"Do not, let your heart be troubled.  Trust in God, trust also in me." John 14:1

Brothers and sisters,
What I have seen over the last few hours is beyond what I imagined. The scary thing is that there is more to see...
 We made it into PAP from DR safely by the grace of God.  I must admit that I was pretty nervous.  But God opened the way for us and guided us safely all the way to the church's property were the disciples welcomed us as if we were angels of God.  I am sobered by the display of courage I have seen in these brothers and sisters.  Many of them have lost homes, employment, not to mention loved ones in the disaster.  Yet they are still able to smile, sing and pray and serve others."  Evangelist Jorel says" I had a place to live and many other things yet I had worries.  Now, I have no place to live and very little yet I have less worries." This sentiment is shared by most of the disciples.

 The faith of the church has been built up in spite of this catastrophe.  Now that many have nothing...they really understand Paul's word that "if we have food and clothing we should be content."

The stories of those who have escaped by a miracle of God is both awe inspiring and eerie.  Some where the only ones to make it out alive fom an office building with hundreds...the only family member to make it out of a house before it crumbled crushing their loved ones to death;  one sister was out to get a report for a meeting with coworkers.  While she was out getting the report her office crumbled killing all her coworkers...many such stories are common here...

We have talked witth  the leaders about the short, mid and long term plans.  We have also discussed their needs.  Which is what I would like to give you an update on:

1) They need solar panels.  Energy is very limited

2) They need medical professionals (nurses, doctors...)  It is important that that those who come have a plan; have made adequate preparations.  The church has its hands full...their ressources are very limited...they cannot be burdened by the needs of those who come to help...in other words before you come to help you have to decide if you will be more a burden than a help

3) They need more money donated.  Bringing in lots of supplies like we did this morning has some risks-which I am afraid will only become more concerning as the general population becomes more desperate for food and water.

4) They need tents

5) Face masks...bodies all around are starting to decompose.

6) Water purification tablets.  In great quantity.  Dr. Mark Ottenweller and many others anticipate epidemics such as cholera, dissentry etc...due to water contamination

 

Please continue to pray for them.  they are so grateful for all of you and so am I -all of us who are here are!!!!