Summer Highlights from the Dominican Republic
God has continued to open doors to build relationships with local Haitian and Dominican pastors in the Dominican Republic. This summer has been filled with opportunities to serve these pastors and communities.
From locally led youth camps, service projects alongside HopeGo teams, grocery distributions for the Family Assistance Program, Vacation Bible Schools for hundreds of children, Damas Juntas Women’s Empowerment groups for women of all ages, and more, this summer has been filled with impactful ministry. A few highlights have been:
BRINGING THE CHURCH TO A SICK MAN: A HopeGo team was visiting people in the community of Buena Vista in the Dominican Republic, and they met a man who was bedridden. He shared that he was unable to go to church because of his sickness, and they decided to bring the church to him! The team gathered around him and sang worship songs with him, and they encouraged him with God’s Word. His entire countenance changed and he was reminded of how deeply God cares for him.
EQUIPPING LOCAL PARTNER PASTORS: Several partner pastors have been able to expand their ministry this summer and lead local events for their churches. A local pastor recently shared, "When you first came to the Dominican Republic, in our very first meeting, I felt the Lord say He would use Mission of Hope specifically to bring the Haitian and Dominican Church together." God is working in incredible ways through His Church and it’s a joy to be a part of His story.
UNITED TOGETHER TO PRAY: At the recent Pastor Gathering, the room filled with Dominican and Haitian pastors at Pastor Pedro’s church. After the extremely challenging months that the people of Haiti experienced—consumed with unspeakable tragedies and devastating heartbreak caused by gang violence—pastors in the Dominican Republic were burdened to pray for their neighbors. Historically, the racial division between Haitians and Dominicans has been fraught with tensions. But time and time again, we see the unity that comes through the church. This gathering was no different. The pastors in the church were filled with the urgency to gather with other believers, encourage one another, share victories, shoulder burdens, and pray for men, women, and children experiencing unthinkable devastation just across the border.
From Haiti to the Dominican Republic, you play a vital role in helping people know Jesus. Thank you for your faithful support.