Hola from the Dominican Republic.
Everyone arrived safely. Day one of our mission trip started
out with a hike and a worship experience next to a natural waterfall which was absolutely
beautiful. As Will led us in worship, we discussed the reasons for our trip and
being visitors in a foreign land. It was great to hear each family’s comments
on why they made the trip and we all felt in one accord. This was a good thing,
because after worship and lunch most of our team began digging a deep trench
about 5 ft deep to aide in the construction of a medical clinic that will serve
the community. It was very hot and the earth was mostly clay and a little tough
to dig in, but as we all worked together it was wonderful to see the hands and
feet of Jesus Christ working to serve others.
The rest of our team went to set up for a medical clinic
that was led by a local doctor, Dr. Lawson, and a dentist from Chicago. They
sorted medication and got organized as there were high expectations as to how
many people would come the next day.
We closed the day with a dinner of….wait for it……wait for it……Chicken
and Rice blessed by the song of “Give Thanks” sung at meals by every St John
team since the “Bakers Dozen” in 2007.
Our second day began back at the Dig Site and with the
opening of the Medical Clinic. The team made great progress on the dig and the
medical team saw about 200 patients. We took a mid-day break and visited “The
Hole” where 500 Dominican families live in an abandoned city dump. The church
there is flourishing under the guidance of Pastor Felix. As we entered the
area, which is made up of make shift houses, we were greeted by smiling
children who immediate jumped on our backs for a ride down to the church. It is
hard to believe how happy they were amidst such conditions. We were blessed to
serve them lunch in the church which occurs every day and supported by GO
ministries.
We finished our day back at the worksite and came back to no
power and no water. But God blessed us with a wonderful rooftop breeze and more
chicken and rice.
A special shout out to Daddy Nuss, the girls want you to
know that they love you and take care of the dog!
And for Angela, Nick is doing great and playing with a ton
of Dominican kids.
Blessings!
Chris Smith
2 comments:
Thanks for the update! So glad to hear that travel went well and you're onto working. Know you have many back in the states praying for you and the impact you are having on His kingdom. Enjoy the week! - The Walz Family (send some pics. :) )
Love the team photo! So great to see so many smiling faces reflecting Jesus in their actions. The St. Louis contingent of the St. John church family is praying for the St. John missionaries, DR Missionaries and all those they serve. Miss all of you and miss the blessings that swinging a pick axe and eating rice and beans always bring.
You will be blessed to be a blessing! The Belt Family
PS- keep an eye on Dr. Rick, he is always up to something!
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