New Light

"I will never be the same again," Were Ruben's words as he walked into the house after his trip to Haiti.

Ruben and Jonathan spend a few days in earthquake damaged Haiti this month. Pictures of tent communities overwhelm their minds as they recanted their journey. They spent some time with the Christians of Port-au-Prince as they ministered in a church service there. The testimonies of those Christians brought a new light to their view of God's protection. Many testified of how they were led by God to leave the buildings they were in just a few minuted before the earthquake! They now feel that they have a new purpose and a new vision. They want to reach their nation for Christ more than ever. They feel that God saved them for that very purpose.

After some time in Port-au-Prince, they traveled into villages within the mountains of Haiti. It was a long 6 hour drive, but worth every single hard moment! In the villages, they ministered in churches and spent time talking with the people of the villages. Many have returned to their villages since the earthquake as they fear living near the Enriquillo-Plantain Garden fault zone.

Countless children survived their parents, which gives us more assurance as to why God placed us here now! We are still working with government officials in the Dominican Republic in order to legally house orphans. Once we complete this process, we will work with Haitian and Dominican officials to bring Haitian orphans into the Dominican Republic as well.

Thank you for your support and prayers as we work towards purchasing 52 acres of land to build homes for the orphans of the island of Hispaniola.

Family Update:
1. God has provided the necessary household help we needed so that we could dedicate more time on all of the necessary paperwork and interviews for our ministry.
2. Ruben and Vicki spent 3 days away for a time of marriage renewal and refreshment.
3. All of the kids are busy in school and working hard on their H.O.P.E. C.R.E.W presentations.
4. We had a great visit with Vick's mom and the Bray family in January.
5. Our house was almost broken into early one morning while we were asleep. Our landlord has not been reliable nor trustworthy. Please pray God's protection for us and wisdom on our part as we consider moving.

Ministry Update:
1. We are currently a legal ministry in the Dominican Republic, now we are working towards non-profit status here.
2. We are working with CONANI (the government's children's advocacy agency) to obtain permission to house orphans. This is a lengthy and tedious process, please pray for our patience!
3. Lots of children are still coming to our Kid's Klub. Please pray for complete household transformations!
4. Our church is growing slowly, but surely. Please pray for hearts to truly respond to Christ.
5. We continue to support a small church plant in a village near us. Please pray that each member will walk in encouragement.
6. More opportunities have opened for us in Haiti. Please pray for God's provision and wisdom.
7. Ruben and the boys are playing on an evangelistic basketball team. Pray for many to give their hearts to our Lord.
8. Our neighbors are now beginning to trust us. Please pray for God to use us in their lives.
9. Our children have invitations to perform (H.O.P.E. C.R.E.W) in different locations. Pray for their hearts to remain upright before the Lord.
10. We desperately need a vehicle. Please give towards a vehicle and pray!

WE LOVE YOU!!!!!!