Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
40 Days of Prayer update
40 Days of Prayer for Hospital Bienfaisance of Pignon
From December 9, 2009, to January 18, 2010, we would like to focus on praying for the hospital in Pignon. The hospital is vital to the northern plateau region of Haiti serving several communities and roughly 140,000 people. The last year has been a hard year for the hospital. The Comite de Bienfaisance, the Promise for Haiti Board, the administration, staff and Dr. Guy have many difficult decisions to make in the coming year. On January 15, 2010 there is a combined board meeting with both the Haitian and American board members. We need to ask God to be near us and guide us and to return to us and to restore the Hospital de Bienfaisance to what it once was in the name of Jesus Christ, our only hope.
We would like to invite anyone who is willing, to participate in focused prayer for the hospital, the region and the people of Haiti for these 40 days. Local pastors and Christians around the area have also been invited to pray with us at the hospital each morning and we are anticipating a positive response from the community.
We are asking that you pray for:
· The administration and leadership of the hospital and all personnel
· That the power and presence of the Holy Spirit would come upon the hospital in new and amazing ways
· The healing of patients
· Dr Guy-protection and health during his political campaign
· The hospital board both locally in Pignon and stateside for wisdom, discernment, and guidance
· For all the students in the area, particularly those sponsored through the HELP scholarship program
· The organizations that partner with the hospital through short-term missions including medical missions, work projects and financial assistance
· Release from the oppression of the enemy and the influences of Voodoo
· That staff, patients and families of patients know fully the love of Christ
· The future of the hospital and the country of Haiti
Days 21-30
Isaiah 55:6
6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;call on him while he is near.
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Jeremiah 29:11-14
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. [a] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Ephesians 1:16-21
16I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit[a] of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, 20which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Psalm 113:7
7 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
New International Version (NIV) Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Proverbs 31:8-9
8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;defend the rights of the poor and needy."
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Thank you for your prayers for the Nikkels and the hospital. God bless you!
From December 9, 2009, to January 18, 2010, we would like to focus on praying for the hospital in Pignon. The hospital is vital to the northern plateau region of Haiti serving several communities and roughly 140,000 people. The last year has been a hard year for the hospital. The Comite de Bienfaisance, the Promise for Haiti Board, the administration, staff and Dr. Guy have many difficult decisions to make in the coming year. On January 15, 2010 there is a combined board meeting with both the Haitian and American board members. We need to ask God to be near us and guide us and to return to us and to restore the Hospital de Bienfaisance to what it once was in the name of Jesus Christ, our only hope.
We would like to invite anyone who is willing, to participate in focused prayer for the hospital, the region and the people of Haiti for these 40 days. Local pastors and Christians around the area have also been invited to pray with us at the hospital each morning and we are anticipating a positive response from the community.
We are asking that you pray for:
· The administration and leadership of the hospital and all personnel
· That the power and presence of the Holy Spirit would come upon the hospital in new and amazing ways
· The healing of patients
· Dr Guy-protection and health during his political campaign
· The hospital board both locally in Pignon and stateside for wisdom, discernment, and guidance
· For all the students in the area, particularly those sponsored through the HELP scholarship program
· The organizations that partner with the hospital through short-term missions including medical missions, work projects and financial assistance
· Release from the oppression of the enemy and the influences of Voodoo
· That staff, patients and families of patients know fully the love of Christ
· The future of the hospital and the country of Haiti
Days 21-30
Isaiah 55:6
6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;call on him while he is near.
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Jeremiah 29:11-14
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. [a] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Ephesians 1:16-21
16I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit[a] of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, 20which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Psalm 113:7
7 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
New International Version (NIV) Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Proverbs 31:8-9
8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;defend the rights of the poor and needy."
New International Version (NIV)
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Thank you for your prayers for the Nikkels and the hospital. God bless you!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
40 Days of Prayer updated
Update: Days 11-20 of 40 Days of Prayer for Hospital Bienfaisance of Pignon
Please continue to pray for the hospital, the region and the people of Haiti for 40 days.
What is happening?(some comments from the Nikkels)
We had our third meeting this morning and it's going well. We have had 10-14 people each day so far and I anticipate more. Stacey did a great job on the scriptures and people really like them. I asked for help in leading and have had volunteers each day basically lead and come up with the program for the day. We sing, then pray and sing and pray and then someone gives a short meditation on the scripture and we pray and sing and we're done. The handout Stacey put together is great and people are really praying earnestly for the hospital. The only downside so far is getting up at 5:30 every day!
The people here are excited to have a prayer outlet...they want to extend the prayer time from 30 to 50 minutes. They say it isn't enough!
One of the men there runs a store on the market and we have known him for quite awhile. He is not someone I would ever have expected to come to the prayer meetings, but he is good at praying and leads some days. He told a story this morning about how he had no intention of coming to pray at the hospital. The night before we started he had a dream that a rush of clean water shot out of a well at the hospital and washed through the hospital and all of Pignon cleansing it. People were laughing and bathing in it and praising God. So he decided he needed to come! I pray he is right!
From Dec. 9-18 pray for:
· Dr Guy- (founder of the hospital mission is running for President of Haiti) protection and
health for his political campaign / wisdom and direction from God
· The hospital mission board both locally in Pignon (Committee de Bienfaicanse)and stateside (Promise for Haiti) for wisdom, discernment, and guidance
· For the students/teachers that are sponsored through the HELP (Haitian Education and Literacy Program) scholarship program in the Christian Schools. Pray for release from poverty
· Pray for protection for Jared and Stacey Nikkel and family as they lead this effort
A few scriptures are provided for each 10 period and of course we want you to pray as the Spirit leads, these are just some of the things on our hearts.
Days 11-20 (December 18-27)
Matthew 6:33-3433 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Psalm 105:3-5 3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 4 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 5 Remember the wonders he has done,
Proverbs 8:17 17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.
Luke 18:7-87 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" New International Version (NIVCopyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Please continue to pray for the hospital, the region and the people of Haiti for 40 days.
What is happening?(some comments from the Nikkels)
We had our third meeting this morning and it's going well. We have had 10-14 people each day so far and I anticipate more. Stacey did a great job on the scriptures and people really like them. I asked for help in leading and have had volunteers each day basically lead and come up with the program for the day. We sing, then pray and sing and pray and then someone gives a short meditation on the scripture and we pray and sing and we're done. The handout Stacey put together is great and people are really praying earnestly for the hospital. The only downside so far is getting up at 5:30 every day!
The people here are excited to have a prayer outlet...they want to extend the prayer time from 30 to 50 minutes. They say it isn't enough!
One of the men there runs a store on the market and we have known him for quite awhile. He is not someone I would ever have expected to come to the prayer meetings, but he is good at praying and leads some days. He told a story this morning about how he had no intention of coming to pray at the hospital. The night before we started he had a dream that a rush of clean water shot out of a well at the hospital and washed through the hospital and all of Pignon cleansing it. People were laughing and bathing in it and praising God. So he decided he needed to come! I pray he is right!
From Dec. 9-18 pray for:
· Dr Guy- (founder of the hospital mission is running for President of Haiti) protection and
health for his political campaign / wisdom and direction from God
· The hospital mission board both locally in Pignon (Committee de Bienfaicanse)and stateside (Promise for Haiti) for wisdom, discernment, and guidance
· For the students/teachers that are sponsored through the HELP (Haitian Education and Literacy Program) scholarship program in the Christian Schools. Pray for release from poverty
· Pray for protection for Jared and Stacey Nikkel and family as they lead this effort
A few scriptures are provided for each 10 period and of course we want you to pray as the Spirit leads, these are just some of the things on our hearts.
Days 11-20 (December 18-27)
Matthew 6:33-3433 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Psalm 105:3-5 3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 4 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 5 Remember the wonders he has done,
Proverbs 8:17 17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.
Luke 18:7-87 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" New International Version (NIVCopyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Friday, December 11, 2009
Third Church Pella and HELP
Promise for Haiti Survey
Sumitted by BeV Brand
1. Please give a narrative description of your trip include in it how many members accompanied you on this trip; what was the purpose/ goals of your trip? What was accomplished, what may need to be done ?
Our team was made up of 14 people from several areas of the country as a combined group from Third Church Pella and HELP (Haitian Education and Literacy Program) We had people from Minnesota (via Texas), Nebraska, and three cities in Iowa. Our major purpose and goals for the mission included helping finish the house donated to the hospital by Many Hands for Haiti for the Nikkel family (the young missionary couple from Iowa) to live in, to work on the OPC dorm area, and to update records and photos for the HELP program. All three goals were accomplished! We finished tiling, cleaning floors, painting rooms and grates for windows and doors for the Nikkel family and joyfully saw them move in on the Tuesday before we left! Two of Jared Nikkel’s sisters and a brother-in –law were part of the team so they got to celebrate an early Christmas giving Will and Natalie (their children) Christmas gifts and making Jared’s favorite caramel rolls in Stacey’s new oven. Storage units were put together, furniture purchased in Cap, an inverter system installed, as the Haitian workers constructed a stone wall and cement pad in front of the house. It looks great and they are so blessed to be into a permanent space after living 5 months from totes in the upper level of the Iowa house. Many thanks to the team from Crossroads in DesMoines who also worked hard to help them be ready for the move.
The group also almost completed tiling the OPC dorm ( but ran out of grout) and the dining room area was painted with two coats of paint, as well as the main hall and kitchen. Adele picked the colors and it looks quite nice – very tropical and cool! Some of our group also sorted through 1,000 pairs of shoes donated to the hospital and reboxed and labeled them. We had a lot of extra “help” from Haitians wanting shoes but decided to let Jared and Stacey work on how to distribute the shoes. We also distributed receiving blankets that had been donated to babies in the hospital.
Three full days were spent going to Bears Christian, Meredith Christian, and Salt and Light Christian School to update information and take new photos of the sponsored students. Teams of six went to each school and found the scholarshipped students, updated information and took pictures of each student. While there, we checked on absent students, students who had moved, and also checked on the wells and feeding programs. Evenel and Joseph (who is assisting with the schools) were extremely helpful and valuable. We also stopped at College de la Grace, CCE, Hope, Frederic Marcelis, Frobel and students came into the hospital compound from other schools, as well. The group from Crossroads (Des Moines) took pictures at Sonshine and Rocky Mt. Christian the week before. So all in all we updated and took over 500 photos!!!! It was a delightful time and many of our team met their sponsored students. What a blessing and joy! Evenel and Joseph were a tremendous help and we greatly appreciate their efforts.
Some of the team also helped with the feeding program at Haiti Home of Hope on Wednesday morning and we all attended church in Bohoc on Sunday. The early Saturday morning walk to the river was eye opening for many as well as the trip to the market and singing and praying with patients at the hospital. We also visited the farm and bought some rice and beans to two needy families.
2.How did you travel to Pignon? Were there any problems with your flight and or arrangement? Do you have any suggestions to make this an easier process?
We traveled to Ft. Pierce through West Palm Beach. Arcadiana Shuttle transported us to the Sleep Inn in Ft. Pierce and then to the MFI terminal. All fights were on time and accommodations were great. We stayed at the La Quinta in West Palm Beach on the return flight. I would highly recommend this hotel as rates were $49 (remember this is November), the hotel was beautiful, shuttle service to the airport, and a nice selection of restaurants nearby.
The biggest problem was getting out of Pignon, as a big shipment of cargo came in on our plane (no passengers) so the customs agent went through everything! (including wrapped presents for kids at the orphanage and the Mompremiers) She was not in a good mood so negotiations helped some but most groups got hit pretty hard. We waited “under the wings” from 11:30 to take off at 2:30. When we departed from Cap Haitien the guys were pulled off the plane to push the airplane away from another plane as we didn’t have room to clear for the turn. Interesting! Yes, they actually did push the plane away far enough to turn it! Way to go, guys! By the way, Cap Haitian was out of visas so we have no record of being in the country! (really tight security in Haiti!)
3. What were your lodging arrangements while in Pignon? MN dorm? Iowa dorm? Other?? Any suggestions? Recommendations? Did you have any problems? Do you have any hints or notes you want to pass on to other teams?
We stayed in the Minnesota dorm and in the Iowa dorm (lower level). Ron Vitales (Indiana) and his group of 4 were also in Pignon on an exploratory trip so they shared the Minnesota house with us for the first four days. It was a great time getting to know them and processing our experiences with their group. Five of the men from our team staying in the Iowa dorm decided to stay put for the duration – it gave us two extra showers (and I hear the Iowa House showers were much better than the Minnesota house!) The food was delicious and accommodations were very adequate at both dorms.
4. Is there information you would like passed on to the next team that is scheduled?
The hospital staff set up a meeting with us the first afternoon to find out our plan, work projects, and needs for the week and very graciously lined up vehicles for our trips to the schools. Evenel was on vacation but really bent over backwards to accommodate us for the week. He went to each school with us and lined up students to come in for photos, as well. Three of our nurses got to observe surgery one afternoon and found this very interesting and helpful. The whole staff was very helpful. Jared Nikkel had supplies, paint, grout, and tiles ready for the group to work on the OPC/dorm area so much was accomplished! Jared and Stacey also took us to the river, to church, and to the market, as well as a visit to the orphanage to help with the milk program.
5. Did you have any problems issues, occurrences that need to be addressed by the hospital or the Board?
Everything went very smoothly – we had a great mission trip. (If someone could get the roosters to quit crowing at 3:40 am that would be nice!)
6. Anything else you would like to share about your trip?
As we visited Salt and Light School the principal informed us that most of the classrooms do not yet have benches. Students are currently bringing their own chairs and some are sitting on cement blocks. If groups would like to make benches for one of their projects, it costs approximately $25 per bench and they can work on them at the hospital workshop. I was told Boukeroone also needs benches. Some of the schools really need new coats of paint – Meredith could use paint inside and outside on the older building.
If any groups are interested in doing Bible School type lessons in the schools, library, or compound, there are supplies for crafts in the Iowa House including kits to make “salvation bracelets”. (check with Stacey Nikkel ) If you are interested in the Bible Lessons that are written you can contact Bev Brand - bbrand@trcpella.com and I will send them for you to use.
The mission of the hospital is vital to this whole area, so please encourage your groups to support not only their various projects and passions but also the hospital in general, so that the health care needs of charity patients can be provided. We would also like to invite anyone to join Jared and Stacey Nikkel who have initiated and organized 40 Days of Prayer for Haiti with local pastors, hospital staff, and hundreds of supporters around the US from Dec. 9- Jan. 18. Information can be found at www.mh4h.blogspot.com
Sumitted by BeV Brand
1. Please give a narrative description of your trip include in it how many members accompanied you on this trip; what was the purpose/ goals of your trip? What was accomplished, what may need to be done ?
Our team was made up of 14 people from several areas of the country as a combined group from Third Church Pella and HELP (Haitian Education and Literacy Program) We had people from Minnesota (via Texas), Nebraska, and three cities in Iowa. Our major purpose and goals for the mission included helping finish the house donated to the hospital by Many Hands for Haiti for the Nikkel family (the young missionary couple from Iowa) to live in, to work on the OPC dorm area, and to update records and photos for the HELP program. All three goals were accomplished! We finished tiling, cleaning floors, painting rooms and grates for windows and doors for the Nikkel family and joyfully saw them move in on the Tuesday before we left! Two of Jared Nikkel’s sisters and a brother-in –law were part of the team so they got to celebrate an early Christmas giving Will and Natalie (their children) Christmas gifts and making Jared’s favorite caramel rolls in Stacey’s new oven. Storage units were put together, furniture purchased in Cap, an inverter system installed, as the Haitian workers constructed a stone wall and cement pad in front of the house. It looks great and they are so blessed to be into a permanent space after living 5 months from totes in the upper level of the Iowa house. Many thanks to the team from Crossroads in DesMoines who also worked hard to help them be ready for the move.
The group also almost completed tiling the OPC dorm ( but ran out of grout) and the dining room area was painted with two coats of paint, as well as the main hall and kitchen. Adele picked the colors and it looks quite nice – very tropical and cool! Some of our group also sorted through 1,000 pairs of shoes donated to the hospital and reboxed and labeled them. We had a lot of extra “help” from Haitians wanting shoes but decided to let Jared and Stacey work on how to distribute the shoes. We also distributed receiving blankets that had been donated to babies in the hospital.
Three full days were spent going to Bears Christian, Meredith Christian, and Salt and Light Christian School to update information and take new photos of the sponsored students. Teams of six went to each school and found the scholarshipped students, updated information and took pictures of each student. While there, we checked on absent students, students who had moved, and also checked on the wells and feeding programs. Evenel and Joseph (who is assisting with the schools) were extremely helpful and valuable. We also stopped at College de la Grace, CCE, Hope, Frederic Marcelis, Frobel and students came into the hospital compound from other schools, as well. The group from Crossroads (Des Moines) took pictures at Sonshine and Rocky Mt. Christian the week before. So all in all we updated and took over 500 photos!!!! It was a delightful time and many of our team met their sponsored students. What a blessing and joy! Evenel and Joseph were a tremendous help and we greatly appreciate their efforts.
Some of the team also helped with the feeding program at Haiti Home of Hope on Wednesday morning and we all attended church in Bohoc on Sunday. The early Saturday morning walk to the river was eye opening for many as well as the trip to the market and singing and praying with patients at the hospital. We also visited the farm and bought some rice and beans to two needy families.
2.How did you travel to Pignon? Were there any problems with your flight and or arrangement? Do you have any suggestions to make this an easier process?
We traveled to Ft. Pierce through West Palm Beach. Arcadiana Shuttle transported us to the Sleep Inn in Ft. Pierce and then to the MFI terminal. All fights were on time and accommodations were great. We stayed at the La Quinta in West Palm Beach on the return flight. I would highly recommend this hotel as rates were $49 (remember this is November), the hotel was beautiful, shuttle service to the airport, and a nice selection of restaurants nearby.
The biggest problem was getting out of Pignon, as a big shipment of cargo came in on our plane (no passengers) so the customs agent went through everything! (including wrapped presents for kids at the orphanage and the Mompremiers) She was not in a good mood so negotiations helped some but most groups got hit pretty hard. We waited “under the wings” from 11:30 to take off at 2:30. When we departed from Cap Haitien the guys were pulled off the plane to push the airplane away from another plane as we didn’t have room to clear for the turn. Interesting! Yes, they actually did push the plane away far enough to turn it! Way to go, guys! By the way, Cap Haitian was out of visas so we have no record of being in the country! (really tight security in Haiti!)
3. What were your lodging arrangements while in Pignon? MN dorm? Iowa dorm? Other?? Any suggestions? Recommendations? Did you have any problems? Do you have any hints or notes you want to pass on to other teams?
We stayed in the Minnesota dorm and in the Iowa dorm (lower level). Ron Vitales (Indiana) and his group of 4 were also in Pignon on an exploratory trip so they shared the Minnesota house with us for the first four days. It was a great time getting to know them and processing our experiences with their group. Five of the men from our team staying in the Iowa dorm decided to stay put for the duration – it gave us two extra showers (and I hear the Iowa House showers were much better than the Minnesota house!) The food was delicious and accommodations were very adequate at both dorms.
4. Is there information you would like passed on to the next team that is scheduled?
The hospital staff set up a meeting with us the first afternoon to find out our plan, work projects, and needs for the week and very graciously lined up vehicles for our trips to the schools. Evenel was on vacation but really bent over backwards to accommodate us for the week. He went to each school with us and lined up students to come in for photos, as well. Three of our nurses got to observe surgery one afternoon and found this very interesting and helpful. The whole staff was very helpful. Jared Nikkel had supplies, paint, grout, and tiles ready for the group to work on the OPC/dorm area so much was accomplished! Jared and Stacey also took us to the river, to church, and to the market, as well as a visit to the orphanage to help with the milk program.
5. Did you have any problems issues, occurrences that need to be addressed by the hospital or the Board?
Everything went very smoothly – we had a great mission trip. (If someone could get the roosters to quit crowing at 3:40 am that would be nice!)
6. Anything else you would like to share about your trip?
As we visited Salt and Light School the principal informed us that most of the classrooms do not yet have benches. Students are currently bringing their own chairs and some are sitting on cement blocks. If groups would like to make benches for one of their projects, it costs approximately $25 per bench and they can work on them at the hospital workshop. I was told Boukeroone also needs benches. Some of the schools really need new coats of paint – Meredith could use paint inside and outside on the older building.
If any groups are interested in doing Bible School type lessons in the schools, library, or compound, there are supplies for crafts in the Iowa House including kits to make “salvation bracelets”. (check with Stacey Nikkel ) If you are interested in the Bible Lessons that are written you can contact Bev Brand - bbrand@trcpella.com and I will send them for you to use.
The mission of the hospital is vital to this whole area, so please encourage your groups to support not only their various projects and passions but also the hospital in general, so that the health care needs of charity patients can be provided. We would also like to invite anyone to join Jared and Stacey Nikkel who have initiated and organized 40 Days of Prayer for Haiti with local pastors, hospital staff, and hundreds of supporters around the US from Dec. 9- Jan. 18. Information can be found at www.mh4h.blogspot.com
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Nov 5-12 Crossroad Church
Submitted by Denny Brand
On November 4, 11 folks from Crossroads Church in Des Moines plus me left Des Moines for our trip to Haiti. The ground work for this trip had been in the making for about a year and it was a joy to be a part of this group in their first venture of doing short term missions. The entire group was from Des Moines except for one and he was from Pella Iowa, the father of one of the females, who was also making the trip.
The make-up of the group was very young (funny how that works anymore) This was very exciting for me because the future of the mission depend on the next generation to continue the work, in the near future. It was also good that there were two husband/wife teams who got to experience this trip together, a daughter that experienced it with her parents, and a 1st cousin to Jared.
This group also had the pleasure of joining forces with a group of 6 men that came down with Larry Madole. Between the two groups, a lot of work was completed. The two groups really complimented each other with talents and skills to get much accomplished. In addition to the work, the groups really connected with devotions, after meal talks, singing at the hospital. It was a very rich time for everyone.
The goal of the group was three fold: 1). Work on the Outpatient Clinic and Dorm, 2). Work on the home for Jared and Stacy to get them moved in, 3). Take pictures of students at 2 of the schools for the HELP Scholarship program.
We had great success in all three areas. The work that was done at the Outpatient Clinic and Dorm was hard work because much leveling and chipping had to be done before any tile could be laid. The teams really worked hard and the big dining hall and a large part of the hallway now have tile.
The work that was done on Jared and Stacey’s house included painting, both inside and outside, window grills to be painted (3 coats), screens built for all the windows, shelves, cabinets, and a table were made, tile was laid on the floor – many hours put in to get it almost ready for the Nikkels to move in. The move did happen the following week.
The last thing project was the taking of pictures of the students at the 2 schools for the HELP program. This was also accomplished and not only did it provide a service for Bev Brand and Joann Schafer, but it also allowed us to travel to the schools and experience what a great thing the education program is and the opportunities that are being provided for the students in Haiti. One of the things that was really impressive for me was that in one of the schools, Sonshine, there was 100% of the students in school. We also got to witness the feeding program which again is wonderful to for the students.
We flew commercially to West Palm and took a shuttle to Fort Pierce to spend the night so that we could be at the MFI terminal by 6 AM the next morning. Everything went like clockwork – I don’t know how anything could have gone any better – every connection was right on time.
While in Pignon, we stayed at the MN dorm and the IA dorm. I think all would say that the accommodations and food was all better then the team was expecting.
We also really enjoyed singing and praying a couple of night at the hospital with the patients. A great time was also enjoyed as we worshipped in Bo Hoc on Sunday morning.
This was truly a special group of people and are great examples of what can be accomplished when everybody goes with a servant heart and everybody works together for a common good. Everybody worked hard, pitched in and did what they could to get the job done. This group really understood what a trip like this is about and why they were there.
I think every group that I have ever gone to Haiti with all enjoy the roof of the MN house – especially in the evening and into the night. This group was no exception and took it to another level. In fact one night I thought the rapture had occurred because every room was empty except for a couple of us old guys. As I looked around a little more, I realized that the group spent the entire night on the roof.
It was a great trip. We did do a great deal of work for the mission and there were measurable accomplishments. Funny how it works though – I would guess that every person would probably testify that they received a lot more than they gave.roos
On November 4, 11 folks from Crossroads Church in Des Moines plus me left Des Moines for our trip to Haiti. The ground work for this trip had been in the making for about a year and it was a joy to be a part of this group in their first venture of doing short term missions. The entire group was from Des Moines except for one and he was from Pella Iowa, the father of one of the females, who was also making the trip.
The make-up of the group was very young (funny how that works anymore) This was very exciting for me because the future of the mission depend on the next generation to continue the work, in the near future. It was also good that there were two husband/wife teams who got to experience this trip together, a daughter that experienced it with her parents, and a 1st cousin to Jared.
This group also had the pleasure of joining forces with a group of 6 men that came down with Larry Madole. Between the two groups, a lot of work was completed. The two groups really complimented each other with talents and skills to get much accomplished. In addition to the work, the groups really connected with devotions, after meal talks, singing at the hospital. It was a very rich time for everyone.
The goal of the group was three fold: 1). Work on the Outpatient Clinic and Dorm, 2). Work on the home for Jared and Stacy to get them moved in, 3). Take pictures of students at 2 of the schools for the HELP Scholarship program.
We had great success in all three areas. The work that was done at the Outpatient Clinic and Dorm was hard work because much leveling and chipping had to be done before any tile could be laid. The teams really worked hard and the big dining hall and a large part of the hallway now have tile.
The work that was done on Jared and Stacey’s house included painting, both inside and outside, window grills to be painted (3 coats), screens built for all the windows, shelves, cabinets, and a table were made, tile was laid on the floor – many hours put in to get it almost ready for the Nikkels to move in. The move did happen the following week.
The last thing project was the taking of pictures of the students at the 2 schools for the HELP program. This was also accomplished and not only did it provide a service for Bev Brand and Joann Schafer, but it also allowed us to travel to the schools and experience what a great thing the education program is and the opportunities that are being provided for the students in Haiti. One of the things that was really impressive for me was that in one of the schools, Sonshine, there was 100% of the students in school. We also got to witness the feeding program which again is wonderful to for the students.
We flew commercially to West Palm and took a shuttle to Fort Pierce to spend the night so that we could be at the MFI terminal by 6 AM the next morning. Everything went like clockwork – I don’t know how anything could have gone any better – every connection was right on time.
While in Pignon, we stayed at the MN dorm and the IA dorm. I think all would say that the accommodations and food was all better then the team was expecting.
We also really enjoyed singing and praying a couple of night at the hospital with the patients. A great time was also enjoyed as we worshipped in Bo Hoc on Sunday morning.
This was truly a special group of people and are great examples of what can be accomplished when everybody goes with a servant heart and everybody works together for a common good. Everybody worked hard, pitched in and did what they could to get the job done. This group really understood what a trip like this is about and why they were there.
I think every group that I have ever gone to Haiti with all enjoy the roof of the MN house – especially in the evening and into the night. This group was no exception and took it to another level. In fact one night I thought the rapture had occurred because every room was empty except for a couple of us old guys. As I looked around a little more, I realized that the group spent the entire night on the roof.
It was a great trip. We did do a great deal of work for the mission and there were measurable accomplishments. Funny how it works though – I would guess that every person would probably testify that they received a lot more than they gave.roos
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
40 Days of Prayer with the Nikkels
By Tim Brand ~
Jared and Stacey Nikkel, the young family from Iowa who are serving the hospital mission in Pignon, have asked permission and were graciously approved by the hospital administration and Dr. Guy, to initiate 40 days of prayer at the hospital, starting Dec. 9 and ending on Jan. 18 after the Promise For Haiti board meeting. They are inviting churches and organizations all around the United States to join this effort and intercede for the nation of Haiti, for the mission, leadership of the hospital, and both the PFH (stateside) and CBP(hospital) board of directors. This is a crucial time for Dr. Guy and the political future of Haiti, for the mission and outreach of the hospital, and for the people of Haiti who are living in extreme poverty. Jared and Stacey have asked local pastors to join them in praying with the staff, doctors and nurses of the hospital each morning, for praying for the sick and dying in the hospital, and for praying for Dr. Guy and the administrative team of the hospital.
We would like to encourage each of you to forward this invitation to your local church congregations, others individuals and organizations who support the mission in Haiti, and to personally commit to joining this effort. As part of the initiative, there will be a prayer prompts and some scripture passages to guide prayer every ten days during the 40 days of prayer sent via e-mail. Jared and Stacey would like to know the extent of this prayer coverage, so if you and other organizations will be joining this effort, please let me know and I will forward to the Nikkels.
We are excited about the power, guidance and direction that could be unleashed for Hospital de Bienfaissance and its mission in Pignon if we pray. Please join the Nikkels and other supporters as we begin 40 days of prayer this Wednesday.
40 Days of Prayer for Hospital Bienfaisance of Pignon
From December 9, 2009, to January 18, 2010, we would like to focus on praying for the hospital in Pignon. The hospital is vital to the northern plateau region of Haiti serving several communities and roughly 140,000 people. The last year has been a hard year for the hospital. The Comite de Bienfaisance, the Promise for Haiti Board, the administration, staff and Dr. Guy have many difficult decisions to make in the coming year. On January 15, 2010 there is a combined board meeting with both the Haitian and American board members. We need to ask God to be near us and guide us and to return to us and to restore the Hospital de Bienfaisance to what it once was in the name of Jesus Christ, our only hope.
We would like to invite anyone who is willing, to participate in focused prayer for the hospital, the region and the people of Haiti for these 40 days. Local pastors and Christians around the area have also been invited to pray with us at the hospital each morning and we are anticipating a positive response from the community.
We are asking that you pray for:
· The administration and leadership of the hospital and all personnel
· That the power and presence of the Holy Spirit would come upon the hospital in new and amazing ways
· The healing of patients
· Dr Guy-protection and health during his political campaign
· The hospital board both locally in Pignon and stateside for wisdom, discernment, and guidance
· For all the students in the area, particularly those sponsored through the HELP scholarship program
· The organizations that partner with the hospital through short-term missions including medical missions, work projects and financial assistance
· Release from the oppression of the enemy and the influences of Voodoo
· That staff, patients and families of patients know fully the love of Christ
· The future of the hospital and the country of Haiti
A few scriptures are provided for each 10 day period and of course we want you to pray as the Spirit leads, these are just some of the things on our hearts.
Days 1-10
Zechariah 1:3
Therefore tell the people: This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Return to me,' declares the LORD Almighty, 'and I will return to you,' says the LORD Almighty.
Psalm 50:15
15 and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me."
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
James 4:7-8
7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Psalm 33:18
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,on those whose hope is in his unfailing loveDays 11-20
Day 11-20
Matthew 6:33-34
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these thingswill be given to you as well.
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Psalm 105:3-5
3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.
4 Look to the LORD and his strength; eek his face always.
5 Remember the wonders he has done,
Proverbs 8:17
17 I love those who love me,and those who seek me find me.Luke
18:7-8 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones,
who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?
8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly.
However, when the Son ofMan comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
Days 21-30
Isaiah 55:6
6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;call on him while he is near.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to
prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to
you.
13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your
heart.
14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring
you back from captivity I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."
Ephesians 1:16-21
16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my
prayers.
17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the
glorious Father, may give you the Spiritof wisdom and revelation,
so that you may know him better.
18 I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be
enlightened in order that you may know the hope to
which he has called you,
the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,
19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength,
20 which he exerted in Christ when he
raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the
heavenly realms,
21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion,
and every title that can be given, not only in the present
age but also in the one to come.
Psalm 113:7
7 He raises the poor from the dust
and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
Proverbs 31:8-9
8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy."
Days 31-40
Ephesians 6:7-8
7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men,
8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone
for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.
1 Peter 4:7-10
7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and
self-controlled so that you can pray.
8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love
covers over a multitude of sins.
9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in
its various forms.
James 2:5
5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the
eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he
promised those who love him?
1 Thessalonians 2:19
19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in
the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?
James 1:2-6
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many
kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops
perseverance.
4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be
mature and complete, not lacking anything.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom,he should ask God,
who gives generously to all without finding fault,
and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks,
he must believe and not doubt, because he who
doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed
by the wind.
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
Jared and Stacey Nikkel, the young family from Iowa who are serving the hospital mission in Pignon, have asked permission and were graciously approved by the hospital administration and Dr. Guy, to initiate 40 days of prayer at the hospital, starting Dec. 9 and ending on Jan. 18 after the Promise For Haiti board meeting. They are inviting churches and organizations all around the United States to join this effort and intercede for the nation of Haiti, for the mission, leadership of the hospital, and both the PFH (stateside) and CBP(hospital) board of directors. This is a crucial time for Dr. Guy and the political future of Haiti, for the mission and outreach of the hospital, and for the people of Haiti who are living in extreme poverty. Jared and Stacey have asked local pastors to join them in praying with the staff, doctors and nurses of the hospital each morning, for praying for the sick and dying in the hospital, and for praying for Dr. Guy and the administrative team of the hospital.
We would like to encourage each of you to forward this invitation to your local church congregations, others individuals and organizations who support the mission in Haiti, and to personally commit to joining this effort. As part of the initiative, there will be a prayer prompts and some scripture passages to guide prayer every ten days during the 40 days of prayer sent via e-mail. Jared and Stacey would like to know the extent of this prayer coverage, so if you and other organizations will be joining this effort, please let me know and I will forward to the Nikkels.
We are excited about the power, guidance and direction that could be unleashed for Hospital de Bienfaissance and its mission in Pignon if we pray. Please join the Nikkels and other supporters as we begin 40 days of prayer this Wednesday.
40 Days of Prayer for Hospital Bienfaisance of Pignon
From December 9, 2009, to January 18, 2010, we would like to focus on praying for the hospital in Pignon. The hospital is vital to the northern plateau region of Haiti serving several communities and roughly 140,000 people. The last year has been a hard year for the hospital. The Comite de Bienfaisance, the Promise for Haiti Board, the administration, staff and Dr. Guy have many difficult decisions to make in the coming year. On January 15, 2010 there is a combined board meeting with both the Haitian and American board members. We need to ask God to be near us and guide us and to return to us and to restore the Hospital de Bienfaisance to what it once was in the name of Jesus Christ, our only hope.
We would like to invite anyone who is willing, to participate in focused prayer for the hospital, the region and the people of Haiti for these 40 days. Local pastors and Christians around the area have also been invited to pray with us at the hospital each morning and we are anticipating a positive response from the community.
We are asking that you pray for:
· The administration and leadership of the hospital and all personnel
· That the power and presence of the Holy Spirit would come upon the hospital in new and amazing ways
· The healing of patients
· Dr Guy-protection and health during his political campaign
· The hospital board both locally in Pignon and stateside for wisdom, discernment, and guidance
· For all the students in the area, particularly those sponsored through the HELP scholarship program
· The organizations that partner with the hospital through short-term missions including medical missions, work projects and financial assistance
· Release from the oppression of the enemy and the influences of Voodoo
· That staff, patients and families of patients know fully the love of Christ
· The future of the hospital and the country of Haiti
A few scriptures are provided for each 10 day period and of course we want you to pray as the Spirit leads, these are just some of the things on our hearts.
Days 1-10
Zechariah 1:3
Therefore tell the people: This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'Return to me,' declares the LORD Almighty, 'and I will return to you,' says the LORD Almighty.
Psalm 50:15
15 and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me."
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
James 4:7-8
7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Psalm 33:18
18 But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,on those whose hope is in his unfailing loveDays 11-20
Day 11-20
Matthew 6:33-34
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these thingswill be given to you as well.
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Psalm 105:3-5
3 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.
4 Look to the LORD and his strength; eek his face always.
5 Remember the wonders he has done,
Proverbs 8:17
17 I love those who love me,and those who seek me find me.Luke
18:7-8 And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones,
who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?
8 I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly.
However, when the Son ofMan comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
Days 21-30
Isaiah 55:6
6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;call on him while he is near.
Jeremiah 29:11-14
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to
prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to
you.
13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your
heart.
14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring
you back from captivity I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."
Ephesians 1:16-21
16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my
prayers.
17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the
glorious Father, may give you the Spiritof wisdom and revelation,
so that you may know him better.
18 I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be
enlightened in order that you may know the hope to
which he has called you,
the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,
19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength,
20 which he exerted in Christ when he
raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the
heavenly realms,
21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion,
and every title that can be given, not only in the present
age but also in the one to come.
Psalm 113:7
7 He raises the poor from the dust
and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
Proverbs 31:8-9
8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy."
Days 31-40
Ephesians 6:7-8
7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men,
8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone
for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.
1 Peter 4:7-10
7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and
self-controlled so that you can pray.
8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love
covers over a multitude of sins.
9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in
its various forms.
James 2:5
5 Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the
eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he
promised those who love him?
1 Thessalonians 2:19
19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in
the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you?
James 1:2-6
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many
kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops
perseverance.
4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be
mature and complete, not lacking anything.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom,he should ask God,
who gives generously to all without finding fault,
and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks,
he must believe and not doubt, because he who
doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed
by the wind.
Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica
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