Dominican Republic Missions Experience

One Last Entry

2008-05-31T04:35:00.000-07:00

Hola por la ultima vez!!! Hello for the last time from the DR!!!
This week is my last week writing as I will be leaving the DR in two weeks and packing up all my things. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy my final ramblings...oh and those interested, I will probably be starting a new blog from Kansas in Aug. so if you check here, I will post the new site address when I launch it!
Here we go:
Yesterday was my last full day of classes and the last day of meeting with 7th grade. I don't know if I ever shared this but, I have 3-4 girls in my class who daily perform a mini theatrical dance for me as I enter the class. Well, to my surprise, since it was the last day, they came in costume and fully prepared with a cd song mix for their performance!!! They were so cute as they sang and danced and basically made fools of themselves for me! But also to my surprise, after their performance they presented me with a handmade certificate and told me I was the best teacher for them this year!!! Wow, I was shocked and overjoyed!
I later gave each of them a card of affirmation and encouragement which I had thought of individually to motivate and just love them....it was a nice time. Next week I will only see them as they take their final exams.
The final play, talent show and craft days as well as the moving up ceremony will take place next week and then the teachers have closing duties. I can't believe how fast this year went!!
Anyway, on a spiritual tip:
Last year in April I was herevisiting in Santiago trying to decide if I felt God calling me to DR. To make a long story short, I was here for 2 weeks instead of one as my flight kept getting cancelled due to a storm in NJ. Anyway, during that time I found myself crying out literally, for God's grace and mercy over this nation as I was opening my eyes to the poverty and oppression in some areas. Well, funny how God has a way of saying "it is finished!" Because this past week while cleaning up around the house, there wasmusic playing in the backround and I was suddenly arrested in spirit to the pointI sat and wept!!! like I was crying out again for god to bring more of His glory here and to forgive us for not calling upon His mercy and love for one another here.....it was the same experience only a year later!!! It was like he said to me, now your time is complete and others will be moving forward....I was reminded though that no matter what nation we reside in, the promise is that if we HUMBLE ourselves and pray, he WILL heal our land. and be it USA or Haiti or DR or wherever, we all need healing and spiritual cleansing! Anyway, this time has been a myriad of emotions and lessons all of which I hope to carry into the next phase of the journey. the people have been a blessing as the culture andlanguage as well. Dominicans have huge hearts and its beautiful the way they value family. I can only pray that I have been an asses to others here as they have been to me.....end of life chapter DR MISSION next chapter KANSAS TRAINING ...thanks for sharing in these moments with me. God has truly changed me and shown me more of himself through this time. He is to be honored and glorified and praised. Amen
pray for financial blessing and continue to pray for the International School ofSanto Domingo as well as the DR and all other nations. Also pray for Tracy's kidney match as the testing will be happening soon.

Maybe Dorothy's not in Kansas anymore...

2008-05-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

Maybe Dorothy's not in Kansas anymore, but it appears Iwill be!!! Well, for those of you who have been traveling this blog journey with me, here is the next phase. Asyou know I have been praying about a training program of bible study and the next level ofpreparation for my mission's calling and I finally have a plan...I think.
I applied to a program namedTHE CALL which is an Institute out of the International House of Prayer organization. They have a school there and various programs. I came about this by a "chance" meeting with a young missionary here in the DR.i have never met him before and never seen him since our one and only discussion, but it was definitely a purposed encounter.

So the program will run from August until June with a break for Christmas. And yes as per the title, it will be in Kansas City. Funny, I surely did not expect to be back in the states and definitely not in Kansas, but God had other plans. So I am excited about alot of the unknown, but I do know when you are walking in HIs will according to His purposes and timing, you can't go wrong.....trying to explain this to others, not so easy!

Anyway, I do randomly have a cousin living in the area and it will be a great opportunity to spend some time with her and her family. Otherwise,please if you can not join me financially, pray, pray,pray that my time there be spent trusting and listening so as to maximize learning. i know my time here in DR has made memore aware for the next part of the journey. I am trusting for wisdom and tangibly for finances and a part-time job once I get to Kansas. The program cost $1600 per semester not including books so I need to raise or earn the money by August and also have a means to put gas in the car and pay for living. Iknow God will provide as he has here in DR. I thank you for your prayers and I am excited to see how my life will bechanged as wellas the lives of those in my path, as God continues to transform and conform me to HIs likeness....this has been a strange trip, but like Dorothy, I am learning there is no place likeHOME...Home being the shelter and dwelling of the FATHER. thank you all for your support.

ps DR is doing well. LeonelFernandez won president and so he will continue which is god news. I am tidying up loose ends and in 3 weeks adios muchachos!!!
pray for my financesand traveling mercies as well as direction and spiritual foundation for my roommate. Pray for wisdom, favor and peace.

just a day...

2008-05-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

just took a day at the beach with some friends...4weeks to go!

Welcome to the Jungle!!!

2008-05-15T06:01:00.000-07:00

Wow, so this is election wek herein the DR....For about the past 3/4 nights there has been crazy noise as the candadates do their final campaigning through the streets. Yesterday my roommate and I wanted to go to the mall to eat and it was incredible! The streets were jammed packed in every direction with people hanging out of cars and yellin.....most of them I think just like the attention and rowdiness. There is lots of chaos and no gov't control which is ironic asit is a political rally! Anyway, EVERYONE is drinkin and trucks with speakers even motorcycle contraptions shoutin out stuff.....We saw a minivan that had literally been flipped over in the middle of the street! I think I will be staying inside until it is all over.....but wow I have never seen anything like it.
If I have learned anything here, itis an appreciation for structure and order in life....a world without rules while seemingly liberating, causes chaos and more confusion....nothing can get done like that!
So the elections are tomorrow and when the president is chosen people will either rejoice or riot. I pray that God will permit hte person who will truly serve His purposes and bring thisplaceto advancement. It will not be easy. Its like ignorance or lack of knowledge or lack of education are rampant and stability, dicipline and integrity are hidden. But if God canmove mountains, he can change this country. so. thatis all for today.

take a breath...and release YES!!!

2008-05-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

ok well today was the big show down...7th grade had the debate and though I was not able to watch (as Iwaswith my other class), I heard it went well. We finished our novel yesterday and many responded very well with respect to Jesus and following him. I gave each one a gospel of John in spanish and they actually seemed interested in reading it!!! I pray they will continue to develop their walk with GOd as we discussed in class is very necessary in life.

grade 1/2 was excited to do their hip-hop performance and it went well. THey made a mess with confetti on the floor and did a nice job explaining Australia and our classwork to the parents. Now I can exhale......

This week we will have only 3 days and then a 4 day weekend and the following 2 weeks are teaching review and the last week and half are exams and final talent shows....I can not believ how fast it all went. All in all it was a great experience and I just hope I can unravel allI have learned and did and not just let it pass by. God is so gracious that he knows the plan even when we don't and for that I need to remember to trust Him as He is in control.
Please pray for this country and the presidential elections tis week as it can get crazy and the DR needs gov't stability! Also pray for Kari (the other missionary) as she has been having many health problems. Finally, please pray that I make the correct choices for the coming year, and that I trust financially god knows what I need and how I can earn it! thanks enjoy the photos!

Calling all cars!

2008-05-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Racers, start your engines......vrmmmmm
Ever notice that at the jump of the race you are amped up with adrenaline and excitement and somewherein the middle you get a bit weary but thank GOd for the final lap where you are at the brink of victory...you can hear it, sweat pourin down, you can taste it.....you just gotta finish welll........
Welcome to my last lap. This week marks the last of the unit finals and the next 3 weeks are full of clean up, close down and semester exam reviews. we have many days off in the next few weeks observing a country holiday Corpus Cristi, and the presidential elections are May 16 so for safety and to get voters school is out the 15 ad 16!

I am wrappin it up with the 7th grade and their Bronze Bow novel....my ability to educate them on the ways of GOd as per the Torah and the Bible has been going fairly well and we are in the home stretch in terms of me preaching!!!! So I am strongly asking that all of the fans ( and fellow prayers) please pray that all 12 students in the class will have learned accademically, but have their hearts open to God spiritually as well. They have been showing an interest and understanding and I pray that GOd will call them to know HIm more deeply after this class. Please pray that the next few days will be fruitful ones. That the seeds planted in their hearts will mature and grow.
The first grade is revvin up fo rth efinal presentation and food fair saturday and then we will be preparing a little somethin for mother's day which is observed here May 25th. Other than than please please pray about my finances, my future decisions for next year, and that all financial and other details be tied up here before I leave. I truly am grateful for how much I have learned and grown fromthis experience and now it is truly time to finish well and move to the next adventure.....I know that when you lead God'sfollowing you will always be where you need to be in the right time. pray for the country at election time, and pray mostly for my students and I as we sprint the last 50yards home.....

Irony

2008-05-03T07:36:00.000-07:00

This week as I think about the fact that it is already May, I am strangely aware of how comfortable I had become in this "third world"environment. Its funny because we as extranjeros (foreigners) think that people in other countries know that there is lack....but I guess that depends on what you consider lack andon what side of the wallyou are looking from.
Here in the DR there is a huge dividing line between rich and poor. The rich live well with maids, cooks, chaufers and experience all the luxuries of the average american. Many of these families even children have expressed to me that they love to visit the US but would never want to live there. That was so contrary to what I would have thought. They believe that in the US drugs and drinking and money and all of life's stresses are greater...you know what? They are right.
The families here that fall in the poverty line are the ones who act as maids and cooks etc. They have many kids and some barely go to school. The ones who do, are stuffed like sausages in classes that only run half day and are generally taught by peoplewith a degree but not necessarily in teaching. Therefore the teaching basically consists of taking notes from aboard for about 3 hours. To these people, going to the US is dream. They live off the image of bball players, rappers and celebs who roll around in money. Only to realize the big dissapointment that being in the US and having money means pressure and alot of work!!! Therefore, many of these either never get to the US or when there, they begin to act illegally to obtain the dream.
This is ironic to me really...one man I met on the street said he lived in Texas and decided to come back to the DR because here people can relax and party and there it was work work work.
Now in terms of family the relaxing and spending time seems viable, but look around, we celebrate a labor day in a country where the majority DON"T labor!(DR) Now in the US on this same holiday, we usually don't relax with family!! I suppose there are lessons from each side to be learned.
I beleive it is all of our responsibilities to teach the next generation about balancing work, and play and education. On the top of a hill there sits a family with a beautiful house with walls around it....immediately outside is a dengue, malaria infested river but they don't see it! How do we open our eyes to the cry of our nations to restore them to their intended prosperity? By allowing GOd to open our hearts and becoming who He has intended us to be....Please pray this week that we would be open ..there are nations in famine and dying because of lack ....and others continue to flow....this is not as it was intended to be and we can do something about it. Specifically pray for Haiti and the Sudan. May we not take for granted what we have no matter what side ofthe line we are on.

weekly update

2008-04-27T16:18:00.000-07:00

well this week was a atest in humility and a strethching in holiness as I was forced to face my most violent opponent...my mouth....you know that thing that often gets you into trouble! As I stretch forward to reach the prize at the end of this race to follow CHrist, I am forced to realize that living a lifestyle of holiness means putting into action the sccriptures and sometimes confessing and asking forgiveness for the things we do and say....its a delicate balance of humility and obedience and desire to be transformedin His image...
I realized the needto be right oropinionated can sometimes affect our witness and a non-belivers ability to see christ because they see hypocrocy. Wow, I never felt hurt or guilt like the hurt of disappointing the living god and though he willingly forgives and makes grace abound...it is challenging.
Anyway, this week was the seventh grade movie night and school family fair and many kids came out for food and crafts and sports(of course I was in charge of basketball and soccer) and now I look like a crisp french fry! It was a students birthday which we shared at the beach with her...not quite like in the states! All in all a good week.
Prayer request are for the decisions I have to make about next year and the ability to stay grounded and manage my time better in terms of prayer and work etc. Also pray for my roommate as she is trying to plan for next year as well. Pray for my students that their hearts would be open to the gospel as we wind down on our book about Jesus and finish our prep for our global warming debate that they wouold be strengthened. Specifically pray for Haiti as the food crisis there is out of control and people are in a bad way. That God would have mercy and partnerships would be formed with neighboring countries to supply the basics rice, beans, etc. There are 2 missionaries going there in the next few weeks to report on the situation. be blessed.

hang with me people!

2008-04-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

ok well to those faithful readers,
sorry its been a minute since I wrote. There is not much going on really only end of the year school projects and papers to grade and soccer tournaments to help coach and UN debate topics being changed and learned and.....so I guess you can see that life here is CRAZY!
My first and second graders are writing and practicing a hip-hop rap routine about Australia! Seventh grade is still in The Bronze Bow book about Jesus andlearning alot about their UN debate on Global Warming......basically business has honestly gotten me a bit distracted from my personal time of rest and reading so if you would pray for sustainance and refreshing that would be good....
I am refining and maybe redefining my plans for next year as God seems to be leading me towards a training program but it may be a different location and I will keep you all posted about that...I am trying to really go where HE leads so I have ti sft through a bunch of my own desires and thoughts to get to the truth and purposefor the next phase....
Prayer requests for a fellow teacher Jenn and my students and some high school students that I have been priviledged to chat with....that they would know HIm. Basically, that's all folks hasta luego.

A WOW week!!!

2008-04-12T13:57:00.000-07:00

Testing and trials will come. Did you know the bible actually says that. Then why are we often taken a back by them? This week has been a dewsey in many ways but I am glad that the bible also says we can "finish well". So, here goes:
I have learned this week that faith often is strengthened by obedience and obedience without sight. I mean, when it hasn't been proven to you that something works or is the correct choice, how do you know to proceed or question? I believe you know by seeking the Word, and relying on that still small voice inside to confirm it.
Someone asked me if I would appreciate my time here if I never was priveleged enough to know exactly what it was all for....in my ignorance I immediately said " I would be upset to not SEE the fruit of my time here" But as I said I am realizing we are to live by faith not only by sight so if I believe that I was called by GOd to do something, and His word "can not return void, or without fruit" than I must be satisfied to believe that wether I can see the fruit or not, it must exist!

Only after realizing this, I was so priviledged to have had a 3 hour conversation with my roommate who is a new believer, and she opened up to me about how she views me and how her life this year has seemingly been changed by all she has seen and learned from me.....dude, this was heavy cause I never realized that people are most affected by how you live and not what you say....and my class, I am seeing the light bubls go on as I teach them about rabbis and disciples and law versus grace....it is the fruit I have been waiting for to SEE all of this and KNOW that I am here because He said GO....but I must not forget and be humbled by the question, if I never saw,or knew,would I be satisfied that His word says so??? WOW
The Word is the beginning, middle and end of everything and I am realizing that being in it answers questions, but breeds even more questions and maybe in this is the vitality of life that you always hunger for more? WOW

Another analogy ofthe week has come outta running....to be honest,I hate running! But I am doing it for physical exercise and everytime I start running it is like a conversation with GOd....a spiritual analogy, that you could never run a marathon the first time out because physically you are not conditioned to run, you don't have good breathing patterns, your muscles are week and then they get stiffand soon....it is a practice of endurance and discipline, and you cannot get prepared for it the day of the big race.The preparation comes before when there is no glory,no honor, but what? PAIN that's what.
Well, spiritually I am learning to exercie as well. This life is a race and I can not have it all figured out day one. When you start there is imminent frustration and then maybe success and stiffness where you feel stuck, but when you realize you must pace yourself, and that the whole body has to work together mind, body, spirit. Daily do one thing right, then another, then another and you build your muscles and as the days go on, you endurance and ability to withstand more in trial.....if my knee hurts, maybe it is the weak link and I need to strengthen it for the whole leg to function well.....so, if my attitude stinks, I need to strengthen it so my compassion and gentleness and grace can work well towards others!!!
I am tellin you, without training we are weak and unprepared and in the battle is no time for training....so before the honor and glory, there is sweat! this is WOW and I will keep running to build muscle even when it is not enjoyable!!!

The next step...

2008-04-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

HOla all
well I have begun taking spanish classes again finally and it seems that the opportunity to teach my seventh graders about Christ is going well.Today we learned about Jewish customs and that the first 5 books of the OT were known as the Torah. They were amazed that people lived to read scriptures and that kids their age actually memorized 39 books of the OT.....so I am hoping to have a chance to testify more as they begin to be more aware and as the book carries on with the power of Jesus. Maybe (and I hope) I will have the chance to lead them in prayer even! i started tutoring a boy in my class with homework and stuff cause since his dad died2 years ago he is sorta sad and unmotivated. I am hoping to have an open door to witness to him as well.

Personally, I am hangin in learning about the power of my words and the power of knowing the scriptures so when "things happen" I can be encouraged and strengthened by the word of faith!
I have started running again last week so I hope to get into shape and maybe climb Pico Duarte which is the highest mountain (11,600) in the carribean. Basically, that is it.

OK ABOUT WHAT IS NEXT:
I have decidedto apply to a training program with a US based organization called Youth With A Mission (YWAM). They are in 190 countries around the world working with kids and families in need by bringing the gospel and relevant activities and needs to them. Here in DR there is a training site in a mountain city called Jarabacoa. They have a 5month program where you get trained on organizational things for missions work as well as bible training and training for rural, urban and other settings.
Since coming here I have realized to be effective as a missionary you MUST be affiliated with a group for help, accountability and knowledge. So, whatever happens after this, community center, other nations etc. this training will be very valuable.
The program consists of 3 months of classroom style learning, and working in the immediate communitie, as well as campo style living on the YWAM grounds. Then for 2-3 weeks we will go to another nation either Haiti, Peru, China (not sure yet). The purpose will be to see the needs there and visit organizations and help as they address the needs of the people there. The final 1 1/2 months will be spent back in the DR working with an organization as a leader or program director gaining experience and cultural understaning. It will be from AUG-JAN 2009. So, the current challenge after I apply is going to be funding because like a school, you pay to attend and live there etc. The cost will be about $3500-3700 for the whole thing (this includes the trip). I am coming home to work in the summer but I know it will be tough to earn this much money.

Below you will see my mom's address. If you would like to help me financially please send a check to me Jaime Simeonidis. In the margin you can write YWAM. I am not sure about how to get a receipt yet for tax purposes as a donation, but I will look into it. If you can not help financially, please pray that I am hearing God's voice for the next step, and that I will be fully funded in the manner He provides. Thanks for all your love and support. p.s. if you want to go onto the website go to YWAM Jarabacoa and click DTS training.

Jaime Simeonidis
7 Racquet Rd.
Wall NJ 07719

A few things to share...

2008-03-31T17:11:00.000-07:00

ok so since Easter week I have been thinking about wether I have been true to my expectations herein the DR and if I have really given of my time and talents to serve here as I intended to do. in many ways I am realizing that I have andstill yet in others I have not. I am also realizing sometimes God will set us ona path towards something that we perceive one way, and when we are there, he willopen the understanding to many other unforseen things.
I thought I could come here and jump right into the community center, not anticipating the need for greater language comprehension, as well as cultural awareness. I thought that being at the school was a hinderance since I came to "help" those less fortunate blah blah blah....I guess wheremy mind has shifted is that there will always be poor people and those who are unsure or uneducated about how to move aheadin life. Thee will always be people who don't have something, but they are not the onley ones who need "help".
I think I am realizing that we somehow fulfill our selfishness by thinking we "helped" the immediate gratification of a weekly meal, or afew childrens games...yes, these things can be good, but sometimes maybe we do it more for us then for them.
My new realization is that ALL people no matter in DR or US, are in some ways poor, and rich. It is the people who don't know the true love and experience of relationship with Christ that may make one poor, and having little but knowing His peace and joy may make one rich!
I am coming to understand that people who are poor economically, are desperate and therefore more willing to understand the need for Christ as a savior, while those who seem to be satisfied by their jobs, "successful"in their wealth and family, that seem to feel they don't need a savior.
Here is wheremy heart currently seeks to serve. I am realizing no matter where you are there is a mission field to serve because so many think that they can do life alone without the power of Christ. If the upperand middle class societies began to realize their power and value in CHrist, it is very realistic to think that the number ofpeoplein tangible poverty could decrease because the peoplein power are acting out of wisdom from above.
So, no matter where you are you can be apart of the great commission because allpeople need Jesus, redemption, salvation, relationship and new life. Having said that, spreading this message if seemingly easier in a group or when affiliated with an organization rather than asalone ranger on amission. There fore i am seeing the need for a bit more training and strategy to teaching others, as well aslearning creative waysto apply God's word to a world that exists beyond those "less fortunate" by material standards. I have been receiving some guidance as to where to go next, but honestly, no matter what your physical location you can be a missionary.
Pray for the eyes and ears of the hearts of your loved onesto be opened to Christ's love. That HIs truth would permeate our soulsand cause change and that rich and poor alike would come to know Himand walk in His light.

CJ's BIG ADVENTURE

2008-03-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

Wellnothing like the moviePeewee's big adventure, but Cheryl Jeanne (my mom) sure did experience a rip roaring time in the Dominican Republic! It all started with an airport pick-up that went smoothand a 4 hour drive through a third world country that kinda set the big CJ fora loop. I guess I never realize that peoplewho ren't called to missions see things with different eyes! Anyway, finally we arrived at the apartmentand saw the beautiful beach to find outthat the ocean gets "angry" 2 times a year and gues what...yup you guessed it...this was the week so we were inable to swim Thursday and most of Friday. We did however get to drive through the country and see some great and not so great views. CJ saw pigs and plantains! We saw the area of CAP CANA where DonaldTrump is building ahotel and the school there was beautiful. Saturday was the best day as we drove back to Baya Hibe and went on acatamaran to Isla Saona a desertes Island...the water and weather was finally great and we caught some starfish too....CJ had a mini-nervous breakdown returning to the capital of Santo Domingo as driving here is nuts and especially on Semana Santa (holy week) but she made it and we enjoyed the botanical gardens and walking the city as well as seeing typical dominican dancing (no CJ chickened out she didn't dance!) and last she came to the school to teach and meet the kids....all in all it was a very nice visit and of course....Gotta love my crazy mom.
So now, 3 more months back to the grind and rest so I can forcus on what God has for the end of this journey. more news to come about that! ok pray for peace, rest, and new energy to seek HIM.check out the blog photos

Reverence, te power of prayer, and REST

2008-03-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

Bienvenidos all! Today I am jsut back from the pharmacia because I suffering a bit from a sore throat thing so I am home preparing to get some rest so my voice returns. Lucky for you my voice is not a problem in this here blog! So, I will carry on!
This weekI have felt extremely blessed to have begun a new unit where as I previously mentioned, I am allowed to teach about Christ and religion in my class. I am sad to see that so many of my students don't know the basic bible stories and yet I am glad to have the opportunity to explain them. In this, I am also realizing the meaning "all things are permitted but not all things are beneficial!" What I mean is, as I continually try to navigate the waters of personalities and such at my job I am realizing that we are always free to go and do what we please, but it is not always bestto think of self when you can possibly lose theopportunity to bring God the glory. So I will continue to navigate, for the sake of the opportunity to teach these kids about hrist...it is rare and cool to be able to do this. I am however realizing to deal with myself, and counter personalities, the power of prayer is essential. I think when we aer at the height of frustration or aggrevation we tend to lean on self but I am learning that it is as these very moments that christ wants us to lay our burdens on HIm!!! I guess that is where the reverence of te cross comes when we realize what it actually signifies...it is truly unfathomable.
Finally I am happy to be learning about what it means to be at rest that the whole world ca fall apart, but we cn be in perfect peace...amazing still. also natural rest is that I will be going to Punta Cana/Bavaro this week with my mom for Semana Santa (Holy week) o it should be oodles of fun and rest by the crystal blue shores...I will post pictures. Please give thanks for the gift of salvation in CHrist this week as we celebrate Easter.
Prayer requests:
Safe flight for my mom, and safe driving for me(DR driving is crazy!!!) rest, wisdom in the upcoming teaching unit, prayer for my church as things there are shifting, prayer for my friend Jenn to know Christ, for Tracy to find a kidney, or be healed! for 2CHron 7:14 to come to pass.

The Process continues...

2008-03-05T14:27:00.000-08:00

Just when you think you get a grasp on things, a slight understanding, I find you get put to the test of this new knowledge. Sometimes to pass and move to the next level challange and other times you fail and go around the mountain again til you get it right! And so it goes at my school as the new unit is beginning and I get to teach and awesome book called "the bronze bow" which talks about jews and christ in a time whererome was taking over. The themes are so in line with the battle here of revenge vs. forgiveness and hate vs ove and especially that of your enemies. Also the idea of power in silence. WOW it is fll of great ministry stuff and I am excited for God to open the door for me to teach about biblical times and about Jesus as he is actually in the book! Also we watched a movie called "Ben-Hur" and the themes wereso in line with hte book and also around CHrist.

Otherwise, I cut my foot and the healing should take a while (pray against infection!) but it seems to be ok if I rest it. My roomie and I are excited about the Easter break bc our boss is givin us a run for our money and also my mom is coming bearing US gifts!

We will be headed to the beach for a vacation and it will be the firsttime we go to the east and I will be driving....this should prove to be an experience!.

prayer requests for my friend Tracy, my two students 1 who may be add or having some focus problems, the other who had a stroke as a child and pray for her family. Pray for my patience and determination to see the good in people and to love people no matter how hardthey ake it....pray that i learn to keep my mouth shut in the process. Pray for safe travels and of coursethat many would come to the saving grace of CHrist duringthis reserection season. peace and love

ride the wave!

2008-02-28T15:10:00.000-08:00

this will be short and sweet....On the God tip....we need Him has been the cry of my heart this week. Realizing it, and acting on it! School is busy as it is the end of the semester and we have a guest from Miami at churchg training some of tge leaders. Pray for rest and the ability to keep afloat in the business wave.....same prayers as last week please and for the strength of my roommate and for the increase of people to be drawn to the Father.
Hasta luego!

AWEsome

2008-02-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

Greetings!
This week I'd would like to share that my heart feels so full and in AWE of all that is going on around me....too much to capture in a brief blog! Basically, school is good and the kids have their fake carnaval at school this Friday but since I am against it I am dressing them as animals from the part of the country we studied! The 7th grade is doing a rap so it should be fun!
Last week we had a guest at church Ron Archer from the US gov't. He was inspiring and next week I am helping with a conference at church with a pastor from Miami. Also a man from Christ Church (JOHN) was here this week meeting with me an others to begin a program with children here to train and educate them naturally and spiritually. Things with that went well and look good.
Spiritually I am excited bc God is really moving here. I have realized when you are aware of how jealous he is toward you and how much he wants to spend time with you, you begin to seek him and yes, find him more. I have had many teachings and readings come to life for me in the last few weeks. It is like a new energy! There have been several people at my school who are so curious about God and cometo me asking questions...yesterday a girl asked me "How do you know when God is talking to you?" I think we make our "mission field" experience seem so big but it is really all about sharing your heart for God with people you see daily!
It's exciting to see people hungry and for me to get hungrier for Him. Imagine being in heaven and singing the same song over and over and over....."holy holy holy is the Lord who was and is and is to come" Don't you think you would get bored?
NO because imagine, everytime you say Holy, He reveals another trait of Himself and you are looking at a new image...WOW
May you be blessed as you think about that.
Prayer requests:
Tracy kidney transplant. Against the devil stuff for Carnaval here in DR. For the plans of John and the program in DR to begin to take shape. For fresh vision and revelation for Kari and me. For Jenn and Dan to come to know the Lord. For an open heart to serve and seek God and for my family especially the protection of my sisters and my mom.

Feliz Dia de amor y amistad!!!

2008-02-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

Felicidades!!! Happy Valentine's Day to all readers of this very profound blog sight!
Today I would like to impart to you the definition of LOVE. What is love? Is love sex? Is love obsession? Is love encountered by one who buys us things? Is love always happy?
Things that make you go hmm....
Well today I felt love when I thought of my mother, my sisters, and truly as I watched the children from the barrio mixed with the prvate school kids as they played basketball and soccer in an anti-drug program. I saw that when a person cares for another and intimacy is developed and formed that goes beyond touching or purchasing candy and jewlery. I saw that if one human being can seek the heart of another human being, that intimacy is inexplicable...and to me that is love. But where does it come from?
I am beginning to realize that without the knowledge of christ we can never truly understand love. He IS love. He who actually made himself less so we might have a chance to forever live, came to earth for one purpose, to DIE for me and you....that is LOVE.
I am truly humbled by this as I am daily reminded that I fail at expressing my love to many in my life and yet I am being called to love those who are even my enemies...why bc it is not about me, or you or anyone, it is about Christ. The perfect love which cast out all fear and would lay down His life for another. Incredible. I pray EVERYDAY we would celebrate this love not just today!
Prayers:
Please pray for John as he will be here next week with me to set up a possible program in Bonoa with families. Pray that my friend Danny has a safe flight here to speak about his school. Pray as the development of my bball team here brings kids from various social classes together which is a HUGE victory in this country. Pray as I try to delve deeper into my study time and prayer. Pray for my friend Tracy and her health(kidneys). Pray for the church that it would meet the needs of the people and be in line with the heart of God and His will in Santo Domingo. Pray for my sisters as I know they need Christ more each day.

May you be truly blessed and transformed by the power of HIs LOVE.

Facts, Comparisons and Life

2008-02-07T14:49:00.000-08:00

For those of you whole aren't so keen on reading just skimming...here are the basics; this one is fixin to be a long entry!
School is good classes aregood and you can see the trip photos from Bani sand dunes and salt fields. Also I have been referee for soccer and bball games at the school so hangin with the high school kids has been interesting and fun! I had an opportunity to speak with som parents and share some things whuch was very nice.
The community center help still is on hold I guess and so I have been trying to contact YWAM organization here to follow up on what I believe is supposed to be a connection with them and today I finally found some info so that is happy news.
Prayers: Pray that I may continue tobe open and rested and a good listener and my mouth (public enemy #1) shut!
Pray for my church Nueva Generacion
Pray for my roommate, the country in Feb., witnessing opportunities and my friend Tracy (health)
Pray that my family is wel and my finances for the upcoming months are ok.
Pray for the lepracy community here and the work of our school in connection with the barrio this months they will be coming together for a drug/addiction awareness program.

FOR THOSE WHO ACTUALLY WANT TO KNOW WHAT I AM THINKING! READ ON
ok so I have seemingly come into some facs that i have been pondering, like thefact that the eagle breaks off its beak after 40 years and waits and grows a new one and can live another 30 years! or the fact that after a caterpillar eats ll it can store, it goes into a cacoon (waiting) period and becomes a beautiful butterfly, or the fact that Gomer in the bible was a prostitue and she had 3 children out of wedlock and was bought back by her husband and couldn't have relations with him for a certain period of time ....all of this leads me to the thought of the WAITING period. What exactly is the power in that? I mean it seems to be a eriod os transformation, renewal, learning to live in a different manner tn you have been used to even 40 years! I am thinking in terms of acomparison of our lives where we all want to know that who we are tday is it or where we live or even how we look...the reality is in all three situations, the period after the waiting each the eagle, butterfly, and Gomer all were better than they weretheir new selves was more vibrant, wise, srong etc.
There must be power in the waiting periods when we have to call on CHrist to be our source, sustanance and hope. WHen we can't see clearly and aren't the top of our class or the best at eveything...maybe we learn a bunch as the loser in a game or the working out of confusion teaches perseverance or humilty? Who really has it all together anyway?
Enough rambling, I m so pleased to write that the more I know the less i know and the things I want to do I don't do and you know what...right now this is th best education I hav ever gotten and wouldn't you know the irony is....it's FREE! And so m I !!!! For whom the son sets free is free ibdeed...so those who know me can know I am in a pensive way today and others...they probably never made it past the prauer requests. Peace

hmmmmm

2008-01-31T15:20:00.000-08:00

short update..well this week I have been challenged to think about the things I am working on about me and the things around me that exist regardles of how I feel about them! I am also strangely seeing the shifts we have of highs and lows in our life and of feeling like a genious at times and a total dummy at other times! It is quite interestigin all this to think we must maintain our conviction to be salt and light while we are so imperfect and continually being refined and pruned!! all that in one breath!
So I am being challenged to see how I can be that for others athome, work, and in my community...I think becoming a observer is the key and an active listener to know how to pray!
On a trivial note, I am going on the second grade trip tuesday to the salt and sand dunes. I will post pics later. No other big news on the work front.
Spiritually I am realizing that what people really need is like it says in the Casting Crowns song...people need Jesus but not in the form of super christianity and super spiritual hypocrocy, they need to see a savior, a spirit that leads and a father that loves them...maybe sometimes we get in HIs way! Food for thought.
But we too are a process. I am moving which is better than standing still...so I guess I am in a position to learn and enjoy the journey and learn from the mini stumbling and joys....until next time Ciao

It's a scorcher out today folks!!!

2008-01-26T11:58:00.000-08:00

ok well as you all sit and freeze we have begun once again to fry in te heat! so much for winter here! But it is beautiful!
This week was fun as we had a day off and the seventyh grade schooltrip to Los Haitises national park. I was the teacher for the trip and we drove 3 1/2 hours to go into a speed boat and travel to 2 small islands where there are Los Tainos caves with pictographs and carvings....we learned a bunch and saw native birds and mangrove tree. We got to swim in a natural pool and basically we had lots of fun on the bus! Benig a kid is fun! But this week is back to work and I beleive I will be starting volunteering at the community center.
Church is still good and I have been learning to do laundry the Dominican way, on the roof of my building! No other big news. Enjoy the pictures.
Prayer requests:
The area of Cristo Rey for breaking of strongholds of drugs, etc. For the Duarte area for the breaking of sex strobngholds and prostitution. For the whole month of Feb. against the carnival and craziness. For my continual open heart, mind, ear and eyes and vision to see where to go in the coming months. Te quiero mucho!

Viviendo con Paz

2008-01-17T10:03:00.000-08:00

Hello all
well recent days have been fairly uneventful and surprisingly peacefull! I have to give much thanks for that bc prior to the break I was much frustrado! But GOd is good and He has taken the time to show me some things and how to rest in him.
School is o.k. and we are delving into the DR unit of study which is cool cause I get to learn alot about the country. The Independence day festival aka CARNIVAL will be taking place next month and so I am require to tecah about it. Learning about it has been very enlightening. It seems in various areas of the country the celebration is different but they all have to do with a cross between celebrating Independence of the nation, and endulging in pagan rituals prior to what Catholics refer to as the period called Lent the 40 days before Easter.
According to what I have read, people were going to be fasting during Lent so the Carnival time was a time to be CARNAL and endulge the flesh...kinda like Mardi Gras I guess. anyway, it is also kjnown to be a fight between GOd and the deveil and in many parades you see people dress up in various demonic looking costumes and they make new ones each year bc after the festival they burn the masks and spread the ashes into the soil!
o.k. so for you prayin folks reading I guess you can see why the spiritual side of me struggles to teach this! and I have come to realize that the battle here goes way deeper than a parade! something to pray about and against!
The various grade levels will be going on their individula class trips in the next few weeks and so I will be going to the Southwest and to the North east to a salted lake and flamingo area and to anational park. It should be interesting.
As for my personal life well things are very calm and I am just enjoying the period of discipline in my studies and rest. i will begin a new spanish course next week as part of my yearly goals. I have also become more acctive in the church so I am now assisting them wioth some thing and it is good. I am also beginning my community center service one day a week starting 2 weeks. It´s amazing what you see and learn sometimes when you just shut up and watch! ok random sorry!
Prayer requests:
Please pray for our church as the battle between spirit and world is very great and many are still stuck not making a choice. It is affecting the church body so pray for unity and not walking in sin. For my school pray for the teachers and the director as they need Christ and also need to balance their workloads. Pray for my roommate that God would mend her hearts hurt and she would grow. Pray for me that I would continue to praise and read and seek HIM daily so as to grow and help others. I hope you are all well. love and miss ya.

Todo esta bien!

2008-01-09T11:33:00.000-08:00

HOla,
just wanted to post a new message to let everyone know that all is going well since returning. At the job I had a planning day and a day of conferences with the parents that all went well. Today was the first day of classes with kids and they are glad to be back and right away back to the grind. I am still not fully ready for me schedule and workload but I am feeling peace at the moment!
Most importantly I have created a sanctuary in my room...complete with candles, a little rug, music and my living room chair(actually a piece of our sectional couch!) It has been great so far bc I have been able to spend time worshiping and resting anbd reading ...it is becoming a place of peace and a place where I am able to invite the presence of GOd in prayer and reading quiet...funny how with a little refreshing and perspective those lttle things are no longer annoyances e.i. the dogs outside, and yes they are still barking, and yes, the old man still showers outside my window but...NO importa!
So, I have found that many people see and outward transformation even visually as we do in secret our reading and prayer times. So many people have made mention about me ¨looking¨ different, in NJ and here....even the bot at the supermarcado said I look happy!
So please pray for continual favor, motivation and peace. Discipline and dedication to my walk with GOd as well as pray for my roommate who is struggling with some stress.
Also lift up my students and the teachers and director of my school, as most of them are no saved and also that they will learn and lead well. Pray also for awareness to the things around us and for President Bush as I have been reading a few things now that really speak to his needing God´s protection.
When GOd speaks it is usually the same to many people so I have been receiving confirmation of so many things regarding what to pray for. Thanks for all you do in supporting me and know that this is a time for us to move and grow in all areas of our lives, but pace yourselves and go according to His agenda not ours....also please pray for Kari as she seeks financial sources and a job. As for the spanish....oi it is needing much work right now...I begin class again tomorrow!!!

Feliz Ano Nuevo y welcome back!

2008-01-05T10:07:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends and Family,
Well I have made it back to the DR safe and sound! The flight was smooth and fairly quick. Surprisingly, I am very happy to be back. I wasn´t sure how I would feel about it...but GOd is good. I am so thankful for the time I was able to spend at home and other than the 10 lbs I gained from eating all of NJ, I really feel like God knew what I needed in terms of reconnecting with friends and family, and being encuoraged of my purpose and calling in HIm and I guess in many ways remotivated to seek and search after HIm more.

The goals for this year are to walk in intimacy with God in such a way that I move and go when and where He says and that I focus on HIs glory bringing new life to others. Pray that I am continually hungry for Him and that I have grace in aquiring the language more. Pray that by HIs leading I will connect with programs that are spiritually healthy and bringing Him glory. Pray that He will surround me with people seeking HIm and always a continued peace in the unknown. Pray for faith in action and sustainance despite not ¨feeling¨ like it at times.

TODAY i AM EXCITED FOR WHAT HE IS GOING TO DO AND I LOOK FORWARD TO THE CHALLENGES AHEAD. MAY HIS PEACE BE WITH YOU IN THE NEW YEAR AND MY THE SCALES BE OFF OUR EYES TO SEE THINGS ANEW. HERE WE GO!
keep in touch, p.s. no internet still at home so I will be at the center a few times a week if possible.

Just an update

2007-12-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

...ok well school is pluggin along and the students and I are much anticipating the CHristmas break. it is weird to go home for such a long time I am afraid to loose the language and stuff but I am ready to relax with family and friends.

Good news with one of the missionaries here is that she has been praying to expand the program I help with and she found a very large donor who she will be meeting with tomorrow. They say they can fund maybe $300,000 to 1,000,000 which would be more thn enoungh to build two new buildings for schools and community centers with paid staff!!! Also it would givemoney to several other programs as well.....we are hoping and praying taht this will come to pass for the betterment of the children here.

As for me, God is still drilling the same message, patience, quiet, and spending time with him and learning who He is and being more disciplined about it....

Thanks all for your love and support....Eggplant parm here I come...oh yeah and family at Christmas too!!! Feliz Navidad!! I will be writihng again when I return after the break. love Jaime

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2007-11-22T07:14:00.000-08:00

So as I sit in this noisy hot computer center I have only visions of pumkin pie, mashed potatoes, and string bean casserole!! My mouth is watering just thinking about it!!! But alas, I must blink and realize there is no Thanksgiving day here in the DR...well in my class there was! I surely did teach my kids about it and we all wrote about things we are thankful for and this is what I wrote:
I am thaknful mostly for family and heath right now. I have been here for nearly 4 months and I really miss everyone. It is amazing how we take each other for granted at times. I am thankful that I can walk and run and play. That I can see and hear and that I have shoes to walk in. I am thankful that I have been protected and that though I have been battling frustration of ¨why am I here¨ God is keeping and guiding me.
After the storm there have been at least 40 people who have died from some sort of disease and things are sorta business as usual. this is weird to me.
I started to think instead of GRAND occurances, maybe the purpose and glory is brought in making conversations and showing the light of CHrist....so I began my dance class and my spanish class and soccer. I guess each will be an avenue to BE a testimony to CHrist and an open door to tell others about Him. Yesterday I met Fernando at the bus station and I was able to talk to him and give him the gospel of Juan t read....I think I am thankful to learn that our power is not ours that prayer is more powerful than anything...
So please pray that I learn ¨to be content in all circumstances...¨¨ as Paul said, and that I learn to ëdify and encourage myself through te word¨
Pray that there may be divine encounters and hearts here would begin to give thanks for a God who cares for them....on this Thanksgiving I am learning to push past myself and die to my feelings to begin to live the truth not based on what I see or how I feel but what HE says....I am Thankful for more days to grow in this knowledge....yo espero que la paz y gozo de dios van estar en sus corazones!! forgive spelling errors!

A New Day, A New Direction, Where?

2007-11-18T14:52:00.000-08:00

ok friends and family,
I am setling into the vacancy that my firends left behind! Things here are back to being settled. Kari is situated for the most part and we have both decided to go to a church led by a Pastor that is very nice and has been mentored by Pastor David in NJ. I believe that this church will one day be a place of change for many but right now it is small and on the rise...yes I did say I was going somewhere else but God is pulling me here to hep and watch this thing grow.....anyway, I will be home in about 4 weeks and I am very excited about that. A taste of home will be good. For now, please pray that I learn to tap into what God is doing here and realize my role in it all. While I very much like my job and the people and the culture, I believe there is sooooo much more to my purpose in being here and I am feeling quite frustrated in the unknown of it all....But again as always I know God is good and His purposes will come to pass....This is a new level a season on uncomfortable growth and in that the learning of new ways and new disciplines, how to be lessthat He may be more in my life and how to learn to walk in grace and love with all humility while trying to head the still small voice....all of this a bit overwhelming at times....pray for sustanance and joy in the process. Maybe the key is Merengue? Dancing always free the spirit..maybe I will take classes and I guess my boycott of the language will cease and I will begin classes again!!!! ok paz y amor hasta proximo vez....

Christ Church Mission trip news

2007-11-10T17:48:00.000-08:00

Hola friends and family!
This week the team of 25 people came from Christ CHurch in Montclair NJ to minister to the people in the DR. It was an awesome thing for me personally because GOd truly knows when we are tired and in need of refreshing and so he brought some of my favorite people for me to share time with. God is amazing bc the team was scheduled to come even before the storm and so many of the original plans were changed. it's just like GOd to keep us flexible and on our toes...and that He did.

The beginning of the week was a bit disorganized in the places we were going and thge supplies we were to need. We met up with a local church to distribute food and clothing to a community in San Cristobal. The people there were very desperate bc they has lost so much in the storm and so they were a bit roudy and the men used lots of muscles! There were two locations and food was distribiuted from an orphanage and a church location. Many people received prayer and encouragement.

Tuesday unfortunately I had to work but the team went to the smae community and some of the people even began to throw rocks in anger when the food ran out! Desperation was evident.
Next we went towork wit hDenise a missionary here that I have become friendly with. She runs Nazerene Compassionate minstries here and we painted her community center...Half the group went to distribute water and the other half went shopping for supplies.

The next two days were the best as God was beggiuning to speak to us to loose our frustration from disorder and he was calling us to seek him in a different way and begin to fight against the spiritual things that are holding on to people here. We went to Bonoa a community that was still a mess from the storm....it rained alot but we filled the ground with dirt to soak up the water and then we prayed with many families. It was an awesome experience to worship and praise with them.

Friday we went to a very poor Haitian community and we really saw the violence that exists among the people and we tried to love on the kids there....again there was desperation bc they are seen as illegal and illigitimate in the DR and so no relief is given to them...the racial prejudice is very bad.
Finally today we were off for a bit and my friends came to my house and we did the "livin in DR" thing at the supermarcado and banco! Then we went ane prayed for the children at the chuldren's hospital...
If all that isn't enough, God chose dinnertime to call my roommate in to HIs kingdom and she was saved!!! That made my whole experience complete.

Missions is awesome and when you are looking from behind it is different than looking from the head. I was able to see from both. It was different and he is stretching me....to be continued!

Noel 2007

2007-11-01T16:58:00.000-07:00

First of all THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! Family and friends you have no idea how great it is to be supported and feel you love while there is a disaster going on. So many of you called (or tried) and wrote emails.
Ok the situation here is bad. I am great and my place is in a good area but my street floods abit. There have been more than 200 deaths and about 25, 000 people displaced. The rivers and arroyos have overflowed into houses stealing lives and clothing and crops have completely swept away.
in the most affected areas there has been a road that broke opff like a bridge and left a whole community disconnected. there have been many mainframe power lines that fell but all in all people are ok right now. There are many schools and churches housing those affected and humanitarian groups are trying to help too. The governement is doing alittole but MANY of the people affected are illegals from Haiti and they get NO aide bc tey are not registered here! Isn´t that nuts? Anyway, people are in good spirits. we have a missions team coming Sunday whose plans will now be changed to doing relief work.

I know that GOd is Lord of all and though the rain continues to fall at times, He has a plan. i have recently learned of various Voodoo roots and groups taht celebrate here during some seasons...maube god is washing the Land and creating a desperationin people´s hearts to seek the Truth? Please be praying for this nation and Haiti. love you and thanks Jaime

Major concerns and updates

2007-10-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

ok folks this is definitely a third world and here you learn to go with the flow! so once again we do not have internet and this week my phone signal has been very week but ...all of this is to be expected! so here we are once again at the internet center and this particular one is a bit yukky so this will be quick!
School is going well, and life is basicaly good. I have just joined a women´s soccer team which is one of four in the nation so it will be fun to play with them. Otherwise I am gearing up for the missions team to come in one week.
Prayer requests for a few students in my class that are having behavioral issues and also for the coherance of the teachers in the building. Prayer for the new project that may begin or is being planned to have an all day school-community program for poor children. Pray for the breaking of strongholds over this nation as there is a cyclical pattern of poverty due in part to government relocation of people to new areas for ¨protection¨ from floods but then these people who were supposed to be moved back, after 2 weeks, in 10 years! are unable to make a living in their new location and so they steal, sell drugs, prostitue, etc. to live! I am realizing that we small people are able to make a difference in small areas and we celebrate this but God can only bring revival in mass. Pray for the missions team to be safe, wise, and have lasting affect on the people they reach this week. They will be arriving Nov. 4 - Nov. 12

presentation and lessons

2007-10-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

so this week concluded our unit on community Health. Grade 1 and 2 focused on healthy eating, manners and how to treat your friends. I was happy with how well the kids performed for the parents on Saturday morning! The seventh grade concluded with how to solve societies issues attacking the 5 sectors business, government and education were the major areas of need. they did power points and a little skit related to the novel...they had fun and parents were very pleased that their kids are loving reading! (mom you would be proud!) I felt good and they were excited too.

Life lessons for this week are:
1. that compassion often times we look at this work as "pity" but I am learning that compassion is seeing a man his circumstances and giving him grace despite his deserving it...that is compassion.
2. if youare a new creation in Christ, you are constantly being made new and you can't fit the "new wine" into the old wineskins so often we need to shed the old habits and patterns even people so we can walk in our new selves and our testimony must look different!

3. trust is laying aside your pride, what you think you can and should do, and allowing GOd to take control.....not easy!

This week please pray fo rthe mission team as they are in the final 2 weeks before coming here. Pray for my youngest sister CHristina as she has been heavy on my heart lately, and I urge you to enter your private times boldly, when we as individuals receive revelation in solitude, we bring power to the congregation of believers so seek and keep on seeking! Pray that my meeting goes well this week with the other missionaries who have asked me to help them with a new project, I am excited to see where God is leading this ...I will keep you posted!
guarda sus corazons con la palabra de Dios!

Americana y perspective

2007-10-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

Isn't it great to have freedom of speech, freedom of religion and the ability to have free education! It's great to have Target and malls, internet and of course Starbucks! To be able to call the cable company, the electric co., the phone co, the cellular co all in one day! To go to the bank on a regular day and not wait for 2 hours.

We Americana's have luxuries and out right priviledge! Did you know that other countries even begin certain traditions and customs bc they have seen it done in the States! WOW (are you pickin up on my sarcasm?)

Us Americanas, with all this priviledge, still find time to complain and ask GOd why this, and why that, what we need to do is recognize that we are born into opportunity and with that is a power that many don't have. We must realize (especially in the Northeast) that MANY MANY nations are being directly affected by our actions. So what?

So I believe it is a time when we are to be models of grace, love strength and obedience to CHrist. If you share the love of Christ to even one foreigner, do you realize that this action can change whole pueblos and places in the world. Please stand firm in who you are wand what you have as an american and let's begin to show the world we are not frivilous with our favor.

I have been increasingly seeing in me the need to show other people grace. If something looks insignificant to me, it may be a huge accomplishment for another, we don't know from whence people came and we must celebrate the small things and realize what comes easily to us may not for another. To give the glory to God for what we have and give thanks. I believe bc I have never been in want, it is easy to cry about the small stuff. But thank God he has given me all I need and more. I hope we can realize that others are not as fortunate ... we can be the catalyst for transformation through giving what we have in grace and freely.WOW

This week please pray for my students Jose Miguel, he is working so hard and he has a sweet spirit his father passed away a few months ago but I know God has great things for him. He lives in a Brrio but I believe he will be a mover and shaker in society if he continues to fight to learn! Please pray for my boss to have peace, please pray for the upcoming missions trip, and safe travels for my roommate as she is in the uS this weekend.

I encourage you all to eneter into HIs gates with thanksgiving and in His courts with praise. The silent times alone with Him reveals much about who we are and who HE is. WOW and did I say WOW. paz y bendiciones! (peace and blessings) Jaime

simplicity, surrender and silence

2007-10-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

WOW is all I have to say. This time here is way more challenging than I thought it ever would be. I guess I mean in a personal an d spiritual sense. It is so simple really, "humble thyselves under HIs mighty hand, and He will lift you up" yeah right if it wereonly that easy....but it is. SIMPLICITY there are struggles and needs everywhere but learning to lean on His promises and silence the indignation I feel towards circumstances...this is tough. But in that silence there is obedience and in that there is TRUST. Ultimately I believe I am being called to a greater level of surrender that it is not about me, and all things will be clear when i rest in His hand.

Today I watched as about 1000 people young and old worshiped and cried out shouting for God's presence. It was amazing to see young boys, grown men and women whose hearts are longing to find God. And you know what? They could care less what anyone else was thinking or how they looked.
Oyte (listen) when you need a breakthrough and need life to change in a serious way, you have to yearn and hunger for it....it doesn't even matter who's lookin! Today, I realized that all things are made to draw us closer to Him, in joy and despair....WOW I wish you all could see but taking a picture would have ruined the sight. I (yes me!) am truly speechless.

I feel a new motivation to listen and watch like I am at a post for a time and in order to move to the next stage of the journey I must gain from this station. Mostly by watching and then moving! I will be asking the missionary this week or next to have a meeting and discuss how to start up a new center in an area of need. i am hoping to share with her my pla and see what hte procedures will be and where the greatest area of need is. She has the ability through her organization, to provide some fundng for this type of project! So pray for that!

Also this week I met achristian man in the computer place, and we had a great chat and then I met one in the publico and we chatted too. God is moving here! Its cool to watch so I better not be distracted! ok to my peeps in the US keep up the prayer and after to learn to fight, learn to soften and trust! love yall jaime
pray for the treatment of children around te world and pray for missions and chrits church team whose coming in 2 weeks. read Isaiah 58.

Baila, Baila, Baila...and more

2007-10-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

ok folks, we have lift off! I found a church and we got free wireless at my house! (well I must say it is not all glory cause if you aren't sitting in the precise location on the balcony it doesn't work but he, beggers can't be choosers!)

This week has been very eventful and entertaining as I went to the phone place 3 times and 3 times tey were unabl to help us bc we do not have a phone at school and they can't verify that I live here! Also, I don't have tv but I suspect there is some tropical storm in our path as it has rained here everyday! BUt we dance, whenever, wherever, we dance! In the rozen yogurt store, we dance, in the street on a rainy night, we dance. With the native hotdog vendor, we dance! Truly I think our silliness brings joy to the dominicans but they laugh at us everywhere as we try to learn bachata, marenge and salsa. I think we ask everyone to show us and this week we even had 2 guys in the yogurt store dancing together as a model! hee hee very funny.

Yesterday I met with a friend called Jeanine andwe planne d abeach day but bc of the rain it became a food road trip! I goto to see where many baseball players are from and have pasteles en HOjas which is a food native to here...very good! On the way the roads were all very flooded as te drainage here is awful, and I proceeded to fall into a hole in the ground...we laughed but later I realized ...all soaking wet, that I was fortunate not to break my leg cause the holes here can be 4 ft deep.....the day was great bc we shared good conversation and I net another friend of hers too who hopefully will accept the Lord in the DR b4 returning to CHicago...God is working on him! I came to remember the phrase in the bible that says "don't forsake the gathering together of the bretheren!" Just being with someone who knew CHrist and listening to worship together and chatting was refreshing for me! Anyway, on to do more homework.

Please continue to pray for the children of El Cafe and that God would raise up warriors in this country who will fight to take back the land and the spiritual climate in this place.....I found a church which is great for me, though in Spanish, and today I watched as almost 30 people gave their lives to CHrist...even better than that, they were mostly all teenagers! Praise be to God as he continues to develop HIs army here....love y'all Jaime

Felizidades a mi!! and other things...

2007-10-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

Gracias to all who sent me birthday greetings! I FINALLY GOT MY COMPUTER!!!! It will be at least a week b4 I get internet at home but yippeee! The week was good and we had a slammin party in my 1st grade class...limbo and everything! This week has been very loong since I have written but here are some things I have learned...
Did you know you could sweat on your eyelids? Did you know if you walk in a tropical storm you might not get wet? Did you know that almost on almost every guagua bus there is ALWAYS enough space!!! Well this past week we (my roommate and I) shared a bunch of laughs while riding to and fro! She jokingly asked a man whose butt was in her face in a jam packed bus , to sit on her lap....and he did!!! for the whole rest of the ride! If you need entertainment...use public transportation! This week I also met a new tenant who is from Italy and she is a travel agent, her husband is from Cuba hmmmmmm. . . maybe some places to visit? OK so on a work tip...

This week I had to realize when to speak and when to be quiet. I am doing the Experiencing GOd study and my roommate is going to be sharing in it with me...funny how GOd works as He has been speaking to her in many ways lately, it is very humblling to watch how purposeful he is with her. THe chllenge for me is the minute by minute standing in His will and adapting my life to His plan rather than having Him change things for me...I think the plan for the DR is already laid out ...now I have to see where or why He has placed me as part of it. This week I began to see a bit through my roommate and the Nazarene project...

I met a woman whose child goes to my school, she is a missionary coordinator type for an international compassionate ministry. I went with her to a place called El Cafe which is soooo poor and it was amazing to see a woman who had a heart for kids opened a school in a very small house and in each room there are ancient desks squeezed into four small areas about 50 kids! But these kids can´t afford school and without her they would be illiterate! It is awesome, how with these american eye I look and see chaos, but to these kids it means safety, life and nutrition! Perspective anyone! Then we went to another small house around the corner and I volunteered with an after school program equally chaotic but they have a nurse who checks the kids and they are fed daily...I will be volunteering there each week. I believe this place is the learning groud for GOd´s purpose and His expectations and shattering of MY WAY!

The potluck last weekend was good we met some people and had a chance to hang out with some other missionaries ..they have a gathering each month so I will stay connected but on the church scene I was not really feelin their service so I am still looking.
Basically I am remembering what God spoke to me while running in Bloomfield, He told me of this time for being about trust and learning compassion and gentleness. It is amazing how we often fight the very thing that we need to make our purpose perfected. I am honestly in an uncomfortable growth spurt but...He Reigns and there is so much to be grateful for and so much evident that His people, our people need HIs love. Today I was saddened by a Haitian man on the bus who wouold not smile at me even when I asked him to...the roots of pain and dispair go deep.
Lastly, I ahd a great conversation with my seventh grade class and we realized that money, education and opportunity are necessary for human development and prosperity but without HOPE and inner MOTIVATION and emptional well'being all of these things can be watsed...only god can provide this....so people I urge you to pray this week for the roots to be shattered and the wellspring of hope to burst into this place. dejame aqui, hay much o trabajo hacer!

personalities, perception and God´s reality

2007-09-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

well these are the insightful thoughts of a growing mind ...comin at you live with fresh revelation!
Ever notice how the more you learn the more you find yourself in a situation which causes you to realize the application of the knowledge is slightly less effective tahn your ability to share or counsel others with it!!!
Yeah, this is me this week. So I ran into some home bills and then school banking error made for some more drama and as I ranted around and debated possible verbal responses to all of these situations, I realize BREATH then I read Proverbs 29 which says ¨a foolsih man vents his anger but a wise man is self controled¨
Isnt it just like God to remind us who we are and WHO HE IS! and just like that I hd peace again...amazing.
Meanwhile in my panic I walked into some barrio about 2 miles from my house and I really was able to pray...in part outta fear of the unknown, and in part outta the desperate situation of the overt poverty in this particular barrio ...it is called Cristo Rey (christ king) ironically, and it has a weird vibe and on every block there is a lottery place. As I walked I prayed for stronghold to be broken and GOd to be walkin the area with me....
Isn´t it funny how we get back to everything, everything in this life is not about us but about HIM. WOW the more I know the less I know! WOW it is a humbling experience. May you be humbled enough to see HIs goodness and the favor he has shown you. truly CRISTO ES REY DEL MUNDO!

No hay luz no hay agua...but we got pigs!

2007-09-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

hello again...I had no idea that you could live for days on end without lights, water and fans in 1,000 degree weather! Makes me think of those emails about the good ole days in the US when kids grgew up doing things that are now considered lethal and yet they somehow survived!!! like when I see 2 month onld babies on the front of a moped....YIKES
well the power plant had a small explosion or something and the generator at school is busted ( too bad the one at the supermarket isn´t, it is keeping me awake at night still)
Had some great conversations this week with native Dominicans and there is a realization that Haitians are coming here are working in droves, but they are doing jobs better and cheaper! Both times the conversations led to the fact that Dominicans don´t want to work, and that there is a huge lack of motivation. something to pray about. changing not just skills and opportunities, but creating new mindsets in tough...only GOd can do it.
I got to speak to some local kids and possibly get a pck up game going next week...how better to engage a community of kids than through play!
Finally, I went camping and it was great!!! I slept in a big tent alone with about 50 other people mostly families. The beach ws small and blue and we cooled off under the coconut trees. I even saw a guy climb one to hit a few down. I saw 3 horses rolling, yes, rolling in the sand, and about 4 baby pigs sniffed around us.....as I am writing this I can´t help but laugh thinking of the CHevy CHase adventures but instead the Del Russo camping trip! Could you imagine...and I saw a guy with just a spear and flippers go swimming and catch a bundle of squid and about 6 fish! Definitely not the Jersey shore! Also, I went hiking and it was beautiful. majesty and awe.....anyway I will post pictures when I can
Finally,
prayer points for this week are simply to help me find a church family (I ajm going to a small group with some missionaries this weekend) prayer for the school as many things are going wrong and the director overwhelmed and people are a bit srtessed. Prayer for a spiritual awakening among families here and on a national level against any strongholds. Also begin to pray for vision, purpose and direction for the mission team who will be arriving in NOv. Thanks be to GOd for each day, let us not take it for granted even when we sometimes can´t see it, He is still working. Peace

Calle kids and news

2007-09-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

well this week has been very productive! MNy classes are going well and if I haven´t said so before...I love the seventh graders!!! they are so into our book and lovin when I read too! The primero y segundo grados are getting better! I got a new student today and she fit right in. I am beggining to warm up to the babies a bit and they are getting more outta the class.....there is a long way to go! The soccer field is almost finished but there has been a setback with the power in the school cause the transformer blew or something like that and now we are on hold again...i think! I will begin coaching basketball on wednesday for middleschool and high school (yeah what up rosendary!)
News on the community center is GREAT! My boss said she is down wit hthe program and I spoke to another teacher who has a heart for the same. We will begin the long process of planning and meeting representatives from the Barrio to gain imput from them too. I hope by maybe November we can start some small programs out of the school. For now we will plan and go intricude ourselves to the community.....
which leads me to my next thought...as i walk home from school( not to school anymore cause it is too dark in the a.m.) I see many kids in the street playin. It reminds me of San Cristobal for those of you who were there! I think I may just start playin ball with them some day! why not...also today I saw a kid about 5 years old at 12noon just standing alone in the calle. I guess he is beggin but it hit me hard that ¨shouldn´t he be in school, who is watchin him¨ CRAZY
not much else to say...I´m going to SAMANA this weekend cause it is some kind of holiday and we have an extra day off. I will be going to a beach and campin with total strangers but hey the beaches are blue so gerry- you remember the first time we went to the retreat? the comment you said about the popo finding me? lol I hope all will be fine and I won´t come back lookin like a watermelon from all the mosquitoes. I hope to post pics when I get my new computer next month.
Finally here are some prayer points for the week. much love to me peeps! miss you and pray that todo estan bien!
1. Thanking GOd for truly being in every step of my process here it is weird but my faith has grown in the sense that I BELIEVE HE CAN DO ANYTHING!
2. To learn how to negate pride and old mindsets and press towards His vision of myself and others
3. Praise and thanks that there are many willing to help begin a community program here...having gotten a OK from our boss, we need GOd´s direction, plan and clarity and also favor in the community....above all HIs desire to be fulfilled.
4. Last for my spiritual growth...i am on my own in a BIG way here....I am begining my own study Ëxperiencing God¨ and still there is no church family for me so pray for that too.

Pensively viewing my reality today....

2007-09-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

so maybe the spanich word ¨pensar¨to think, comes from th esame root as the word pensive? food for thought...sorry my ADD mind at work!
ok so things in school are hopping along, parents came for back to school night and I had them playing games and winning prizes which was fun. I was able to tell most of them my expertice and ideas so them seem onboard. I am really beggining to see the more we think kids are different, the more they really are the same.
In grade 7 we are reading ¨the outsiders¨and this week it would be quite appropo to relate a line to how I feel...Ponyboy the main character is peaking his thoughts as he talks to a ¨soc¨girl and he says ¨i don´t see how we are all really that different, we all see the same sunset!¨
WOW today this grips me.
Plans are in the woprks for the community center to begin to be discussed with my director. As I have heard, many people are having the same or similar ideas about reaching out to the barrio communitie, but they are all over the map wit hthe HOW and thanks to Alex and the small group from NJ I am quite familiar with the brainstorming process. I guess now as my friend says it, ¨prayer¨wit hhave to be the best plan. There must be a way that people who are natives here or that have been here for a long time will see that GOd has the power to do anything. The mentality as I am coming to see, is that people are in a certain class or status because they like it, or because they donm´t want to do more....well call me the eternal optomist, but I believe while not changing pepole´s culture, we can afford educational opportunities for them to have more basic needs more profficiently. so, this seems to be the challange to cross the societal divide and mentality. Sounds like Newark too! Truly less God intervenes in the hearts of man there will be no lasting change, just a bunch of people pushinmg there NA way of life on the world...oh this is not my goal....but rather to enjoy the spirit here and move towards prosperity IN it.
prayer points- clrity of vision for me and the right words to speak at the right time to the right person. For my boss who is bogged down with every aspect of the school and for her willingness to support this project...for the students to have willing hearts to break the societal divide and for the Father´s favor in all I do. I am thnkful for my friends at home who have been sending me spiritual news. Tere is one thing in particular today whic hI am holding onto. may you be blessed as you read the quote and continue on your path for HIS purposes. love Jaime ps no news on the apartment front except our daily fireballs from the stove and my perfect pineapple carvings!! it is truly an artform!

For the Lord would say, “I'm raising up a new generation of revivalists such as the world has not seen. And the Lord says that there is a shifting and a turning even in this season. “Even,” says the Lord, “a time of new beginnings; but new beginnings for harvest,” says the Lord... The wells of evangelism are being opened all across the face of the Earth; those wells of revival... This well carries with it not only revival, but reformation, societal transformation.” God says, “and this move of the Holy Spirit is not just going to touch souls; it's going to touch nations

Gracias Padre por todo...

2007-09-08T07:52:00.000-07:00

ok well, school has been settling down and I am actually finding myself to be quite uplifted and blessed. Although the language barrier exists, I am teaching kids who actually WANT to learn. This is very contrary to what I am used to and it is refreshing....to know the value of education. In my seventh grade class we are discussing the 5 sectors of society and how they can not exist apart from each other....we have a chance to reflect on how education is pivotal to a functioning community.
I am also feeling so blessed to be in a pace where teachers are seen as assets to a society. We had a huge food celebration at the finish of the week and I was able to pray with one of my coworkers who is leaving to be the director of a CHristian school nearby! A great connection to have for ministry purposes!
Yesterday I was very excited about the conversation I had with a friend in the states and it lead me to discuss community development opportunities with my school director. She is 100% on board with me starting something and I am planning to maybe partner with the highschool teacher to create a survey for the people who live in the Barrio. This way we can gain their perspective on what they need in various age groups for improving their community. After, we will brainstorm ideas to fix these problems, we are planning an outreach for the school, maybe with US friends but maybe not.
Reflection....
I am hearing about many ways in which the enemy is trying to hurt people that I know and love. I am reminded that we are more than conquerors and that we must learn to tap in to the power we have in Christ Jesus. I am also feeling super prviledged because as I watched the man connect the electrical wire to the cement pole, and HOPE that it is for our school )we still don´t have electricity) I am reminded that everything has a beginning and we often skip the process to see the finished work....but there is power in the process, and to be at the beginning of a project or the plan of God is such a blessing. That line meant so much more than lights. it means internet, communication, education and opportunity for the people who receive it. we must enjoy the process and be patient.
Finally, I was reminded this week of my initial dream and it was freaky and funny that the grass and pavenment I saw months past...is actually the location of my school!!! WOW. God is good.- blessings to all. pray for the process and the hearts of men to come to the father. pray for new understanding and strength. pray for understanding of the battle at hand. until I can walk to the internet place again! Jaime

It happens to the best of us! and reflections

2007-09-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

Well you know those jokes "it´s so hot, yeah how hot is it?" well here it is so hot that I can smell my skin tanning! It is so hot that every child carries about a gallon jug to class and leaves a wet mark on the desk which makes the papers soft and creates a huge mess. It is so hot, that my little first grader after having gone pee pee 4 times today, peed his pants! I mean can a girl get a little breesa?
Anyway, school is going well and I am excited about my seventh grade class. They are pretty mature and i really think i am gonna get them to think outside the box and i a REAL way. I had a great miniconversation with a teacher today who shared that at the school I am at we are shaping the minds of kids will one day be leaders in this nations and through us showing the love of christ tot them maybe they will tranfer it to the impoverished in the country. This was great because unlike i had expected, this school has many rich kids....but the project we are trying to do is in the barrio with the poor kids so I guess we are reaching all aspects of the country.
REFLECTIONS:
In class I realized that I am NOT an ESL teacher and I try to translate into spanish as I am able but still many students are left misunderstanding....and now I am caught eating my words because is this not mismo (same) a the heavenly father does with us? Though he speaks to us in the language of love patience etc.... we are often unable to hear and the nurturing smile and kindness of another or the WORD´s revelation I guess is what connects eventually to HIs truth....I must be more patient with my non-english speakers bc thi for my vlass will be showing the Father´s love.....we must strive to learn HIS language. AMEN Until next time.

Plaza Llama, the pillows and friends

2007-09-01T11:59:00.000-07:00

Well Once again it is about 700 degrees here and if you need a drink you may just need to stop and ring out your shirt! The heat is outrageous right now so I am sorry the hurricane left cause the rain was nice! Anyway, Plaza Llama is a big department type store and it is nowhere near my house but yesterday I got a rie there after work, having walked to work I was tired. So, I purchase two regular sixe pillows and began my travel home. I planned to take the publico and be home.....yeah right! So I had to ask about 5 hombres for directions to a publico and it was about half mile away. Then it took me to a corner in a barrion somewhere and i had to take a guagua bus to another corner where I was dropped off with pillows in hand. oh yeah and by the way in the publico i sat with 7 people and a guy sweating on me and my pillows. back to the story, now I am stuck on this corner holding all this stuff fruit in my bag too! so the walk began for about 2 miles! Meanwhile i got a call that night that my boss saw me and didn´t stop cause she heard i like to walk!!! are you kidding me? did she see the pillows? yikes! at least last night was the first time we had some down time fun and i went with a friend from school to see 2 bands perform some local music ...it was entertaining and relaxing. Silliness aside things here are good and exercise is plentiful! pray that I will have energy and strength in this heat and that God will allow my mind to be focused in creating plans for school as i am anxious to finish that and move on to other ministry opportunities.
Meanwhile, on the way here today i met a man on the guagua bus and he was handing out tracks. we spoke and it was nice to see God has natives on board with spreading the word......so much to be done still. Hast proximo vez. Jaime

oh yeah the dog too..

2007-08-31T12:48:00.000-07:00

sorry to all you dog lovers but if anyone has a rifle I would love you to send it!!! it seems that not only is there a generator behind my bedroom, but at 3 to 4 a.m. daily you will hear a do howling to another and the doggie bay battle begins ....it is killin us for sleep so I have a bit of black around the eyes...yes, in this place noise comes in many forms! kidding aside, the enemy is working hard here....is it because there is much potential here¿ I think yeah. todo la gente alla ora! people pray!

Y Entonces?.....

2007-08-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

OK well school has definitely begun with all of its regular stress and first week happenings. The kids are good and the particular challenge I am facing is that they often understand the concepts but not the language I am using to convey it so it is difficult to gauge their level of intelligence. But ...the show must go on and i hope to communicate better soon. I am talking so much in spanish )broken as it is! and I plan to meet with another teacher at the school to learn more.
tambien,
I began walking to work because it is fresh and cool at 5'45am and there is no other time to exercise and the driver for all te teachers is always late...something that is very typical of dominican culture! I have to be at school by 6'45 and it only takes about 25 minutes to walk there. also it´s good because last week I met some pulic school kids and we walked home and chatted. I also get time to reflect and SEE the country. I was reminded of the need when I walked by a small river with mountains of trash on either side...ther is no sanitation here and no regard for the land. This place needs prayer for people to respect themselves and their land.
tambien,
I think i mentioned the noise and the traffic is rediculous well listen to this, as i was walking and trying not to get killed yesterday ...because people hit you and keep going as that is the rule here....I saw a few kids riding horses through the street...I thought it was odd but all of a sudden a car came speeding and hit the horse the kids went flying and I stood in shock...then like it was nothing, the horse got up, the boy got back on and they rode away! lol this is not the US!
Final,
Pablo the electrician and I are becoming great friends as he is at my house daily bc things are always broken. But he asked me if I was a CHristian and in spanish I said yeah and began to talk with him. please pray that through others in his family and friends he will come to know Christ. I also have a parent in my school from PA she works here as a missionary nd she is involved with community development, she is excited to speak with me about creating a community center so please pray that this connection or another will begin to open the door in that area. This week I will be attending a new church with a friend David, it is supposed to be a great experience so I am excited.
Otherwise, I am well, GOd is more than enough and I feel good. Please continue to pray for my family at home my sisters seem to be having some problems. con mucho amor, Jaime

Aidria, Publico, Henry and Dios

2007-08-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

ok ok ok so I am sitting in a small bodega with some small ants on the keyboard typing fats so I don't run out of my 30 pesos worth of time! Aidria is my roommate who is clueless and funny and never out of the country before and speaks not a lick of spanish...I have become a new translator all of a sudden! Next, Publicos....they are the transportation cars ahhhhh yes...the publico is a miracle from God! it is a toyota size car that somehow fits 7 people plus the driver if you don't mind body odor and a gear shift in your rear with a cracked windsheild, it is great cheap transportation! The other day on the way to the new school I saw a big cow eating in one end and peeing out the other!!!! This is not the US! Ok There is a little guy named Victor who takes us places in his car to work and stuff his friend Henry loves my roommate and bought her 120 roses from the street great right? except they were each individually wrapped and all night we spent openning them yippee!
Seriously ...the primero reason that I came here....Dios (GOD)
Side bar- when you begin tvo think in one language it is tough to switch to another!
sidebar over...
Well so far I have encountered an interesting thing which it seems many of the American teachers here have talked to me about God or wanting a new church or experience...maybe part of this ministry will be for americans here? I am noticing that in so much as GOd's beauty is here, there is soooo much noise to drown out the glory...like a huge distraction. Pray that the noise would suppress and His voice would be heard. Also it is soooo obvious that people are hungry for women and money and stealing and nasty talk are rampant. Also the consumption of alcohol is outrageous...Pray that God would perform a spiritual cleansing and surgery to transform minds and break strongholds. People are at odds racially too in terms of dominican and Haitain, pray that the Love of GOd would begin to transcend nationalities. Pray for the school International School of santo Domingo. THe teachers seem anxious to begin and happy and love kids which is good. the kids are fairly wealthy as it is a private school so pray for surfaces to be broken and depth of vision to be realized.
Lastly, I am going to a church called Nueva Generacion which has just finished a new building project and move ...sound familiar anyone? Anyway, Today was the first day and it was emotional for me as I began to sense the approach of this for CHrist Church as well...Pastor Toca and his senior pastor lead and I could feel GOd in the service...the pupose here is great! Pray for favor, radical praise and motivation for the church. Also safety in the spiritual realm......
As for me, I am praying for the new school year which will begin Thursday. I am to teach 1 and 2 grade and my supplies have been stuck in customs for about 1 week and getting them is a BIG MESS! But God reigns and dispite the MESS I will be teaching loving and nurturing young minds! Aslo pray as I begin to see exactly where and how God would have me begin the community center. I have been praying on some ideas and locations but nothing secure yet...financially things here are very expensive and pesos go fast so I have to use the phone and stuff sparingly.....I am NOT ABLE TO RECIEVE TEXT MESSAGES!!!!! FYI
Finally, friends and family I love you. Please pray for me as I will continue to pray for you. My God is great and greatly to be praised. I feel very comfortable and honored to be here. I hope to be obedient and effective in my calling for however long it will be. I am quite secure and just giving tremendous glory to God for he is known in all the earth and there are many who need to know him more. PRAY FOR THE NATIONS> Gloria Dios Amen.

Pack. Pack! Pack!! Pack????

2007-08-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

Ok so seriously, how does one fit a two bedroom apartment into two 50 pound bags? Give up? The answer is pack, pack, scream, pack some more and oh yeah did I mention undo packing and repack? Really it is all a bit absurd! Anyway, after literally 2 days five hours and four people helping I have finally arrived at a reasonable luggage quota! So, tomorrow I will be on my way to Santo Domingo. All the preparation of stuff and still I am not truly prepared. It's a good thing I know the truth that "the man in the attic" (as Christina says) has got my back and he will give me the strength and wisdom for the journey. Thanks for all the support and love by all. Please pray for safety in travel as well as favor in customs and increase in language. I will be in touch soon. Hasta luego.

The Opportunity

2007-08-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

Driving in the car onw Wed. afternoon, I knew I had to begin the search for a new place to work as I had lost all grace for my current job. The phone rang and a woman from the International school in Santo Domingo said that she had recieved my resume, wanted me to come to work there this year, and that I would teach reading and help to create a new elementary reading curriculum. She said that the apartment would be paid for and that the school would take care of basic transportation needs. Sounds good right? Oh and did I mention she wants me to start a community center in a Barrio nearby???? Does God have his hand in this or what? I will see Aug 20 when I arrive for my year commitment in DR.. I know He has plans greater than I can imagine. To work, experience, learn and help a nation is a blessing and I'm sure a true challenge ...welcome to the ride with me!

The dream

2007-08-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year I had a dream, I was pregnant. I mean very very (gonna pop soon) pregnant! In the dream there was no one around and while I waited for my water to break, I began to feel extreme pressure. The next thing I knew I was all alone brithing a baby boy and praying that he would cry and breath. Suddenly when he cried I felt a man's hand on my shoulder, and then I woke up.

Interpretation:
Ok so it was weird yeah, but I knew it was meaningful. After much discussion and thought I realized it was a birth of a ministry or a vision that God had imparted to me. It was also clear that I would be alone to birth it but hwen all had started well, there would be people to support me. Hmmmm, cuold this be the community center?

The Birth of a Vision

2007-08-08T08:38:00.001-07:00

Many years ago (1999) I had a incomplete concept of beginning a community center for kids. A safe place. A place of learning, fun, character building, education and skills training. A place to hear of Christ and learn to communicate. I can see it in my mind's eye but even now, I have no idea what to do to get to this place.
God granted me the opportunity to see a community which needs these very same things. He has opened my eyes to a culture so rich, so full of life and yet lacking in many of the tangibles: jobs, money, training etc. Can this be the place for the vision to be birthed? If so how?