Gabriel during leadership training

“I have received the Holy Spirit and my mission from God,” said Gabriel.

Gabriel is a young man whom I met several months ago while showing the Jesus film in his village. From our first meeting, I knew the Lord had something special for him, but I was not sure what it was at the time. After talking with him for a while we exchanged numbers and parted ways. As i continued to think and pray for him, I was convinced I needed to spend more time with him. After a call, i invited him to come each day and give us Creole lessons.

Just before our unexpected return to the states in June, I received a visit from Gabriel. He had been severally beaten by his family. It reminded me of pictures i had seen of the slaves after being beaten with whips. All across his back, arms, legs, and chest were severe lashes and bruises. He was needing counsel and help. He shared with me how his family had accused him of stealing, but it was not true. His heart was broken over the accusation and was not sure what to do next. I was the third person he had spoken with that day about the issue. He was needing answers. I remember him looking at me and saying, “Michael, I only want peace in my heart.” As we talked further, I told him my words could not give him peace, but we should turn to the Lord Jesus and His Bible to look for the answers. Gabriel agreed, and we took much time that day looking for God’s peace and answers from the scripture. As we were looking at Romans Chapter 10, Gabriel’s heart was heavy. He told me he saw his need to confess his sins and put his faith in Jesus. With tears flowing down his face, he bowed his head and began to pray.

While we were in the states during the month of June, I spent time evaluating the work of the ministry in Haiti. This is some of my thoughts: Although we have 6 churches in our network and things are going well, my heart began to burn with thoughts of raising up a new generation of young people. Many of the young generation are disenfranchised with the church. Many of them attend church, but most have stopped. It is not that they don’t believe; its not that they don’t love the leaders; it is simply no one takes time to listen to them. They are wanting relationships with spiritual fathers and mothers, someone that will listen, take time and answers their questions.

Mike with the new mentor group

Since my return to Haiti, I have began a mentoring group with about 8 young men that I have had a relationship with. They simply love it! Two of them are already starting their own groups in the next few weeks. My prayer is these meetings will turn into a movement of quickly multiplying discipleship groups that reach this generation. I was sharing tonight with the group. When each of them begin their groups, we will have everyone come together once each month for a large celebration service. So I ask you to pray for a movement to begin with these young leaders.

The Haitian Bible School in October 2009

Today, we are also really excited to announce the kick-off of our Haitian Bible School! We had began the school back in September 2009 but were forced to stop due to the earthquake. We are planning to restart it again in September 2010 and have about 30 leaders/pastors ready! Please continue to pray for these groups of men that the Lord will raise up a standard here in Haiti, and they will be and take the Gospel all over the island!

Andrea is still in Tennessee and is available to come and share with any small group, church, Sunday School class, etc. Please email us at ReachHaiti@gmail.com if you would like Andrea to come and speak! Thanks to everyone who helps support this ministry! We are truly grateful for each one of you!