Karen's brother Ken recently returned from Haiti and was asked to speak at his Church and with CBC Radio when he got home to Newfoundland. Some of you who listened to his interview may be familiar with his moving "Love Affliction" essay that he prepared for these presentations. (Those who have been to visit HATS will identify very clearly with it!)
Ken has provided us with a copy of his essay for the blog, reproduced below...
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“H.A.T.S. - Haiti – Orphans Love Affliction”
My sister Karen dreamed as a little girl of being a missionary in Africa. I5 yrs. ago, she went to Haiti, and BASICALLY NEVER CAME BACK. She is the founder and Director of HATS, “Hands across the Sea” orphanage and school.
I understood in my mind, now I understand in my heart. She caught it, everyone catches it and now I have it. The black skin rubs off, you can’t see the black dye, it is invisible, but it is there, it is sneaky, sharp, penetrating and painful. It gets in under your skin and wraps itself around your heart. The side effects: It makes your eyes water and you get big lumps in your throat and you can’t talk. It makes you speechless. My heart is now half black.
I’m home. (I think, but sometimes I’m not sure.) Part of my heart is still in Haiti. I can’t seem to focus on things I thought were important. Sometimes I find myself staring as in a fog, and I can’t see straight. As if I came back from a war. I’m out of the real world. I understand why soldiers go back. This isn’t the real world as much as that is. If I had stayed longer I might have ended up like Karen, unable to escape.
When I go down to the recreation room I see the big suitcase I took to Haiti. It was brought back empty. But isn’t empty. It is full of love from Haiti. I’d share it but I can’t. You have to go get your own. I almost left it - I’m glad I didn’t. I look at the suitcase and see it full of need, memories, love and longing. It seems to cry out to me – “Take me back again”. That suitcase is a reminder - of the deed, the need and God’s love that is pouring into Haiti from Christian all over the world. There is lots of love down there to share with everyone. I can’t give you mine you have to go and get your own.
Warning: If you go, don’t touch the smooth black skin, don’t hold, hug, or look into their eyes, those little black eyes they hypnotize. If you go you may catch the “H.A.T.S Haiti, Orphan Love Affliction”. It is painful.
-- Ken Huxter
Monday, March 8, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
Good Morning Haiti
Once again the local farm animals provided an appropriate wake up call. Our last full day in Haiti and what a week it has been.
A tremendous thank you to “mum” (Karen) and her team here at HATS. They have been more than gracious with their time, space and understanding.
When you can actually catch up with the red-headed whirlwind, Karen really does make it easy to come along and serve with.
If we North Americans had ½ the love, compassion, grit, determination and staying power of our fearless leader here at HATS, then there would be no telling what the Lord could do through us back home. Yet, we tend to serve only when convenient and love when not moved outside our comfort zone. Oh, dear Lord change me, change us.
Last night, most of the team (minus Engineer and Sparky) traveled to Varettes and helped Missionary James set up drive in (or walk in) movie night. James provides a wonderful ministry to the people of Haiti with his evangelistic films. Todd conservatively counted over 750 people in attendance last night as we stood for over two hours and enjoyed praise & worship videos and then a double feature of films that present the gospel in the native language and traditions. The popcorn was great too.
We also picked up Todd yesterday from the Comfort House. He has more stories to tell than all of us combined. He is still processing all of them at this time but we expect to have a detailed report within 3 days of our arrival back in the states.
Todd was glad to see his sister-in-law Ramona, a red Gatorade, a candy bar, a Coca Cola, M&Ms, a shower (he almost cried) and a swing. He was only disappointed when we explained to him that we had finished the Blue Bell ice cream two days before.
Today will be filled with loving the kids, another run to St. Marc to pick up some more electrical wire (they don’t call it estimating for nothing), loving the kids, continued work on the second floor addition, loving on kids, sorting the assortment of things we brought from US/Canada and then loving on the kids.
Your prayers for Haiti are so important. Pray for a spiritual awakening in this country. Pray the truth and knowledge of Christ’s love would be known in an intimate way by our friends here. Pray we would know the same. Pray for a community of believers to be brought together here for mutual encouragement and edification. Imagine serving the Lord at this level without a strong local support group of fellow believers (back to serving the Lord bit when it is convenient).
The need is great yet the answer is so simple for all of us – Christ and His love.
Lord, we yield ourselves to you today. Use us for Your glory!
David
Once again the local farm animals provided an appropriate wake up call. Our last full day in Haiti and what a week it has been.
A tremendous thank you to “mum” (Karen) and her team here at HATS. They have been more than gracious with their time, space and understanding.
When you can actually catch up with the red-headed whirlwind, Karen really does make it easy to come along and serve with.
If we North Americans had ½ the love, compassion, grit, determination and staying power of our fearless leader here at HATS, then there would be no telling what the Lord could do through us back home. Yet, we tend to serve only when convenient and love when not moved outside our comfort zone. Oh, dear Lord change me, change us.
Last night, most of the team (minus Engineer and Sparky) traveled to Varettes and helped Missionary James set up drive in (or walk in) movie night. James provides a wonderful ministry to the people of Haiti with his evangelistic films. Todd conservatively counted over 750 people in attendance last night as we stood for over two hours and enjoyed praise & worship videos and then a double feature of films that present the gospel in the native language and traditions. The popcorn was great too.
We also picked up Todd yesterday from the Comfort House. He has more stories to tell than all of us combined. He is still processing all of them at this time but we expect to have a detailed report within 3 days of our arrival back in the states.
Todd was glad to see his sister-in-law Ramona, a red Gatorade, a candy bar, a Coca Cola, M&Ms, a shower (he almost cried) and a swing. He was only disappointed when we explained to him that we had finished the Blue Bell ice cream two days before.
Today will be filled with loving the kids, another run to St. Marc to pick up some more electrical wire (they don’t call it estimating for nothing), loving the kids, continued work on the second floor addition, loving on kids, sorting the assortment of things we brought from US/Canada and then loving on the kids.
Your prayers for Haiti are so important. Pray for a spiritual awakening in this country. Pray the truth and knowledge of Christ’s love would be known in an intimate way by our friends here. Pray we would know the same. Pray for a community of believers to be brought together here for mutual encouragement and edification. Imagine serving the Lord at this level without a strong local support group of fellow believers (back to serving the Lord bit when it is convenient).
The need is great yet the answer is so simple for all of us – Christ and His love.
Lord, we yield ourselves to you today. Use us for Your glory!
David
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Wearing Many Hats at HATS
Although it’s not officially the rainy season, the rain is coming! Dashing during the day to move the mosquito tents from the airy yard to the corrugated metal carport is becoming common. It won’t be long until the water tanks are moved from the third story roof of the main house to their new location and Karen and Alex (Ti Luc) can once again return to their own beds.
The Texas team continues to hold children, throw footballs, sing songs, sew various items, wipe noses, help with Ti Luc at school and at home, pull electrical wire, fix plumbing, scrape calcified tanks, give food and funds to the needy, and enjoy marvelous food. Yesterday, Martha and Germaine worked about five hours preparing and cooking a delicious traditional Creole meal. It was well worth the wait!
Brittany Feeding Ti Luc at School
Food Distribution by Ramona
Ramona and Jacques cleaning water tank
Germaine and Marta with bags made by Carrie
In addition to practical physical work, each morning we are invited to share with our Haitian family a time of devotion and prayer unto the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a joy, too, to worship in the early hours of the day with the HATS school children as they clap, sing and pray before raising the flag.
Ramona, Brittany, and Kids
Ryan with Judel
The Missionary House is looking fabulous. The Haitian workers are skilled craftsmen in rustic masonry and surface coats! As the Canadian team, the American team and the Haitian workers each do their part, the home promises to be a fine piece of architecture when all is said and done! Much prayer is being sent up, asking God to bring the perfect couple to help Karen with this marvelous mission.
Electrical wiring, Nolan, David & Garrett
Shane & Garret a break well earned
Work continues
As our mission nears completion we are once again reminded of how much we have in Canada and the U.S. It is with grateful hearts we will return to our own homes and families remembering that we are blessed to be a blessing!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Tuesday in Haiti
Yesterday morning started with a devotion with the American visitors and the staff of HATS. It was a very neat experience singing songs in Creole, and a couple in English, and hearing a Haitian man here at HATS reading Psalm 91 to us.
After devotion, we enjoyed a tasty breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast prepared by Marta and Jermaine, two of Karen's house-helpers here. Tres bien.
Then to work. We all split into groups, trying to tackle as many projects as possible. Brittanie and Kathy (the token Canadian) worked hard in the house making curtains, and helping with the children at school. Nolan, Ryan, and Garrett worked on running PVC to house the electrical wiring for the new addition in the front house.
David, Shane, and Ramona, meanwhile, went up to the beach for a while. I mean, I've heard of taking a break every now and again, but a morning at the beach while everyone else is putting in some labor just doesn't seem right. I'm kidding. The three of them worked hard cleaning out water tanks. Draining the water, scraping the lime deposits and getting sediment out of the tanks, then filling them again. We all feel supremely confident in the cleanliness of the water we're drinking thanks to them.
After we finished work, Ryan and Garrett enjoyed a game of catch with a few children here, then Garrett ended the game by throwing the football on a building. Smooth.
Marta and Jermaine took the afternoon to prepare a feast for us. Fried chicken, 3 or 4 different side dishes. It was excellent. We are very thankful for the work they do here. They truly keep things running smoothly.
The evening was spent sitting around, some playing Cribbage (a game of the North, Canada, with made-up-as-you-go rules by our good friend, Kathy...), some talking, a short time of worship music together, and then sleep.
All in all, another great day in Haiti, with a beautiful people group in need. Hopefully we can do a small part to help while we're here, but please continue to pray for this country. The people are hard workers, and they deserve better. Please pray and support any way you can.
We love you all,
Garrett
After devotion, we enjoyed a tasty breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast prepared by Marta and Jermaine, two of Karen's house-helpers here. Tres bien.
Then to work. We all split into groups, trying to tackle as many projects as possible. Brittanie and Kathy (the token Canadian) worked hard in the house making curtains, and helping with the children at school. Nolan, Ryan, and Garrett worked on running PVC to house the electrical wiring for the new addition in the front house.
David, Shane, and Ramona, meanwhile, went up to the beach for a while. I mean, I've heard of taking a break every now and again, but a morning at the beach while everyone else is putting in some labor just doesn't seem right. I'm kidding. The three of them worked hard cleaning out water tanks. Draining the water, scraping the lime deposits and getting sediment out of the tanks, then filling them again. We all feel supremely confident in the cleanliness of the water we're drinking thanks to them.
After we finished work, Ryan and Garrett enjoyed a game of catch with a few children here, then Garrett ended the game by throwing the football on a building. Smooth.
Marta and Jermaine took the afternoon to prepare a feast for us. Fried chicken, 3 or 4 different side dishes. It was excellent. We are very thankful for the work they do here. They truly keep things running smoothly.
The evening was spent sitting around, some playing Cribbage (a game of the North, Canada, with made-up-as-you-go rules by our good friend, Kathy...), some talking, a short time of worship music together, and then sleep.
All in all, another great day in Haiti, with a beautiful people group in need. Hopefully we can do a small part to help while we're here, but please continue to pray for this country. The people are hard workers, and they deserve better. Please pray and support any way you can.
We love you all,
Garrett
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Radio Interview
A great radio interview by my Uncle Ken who got back recently from HATS. It made me cry! Dana
http://podcast.cbc.ca/mp3/nlstjohnmorn_20100301_28326.mp3
http://podcast.cbc.ca/mp3/nlstjohnmorn_20100301_28326.mp3
Monday, March 1, 2010
Monday Update
Another glorious start to the week at HATS.
Lots of activity all over the compound.
The Haitian work team continues their work on the water tower by placing forms over the column / rebar extensions.
They also continued placing a finish coat on the walls and ceilings on the second story addition.
It is a joy to see the kids play in the afternoon and have a good time with their North American visitors. I have noticed remarkable improvements in Ti-Fi since the last time we were here. What a great bunch of kids!
Updates from the Texas +1 Canadian Team:
Brittanie and Garrett returned today from their time at the Comfort House. Both were glad to see a toilet seat and shower head. We haven’t told them that we have roosters nearby as well though.
Todd continues his work at Comfort House and from his elevated living quarters he has a wonderful view of the nice land surrounding the new of home for the Comfort House.
“Chaufoo” Nolan transported a good number of the team to St. Marc to pick up electrical supplies. In spite of running over the street vendor’s corn stalk everyone returned home in good condition.
Ramona continues to be a source of encouragement and fellowship for Karen which is a blessing to see.
Kathy spent most of the day at the kitchen table sewing away. She is preparing new curtains for the windows at the main house.
Except for protecting Nolan from the corn stalk vendor, Ryan took a day off from his heroic feats. We are anticipating something terrific tomorrow though.
Shane just would not shut up today. He talked and talked and talked all day long. We are anticipating a much quieter day from him tomorrow. It is alot of fun going on mission with your brother in spite of the constant chatter.
While taking the trash to the burn site behind the school, I again noticed the depravity of the living conditions just on the other side of this comfortable compound. Yet through it all the two little kids staring at the “blanc” were quick with a smile and a wave. Where do they derive that inner joy?
Activities completed today: loving on kids, sewing, tree trimming, roof sweep and clean, family pictures hung in Karen’s room, installing electrical boxes for switches and outlets, trash hauling, loving on kids
We will relax the rest of the evening with some Blue Bell ice cream and Jill Dyer chocolate chip cookies.
Again, thank you so much for your prayers. It is hard to put in words the challenges that Haitians face every day. Our desire is that Christ and His love for all nations would be shared through our time together this week.
Blessings
David
Lots of activity all over the compound.
The Haitian work team continues their work on the water tower by placing forms over the column / rebar extensions.
They also continued placing a finish coat on the walls and ceilings on the second story addition.
It is a joy to see the kids play in the afternoon and have a good time with their North American visitors. I have noticed remarkable improvements in Ti-Fi since the last time we were here. What a great bunch of kids!
Updates from the Texas +1 Canadian Team:
Brittanie and Garrett returned today from their time at the Comfort House. Both were glad to see a toilet seat and shower head. We haven’t told them that we have roosters nearby as well though.
Todd continues his work at Comfort House and from his elevated living quarters he has a wonderful view of the nice land surrounding the new of home for the Comfort House.
“Chaufoo” Nolan transported a good number of the team to St. Marc to pick up electrical supplies. In spite of running over the street vendor’s corn stalk everyone returned home in good condition.
Ramona continues to be a source of encouragement and fellowship for Karen which is a blessing to see.
Kathy spent most of the day at the kitchen table sewing away. She is preparing new curtains for the windows at the main house.
Except for protecting Nolan from the corn stalk vendor, Ryan took a day off from his heroic feats. We are anticipating something terrific tomorrow though.
Shane just would not shut up today. He talked and talked and talked all day long. We are anticipating a much quieter day from him tomorrow. It is alot of fun going on mission with your brother in spite of the constant chatter.
While taking the trash to the burn site behind the school, I again noticed the depravity of the living conditions just on the other side of this comfortable compound. Yet through it all the two little kids staring at the “blanc” were quick with a smile and a wave. Where do they derive that inner joy?
Activities completed today: loving on kids, sewing, tree trimming, roof sweep and clean, family pictures hung in Karen’s room, installing electrical boxes for switches and outlets, trash hauling, loving on kids
We will relax the rest of the evening with some Blue Bell ice cream and Jill Dyer chocolate chip cookies.
Again, thank you so much for your prayers. It is hard to put in words the challenges that Haitians face every day. Our desire is that Christ and His love for all nations would be shared through our time together this week.
Blessings
David
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