Continuing in our committed response to the devastating Haiti earthquake, Denver United sent a team of 15 people to Haiti March 14-21, 2011. The team included Pastor Andrew Mondy, Melissa Sturgis, Neysa Lettin, Jeremy and Megan Oaster, Christopher Bach, Darren Boe, Amanda Davis, Kristen Gonzales, Sydney Neeley, JT Weatherford, Callista Clark, Jeremy Gage and Connie Bean, led by Matt Zimmerman. Partnering with Renewal4Haiti and Dr. Joseph Charles, the trip focused on assisting with rebuilding efforts at the Camejo hospital in the city of Leogane.
Here, in Matt's own words, is an update on the trip:
We got to work as soon as we arrived. After we set up our tents and put our work clothes on, we knew that we would be focusing our efforts in two main areas: 1.) building two post-operative rooms for the hospital, and 2.) clearing the rubble from the old warehouse area to prepare the area for construction of a guest house that will allow them to host guest medical experts and short-term teams. When we stopped work the first day, part of our team went out to explore and met an incredible Haitian family that truly needed to see a doctor. We were able to connect them with Dr. Charles. Not only were their medical needs addressed, a relationship was born that we enjoyed for the duration of our trip.
After two days of hard, physically intense work, we discovered that a high school run by a missionary organization was located next door to the hospital. A few of us walked over and asked if there was anything that they needed or if we could help. They pointed us to another campus. At this elementary school, we teamed with believers from Norway to put the finishing touches on two new school buildings. We were able to be a part of the grand opening celebration.
Back at the hospital, work continued on the two new rooms and rubble removal. On a personal note, I was so proud of our team and the attitude with which we approached the massive pile of rock that remained from the warehouse. It wasn't glamorous... It didn't provide any cool pictures... It was really hard, hot work. But it was what our friends in Haiti needed and asked us to do.
In the midst of all the hard work and projects, we found ourselves immersed in conversations and relationships. We consistently found ourselves sharing the hope and love of Jesus. Whether it was just playing with children or explaining in details the hope that we have in Jesus, there was always someone in our midst. We carried Creole Bibles to missionaries, provided a few solar powered electronic Bibles to the hospital and a missionary, and answered many insightful questions posed by our translator.
Oh...and we got to see some beautiful parts of a wonderful country!
Share in some of the memorable moments of the trip by viewing the wrap-up video.
