Salt and Light Ministries

North of Boca Chica

2011-09-05T15:51:00.000-04:00

Elisio, Leyani, Bud and Karen at our apartment.

These pastors are working at different locations around Santo Domingo. They speak in area churches and are on staff at the 'English Church'. They are both excellent teachers. We are blessed to have them as friends!

work in Vijia

2011-08-29T10:15:00.000-04:00

We are continuing our work in an area east of Santo Domingo, called Vijea, pronounced, Bee-he-a. We started here over two years ago with Eliseo and Leyani. They are both pastors and have been working in the Dominican Republic after coming here from Cuba.
We have now completed a house for using as a center for many activities. First, we are working with over 100 children in the area. They were very unruly when we began to work with them, with no discipline or at least very little. Now they are beginning to respond to the lessons and some are beginning to see benefits in their homes. Some of the parents are now coming to the youth meetings and so we have begun a class for the women in the area. This class has really begun to grow rapidly and we are excited about the opportunities this presents.

A team from Florida helped build a pavilion next to the house. This is now where we work with the children, while the mothers have bible class in the house. Also we have a new Dominican couple, Pastor Franklin and his wife Lavi, and their 3 yr.old son, Franyorkis. They are living in the house now and oversee the ministries that were started years ago, along with the new projects.

Just last month we worked along side a team from Kentucky that installed a water purification system in the house. This new project is a water ministry for an area that services over 1000 families. Until now they were drinking water from a river that is close by, but it is polluted and unsafe, it has been a leading cause of all the parasites and illness that has plagued the area. Even when they could get clean water, most could not afford to pay for it. A five gallon bottle was over $100 pesos. (approx. $2.50) Now we can give them clean water at a cost $25 pesos. (approx. 60 cents)

We have also opened up a computer room to teach those who are interested. Currently we have classes
5 days a week. In the morning the children come, in the afternoon the teens (youth), and in the evening adult classes are held.

We look forward to medical teams to come as we have set a room aside for medical/dental work.
God has abundantly blessed us and we are so excited to see all He is doing. We are believing God for a vocational school to begin next year. Lord willing we will be able to work with over 500 youth and hope to give them a vision of different future than they have ever had.
We thank God daily for all he is doing here and are so excited to see the changes in the lives of those we work with daily.

Karen is proceeding with the complicated process of getting into the local women's prison. The prison hosts many foreign women who speak english and were used as 'drug mules'. Many are there with no charges or court dates. It's a very dark place to be, but the LIGHT of the LORD brings hope and restoration.

In the evenings here in the city there are young christian men who come to the house for counsel and teaching. We have some that have started businesses and some who have started churches and bible classes.
Today we went to a small Haitian church here in the city, and shared with them. We have been invited back to preach again and to work with the pastor and his wife privately.

God is so gracious.
Blessings for now,
Bud

Constructing Houses; Building Hope

2010-11-08T13:20:00.005-04:00

Video by John Burr

Doing simply what God asks all of us to do. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR
It is humbling to see the needs of others and be given the opportunity to
know what is the heart and mind of God.

Haitian children....such as these.

2010-06-25T21:21:00.015-04:00

"I tell you the truth," Jesus said to them,
"no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God ,will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life."
Matthew 18:29
*************************************************************************************
Jezi di yo: Sa m'ap di nou la a, se vre wi: Nenpòt moun ki kite kay li, osinon madanm li, osinon frè l', osinon papa l' ak manman l', osinon pitit li poutèt peyi kote Bondye Wa (Haitian Creole version)

We have received!

Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Luke 18:16

Haiti Update

2010-06-21T09:49:00.004-04:00

We have been going in and out of Haiti since the earthquake. When you first arrive it is almost overwhelming. The total destruction of a city of 3 million plus people is impossible to wrap your mind around. Then you leave the city and head on west and see even more devastation. We have been focusing on Petit Goave, which is a small city on the south leg of the country.

Ed Lockett is a friend and missionary with Missionary Ventures, and so we have connected to help in any way we can. This is clearly not a short term issue. Before the earthquake there were many who needed work and food. They needed better schools and effective spiritual teaching. Now they need those things even more plus support through the grieving process, as they work through all that has happened. In the following days I will try to devote time to keep everyone up to date as the Lord allows. People are still living on the streets, bathing and brushing their teeth on the sidewalks ....and the Lord is there, too.
We are home, the Dominican Republic, for a couple of weeks and then back to Haiti. These pictures are of our last trip, and we will be leaving for Haiti the first part of July.

We unloaded some supplies in Port-au-Prince and met with the staff at Mision Rescate. The medical clinic is still up and running and Bud was asked about some additional work on walls and shelving.

Petit Goave, Haiti and work team

2010-03-03T16:44:00.000-04:00

This is some of the MVI work team and Bud on the roof (of course) where the new tinaco's (water tanks) were installed.
What a great time of fellowship, hard work, fun, and the Lord's presence in this time in Haiti.New water lines!

Bon Swa!

2010-02-25T17:28:00.000-04:00

MVI Team I in Petit Goave, Haiti.
Bud is 4th from left in back row, Ed is 2nd from right in green.
This great team is part medical and part construction. Awesome!

Bud's email to me from Haiti said...
Lots of work, got the pump in and now they have water for the first time

in that area that comes from a spicket. Showers, toilets, sinks, they are incredibly excited.

Started on the wall for security, and will hopefully have much done when the next team begins to work. The bus left here about an hour ago. They were really a great bunch of guys.
I say guys because the women worked at the Wesleyan clinic. The guys were all well versed in the jobs needing done and it was great.

This was home for Bud and the team. Tents are also home for many, many Haitians...and some, as so many fotos have recorded, have much less than this. The rains came while the team was there and even the new tents leak.

Kids are abundant in Petit Goave, especially in the area where Ed Lockett has worked for so many years. The construction team got to play with the children when not laying pipelines, block or whatever the task of the day included. Bud is staying in Haiti to work with the teams arriving. Ed left with the first group for some R&R in Florida.

A word about our troops in Haiti

2010-02-20T04:46:00.000-04:00

Of the many stories that have come out of Haiti, a favorite of mine is how kind our troops have been to the people...not just those in need in Haiti, but to the volunteers that have poured into the country as well. I suppose many Americans don't have opportunity to interact with the military while they are 'at work'. I've heard so many comments about how so many have gone above and beyond duty. I don't think the media puts forth much of the kindnesses that are done by the military either. So, just a reminder, pray for the troops there, too.

This is a woman being placed in the back of our truck for transport to the hospital. Bud made many trips all over Port-au-Prince to take patients, doctors, nurses, to necessary medical locations.

Haiti...one month after the earthquake

2010-02-12T19:00:00.007-04:00

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti - Atop the rubble of destroyed churches, in parks and on sidewalks, thousands of Haitians prayed Friday in a national day of mourning, one month after a magnitude-7 earthquake killed more than 200,000 and left this Caribbean country struggling for survival.

President Rene Preval wept during the service, his wife trying
to console him.
“The pain is too heavy — Words cannot explain it,” Preval said.

People raised their hands to the heavens as they sang. Hymns and gospel music pumped throughout the city’s apocalyptic landscape of flattened concrete and buildings uprooted at strange angles from their foundations.
“All families were affected by this tragedy and we are celebrating the memory of the people we lost." [msnbc news]

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?... For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come. Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8

“Mision Rescate” (Rescue Mission)

2010-02-03T15:00:00.004-04:00

Bud and the medical team that went into Haiti, stayed inside the compound area for the Haitian National Police, across from the Palace in Port-au-Prince. This is where many of the police that lost their homes now live. There is electric for a couple of hours a night, provided by generators. Bud slept outside in a sleeping bag. Don't ask about the rats or the toilets. People are continuing to be cared for at about 500-600 people a day at this one site.

People are now being seen with stomach disorders, many with respiratory problems from living on the streets with so much concrete dust and dirt everywhere. Medical staff are preparing for the “second wave of death”, where the toll taken by epidemic diseases, infection, dehydration and waste born illnesses occur.

Part of what Bud did while in Haiti was to take those needing more advanced medical help or surgery to the hospital or Miami University's, four-tent compound at the edge of the Port-au-Prince airport. He transported them in the bed of our truck!

That team left on Saturday, Jan. 30th and we are now preparing for the next trip. We just got a huge donation of baby formula, tarps and medical supplies. Haiti needs a lot of ongoing care. Many amputees will need limbs when they heal and orphans need a safe place to stay. We are headed to Petit Goave, past the capital of PaP. They need a lot of help.
We cannot thank all of you enough for your prayers, support, and financial contributions. We are in this for the long haul and we believe that "greater things are yet to be done in this city!"....country!

Building in Haiti...relationships

2010-01-27T08:32:00.001-04:00

This is Bud on the right (with the new beard) along with Pastor Charlie (in the middle) and a several new friends in the World Vision food warehouse. Bud often prays, "give me favor with God and men". I know God's blessing has been upon the many who are working tirelessly in Haiti.

Somehow, someway, Bud just emailed me from Haiti.

"Transported people to various hospitals. worked in clinic, built shelves, repaired internet." 3:10 pm

"We have seen around 700 more people today. Took food to over 1500 yesterday. UN bringing us a big tent because we are running out of space.
Will send short notes because internet is very shaky." 3:25 pm

"We have in the medical area major and minor surgery, broken bones, respiratory problems. Orphans running everywhere. Don't if parents are dead or alive."

BACK INTO HAITI

2010-01-23T11:11:00.002-04:00

I picked up the medical team late last night at the airport and brought them to our house. The convoy Bud is working with was delayed, so they did not leave Santo Domingo until 7:30 AM this morning. They are headed into Port-au-Prince today to meet up with Dr. Abner.

This is the triage that is set up on the sidewalk with meds in suitcases. Tarps overhead give some protection from the sun. Park benches are used for those who wait. Hotel pool lounge chairs have become the medical examining/treatment tables and at night, Bud says they are quite comfortable to sleep on.

Sheets give shelter for the supplies and flashlights help find the needed items. Some tents are starting to show up. Tents are really needed for the number of people here without homes, volunteers, rescue and security. Bud and I searched the stores here in Santo Dominigo and we could not find a tent or a tarp. We have seen so many International organizations in the stores buying supplies to help as well, I hope the stores can restock soon. Bud is staying 8 days this time and is using our truck within the city to shift people and supplies to areas they are most needed. He assists in triage as well and comforts those who mourn and are broken...and broken-hearted.

Heartache, Help, Hope for Haiti

2010-01-20T16:53:00.000-04:00

These days are still about life and death, tragedy and miracles. Bud told me about a 22 day old baby that was brought into the medical tent and had just been dug out of the rubble...alive! Rescue crews went back to the site where she was found and continued digging in the concrete and found the mom... alive! They were treated in the medical tent and then taken to Jimani, Dominican Republic, to a hospital there.

The little girl's in the fotos were treated at the medical tent....broken bones, burns, gashes. I wept over the fotos, Bud was there, praying. Abner was there, healing. God is there, giving hope.

"Now, O God, strengthen my hands." Nehemiah 6:9

The burns are from the heat and pressure of the concrete on this little girl's back. When her blouse came off, so did the skin. The greater concern is trying to keep wounds clean and infection free.

Bud was helping all over the city this time and making contacts that we can continue to help in the future.

"Whoever receives a little child in MY name receives ME." Matthew 18:5

New 6.1 Earthquake hits Haiti this morning

2010-01-20T11:24:00.004-04:00

Bud arrived home late last night. The truck needs some work....air filter, air cond. repair, oil change. Bud said Port-au-Prince reminds him of the images of NY's cloud of dust after the towers went down. There is a constant film of cement dust through the city and smoke due to fires.
Group foto: Bud and Abner in the back in blue with National Police and medical workers.

The missionaries in and around Santo Domingo are meeting tonight to coordinate our efforts of relief, medical/meds, food/water, clothing/sheets, shelter, and basics. An incredible amount of help is coming in overland from the Domincan Republic route, due to the limited access in Haiti via air/sea.

[left foto] The front of the orphanage wall where Abner grew up....."for such a time as this." Esther 4:14

200,000

2010-01-19T09:20:00.001-04:00

A girl carries her sister in a refugee camp, where at least 50,000 people are staying, on the golf course.

I expect to hear from Bud today. It's been one week today that the earthquake shook this island.

I had 98 emails and no idea how many phone calls yesterday....concerned people, as well as co-ordinating more efforts to feed and get meds, etc. here. We are working with MVI, other missionaries, and churches....they are collecting clothes, sheets and food for us to take back. We will need to buy meds, wound care, gas and supplies. We are very thankful that God's people are all working together to help.

Most people said they hope they'll return to Port-au-Prince, a rundown city packed with slums and shanties where life already was exceedingly difficult for most people before the quake. Some officials estimate 200,000 people perished and 1.5 million are homeless.

A woman leaving the city said,
"It's become insanely expensive," she shouted amid the animated crowd, saying the one-way fare had nearly doubled to the equivalent of US$7.70 — more than three days' income for most Haitians.

Saint-Julien, the driver of a bus he'd named "Saint Yves" in bright, painted lettering, said he had no choice but to jack up his prices.
"It's not my fault, gas has doubled" because of shortages, said Saint-Julien, who is now paying US$50 to fill his tank. (J. M. Katz)

Desie Ulachine, 7, at a hospital in Port-au-Prince, January 18, 2010. The pace of food and medical aid deliveries picked up in earthquake-shattered Haiti, providing some hope to desperate survivors, but doctors worried disease would be the next big challenge for the tens of thousands left injured and homeless a week ago. (Reuters)

The medical diagnosis of an earthquake victim is written on a piece of paper on his chest.

Two girls share a plate of food at a tent city at the Petionville Club, at *Delma 40B, in Port Au Prince. (AP)

*Delma is the area where Abner's aunt lives. She is fine, her house is standing. Abner will stay to work in the medical field.

Haiti's tent city of sheets

2010-01-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

msnbc.com fotos

"A mass of people are fleeing Port-au-Prince. People are being tended for medical needs all along the way from the capital to the D.R. border. The capital is like a war zone." This is from our missionary friend, Miguel. He was coming out of Haiti, as Bud was going in.

The heartbreak in Haiti is beyond imagination. While it is a time of uncertainty there, I'm glad to know that Abner, who is a gifted doctor, is there helping....that my husband, Bud, is there to give physical, emotional and spiritual help to a hurting nation. This is what God commanded us...we love Him, we love others.

Crossing the frontier

2010-01-16T17:09:00.000-04:00

Bud called when they crossed into Haiti today. That was the end of our communication for now. It was a safe and non-eventful trip from the capital. They met up with World Vision in the town of Jimani and were being escorted by them to Port-au-Prince. Safety in numbers and we are all one in Christ! Please pray for the Lord's direction for where to help...where to begin....where to return.

sun-sentinel.com

2:30 a.m. Bud and Dr. Abner on their way!

2010-01-16T03:42:00.003-04:00

Our truck is packed and headed to our pastor's to pick up cases of water and more supplies....it's 2:30 AM and Bud and Abner are heading into Haiti today. There was an issue with the big truck that is transporting the bulk of the supplies, so we had a one day delay. They bought sleeping bags and necessary items for the trip into Haiti. Bud packed his power tools (battery run) as they are still first responders and hope for this to be a rescue, recovery and care to the wounded. One of Bud's favorite scripture is, "He who is gracious to the poor lends to the Lord." Proverbs 19

If you are lending to the Lord.....then it is HE who will repay you! Awesome!

Please consider a donation at this time as much of the main help to Haiti is overland via the Dominican Republic. Bud will be gone 5 days, return, restock supplies and go back.

The Lord is our Hope. Our strength. Our strong tower.

"GO and DO likewise."

2010-01-14T11:49:00.004-04:00

Thank you for your many prayers for our neighbors in Haiti. "Who is my neighbor?....The one who showed mercy...Go and do likewise." Luke 10:29-37

(AP Photo/Gregory Bull) (AP Photo/Ricardo Arduengo)

Relief supplies such as gloves, surgical masks, blankets, pain meds, wound care kits, mosquito nets and cases of bottled water are being loaded in our truck today. I've packed first aid kits and stuffed Bud's backpack with supplies as well. Bud is driving into Haiti tomorrow with a few of the Santo Domingo YWAM staff and Abner, the Haitian doctor that lives with us. Abner left at 6 AM this morning to fly into Haiti with some other workers, but is still on standby at the airport. So unless God has something else in mind, Abner will be traveling with Bud tomorrow.

Pray for their safety, God's direction and the Spirit of the Lord to move among the broken hearted and comfort them as only the LOVE of God is able to do.

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because the Lord has anointed me, TO BRING GOOD NEWS to the afflicted...bind up the brokenhearted....comfort all who mourn"...... Isaiah 61

For those who would like to join our efforts, please continue in prayer and to help in funding our response here on the ground. ~ Missionary Ventures International, PO Box 593550, Orlando, FL 32859
(Attn: Bud/Karen Simon-Domincan Republic)
Love, Love, Love
~ karen y bud

AP Foto/Radio Tele Ginen

Earthquake 7.0 Port-au-Prince, Haiti

2010-01-12T17:01:00.000-04:00

An earthquake registering 7.0 on the Richter scale, with the epicenter located 15kms south of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince, was felt at 5:54pm DR time in the southern, southwestern, central and northern parts of the Dominican Republic yesterday. It was preceded by a 5.9 earthquake at 5:53pm and followed by 33 aftershocks, including 9 ranging from 5 to 5.5.

In Haiti, thousands of people are said to have been killed and damage is estimated in the billions. In the DR, the earthquake caused no material damage or deaths, according to an assessment by the Dominican government and its emergency assistance teams. Nevertheless, the Emergency Operations Center (COE) did issue a preventive tsunami watch for coastal areas shortly after the earthquake, but this was later lifted.

THANK YOU for your love, prayers and many offers of help. We will stay in touch as to how to help.

Christmas Decorations

2009-12-28T18:04:00.000-04:00

Christmas decorating is big here in the Capital. The Americano Department store reminds me of my teenage years in downtown Youngstown, Ohio. Strouss Department store had a floor that you could go up the escalators and look down on the first floor. That is where my memories went when I looked down at the huge Christmas decorations on the main floor!

Feliz Navidad!

2009-12-25T21:49:00.002-04:00

Merry Christmas! This foto was taken at Ann and Scott's house, here in the Dominican Republic. They are here from Texas for several years while Scott works for a US gold mining company.

Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-25T21:42:00.001-04:00

We shared a glorious Christmas dinner at home with Abner. Kinda sad that the basket of apples is larger than the chicken! Turkey is very expensive down here, so we opted for the more common bird! No matter, the men love it when I cook!

Christmas at Grandma's: 2009

2009-12-22T21:17:00.010-04:00

My mom was surrounded by love this past weekend! She was so blessed by surprise visit of some of her GREAT grandchildren!
It's been a rough year for her,in many ways, but she's a tough cookie and a remarkable woman. She turns 79 in April. Uncle Phillip and Christy brought 3 out of 4 of David and Sharon's kid's from D.C. and Uncle Luke was there to join in the fun too. God is soooo good!

Let It Snow!

2009-12-21T21:06:00.003-04:00

The sign on our window says "Let it Snow" ...and it did, only in D.C., not the D.R.! They got over 20 inches! Well, today IS the first day of winter - even down here, it's a little cooler than normal. It's a brisk 73 degrees tonight. Abner put the Christmas lights on our balcony. A common site here in the city.

"To everything there is a season, a time and a purpose under heaven..." Ecc. 3:1

This is a season of giving, sharing, love.

Nothing...no one

2009-12-06T16:26:00.004-04:00

WHO shall separate us from the love of Christ?

Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?

No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death, nor life, neither angels, nor demons, neither our fears for today, nor our worries about tomorrow...not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below, indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35-39

Our first born Grand-daughter

2009-12-01T06:51:00.006-04:00

Sybella Simon is 3 years old today!
Nana and Grandpa love you MUCHO!

Happy Birthday Sybella!

Another Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T21:09:00.007-04:00

Mmmmm....we loooove to give thanks! Saturday, I stuffed, cooked and served turkey for Abner, Marla, Bud and I. Sometimes I forget what a great cook I CAN be! lol. While the dinners we've been to have been great, they served 'dressing' (made with cornmeal), not stuffing. Bud was taste-testing before, during and after dinner!

Thanks for Giving!

2009-11-24T10:58:00.005-04:00

Looks like a warm Thanksgiving for us! We will be sharing thanks and turkey with other missionaries here on the island. Jennifer, Luis, (in red) and Mia and Priscilla. Rosa, Danny, Burge's, Denise, Matt, Isaiah

Thursday = Nov 26 - High 90° / Low 72°
Scattered showers
BLESSINGS to everyone!!

Greg and Melynda Burge, Karen and Bud

Hato Viejo children's ministry

2009-11-22T12:44:00.002-04:00

This is a small village north of Boca Chica. The children are eager to learn and Leyani is a gifted teacher.

The maintence man is 'mute' ....not a term we use in the US
anymore. Bud was writing (drawing?) to communicate ideas.

Friends in ministy

2009-11-14T20:42:00.006-04:00

These are our friends, Leyani and Eliseo Moises. We work with them in children's ministry in an area called Hato Viejo. Leyani teaches bible stories and I'm her assistant! They came here to the DR from Cuba and are praying for God's direction for their lives here.

Bless our military

2009-11-09T08:38:00.003-04:00

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.

For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)

Life in the Dominican Republic

2009-10-30T17:00:00.003-04:00

Reflecting outside the chapel.....and a great group from Old North Church!

Bonao orphange

2009-07-15T21:42:00.002-04:00

We had a good day with the kids at the orphanage.

Here are two precious girls of God!!!

Bonao orphanage

2009-07-14T07:26:00.004-04:00

Our teams at work/play/lovin' at the Bonao orphanage!

"Nana" is the newest member of the family at the orphanage.

Old North Youth

2009-07-12T20:01:00.005-04:00

They have arrived! We started this week's ministry with prayer on the terrace.

"The goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." I Timothy 1 :5

NEW GROWTH

2009-07-12T19:51:00.004-04:00

I'm excited. The old tree I have came into bloom this week with the most flowers it has ever had. Why excited? Because the tree has NEW growth....again. Isn't this what we are supposed to be doing? Experiencing new growth...daily? "Behold, I will do something new and it will spring forth!" Isaiah 43:19

Groupo de Vida!

2009-05-22T10:36:00.005-04:00

Here is a foto of part of our international women's bible study group that meets in Santo Domingo. I'm in the back row, left. The ladies group is made up of primarily missionaries here on the island, although we have those who their husband's work for the U.S. Embassy or other types of work in the D.R.

Another bible study we are a part of is next door to our apartment and is taught in Spanish. Here is Bud, (2nd from left) sharing his special "Louisana Style" Picante sauce on Miguelina's empanadas! The sauce was sent by Rich Heavener (in a lot of bubble wrap) from the States.

Family

2009-01-17T12:27:00.004-04:00

Today is Saturday and tomorrow, for Karen and me it is a big day! We are blessed to have David and Sharon, bringing a team from DC. Also they are bringing our eldest grandson Colin. This will be the first time our family has come to the Dominican Republic to see first hand what we do and who we serve. We are blessed to have a family who have such hearts to come help serve the poor and needy. One of the 10 commandments says, "Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the earth." Many really don't comprehend that what God is saying is that living a Christ centered life is honoring your parents, and when others look at you, they will say how blessed are the parents of those children. Truly we are blessed even as Sharon is carrying our fourth grandchild. We pray every day for God's love and protection on them and now we will be seeing them here! No pictures today, only a very grateful father for God's manifold blessings.

Preparing for 2009

2009-01-10T10:24:00.013-04:00

"Budcakes" at the Burges!

As we head into 2009, there are so many expectations. First we look to new opportunities. Things that perhaps have been delayed for finacial or seasonal reasons. Second we look for clearer understanding of what we believe God wants from us. Each of us has a reponsibility to search the mind and heart of God. Listening for that still small voice, confirming what is already in our heart. Sometimes that confirmation comes through personal prayer, sometimes, from others who God brings into our lives to encourage us in a new direction or project. For me this year has started with all of these things. We believe that this year will be one of the most exciting and challenging years of our lives.

As the world is wondering what disaster will come next, we as christians should be seeing what opportunities God is providing. We must look at each event in our lives as an opportunity to demonstrate and share the love of God, having confidence in His accomplishing His will, regardless of the circumstances that surround us. 1Timothy says that God has not given us the spirit of fear, but power, love, and a sound mind. Therefore as our actions are an indication of our faith, we need to trust in God's Holy Spirit to give us power to move boldly in our actions. Be sure that what you do is motivated out of a pure and sincere love for others, not for personal gain. Use all your talents to accomplish the task ahead of you and don't allow personal distractions to change your commitment. I think of Peter climbing out of the boat as Jesus beckoned him. All was well until his eyes went from Jesus to the circumstances around him. Are you looking at Jesus and his calling in your life or are you focused on the world's problems. (Are your eyes spiritual or carnal.)

What or who rules your life? These are questions we have to answer for ourselves. Not to be led by others but lead others by our lives. May your life be full of opportunities, called problems in the world, to demonstrate God's love........

Choose ye this day whom you will serve!

It's still CHRISTmas!

2008-12-31T13:32:00.002-04:00

Here in the Dominican Republic, families gather on Christmas Eve for a huge dinner and party. Christmas day is spent relaxing. Some may exchange gifts as is the custom in America on these days, but the holiday for the children to receive gifts is El Dia de los Reyes ....or Three Kings Day! The holiday, celebrated on the 12th day after Christmas, (Epiphany) commemorates the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem.

I took this foto at our church, Cantico Nuevo, a few Christmas's ago when they had a Christmas drama, followed by a candlelight service and singing. They had a drama again this year as well.

These are Christmas ornaments made by a women's co-op here in the D.R. that we recently visited. Of course, I bought more than I should have, but this is one project the women do to raise money for their family. They have other sewing projects that they sell as well. There are many Christmas trees decorated around the city. We are glad to have the holiday extended to praise our Savior!

The Battle

2008-12-09T09:49:00.009-04:00

I'm currently reading "The Battle" by Wayde I. Goodall. We are daily in battle...but the battle is not ours. God is our Defender and our Protector!

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name; you are mine. when you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not harm you at all."Isaiah 43:1-2

I am comforted by knowing that our Father walks with us...through all things! We are blessed!

THANKSforGIVING!

2008-12-01T09:30:00.005-04:00

The children in VBS this year at Old North Church in Canfield, Ohio sent their many blessings to the Dominican Republic!!!

Three THOUSAND, five hundred and eighty-eight...give or take a few, items of clothing for the many in need here in the D.R. The sizes ranged from baby clothing....to teenagers!

Below is Abner giving Irma and Jesus directions after we loaded their truck for the Children's Center in El Valle! We were able donate many items to Sabana Perdida, along the Ozama River, Ensanche Quisquea, Pastor Rene's Haitian church familes and many more. Below is Irma and Jesus with their truck packed for the Children's Center in El Valle!

"GIVE and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together, RUNNING OVER"..... Luke 6:38

H.ope E.ncourage L.ove P.eople - HELP

2008-10-25T14:05:00.007-04:00

Hola Friends!
We are scheduling teams for early next year.
Would you like to join them? Drop us an email and we will let you know when the trips are coming to the Dominican Republic! We know these are uncertain times, however God says in His word, "there is nothing too difficult, nor is it out of reach." Deut. 30:11
So, pray about it!

¡Gracias Señor! ¡Eres siempre fiel! …..Thank you Lord! You are always faithful!

Leadership

2008-10-11T20:08:00.007-04:00

We just attended a one day conference with John Maxwell....HERE in the Dominican Republic! It was very good. He blessed many people here on the island. I like that he mentioned his wife, Margaret, many times....as well as their children and grandchildren. The secret to success is determined by what you do everyday and that you are either 'preparing' or 'repairing'.
John said, 'live for others, live beyond yourself, serve others'....sound familar? Of course....the message is old, at least 2,000 yrs....and people say they've heard it, but they don't DO it.
Esteem others greater than ourselves, do unto others as you want them to do unto you, love one another....can we ever hear enough of this? ks

"People who have given up are ruled by their darkest mistakes, worst failures, and deepest regrets. If you want to be successful, then be governed by your finest thoughts, your highest enthusiasm, your greatest optimism, and your most triumphant experiences. --john c. maxwell

2008-09-24T08:52:00.003-04:00

Today, Wednesday, 24 September is a holiday in the Dominican Republic. It commemorates "The Day of our Lady of Mercedes", the patron of the Dominican Republic. The Virgin is honored for her role in protecting Spanish soldiers in a battle against Indians in La Vega.

Our local catholic church walked down our street, singing songs and holding a statue of Mercedes (Mary) in front. Then, they gather for food in nearby houses. It was much like this foto from Palm Sunday, only the group was not as large.

September 23rd, 2008

2008-09-23T10:20:00.005-04:00

Rain again today....here we are, under the big 'glob' again.

I like to share a site that has been an encouragement to me.

http://www.keepbelieving.com/

May you be blessed too!

Abound in love,

siempre

Help.... One family at a time!

2008-09-12T16:52:00.016-04:00

Bud looking from above

On Saturday we went to Sabana Perdida to help a family with three children.
Their home is in need of major repairs and we were able to fix some of the problems.

We took tools to dig around the house and caulking to seal leaks in the roof. It was like a sauna inside the house and you have to wonder how anyone could possibly sleep there. Working from the inside and sealing the tin (zinc) roof was 'no problemo'. With no electricity to interfere, it was easy to see all the holes in the roof.
After fixing those problems, we tackled the outside. We cleared a trench around the house to divert the water from the houses above and repaired some of the walls. Also, we built a temporary restraining wall just above the house to divert excess water. Just as we were finishing, the rains began. How grateful we were to God to allow us to complete the work before the next round of storms!

We plan to go back in several months (after hurricane season) to build a new house, this time, made of cement block! Extreme home makeover, Dominican style! The neighborhood church is helping also and has already donated some material, but we will need much more.

If you like hard work and little pay, well actually, no pay, we invite you to come and be a part of God's work here on the island. We are always looking for volunteers to help with the work. The people have many needs; medical aid, food, clothes and unconditional love. Your smile, that cup of water, that light of God's love.... might be the very thing that will most encourage them not to give up hope. Every day God gives each of us a chance to influence someone's life for Him.

Dios te bendiga!

"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. Matthew 7

Take a HIKE.......... IKE!!!

2008-09-08T17:15:00.009-04:00

Flooding and Landslide Warnings Continue

IKE displaces 43,000 in Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- In a statement issued 6 a.m. today the National Meteorological Office (ONAMET) said the flooding and landslide warning remains in effect around the country, with some southeast region communities still cut off as the downpours continue.
ONAMET said the climate in the country’s east region (Hato Mayor, La Romana, El Seibo and La Altagracia) is expected to improve as the cloud cover decreases.
Meteorology said today it will analyze a huge cloud cover and a small tropical disturbance left by Hurricane Ike.

Dominican convoy off to help Haiti’s storm victims

SANTO DOMINGO.- A convoy with food, drinking water, medecine and medical and paramedical personnel will leave Monday morning for Port-au-Prince, where humanitarian aid will be given to people affected by the storms Hanna and Ike.

Thank you for your many prayers as there is much work to be done.

"....for the people had a mind to work." Nehemiah 4:6

Help needed in Sabana Perdida

2008-09-05T09:25:00.016-04:00

We are planning another trip to Sabana Perdida. This translates as 'lost delta' and that is exactly what it is. The government has continually promised help, but has not done anything here. There is no running water, very little electricity, and no sanitary sewers. The results are that the people live here expecting nothing and constantly face health issues. When flooding occurs, waste from the toilets float into the streets and people walk through the contaminated water. We will continue to help as we are able. First with food and clothes, thank you Old North Vacation Bible school! We have also taken mosquito nets, mattresses and school supplies for this very needy neighborhood on the northeast side of Santo Domingo.

We have projects planned for new bathrooms and rebuilding some of the damaged or destroyed homes. We just took measurements on a small house made of zinc. A woman and her three children live there and it's a wonder it is still standing after the winds and rain.

We need help, both financial and physical to continue helping here!

"He that hath pity on the poor lends to the Lord..." (Proverbs 19:17)

Pray, and ask God what He would have you to do. Abound in love!
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Our God rains...I mean, Our God REIGNS!

2008-09-03T08:33:00.011-04:00

Hurricane Hanna

We went to Sabana Perdida to take our friend, Elmi, home with supplies, lots of clothes for the kids in her neighborhood. The river has not come back into her house as it did with "Fay", so we continue to pray for God's grace here in the Dominican Republic, as well as where the storms travel after here.

"We are powerless before this great multitude (of storms) who are coming against us;

nor do we know what to do, But our eyes are on THEE."

II Chronicles 20:12

Tropical Storm "Gustav"

2008-08-26T15:09:00.011-04:00

The Dom. Republic is on the right side of the map under the BIG orange glob!

Buenas tardes!

We are dry and staying in our home. We've cancelled our visit to Sabana Perdida today. This is the area along the river where we've been working since last years hurricanes. Today, the rain poured for about 30 minutes, then it rains lightly for 10 minutes....and then it just pours buckets of water again. Prayers please...for those who have no relief from the cold/wetness and where again, the waters have invaded their home.

"Let me take refuge in the shelter of Thy wings." Psalm 61:4

Blessings,

karen y bud

Dominican Republic news.....

State of emergency has been declared following the passage of Tropical Storm, now Hurricane Gustav, President Leonel Fernandez has declared a state of emergency in 20 communities and seven provinces.

Rains caused havoc by Hurricane Gustav and led to flooding on many of Santo Domingo's main roads yesterday and again today. Flooding made traffic unbearable and the lack of public transport made getting home a nightmare for hundreds of Dominicans. Flooding was reported on 27 de Febrero, Nunez de Caceres, George Washington, John F. Kennedy and 30 de Mayo Avenues. Many of the city's tunnels also experienced extreme situations of flooding. The government closed the schools.

DR1 correspondent Lu Olivero reports lines at many of the public transport stops. Commuters had to wait for transportation. When buses or taxis did appear they were usually filled to capacity, making the ride home uncomfortable. El Caribe reports that so far 5,000 people have been evacuated as a result of Gustav. Civil Defense corps director Luis Antonio Luna Paulino says that officials are still working on normalizing the situation in many of the affected provinces and communities. Meteorologists say that Gustav has now been upgraded to a level 1 hurricane.

The storm will hit neighboring Haiti as a hurricane with winds at a reported 140 KM per hour.

Tropical Storm Fay

2008-08-19T21:21:00.007-04:00

Hola to all,

We were north of the city on Friday night when the storm hit and flooding was beginning at rush hour....not pretty! Thankfully, we made it home safe after dropping Abner where he needed to go. He was not able to return home until the next morning with the flooded streets, car accidents, and hundreds of people taking transit that normally walk. He was not able to get a taxi....or a boat!

As usual, we never know the aftermath of what goes on here in the country...until our family or friends in the States tell us! Bud's sister gave us a clue how bad things were when she watched the news and emailed us. Thankfully, we knew that the storm was coming and we do live on the second floor. (of course, we weren't at home! haha)

But again, while we are doing well and we are safe...there are many who were flooded. Mostly people have lots of garbage and mud to clean out of their homes....at least with this TS Fay.... they still have homes to clean. Please keep those who have been affected in your prayers.

Our mail and 800+ pounds of donations for the children here on the island have been delayed due to the storm moving into Florida today. (Agape Flights International flies out of Venice, FL.) We hope they can re-schedule some time this week.

God Bless,

Karen y Bud

Happy Father's Day - DR Style

2008-07-28T01:16:00.004-04:00

That's right...we did not get the date wrong (for all of you back in the USA). Father's Day in the Dominican falls on the last Sunday of July. Here in the DR this is a huge holiday. You have to love a people who embrace the celebration of fathers just as much as other countries embrace mothers day.

Radio

2008-07-26T11:11:00.002-04:00

Bud had the opportunity to deliver a message on the only English speaking radio station in the DR today. He was speaking on the life and faith of Job and how it can be applied to both the great opportunities and the tough times in our lives. [edit: not the ONLY English speaking program in the D.R.] http://radioimpacto.org/

God continues to open doors here in the DR and it is a wonderful blessing to have an opportunity to reach so many through airwaves.

In DC for the Day

2008-06-20T14:05:00.005-04:00

Sitting in DC today with David helping me figure out this whole blog deal. You know youth...they are all over the technology. He is setting up a tracking, links and other tools to make this easy for us to communicate with our friends and family across the world.

Communication

2008-04-23T17:11:00.003-04:00

I tried to print something the other day and my printer was not connected to my computer. This message box appeared and offered me the following solution:

Disconnect and reconnect - Disconnect and reconnect with the POWER - Restart!

It was clear to me that this is what we need to do to communicate clearly. While we may have relationships that become 'disconnected'...many times without really knowing why. When may we try to reconnect on our OWN power. We must then 'disconnect and reconnect' with HIS power. The Lord knows our hurt, our sin, the confusion that comes with the flesh. We need to 'restart'.
"Not my will, but Thy will, Lord."

Easter Sunday Dinner

2008-03-31T18:02:00.002-04:00

We were treated to lunch/dinner at 'Adrian Tropical' restaurant on the Caribbean Ocean at Santo Domingo. Our friend's from Ohio were here for a week, working with us. Rick, John, Juan and Nilsa and our friend, Abner...who is always here with us!

Bud's Birthday

2008-03-19T09:15:00.003-04:00

Bud had his cake....
and ate it too!!
(so did I.... karen)

Palm Sunday

2008-03-17T11:30:00.000-04:00

The processional on Calle Guarocuya at 8:00 a.m.