Quick Travel Day Update: The transition from Romania to the Dominican Republic (DR) was anything but smooth…it was rough! We experienced many obstacles and trials on our 48 hours of non-stop travel journey. But by God’s grace, we overcame and made it safely to our final destination with our ministry partners, Mission of Hope – DR.
Travel Day Lesson: The enemy really did not want my squad to get to the DR for some reason. I feel it’s because God is about to do something amazing here. I anticipate spiritual growth and the seeds we will be planting to come to harvest. This whole experience got me really pumped up for the Lord’s work through my squad in the DR.
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Did I mention that I am in love with the Dominican Republic (DR)? Well, I am! The warm weather, the friendly people, the incredible beaches…all of it! What does a typical day of ministry look like?
As you may know, the Dominican Republic is half of an island shared with Haiti. Due to its proximity, most of the people we serve are Haitian. This is very special since my paternal grandparents, whom I love very much, are originally from Haiti.
Sundays: Church & Youth Group
Mondays and Wednesdays: Kids ministry at a school named St. Erlien with Pastor Job
Tuesdays and Thursdays: Adult ministry at a school named Mwanga with Pastor Robinson
Fridays and Saturdays: Personal days to spend with the Lord, relax by the beach, or explore the country and its rich heritage
Strategic Ministry Time (SMT): During the week, my squad splits into two groups. My group goes to the schools every morning and then has Strategic Ministry Time (SMT) in the afternoon. SMT involves my team and a translator, engaging with the community to get to know the people and build trust. We ask questions like, “Where are you from?”, “How’s your water situation?” and “How’s your relationship with Jesus?”
One of the most memorable moments of ministry involves food, of course! We asked some ladies to show us how to make a traditional Haitian dish. We bring all the necessary ingredients: Beets, potatoes, carrots, onion, celery, and corn. Cutting vegetables without a cutting board is quite the experience! Place all the ingredients in a bowl, add salt, milk, and mayo; fold them into each other, and voila, you have the dish called “Patat e Betrav”. In English, it’s potatoes and beets. While the meal was cooking, we played with the kids. The meal was so delicious, we had a great and sweet time. As we were leaving, the children cried…my heart melted. They hold a special place in my heart, and before we leave, I will definitely need to visit them again.
I am Fully Funded! The best gift I received when I arrived in the DR was the news that I was fully funded! I was on cloud nine for days! By God’s grace and through your faithful giving, my goal to raise $15,800 was achieved the day before the deadline… isn’t God good?
As we do daily ministry, we encounter incidental expenses that are not covered under the official fundraising amount for the program. If you would like to continue to support financially, you can do so in the following ways:
Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/Via2022
CashApp: https://cash.app/$Via2022
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and encouragement. I can’t wait to share all the wonderful things God is about to do!
Wow wow wow!!! Let’s goooooooo Ms. Olivia! Nothing but good and wonderful things in this post. That meal sounds delicious, for real. I’m expecting you to cook that for us when you get back! Lol!! It is so cool to see the amazing ways God is using you and your squad! May He continue to bless you all and fill you up in extraordinary ways as ya’ll pour out.
I am so blessed by all of the amazing things You and your squad are doing. There is nothing that compares to sharing the word and Love of God. Thank you for sharing Your experiences with us. Continue to magnify the Lord through your mission work. I’m so very proud you. ??
Olivia, congratulations on your journey thus far, & the experience of a lifetime; every moment is an opportunity to build upon & a tool for you to use (draw) upon later in life.
Continue to build relationships in Jesus Name!
So proud of you and your obedience to God’s call. Can’t wait to hug your neck! Love you!
I am so excited to read about your adventures! To God be the glory! Continue the good work!
I love you so much and am very proud of you. I can’t wait to speak more Haitian Creole with you, so keep learning and being led by the Spirit of God. We are praying for you and your squad. BIG hug and kiss right to you :*
Hey Olivia, I wondered if that solar light I gave you for your trip has come to be useful. When I was in Haiti on a mission trip it was the type of thing I would have donated to a family with no electricity. I also CashApp’d you in Jan. sharing a little personal msg email or text with your contributors is a good way to connect them with your work directly. Let me know you got the cash and keep up the good work??????????.
Omg! I am so happy to hear all the interesting things that are going on in your journey with Lord by your side. These special moments are going to take you through life. May the good Lord continue to protect you and your squad in Jesus name