Witnessing

A very important component in a mission trip to Haiti is the people you travel there with—your team.   A solo trip to Haiti will allow you to see and experience the country only through your eyes.  A trip with a team will give you the opportunity to experience it through many sets of eyes.

One of my favorite parts of bringing teams to Haiti is observing THEM observe Haiti.    Some trip goers see the big picture of the country, while others are more keenly aware of tiny moments.   Some are not as shaken by what they witness, while others are torn apart by much of what they see.  The diversity of each team makes every trip new and exciting for me.   Trip goers are encouraged to to be actively involved mentally, physically and spiritually in all Reiser Relief’s ministries during each trip. Thanks to the many ministries we are involved in and our Lord’s intense presence in Haiti, this challenge is real!

Reiser Relief is always seeking new ways we can be God’s hands in serving the people of Haiti—thus continuing the challenge for trip goers.  I’m endlessly amazed and touched by the way each and every team accepts this challenge.  This week’s team was no exception.  Two days ago we visited a location that was home to nearly 100 severely physically and mentally disabled residents ranging in age from 5-35 who are lovingly cared for by an order of Catholic Brothers.  It was Reiser Relief’s first visit to the home, so our team had been told it would be a new experience for all of us.  Immediately upon arriving, it was apparent by what we witnessed that many or all of us would be pushed far outside our comfort zones.  As a trip leader, I was anxious about how the team would handle it.  I saw looks of fright, looks of perplexity, and I saw tears. 

But in short order, a rhythm had developed.  Some team members were giving wheelchair rides, some were singing to the residents, some were holding their hands and massaging their arms and legs, some were figuring out ways to make the residents smile and laugh, and some were overcome with tears.  What started out awkwardly ended in serving with compassion and love—and exploring what could be done to add continued comfort for the residents in the future.

Reflecting back on the experience at the end of the day, once again, I counted my blessings for having the opportunity witness the beauty of watching others opening their hearts to serving all those in Haiti who God continues to place lovingly in front of us.

God bless Haiti.

Ann Brau