I just returned from Haiti where I led a group of 10 others to learn first hand about Nzunga’s and Kihomi’s ministry there.  We had a diverse group ranging in age from 26 to 75.  Five ABC churches were represented along with one Catholic church, one large New Albany IN church and one large Louisville KY church.   This is the first of several reports of my thoughts and observations of this trip.

 

The influence of long term missionaries.

 

We were met at the airport in Cap-Haitian by Nzunga after a 2 1/2 hour flight from Ft Lauderdale.  Nzunga wore a badge that allowed him access to anywhere in the airport.  As friends of Nzunga we were quickly put thru customs and out of the airport.  Our baggage arrived four hours later on another flight but again since we were with Nzunga there was no checking of bags and no fees. 

 

For the remainder of the trip this was played out again and again.  We were met most places we went by past students of his in their long sleeve shirts and ties.  This is a status symbol in Haiti and means you are a college grad and have a position of responsibility.  At the schools we visited, the new hospital being built, when we were at the border of the Dominican Republic it was the same; special privileges for friends of Nzunga. 

 

Kihomi’s work with the women of the Haitian Baptist Convention was also evident everywhere.  Papa Fred was with us who is the husband of Mama Sharon.  Mama Sharon supports Kihomi’s work by sending large amounts of items that ladies love.  Most items can not be purchased in Haiti or the ladies can’t afford them if they are.  When we would introduce Papa Fred and tell who is he was we would get a big reaction.  Many would hold up something they had received from her or point to their clothing. 

 

It seemed as if we could not go anywhere, even driving down the street, that there would not be someone shouting a greeting to one or both of them. 

 

In a country that it is easy to see the overwhelming problems, what a wonderful testimony of goodwill and love they have created in northern Haiti.  Who they are and what they stand for was evident from when we landed to when we left. 

 

Smiles, hugs and joyous welcomes everywhere! 

 

Yours,

 

Dennis Shewell

Nzunga's and Kihomi's MPT member