February 12, 2004 -- E-mail from Randy Starkey
The team arrived in Haiti safely about 1:30 this afternoon. For the first timers it was a shock at every turn. We successfully regained out luggage after a lengthy wait and eventually climbed aboard the back of a large truck. Our transportation during our time here will be that truck. All of us have to stand in the back holding onto metal rails. Port au Prince is nothing like anything most of us have ever seen. There seems to be no rules in driving in this country.
We eventually made our way out of the airport and stopped at a gas station which looked much like one you would find in the states. We all grabbed a drink, took some pictures, and were on our weigh once again. The first lesson learned is that Haitians are particularly fond of having their picture taken. In fact some can get pretty upset. There are vendors all along the streets holding out their product hoping to get a buyer.Our first stop was AFAC home for children. Today was their dedication. When we arrived there we were greeting out front by several children. After visiting awhile, convincing a couple young boys to dance for us, and learning a few quick phrases such as "como orela" (spelling not even close) which means what is your name; and a few others we made our way into the home to take a tour. There was another team there working with NDI putting on a few final touches. We then gathered for the dedication service. There were about 60-75 people their. We first sang "To God Be The Glory" the haitians in creol and us in english of course. What a joy to hear the sounds of praise to God go up in different languages at the same time realizing God got it all. Several people made remarks (I won't even try to get all the names correct). The remarks came first in one language and then were translated to the other. We prayed and sang more songs (Great Is Thy Faithfulness). Then a couple more pastors came in that were arriving late. We were about 2/3rds through the service and I think we started over when they arrived. Eventually we concluded and visited briefly. We then loaded up and made our way to Walls Guest House where we now reside.
We unloaded our luggage, got settled and headed down for some chicken, salad, and beans and rice. After dinner we met with Jean Baptist a Haitian pastor who we will be working with Saturday and Sunday night in a crusade. We talked about some future ministry plans. We then had our delayed orientation with Wes. After the orientation, many of us made our way about a block down the street to the Timothy house orphanage. Where we met a couple who take care of 34 children. We then made our way back to the guest house and began to settle in for the night.
We are looking forward to a great time here. It is obvious that God is working and the team is excited about another day. Be assured that we have seen no signs of any kind of trouble here in Port au Prince. We are confident that God will go before us and protect us. Keep the team in your prayers and we'll update you once again tomorrow evening. Pass the word along. God Bless.
Randy Starkey
NDI Haiti Mission Team