The day of rest

• And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.  -Hebrews 13:16

Even though it is our first full day here in Haiti, it was definitely an observed day of rest.  We had the opportunity to explore this beautiful compound set amongst the lush green hills and overlooking the bay.  Many times we would look out onto the bay and not be sure where the water ended and the sky began.  We were fortunate to have a cooling cloud cover over most of the day, with some sun to remind us where we are for just a few hours. 

Well, maybe not a strict day of rest... preparations are underway for the exciting new 'mobile clinic.'  Dr. Gibson, the medical director, and her staff have developed a schedule and system for half of our team to visit different villages or shanty settlements each day of the week.  We spent some time in orientation about how each clinic, as well as the clinic in Cite Soleil, is run and also took advantage of the down-time to prepare medications in easily dosed packages. 

In the afternoon some of the staff took us out of the compound and we got a quick skim of the countryside and how the people there are living now.  There was definitely lots of bustling and activity, but we noted how many structures that likely had been homes now had tents next to them where the people were actually living.  Either homes have been deemed unsafe, have not been inspected, or the families simply don't feel safe there.  We also saw from a distance a collection of structures Samaritan's Purse has constructed, preparing a more planned settlement for displaced families. 

The evening came to a picturesque end in the chapel on the hill.  With the sun setting over the bay we sang "Blessed Be The Name" and "How Great Thou Art" before an uplifting message and personal reflections about the changes people are seeing in Haiti.  We are all excited about getting to the clinics and today gave us a strong foundation for the week ahead. 

PS:  Vogt family, mom wanted to send an email but she's too tired and said to tell you she's fine and good night!
-Kim Sudheimer