I stumbled across this video from PovertyCure, an organization that facilitates the global conversation on poverty and equips its participants with resources that promote lasting, enterprise-based solutions that affirm the role of individuals and families in turning around their situations. The video introduces their recently launched toolkit that equips groups to make a positive impact on those they serve, both locally and globally. I particularly enjoyed what Peter Greer, President & CEO of Hope International, said: "Instead of us trying to start something, start from a humble posture saying, 'What is God already doing in that community, and how can we simply help that?' It's time for a changed approach to missions."
"What is God already doing?"
I love that question, and this ministry is a response to that question. When I first approached our mission partner, Larry and Diana Owen with Waves of Mercy, I was considering a microloans ministry. I had read a lot of articles about microloans, and thought it could be beneficial in Port-de-Paix. When I told Larry and Diana, they said what people really needed in their area was job skills and training so they could get good paying jobs to provide for themselves and their families. They told me how sewing, and other vocational skills, could make a real difference in their area.
Waves of Mercy already has several programs - street boys, nutrition, church, elementary education and community outreach - but they didn't have any programs geared toward adult education and job training. The Haiti 323 Project was a natural fit, and it plays into what God is already doing through their mission and in their community.
I know God knows what He wants to do in Port-de-Paix far more than I do. So I'm trusting Him to lead this ministry, and while sometimes it's a challenge, I wouldn't have it any other way.
