out at me. Here is a list of things by the date they happened:

1) Hundreds of you visited, assisting our ministry here in Haiti and I made many new close friends. I will never forget your sacrifice of money, time and energy for these precious people of Haiti and for the Lord. Lives were changed for eternity because you came, and because you left part of your heart behind. Thank you so much.

2) The loss of several people, including Mommy Tia from our family. It was sad this Christmas not being able to pick out a gift or two that I knew would bring a huge smile to her face. We know that Mommy was in the presence of the birthday BOY Himself which is way better.

3) A fantastic journey to Seattle and Minnesota meeting new folks and sharing what God is doing, here in Haiti.

4) The addition of Jony, Peterson, Auddy, Adrianno, Berthony and Reggie to our family.

5) Pastor Jackie leaving our ministry, a Godly man we miss so much.

6) A brand new Kia Truck and a brand new generator for our house.

7) Tremendous progress for the government of Haiti in many different areas making the country safer and on a comeback.

8) For the first time ever, having all of our school students sponsored.

9) And....the tent. This will be known as the year of the tent, the year we made our move to our property. What a joy this has been and ministry has advanced 100% forward.

10) Last and most important, several hundred people became Christ followers, many of those baptized and becoming leaders. Folks, this is why we are here, everything else is just window dressing. Remember what I have told you many times "IF WE ARE NOT MAKING DISCIPLES, WE ARE NOT MAKING A DIFFERENCE." We can feed people until the cows come in but if we aren't making an eternal difference, we might as well pack up and go home. Thank you for being a part of this amazing year.

What lies ahead in 2010
Who knows, but some questions to be answered.

1) Will this be the year of the glorious return of our Lord? We can only hope.

2) Will the church building begin in February and be done in the summer?

3) Will 6 more be added to my family? (you know what I am hoping)

4) Will I or one of you go home to Glory, to be with the people we love and the Savior we adore? (you are ready, right?)

5) Will the Detroit Tigers win the world championship?

6) Will we get a much needed truck, a people mover?

7) Will you finally get over your fear of Haiti, and actually come? (to the hundred that always say they are coming, but don't)

8) We have topped 500 in church. Will we reach the 1,000 number in the new church building? (don't bet against this one)

9) Will God send me a pastor and his wife to work alongside and a young couple to work with the youth?

10) Will we be adding more points of light?

As you see, many questions to be answered and the only way I know to get answers is to continue to be faithful to the call God has put on all of our lives. None of these above items could be accomplished without your sacrifice of love, money, time and prayer. Thank you so much. Thank you for these innocent children who have no voice. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Happy New Year, tominhaiti

New Names Written Down In Glory

2009-12-20T11:31:00.000-06:00

hi from haiti,

This really is me, tom in haiti. As you know by now, someone hacked into my account, changed my password and sent emails to you all trying to get money sent to a western union in England.
Be assured, I will never ask you for personal money ever. My board is set up for emergencies and they will take care of any problems ever. I am praying that none of you sent money to this thief.

There were 6 of you that responded to my box and asked "me" questions about being stranded in London. I went to my "sent" box and saw the thief answered you assuring you it was for real. I am so sorry for this whole ordeal. No one was more upset than I.

Also I did not get any emails for about 2 days, the thief had them all forwarded to his account so if you emailed me in past 50 hours, I did not get it, please resend. I have 100% control of my account with no danger of being hacked again. Yahoo was really good in helping get my account back.

Today was my first church service back at Victory Bible Church. Attendance had really dropped while I was gone but today we had over 400 so we are moving back up. We had a wonderful service. I preached on being a follower of Christ, not a Christan. God blessed the sermon and 20 came forward to give their life to Christ and become followers of Christ.

My assistant pastor is worried, we have 70 people who will be baptized in January and he is not sure how we are going to do that. That is 70 precious people since September and our first service in the tent. And this not counting the people who have accepted Christ but not taken the next step of baptism. God is blessing.

Upon my return home, I was distressed about some things that weren't in order, at my house. One of the trucks had a broken shock, our freezer didnt' work and things like that.

However the mission looked great, tent and school in order and the staff did a great job at our property (except a broken toliet).

I am so happy to be back. I spent a great 5 weeks sharing what God is doing here, being cared for, loved and....................fed. I put on a few pounds so am working on taking them off.

Thanks for your faithful support, God is blessing what we are doing in a big week. Speaking of big weeks, I have 5 birthdays this week, Reggie, Bobby and Sonson Thursday, Jesus Friday and Matthew on Saturday. On 2nd thought, might wait until January to lose the weight. Take care, tom

From Somewhere in Iowa

2009-12-11T14:00:00.001-06:00

Hi from a very cold Iowa,

Last night I completed my Minnesota world tour and left early this morning, driving from Morris, Minnesota to Cincinnati, Ohio. This is a 950 mile drive and today I reached almost 500 miles.

I am somewhere in a very cold Iowa, -4 degrees, 100 DEGREES COLDER THAN HAITI WAS TODAY! Just not right. Two nights ago at the Nuest farm, Steve had to go out around 11pm to check on his grain heater. I went with him in less than 0 degree weather. I guess I had forgotten that you cannot breathe in cold air like that.

By the time we were outside the barn, I could not breathe. We had to pull a heavy rubber tarp over the grain. I think I went 10 minutes without breathing and when I got back in, I thought I was going to die. I told these folks there should be a law against this kind of cold.

I have a beautiful little Honda Civic I am driving to Marco and Deanna in Cincy, the reason for the drive. They are very excited to have a 2nd car.

My time here in the states has been very, very profitable. I spoke at 24 fundraising "events" to present what God is doing in Haiti, in 20 days. We raised a significant amount of money and have all of our 100 Grace Emmanuel students sponsored except two, and have many more people coming to visit Haiti.

In one church, they had 4 signed up for their June trip. After I spoke, they have 20. Another church had 30 come to a meeting, wanting to go. On and on it went.

Besides presenting Jesus in Haiti, I always let folks know that Haiti is my mission field, and where they live, work and play is their mission field. I trust that people are challenged to be Jesus to those around them, here in the states.

What we did not get, was the $50,000 I was praying for to get our church started in January. We still have a month, so I am not giving up on that one.

We do have some good leads on getting solar power at the mission which is very exciting. It will save us so much money over the long haul.

My family is doing well but really missing me, they say. I hope it is true and if they miss me half as much as I miss them, then I know I am missed.

In the morning I finish my drive to Cincy. After a couple days there with my grand kids, I fly to Florida for a ministry presentation then finally back home, next Wednesday. I can't wait.

To those of you who faithfully support us, I thank you so much. We could not do what we do. I would like you to check out 3 other ministries that are doing it right, and making a huge difference: Haiti for Christ, with Joel and Yvonne Trimble, Feed My Starving Children in Minnesota and Bobby and Sheri Burnett at Love a Child. These are places for you to send that extra money you have lying around, after your favorite missionary of course.

The Trimbles are holding a crusade this Christmas in City Soleil, one of the most dangerous places in Haiti. But guess what, that is where Jesus would be, and that is where they are. Pray for them.

Take care, pray for my drive to Cincy, and I will chat with you later, tominiowa, someplace

Wayne's World

2009-12-02T18:08:00.001-06:00

Dear friends,

I am in cold, blustery, freezing Minnesota with a temp of about 30 degrees. I have been busy sharing what God is doing in Haiti and in my life. These folks might be screwed up when it comes to sports, but they sure are wonderful people. This time here has been amazing, just like Seattle was.

Sunday I shared our ministry in the church service. Sunday night I met with 50 people of the church, 15 who had been to Haiti, and 35 who were coming in 2010. What a great thrill to be with so many people, who loved the Lord and love missions.

Last night I had the honor of sharing the stage before a men's discipleship group, about 50 men. A man named Wayne shared his story, which was touching, emotional and amazing. Wayne came down with ALS 2 years ago, and is near the end of his life. He is so amazing. He is close to death, but so alive. Loving life, thankful God has "chosen" him to carry this disease, along with his testimony. Wayne can't wait to get to Heaven, although he is of course very sad to leave his family behind, with the pain of losing him.

ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease is a disease that causes the muscles to just lose power. Every muscle in his body is leaving, and when his heart muscle goes, he will die. It seems so sad to see a man about my age, looking so good in the face and so bright and full of energy, with a disease that will take him probably in months, unless the Lord intervenes.

Wayne blessed me and encouraged me so much, as well as everyone else. At one point he shared the blessings in his life, one by one, then let us know that before ALS, he didn't see these blessings.

Please pray for Wayne and his family, and if it be God's will that a miracle could happen and he be healed.

He did let me know in a very emotional moment for me that he would share what he heard about me and my ministry, with my dad, in Heaven. We should all be as ready as Wayne, and as willing to accept what God has allowed, and to embrace what God has for us.

After all, we are all dying, just a matter of time. Are you ready to leave this earth? Are you living life like it could be your final days? Are you making your time count? Or, are you stock piling treasurers, building your kingdom here, on this earth? All things to think about. I know I do.

My family is great in Haiti. Missing the old guy they say but doing well. Claudy had to handle payroll yesterday and that was a big thing for him. It was his first time but he did it and I am proud of him.

Please know that just because I am not in Haiti, doesn't mean ministry slows down at all. Sunday in church, a young girl became demon possessed, right in the middle of the service. Our staff is dealing with this great opportunity this week to be Jesus to that young lady. Many times financial support goes down when I am gone and the ministry suffers.

If you are looking for the perfect Christmas gift that can change lives this year, how about sponsoring a day of our ministry in someone's honor? Visit our website at www.jesusinhaiti.org/365club to signup. May God bless, tominthefrozentundra