striving together…
Dear Friends of Sea Hope
During our medical clinic trip to Haiti this past February 27-March 3rd, I had the privilege to tour Emmanuel Medical Center in Cayes Jacmel. The buildings have suffered from age, earthquakes and tremors; the equipment has not been updated in decades. A rebuild of the buildings is in progress under the direction of missionary Kevin Falde.
As I toured the facility, God just broke my heart. People everywhere get sick or injured and need a decent place to get medical help. Emmanuel has been providing the best care they can with what they have, but they really didn’t have much. God just laid it on my heart to help.
Scenes from rebuilding Emmanuel Medical Center, Pastor Cherubin and Kevin Falde, and the first baby born in the new maternity ward
I shared my burden with my missions director Pastor Randy Barton and "Operation Emmanuel" was formed to carry a load of medical equipment and supplies to Emmanuel Medical Center.
We started in mid-May and in three weeks God provided the funding and supplies for the mission. The only explanation possible is God did it. There is no rational explanation for how such a complex chain of events could occur in such a short period of time other than to say God did it...you have to say it because it is true. Yes there were obstacles and concerns (and truthfully, worries)...but God made a way when there was no way.
Organizations that donated material to the trip were Life International of Orangeburg, SC, Crossing All Borders in Angier, NC, Trinity Church, Greensboro, NC, Samaritan’s Purse, North Wilkeboro, NC, and Kingsway Charities of Bristol, VA. Anchor Baptist Missions International and Sea Hope both donated to the cause, and many individuals gave items as well. Several churches, organizations, and individuals gave a special offering to supply the financial needs. The crew of 11 came from 7 different churches, and at least 3 other churches were involved in loading the material in Puerto Rico.
I do not know how many prayer warriors we had, but I know folks prayed because I saw God pour out His blessings.
While we were in Jacmel, Haiti to deliver the material, David Shaffer was able to preach two nights at Hosanna Baptist Church during their annual Bible Conference. We also delivered over 2000 copies of Johns-Romans from BEAMS and Little Book Ministry tracts, all in Creole.
Truly, this mission demonstrated people standing fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.
