T+6 Last day in Anse-a-Galets

Martin Luther, the man God used to begin the reformation of the church in the early 1500's prayed: "Lord God, you have placed me in your church. You know how unsuitable I am. Were it not for your guidance I would long since have brought everything to destruction. I wish to give my heart and mouth to your service. I desire to teach your people, and long to be taught you work. Use me as your workman, dear Lord. Do not forsake me; for if I am alone I shall bring all to nought. Amen"

This too is our prayer. Though God has called us to himself in Christ, we are people struggling with sin. We are thankful that God has seen fit to preserve the churches here in Haiti through trying times. The last year has been a struggle as they have had to come to terms with the death of Matt Baugh. The wondered at times whether we had abandoned them. But by faith we believed and prayed with them that God would not forsake the work here. God has shown himself faithful. Pray that I might continue the work here not in my own strength but through Him who gives me strength - Jesus Christ.

This is our second and last day of teaching the men who have gathered. It is also our last on the island of La Gonave. We will be sad to go. The men have come with teachable hearts, good questions and a desire to take the things they have learned back to the churches.

Had a funny experience today while doing part of the teaching. We usually write the catechism question we are considering on the board and then everyone repeats it in unison. We do it once and then again. After we did it once I said "un autre temps" and the interpreter, Junior, said in English, "again." He is even interpreting my French!

Heard this morning that the ferry did not make its morning run. The wharf captain said that the ferry was only to take 115 people. There were far more people gathered at the dock, some who said they had important business to take care of should have been allowed to board. Instead of having arguments and fights break out the crossing was canceled. The ferry is supposed to be on time tomorrow. We will see. "Man makes his plans, but God places his steps."

Douglas Clawson instructs the brothers with Junior interpreting

The brothers of the churches on La Gonave in class

After a long two days some of the brothers head home

Some young children in Ansagale eye the blans (foreigners)