Over the past several weeks, we have been working with the local pastors to help with the flood relief work in areas near Nagua. As you probably know, the Dominican Republic received a huge amount of rain, and several of the main rivers of the country overflowed their banks and caused an incredible amount of damage. In fact, the flood waters reached areas that they had never before reached in past floods. So far we have taken three truckloads full of clothes, food, toys, matresses, mosquito nets, and medical supplies to areas of great need. Just yesterday, Adrian and I, along with some brothers from a local church, went to some very poor areas in the country called Jobo and Molenillo. After having to push the truck out of a very deep mud pit, we finally arrived and went house to house giving out water, clothes, matresses, and toys to those who needed. The donations were sent from a church in Santo Domingo. We were amazed and saddened at the need that is present there. Many people lost just about everything in the floods over two weeks ago, and some are still sleeping on the concrete floor. It is amazing how giving a little toy car can make a child so happy. There were many smiling people, and many thank-yous when we left. One man even chased after us on his bike to say that he was brewing some coffee for us. It was delicious! Please continue pray for the people that have been affected by the rains and floods, that God would provide food, clothing, health, and most importantly a relationship with Jesus. Please also pray for us as we help the hurting, and pray about how you can be involved in the relief effort.

~Ryan

At the end of October, we were blessed to have a team come from New Life Community Church in Brampton, Canada. In spite of the tropical storm rains we received that week, we were able to, with the Lord’s help, run two marriage seminars in Nagua, a baseball outreach and feeding program in Helechal, and do a children’s program and medical clinic in La Jagua. We saw over 50 children and young people accepting the Lord as their Saviour! In the town of La Jagua, the team was able to finish the roof, prepare the floor for pouring, and begin the smooth coating of the walls of the local evangelical church. In addition, we were on the front lines of the flood relief effort, and were able to deliver meals to the people that were taking refuge from the flood waters in a local school. We are so grateful to the Lord and to the team for all that we were able to accomplish that week - God is good! Check out the photo album for some team photos.

~Ryan