Do you speak the language (Haitian Kreyol)? Yes, I am working on learning the language more in-depth but I know the basics.
What kind of barriers do you find when witnessing? Language and cultural things can be barriers but we are blessed with amazing translators at RMI. I have never had someone refuse to listen.
What happens when the missionaries are not on the field? Another huge blessing with RMI! Our RMI Haitian missionaries get the job done. Most of our US missionaries work even when they are not in the country but the Haitian missionaries keep everything going on the field. We work closely with the Haitian church and pastors and encourage them to take the lead on ministry in their areas.
What effects do you see from the earthquake in 2010? In Cayes, we don’t see too much from the earthquake. We certainly meet people who moved there after it happened and many are very afraid.
Do people have cell phones? Yes! They may not always be charged or have minutes, though.
How has having solar affected your daily life? I already had power 24/7 but was living off of a generator/batteries and an inverter. We still have these things as a backup but solar has been such a blessing. The money that I would use for electricity can go to other things that I need.
What is crime like? I do not like to highlight the negative sides. You see that enough on the news! However, like everywhere in the world, crime does exist. I have never been scared or felt victimized personally.
What is the difference between the wealthy and the poor in Haiti? There is a huge difference because there is a big gap! The wealthy are more well off than I can imagine and the poor are poorer than we really know.
What has the hardest part been so far? Learning the language was hard for me. Thanks to God, it did come quickly. But not being able to communicate…for me that was miserable! I still make many mistakes but I am so much better now. Transitioning is also hard but we never said it was easy!
How does the sister church program work? A church from the states is paired with a church in Haiti to have a relationship. When you come on teams, you visit your sister church and plan on doing what they need during that time. Check out the rmibridge.org website for more info!
Do you speak French? I do not speak French but I really want to learn.
What is general transportation like? A lot of people have motorcycles or take taptaps. If you get far enough in the country you do see some mules and donkeys.
What is the exchange rate? This changes constantly! I have seen it go up and down many times in the last few years.
How do your finances work? I raise support in order to live in Haiti. If you feel led to help out financially you can do so on rmibridge.org
How did you know that God was calling you to Haiti? That nagging feeling! Check out my blog post “Why am I here?” for a more thorough answer.
What is your favorite memory since moving there? Some of my favorite memories are silly things that happen in the car while we are on the road working for HFKz. Another favorite is the view we had coming around the corner to enter Dagout with the team for the first time. I have never seen so many people dancing, singing, and shouting for joy.
Love You to Haiti and Back 