Questrist

Haitian Trip

Day 6 (Jan 12 - quake anniversary)

I've gotten used to shaving without a mirror. I think perhaps I'm doing a better job than with a mirror since I can't remember where I've shaved so I end up shaving over the same areas multiple times. I'm careful not to cut myself, I don't want to give those possible water germs more of an opportunity to get into my system.

We attended the earthquake commemoration prayer/praise event in Port-au-Prince right next to the crumbling palace. There were several speakers, some Americans but mostly Haitians. A young Haitian boy sang "Emanuel" and brought great glory to God through his amazing vocal ability, very mature and sophisticated vocals for someone of his age. Hands were raised and waving praises to God by the end of the song. I later learned that he was discovered on a Haitian star search event.

Drove out to the 'A New Haiti' property for the tree planting ceremony. We walked up a slight incline to near the top of the property line, away from the ocean, to plant the first tree. When we reached our destination I turned to look back in the direction we had just walked from and encountered the most breathtaking view of the ocean below. You can't see this from the property near the roadside. We planted (actually the Haitians did all the planting - members of Jehovah Nissi were there and participated in the planting as well as a couple of Paula's Haitian friends) several trees. Brook read the passage from Ezekiel for the first and second tree planting. Scores of photos and videos were taken by all. I felt honored to be part of this experience. Moplesur (spelling?) asked me to pray for him as he has just started a small church where he is the pastor.

On the drive home we encountered what appeared to be some kind of riot. It turned out to be a celebration marking the moment when the earthquake finally stopped.

Jel (another one of Paula's friends) admitted that he had difficulty sleeping on the eve of the anniversary because of nightmares about the quake. Some Haitian people didn't sleep at all the entire night.