Lourdes

Some of you may remember Lourdes Pichardo from previous updates. About a year ago she was diagnosed with a very serious case of cervical cancer. We knew from the beginning it would be terminal, but we did not lose hope. Especially Lourdes. I could go on and on of all of the amazing ways the Lord has worked through Lourdes' sickness. He brought the other women in the community together to donate and raise money for her chemotherapy. He used her testimony to deeply impact the lives of many American students. Most importantly, He brought Lourdes to salvation.

Lourdes' health roller coastered this past year until the last few months when she drastically got worse and worse. Then last Thursday night she passed away. We are of course very sad to lose such a wonderful and beautiful person. We are especially sad for her 3 young children she left behind. However it brings us great joy knowing that she is rejoicing with our Savior right now. Though he sickness had caused a lot of pain, it is all worth it for this one reason.

Though I have a peace knowing where Lourdes is now, I continue to be concerned about her children. I worry that without their mother they could end up on the wrong paths. I need your help in praying for them. Their names are Eloisa (15), Yoemmy (11), and Yeimi (4).


Lourdes with her oldest daughter Eloisa


The 2 younger ones- Yeimi and Yoemmy

Thanks for your prayers and God Bless!

The Shoe Crew

Last week we had a team here from Taylor University in Indiana. Usually when teams come down the students are divided up among the already established ministry sites. But this year there were about 7 students from Taylor that decided to do something a little different. Throughout the week they traveled to several communities in Jarabacoa doing different activities. On Tuesday they were in El Callejon. They started by doing a variety of running races with the children. Then one of the leaders shared the Gospel message with them by saying that when he was young all he cared about was being the best runner until the Lord showed him that that was a hollow goal. He shared how he then started to live for Christ and learned that the only true victory comes through Him. The students then gave a brand new pair of tennis shoes, a t-shirt, and a Bible to every child. They then washed their feet and prayed for each child. It is such a blessing when people can come into the community and share the true and generous love of Christ. And the kids were sooo excited about their new kicks. A lot of them have never in their life owned brand new tennis shoes! Thank you Taylor University!

1 more year...

Caroline and I have committed to staying with SI a year beyond our original commitment, until October 2011. We love our work and feel like God has us right where he wants us. It was my goal from the beginning that I start the Microfinance Site with the intention of passing it on to a Dominican leader. Praise God that Miriam Sicard has been helping me from the start and has committed to be full time staff starting this summer. With a full year to work with I'm confident I can leave the site well equipped for the future.

Thanks for your prayers and support!

Happy Easter!