The Story of Fedlaine, "FiFi".

I haven't posted much on this blog since my arrival back in the States. Today was the start of my third week here at Liberty University, where I am studying youth ministry. It has been a great three weeks thus far. I am thankful that God led me to a university that can greatly contribute to my spiritual growth and knowledge of the Word of God. Haiti has been on my heart and mind a lot, especially throughout the past couple weeks. I greatly miss Nehemiah Vision Ministries and all of my friends in Haiti.

I'd like to share with you the unique story of a six-year-old girl named Fedlaine, better known as "FiFi".     

I met FiFi for the first time at Nehemiah Vision Ministries in the Summer of 2011. I was on a one week mission trip with my college ministry, Catalyst. At the time, I didn't know much about FiFi. I learned a little bit about her during that trip; that she was found in a ditch by Pastor Esperandieu Pierre, "Left for dead" as he states; after Pastor found her, she was placed in the NVM children's home in Chambrun; and finally that she was now living on the NVM compound and in the process of being adopted by the Shultz family (Jay, Amy, Anna, and their two sons). This family was committed to serve at NVM for at least a year--or until FiFi's adoption papers were finalized and was able to travel back to America with the Shultz's. I believe it was the third or fourth day that I was in Haiti in the  Summer of 2011, when an absolutely tragic accident occurred on the campus of Nehemiah Vision Ministries...one that will never be forgotten. Jay Shultz, the adopting father, was critically injured and paralyzed in a horrific accident involving a "Gator" ATV and a backhoe tractor. I barely knew Jay at the time, but remember that he appeared to have an unsurpassable work ethic and seemed like a genuinely nice guy. I honestly don't think I will ever forget this day, nor the mood on campus after this incident. "Don't drop me, intern."

As you can imagine, Jay's accident would bring forth another curveball into the adoption process (as if it weren't already a strenuous process) as well as the lives of the entire Shultz family. I remember thinking, "How would I feel if I had committed to a year (or longer) in Haiti, with my family, and then such a tragic event as this happen? What about the adoption? Who would take care of Fedlaine? Would my faith in Christ be affected?". The Shultz's ended up moving back to the States after the accident. Fedlaine remained on the NVM compound, under the care of  NVM Missions Team Coordinators, Aaron and Shelli Elliot. Aaron and Shelli completed their year at NVM in October, when Brandon and Katie Hutchens stepped in, under a year commitment. 

Brandon, FiFi, and Katie

You might be wondering why I am sharing FiFi's story with you. As you know, I was an intern at Nehemiah Vision Ministries this year for six months; from January 16, 2012 to July 17, 2012. I arrived on campus around mid-day and was introduced to everyone on the compound upon my arrival. I saw this little ball of energy in the form of a six-year-old girl, running and playing around the compound. I realized that it was FiFi. Her sister, Anna (Shultz) was there with her...spending a week or two with her and then heading back to the States. I talked with Anna throughout the time she was there, getting to know FiFi's story and status of her adoption, a little bit more. 

FiFi and Anna

Switching gears a little bit here. One of the hardest things for me to overcome was the fact that I was going to be spending six months away from my family. My oldest brother Jason had a son, Eli, two years ago. The birth of my first nephew was an absolute blessing to both my family and myself. My heart was changed forever. Prior to his birth, I had never been one to really "enjoy" the presence of children-to be quite honest. Eli was born when I was 19 years old....and he was the first baby I'd ever held in my entire life. Something changed inside of me, the instant I saw my nephew for the first time. I just couldn't spend enough time with my little man. The birth of Elijah Jack sparked something inside my heart that I'd never felt before. His birth would lead to me becoming involved with the youth ministry at my church, Crossroads Fellowship; to me having an absolute blast with the children in Haiti in the Summer of 2011; to me studying Youth Ministry at Liberty University. Needless to say, I was not looking forward to being away from Eli, as well as missing his second birthday in May.

Back to FiFi. Anna, FiFi, and I had an absolute blast playing card games and playing on the playground with the other children. I told Anna that I felt as though God was going to use FiFi to help ease my pain of being away from my nephew. I also told her that I would take care, watch, and play with FiFi as if she were my own family. I spent a lot of time with FiFi, playing card games, watching cartoons and "babysitting" her while Brandon and Katie went off to the market, playing tag and hide-and-seek on the playground (I can still hear her saying, "YOU IT"), swimming with her in the ocean and pool on our staff's occasional beach trips, walking her back from school every now and then, making her lunch, tossing her in the air, etc. I was deemed the title, "TonTon JoJo" by the American and Haitian NVM staff. Tonton means uncle, for those who don't know Creole! If I was in a bad mood for whatever reason or having a long day, Fifi, being a hilarious and energetic six year old, would always put a smile on my face. 

One of our many card games.

Basketball on the compound.

Jay Shultz visited NVM several times during my six month internship. I can honestly say that I have not met too many people in this world, with a heart like that man. He wouldn't let his paralysis and wheelchair stop him from visiting NVM, Haiti, and his daughter. To see how happy and good-spirited he was, despite his paralysis, was encouraging to say the least. I am very fortunate that I was able to meet and talk with Jay. It was awesome seeing how excited FiFi was every time he arrived on campus. I also met Jay's wife, Amy, during my internship. She is an amazing person as well. The adoption process is, unfortunately, still not completed. As I stated earlier, it is not an easy process to complete with the government of Haiti. The Shultz family is praying that FiFi will be in America before the end of 2012.

This is one of the most lengthy posts on this blog...so I thank you for taking the time to read it. I just felt as though God wanted me to share this on my blog, considering that FiFi was a huge part of my six month internship, as well as me deciding to study youth ministry. I am beyond thankful for the countless memories that FiFi and I shared; the countless laughs, sweat, games of TAG, basketball, and even her making faces at me when I wasn't looking (she thought that was hilarious). It was a blessing to spend this time with FiFi; time that I was away from my family and my nephew. I encourage everyone to please keep FiFi and the Shultz family in your prayers. Pray that FiFi's paperwork with the government will be completed and that she WILL be able to move to America this year; pray that she will have a smooth adjustment to an American lifestyle once she does arrive; pray for Jay Shultz and a full recovery from his accident; pray for Brandon and Katie Hutchens as they continue to take care of FiFi while the adoption process is still undergoing.

One of the hardest things for me was to leave my family, my nephew, for six months. What was one of the hardest, if not the hardest thing for me as I walked the NVM compound on the last day of my internship? Saying goodbye to FiFi. Fortunately, I know that she is in extremely good hands with Brandon, Katie, Papa Jim and Cheryl Warner, Aubree, Brooke, all the NVM staff, and is going to be living with a Christ-centered and loving family in the United States. It's been tough typing this blog post. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't fighting back tears.

Dressed up for Nathan Pierre's high school graduation

Photography

As many of you know, one of my passions is the art of photography. Those of you who have seen my photos on this blog, and would like to continue following me as I grow in my photography skills...you can do so by checking out this Facebook page: Jordan Piper Photography.

By no means am I a professional, nor do I claim to be. I simply have a passion for the art of photography. I have many pictures from my 6 month internship with Nehemiah Vision Ministries posted on that Facebook page. I still have a ton of photos that I haven't had a chance to edit, that I will be posting in the near future.

I will be moving into my dorm at Liberty University next Saturday, August 18th! I am excited to get this semester started, to begin my degree in Youth Ministry.

America's Sad State of Affairs

As many of you know, there is great discussion and debate here in America regarding a statement made by the owner of Chick-Fil-A, regarding same-sex marriage. This topic is "hot" right now in America, as a result of President Obama stating his views on the subject, North Carolina and Amendment One, and most recently, the owner of Chick-Fil-A stating his beliefs (and it now being public knowledge that his company uses some of its earnings to support organizations whom do NOT support same-sex marriage.)

This saddens me deeply. Our nation, whom BY the grace of God, HAS freedom; HAS the right to vote; HAS the capability of driving in a vehicle on smoothly paved roads, to purchase a chicken sandwich with a side of waffle fries and a Diet Coke, is in turmoil over something that the president of a fast food restaurant stated and the way that he uses HIS companies money. Our nation is in a sad, sad time right now. We are being divided as a result of a fast food restaurant. Say what you want, it's the truth. Chick-Fil-A supports organizations who are against gay marriage; what about all the other companies that you support?...Where do all of THOSE dollars go? Don't stop with Chick-Fil-A...if you are willing to fight this fight with such determination, why stop with ONE company? Follow your money trails in entirety. This post is not directed singularly towards ANY group of people; whether that being homosexuals, Christians, atheists, whatever. This is a blanket statement for our nation as a WHOLE. I'm praying for each and every one of us and our nation...because we ALL greatly need it.

 Perspective. 
I spent six months in Chambrun, Haiti; the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. During those six months  I was given the opportunity to live outside the oh-so-sweet (or should I say salty?) comfort zone of America....and let's just say that it opened my eyes, in many ways. By the glory of God, I was able to develop friendships/relationships with many Haitian people; people who have never been to a fast food restaurant, nor ever heard the words, "Chick-Fil-A"; people whom deal with daily trials and struggles....REAL trials...trials that determine LIFE or DEATH...not where the money they spend at a fast food restaurant is going. We, as a nation, are incoherent to the abundance of blessings that we have. I wish that more of us Americans could spend one day in Haiti, or any third world country for that matter. The average Haitian, if he or she is lucky, has an average monthly income of around $20; many of us spend that much money at fast food restaurants alone, in one week (shoot, some of us spend that much at ONE meal). I had friends there who might eat one meal per day, if they were lucky; had to walk several miles to school, church, or to retrieve (unpurified) water from the stream; might not have but one change of clothes to last them, well, a lifetime; that lived in a home that consisted of hard-packed mud, sticks, and a rusted tin roof; that only had a donkey as a mode of transportation (and many who had no mode of transportation, besides their calloused feet). I could go on and on about my Haitian friends, and the struggles that they face on a daily basis. However, I think that the point has been made.

Again, this is a blanket statement for our nation as a WHOLE. I'm praying for each and every one of us and our nation...because we ALL greatly need it.

Back in the US of A

It has almost been a week since I arrived back in the United States. I decided to wait a little bit to post an update...just to see how my transition back into American life would go, before posting anything. I will start out by saying that all of your prayers (and mine) for me to have a "smooth" transition back to life here, were answered. God has blessed me with an extremely smooth transition back into my American way of life. I would be lying if I said that I weren't nervous about my re-entry into America. As you can imagine, life in Haiti is MUCH different than what we are accustomed to here in America. Although I WAS a little nervous...I knew God was in control and would take care of me...and He did. It was very nice being able to spend my last 11 days in Haiti, alongside my best friends in this world. It also great to be able to travel back home on the same flights as them! I also have an extremely supportive/amazing family that aided in my smooth transition.

I've had many people ask me, "What's the one thing that impacted you the most in your six months?". To be honest, I think it would be impossible for me to select a single event that impacted me the most. God spoke to me countless times, brought many things to my sight, and taught me a lot about myself, as well. I cherish every single moment I was able to spend with the beautiful children of Haiti. Those children were the greatest factor in my decision to even go to Haiti for six months. I am so thankful for the many great friendships that I built with those children; the countless laughs, sweat, and fun that we shared together. I greatly enjoyed doing the bi-weekly Sunday evening Men's Bible Study in Onaville, alongside Brandon Hutchens, Clerice, Pastor Masaillon, Jonathan, and everyone else involved. I thank God for granting us with the opportunity to reach out and plug into the men of this church, and the community of Onaville. I will never forget the burning passion we all felt inside our chests, after we finished each study. We would sometimes be there for three hours, enjoying the fellowship with our Haitian brothers. I ask that you will keep those men, Pastor Masaillon, our church in Onaville, and the entire community of Onaville in your prayers. The all-night prayer services we had at our church in Onaville and in Chambrun, will have an everlasting imprint in my heart. Just being able to worship with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, without "holding back" or caring what other people thought...was amazing. I have never worshiped like that, here in America. I've never felt the Holy Spirit's presence, like I felt in those services. I met many absolutely amazing people during my trip. People of different nationalities, ages, occupations, walks of life, gifts, personalities, and "visions." I thank God for each person I was fortunate enough to come into contact with.  I could go on and on and on about the other many experiences that I had...but I'll save all of those for future posts.

I simply cannot thank God enough, for blessing me with the opportunity to serve at Nehemiah Vision Ministries, for six months. Yes, I missed my family and best friends, as well as the many blessings us Americans have (Delicious 2% milk, Chic-Fil-A, smoothly paved roads, no tarantulas, etc)...but God provided me with the strength to leave all of that behind for six months. I simply could not have done this, if I would have relied on my mere human strength, courage, and wisdom. Those six months will have an everlasting impact on my life. I look forward to seeing how God can use my time there in Haiti, to bring glory to His Kingdom. I also thank Him for the opportunities that He has given me, to share my testimony and how God impacted my life through this trip, with the youth at my home church, Crossroads Fellowship, for the next two Sundays (July 29 and August 5th). I will be moving into Liberty University on August 16th!

To finish this post off....I would simply like to thank YOU for your prayers, donations, love and for keeping up with my posts, my pictures, and my six month journey. I ask that you keep Nehemiah Vision Ministries, the entire nation of Haiti, and myself in your prayers. I pray that my testimony, my six months in this beautiful nation, can somehow impact YOUR life. I pray that it will be encouragement and motivation for you to step out in your faith, and bring glory to God's Kingdom. By no means am I more "qualified" than any of you, to take a bold step in faith. I'm just a normal 21 year old guy. I'm a sinner who has been blessed with the grace of God-just like you. The entire world is a mission field. We are not all called by God to do international missions-don't be discouraged if you don't feel led to travel overseas to proclaim the Gospel. You can start in your own neighborhood-your neighbor, your family, friends, school job, etc. We must not overlook the fact that there are people that need to here the Gospel here in our own nation. If anybody would like to contact me for any reason, please feel free to email me at: jphasfaith@gmail.com. I would be more than happy to talk with you.

One of my last visits to Chambrun. I will never forget these amazing children.

Never a dull moment in this village!

If one picture could sum up the pure joy I experienced while playing with the kids in Chambrun, this would be it. I'm a kid at heart, and this photo definitely captured that essence of my personality. I will never forget the countless laughs, games, and sweat that I enjoyed with these kids

Also never a dull moment with my best friends and I!!

Baby Rose, Kris Kapab, and Daniella. Absolutely love these three little girls.

This Is A Family

 The title of this post is, "This Is A Family." The staff here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries does not simply refer to each other simply as friends, a group, or ministry. We are a family. A family that consists of various ages, walks of life, homes (in America), skin complexions, hair colors, and well...many other things. However, none of those differences matter. This is a family that might only spend several months of a year together. Some of us might not ever, unfortunately, see each other face-to-face again. (You might be thinking, "Hmm...this doesn't really sound like a family to me.") But the time that we have spent here together has been absolutely priceless. Don't get me wrong...we function similar to "true" blood-related families. What I mean by that, is the fact that we don't always feel thrilled to be in each others' presence. We butt heads, have disagreements, don't see eye-to-eye on every little detail, and don't all enjoying doing the same things as others...and none of those characteristics differ from "normal" families. One characteristic that we ALL share, however, is the fact that we all have a burning passion to serve and love the Lord Jesus Christ.

Today was definitely a bittersweet day here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries. I say bittersweet, because some of us had to say "goodbyes" with an undetermined amount of time until we see each other again. Our NVM family is once again undergoing a slight roster change. However, change is inevitable and people have to move on to the next chapters in their lives. Nurse E'Tienne York headed home this morning after a year of service here at NVM; Brandon Hutchens and Katie Hutchens headed back home for two weeks to spend time with family and loved ones back home; my oldest brother, Jason, also headed home after spending a week here with us at NVM.

The fact that I only have eight days left in Haiti definitely hit me pretty hard today. I said my last goodbye to E'Tienne bright and early this morning and later drove my brother, Brandon, and Katie into Port-au-Prince Airport. The realization, that before I know it....I will be taking my last airport run. And rather than picking other people up, or dropping other people off...it will be myself who is leaving. I could go on and on about the many experiences I've had here since January 16, 2012. Perhaps I will in a later post...but for tonight, this is it! I ask for everyone to keep all of us in your prayers as we continue to serve here at NVM, as well as to the many other places that God will lead us. All things for His glory.

Top : Katie Hutchens, Brandon Hutchens, Katherine Clancey, Cheryl Warner, Aubree Dell, Jim Warner, E'Tienne York, Brooke Smalley. Bottom: Jonathan Dimanche, Myself,                   Clinton Small, and Chris Bosma.                                 

Two Weeks Remaining

As of today, I only have two weeks left in Haiti. My oldest brother, Jason, arrived here yesterday! He will be here from July 2nd-9th. I am so excited that he was able to come. It just so happens that we started our first annual Nehemiah Vision Ministries Summer Youth English Camp on Monday--he is a high school English teacher back home! Therefore, he immediately plugged into the camp and is teaching an English class!

My oldest brother, Jason, and myself. My caption for this image is, "You may be the oldest brother... but now I'M the biggest!".

My brother and I both greatly enjoy photography. He has a wedding photography business that he does "on the side." I love every opportunity that we get to shoot weddings (and anything, really) together. There was an awesome lightning storm off in the distance last night. We decided to go out and attempt to capture images of lightning bolts. So...we went out on the roof, set our D7000's to interval shooting (capturing images every 2 seconds), and I caught this 6-bolt-beauty!

My best friends will be here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries, THIS Friday!! That is the same team (Crossroads Fellowship college ministry, "Catalyst")that I came down here with last summer. It's going to be great working alongside my brother for a week, and my best friends for 11 days. It has been 5-and-a-half months since I've seen any of my family or friends. I will be flying back to the States with my friends/college ministry on July 17th.

Tarantulas

I have posted many things that I love about Haiti...but have never shared something that I do NOT love about it...tarantulas. All of my family and close friends know that spiders are not, well, my favorite thing in the world. My spider "tolerance level" has definitely been heightened since the 5 and-a-half months that I've been here. However, I don't think I'll ever be able to tolerate these furry eight-legged creatures.

I found this one last night on the outside of the Men's Dorm (of course!).

 

If the picture wasn't good enough...here's a video I recorded with my iPhone! Ha!

 

Fortunately, I have only seen about three or four of these in the 5 and-a-half months that I've been here. Hopefully this will be the LAST one I see, throughout my remaining 17 days here!

June Journal Entry (6/13/2012)

June 13, 2012

"To my generation,

The point of me sharing my story, my testimony, and how God has been working in and through my life, is this: I want to reach people that have lived a life similar to mine, or who are currently living a similar lifestyle now. I want you to find hope, to be encouraged to live a life of righteousness...rather than falling into the ways of this dying world (and generation) that we all dwell in. A world that is overwhelmed with alcohol, nicotine, drugs, adultery, sex and "casual" hookups, countless teenage pregnancies, lying, cheating, stealing, lust, and any other immoral filth that we partake in. Don't get me wrong, I am by NO means perfect. Nor do I consider myself to be better than anyone that partakes in the things I just mentioned. I haven't always been a dedicated follower of Christ, pursuing a life of righteousness in a world that is filled with temptation and sin, lurking around every corner. 

We are all sinners. The difference between the "old" sinner Jordan and the "new" sinner Jordan is this: I am no longer held captive by the ball-and-chain of the sinful ways, that I once lived. I no longer sin, simply because I have nothing better to do in my free time. Let me also state the fact that I could not have overcome my past, filled with immoral relationships, parties, and a generally pessimistic outlook, without the power of God. Trust me, I tried to overcome these vices on my own- I failed miserably time and time again. I battled with God, asking, "Why me, God? Why must I go through these things? Can't you just give me a break?". I didn't turn to Scripture as much as I should have....

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." James 1: 2-8

Rather than embracing my trials with a positive mindset, I constantly fell in defeat. By no means was I building perseverance- I was building Satan's grasp/stronghold on my life. "...That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." Rather than turning to God, asking for HIS guidance and help, I tried to lean on my own strength and knowledge. I had a one-way battle with God. Even if I did throw up a prayer, why would He have provided for me? "...But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt...". Deep in my heart I knew I needed to submit to God, but I let my mind take over the battles of my heart. If only I would have been aware of these verses prior to all these trials, right? 

This is why I want you to be aware-and remember-even if you dedicate your life genuinely and wholeheartedly to God-we will ALL face trials and defeat .It's not going to be a smooth, freshly-paved road the entire ride. It will be filled with potholes, speed-bumps, cracks, roadblocks, and detours. We will all face this-there is no escaping the inevitable. It's the way that we RESPOND to these hazards- that builds perseverance and our trust in God. If we had not trials to face, why would we need to trust in God? 

My friends...joing me in this journey. You will be amazed by where God can lead you...when you die to self, take up your cross daily, and develop a genuine relationship with our LORD. Stand up to the ways of the world. Join me, brothers and sisters in Christ. This is the battle of all battles; the war of all wars. This is the battle for our LORD...for our eternal life.

                                                                                                    Sincerely With God,

                                                                                                           Jordan Piper

                                                                                                              6/13/2012

                    

The Countdown Begins.

  I celebrated my 5th month in Haiti last Saturay, June 16th. Therefore that leaves me with less than a month left here; 24 full days to be exact. My oldest brother, Jason will be here from July 2nd-9th. Catalyst, my college ministry consisting of all my best friends back home, (the team I came down here with June 2011) will be here from July 6th-17th. I will be returning to the United States on July 17th, with all of my best friends. I have been anticipating their arrival for quite some time now. I'm so excited for my brother and for my best friends to experience what I have had the blessing to experience for this long. I'm definitely having a mix of bitter-sweet emotions. Haiti has became my "home away from home". I've developed many great friendships with the Haitians as well as the American NVM staff. The Haitians no longer consider me a "blanc", meaning a foreigner. "Ou pa blanc. Ou se Ayisyen!". They now consider me one of them, a light-skinned Haitian so-to-speak. I am beyond thankful for being blessed with the opportunity to plug into this amazing community of people for 6 months. However, I greatly miss my family and friends back home. I am continuously praying for a smooth transition back into my America way of life, as well as into Liberty University in August. I pray that God will give me the wisdom, strength, and courage for this transition to be as smooth as possible. I plan to return here to Nehemiah Vision Ministries sometime in 2013. I'm not sure exactly when, or for how long, but I will be back!

  All the Nehemiah Vision Ministries interns decided that we needed to take a group photo. Maggie Younker, whom I have worked with since January, departed on Monday. She has spent 5 months here, and will be interning with the International Justice Mission in Europe, starting in September. We also have 3 Summer interns who arrived several weeks ago. It has been great working alongside my fellow interns and new friends!

So this pyramid picture didn't turn out as great as I would have liked. I was using a 35mm lense and had about 5 minutes to try to get several shots (Maggie had to leave for the airport and we have 100+ people on campus). BUT...it's an awesome picture, regardless.

Brandon Hutchens (NVM Missions Team Coordinator); Interns: myself, Jonathan Dimanche, Maggie Younker, Chris Bosma, and Clinton Small. There is never a dull moment on this compound!

  Thank you for taking to the time to check out and share my blog! I ask that you keep me in your prayers, as I continue to serve the remaining 24 days here! God has been doing amazing things over the past 5+ months of my life. This has been a life-changing experience, to say the least.

Thursday Morning Thoughts

I would like to share with you some of my thoughts I had this morning, while riding to Onaville to finish painting a container at our "satellite" location.

"   As Christians, we musn't blend in with the secular world. Let me clear up the fact that I am not stating that it is wrong to befriend non-believers or to associate with them. However, we are called to be bold; to be radical in this day and age filled with unholiness and impurity. We must not merely label ourselves as Christians and abuse the grace of God. Jesus lived a perfect and blameless life so that we sinners may be redeemed. That is enough reason for me to try my absolute hardest to live my life as a genuine, devoted follower of Christ. Christ paid for the sin of all mankind with His own blood.
    Tell me, what good is it to dress up in our "Sundays Best" on Sunday mornings, singing along with the worship band and raising your hand up to Heaven to praise our Lord, when Monday-Saturday you live no differently than your secular neighbor?
    We must NOT abide by the norms that our society has grown accustomed to. What is more courageous; giving in to temptation and impurity or living a pure life of righteousness? Will it be easy to ignore the peer pressures of the world? Absolutely not. As a devoted follower of Christ, you WILL face trials, temptations, and downfalls. How you respond to those downfalls, is the testing of your perseverance and faith in God. I see people constantly stating things such as, "Why is there so much evil in the world?; What happened to moral standards?; Why is he doing this and she doing that?", etc. Rather than asking questions such as this, would it not be easier to live your life, the way you want others to live theirs? Lead by actions rather than solely relying on words. You could be the brightest, most knowledgeable speaker of this age, but if your words do not coincide with your actions, then they will fall upon deaf ears."

 I enjoy writing, even though I am far from the best at it. Writing is simply an avenue for me to share with the world, what God puts on my heart. I will attempt to post things such as this on my blog, on a more regular basis. I am sure that there will be many people whom disagree with my thoughts and actions. That is completely acceptable. However, if I have one person that is somehow "moved" by my words, no amount of opposition can overcome that single victory.

Exactly One Year Ago Today...

June 11, 2011 was a day that led to a life-changing week for me. Why was the week of June 11-18 so important? June 11, 2011 was the first day that I stepped foot in the wonderful nation of Haiti. It was the first day that I had ever left the Red, White, and Blue. It was a day that I have engraved into my memory and hope to never forget. I remember my thoughts when our plane circled around the airport, preparing for landing. I remember the screeching tires of the plane on the tarmac....everything became so real. I was actually doing this. I was following God's call to partake in a short term mission trip with Catalyst, the College & Young Adult Ministry at my church, Crossroads Fellowship. Preparing for the trip, I knew I was going to see things I'd never seen before. Severe poverty. Starving people and malnourished children. People that desperately need not only physical aid, but also spiritual, mental, and emotional. Little did I know then, the impact that week would have on me.

It's currently 4:05pm here in Chambrun, Haiti. At this time last year, I had safely arrived here at the compound of Nehemiah Vision Ministries. In the hour or so drive from the Port-au-Prince Airport....my life had already been rocked. I saw many of the things I had been anticipating in the weeks leading up to this trip. Your heart my wrench when you think about these things and see pictures online...but when you're actually here and are witnessing things you'd never imagined you'd see...it hits you a lot harder than any picture you might find on Google.

I am still using the same journal that I brought with me on the trip last year. Here is an excerpt of my first journal entry in this country:

 Day 1
Saturday
6/11/2011
    "I am sitting on a cinder block on the top of a medical center in Haiti. How many times in my life will I have the opportunity to do this? God has already done amazing things for me on this trip...and I haven't even been here for 24 hours.
   As soon as I took the first step out of our Delta airplane...and stepped foot into Port-au-Prince, I knew God sent me here for a reason."

Today is June 11, 2012. I have been in Haiti since January 16; 4 months and 26 days. I have about 35 days left of my 6-month internship here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries. It is absolutely amazing to reflect on what God has done in my life in the time span of one year. Although it is amazing, it should not be surprising. Why? Because when you die to self, take up your cross daily, and establish a genuine relationship and become a dedicated follower of Christ....ANYTHING is possible. If you would have told me on June 10th, 2011, that the week lying in front of me would lead to me spending 6 months in Haiti...I honestly probably would have called you crazy. I knew on that hot, sunny Saturday exactly one year ago, that God sent me there for a reason. At the time, I didn't know what that reason was.

The Last Day
Saturday
6/18/2011
    "I hate that this will probably be the last time on this roof for quite some time (referring to the medical clinic roof). Hopefully I will be able to return in January. If not, then I will definitely be back next summer. This mission trip has drastically drawn me closer to God and helped me "find" myself in numerous ways. I found out that children have a huge place in my heart. I feel like God might be calling me to do something with children/youth...because I enjoyed playing with these kids so much.
   I have opened my eyes and my heart, for the love of others. I would rather work for and help somebody else, rather than for my own best interest. I hope to take what I have experienced here in Haiti, and share it with friends and peers, touching their hearts like mine has been touched. However, no matter how compassionate I tell my story nor how many pictures I show them.....they will not feel the love, pain, and happiness that I've experienced this week. God is doing amazing things here and I hope to see even more improvements when I return. 
   God, I ask you to bless Jay and touch him with a quick and full recovery from his surgery. Lord, I ask you bless all my fellow team members and myself with safe travels back to America. Lord, let us arrive in America with new perspectives, outlooks, and changed hearts. I ask you this in the Lord's name...Amen."

Tears of happiness cloud my eyes as I finish typing this blog post. God knew that I would read these journal entries, on this day, remembering what I felt like He was telling me in 2011. I knew that I would return to Haiti. I knew I was being called here. I knew that children/youth was going to play a roll in my life. When I return from Haiti on July 16...I will have a month and a half of "down" time to transition back into American life. Then I'll embark on the next chapter of my life, studying Youth Ministry at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. I pray that this blog post, my testimony, will reach people to follow Christ with all their heart, strength, and might. I pray that my life will bring glory to the Kingdom of Heaven, in everything I do. I apologize for the long post...but reading these journal entries and reflecting on the past year really touched my heart today. I hope you've enjoyed this post, and stick with me for the remaining 35 days of my time here in Haiti. The college ministry (Catalyst) that I came with last summer, will be here from July 6-17th. I will finish out the last 11 days serving alongside my best friends. God is so good great.
 

21st Birthday in Haiti!

Last Sunday, May 20th, I celebrated my 21st birthday here in Haiti! It was pretty tough Sunday morning, realizing that this was the first birthday that I'd ever spent away from my family (and yeah, 21 is kind of a "milestone" I guess you can say). Being away from them for a little over 4 months has been hard. However, this birthday has been one that I will NEVER forget...and not just because it's my 21st. I am so fortunate, thankful, and blessed to spend this birthday (and 6 months) with the amazing people in this country. I get to interact with some of the most loving people I've ever met, all of the Haitians and the American NVM staff. I will sleep tonight knowing that this birthday, this day, is one that I will never forget for many reasons. 

Birthday cinnamon roll with 21 candles!

Pastor Pierre's (founder of NVM) son Nathan and myself. We have became great friends over the past 4 and a half months!

These were my birthday gifts from the NVM staff. You know you are in the mission field, when you are excited about non-powdered milk and typical grocery store items being presents for your 21st birthday. I may be 21 and "of age" to legally consume alcohol...but the only type of beer I request is A&W Root Beer!

My friends in the NVM Childrens Home singing Happy Birthday to me! (Low-resolution video...recorded with my iPhone)

Changes to Our Core NVM "Family"

Our core NVM "family" started to undergo changes at the beginning of May. Brodie Herb (bottom row, white t-shirt) headed back to the States after being at NVM for 8 months. She will be getting married in august; Head nurse Aubree Dell (bottom row, Army t-shirt) headed home for a month to refresh and to raise support for her new commitment of an additional 2 years (she has already been here for 2 years); GAiN USA Staff Jim Warner (top left), Cheryl Warner (bottom row 2nd from left) & their kids Jamie (blue shirt, bottom row, left) and Janessa (orange shirt, middle row, left) headed home a couple of days ago to take some time off to refresh and raise support; Intern Maggie Younker (bottom row, orange) will be heading home in mid-June after being here for 5 months and will be heading to England in September, where she will be interning with the International Justice Mission for a year; nurse E'tienne York (top row, middle, on my right) will be heading home at the beginning of July after being here for one year; nurse Brooke Smalley (to my left) has signed up for another year; our leaders Brandon & Katie Hutchens (top row, right) have also committed to stay for at least one more year!        

As you all know, I will be heading back to the States on July 17th. It has been an absolute blessing to work alongside this amazing group of people. We all like to use the word "family" to describe us, rather than the word "team". I am so thankful to have the opportunity to get to know each and every one of these people....my time here would not be the same if it weren't for this family! I could go on and on about each person individually, and the million stories we've all had together, but I will spare you the time. I will say thank you to my "second family" for all the wonderful memories we've had together, but those words are merely understatements.This may be the last photo together as our core "family"...but I pray that God continues to use each one of us in the next chapters of our lives. I have no doubt that we will all continue to serve the Kingdom of Heaven....whether God leads us here in Haiti or back in the United States.

The Next Step in My Life...

In 2011 I was certain of one thing in particular, regarding my future: I was going to spend 6 months serving at Nehemiah Vision Ministries in Haiti. Although I knew that's where God was leading me from January 16, 2012 to July 17,2012...I didn't know where I would end up after I returned to the United States. Many people prior to me arriving here, and people who were on short-term trips here at NVM, would ask me, "So, what are you doing when you get home?". That question began to resonate more and more on my heart. I had made it one of my top priorities in my prayers, asking for God's direction and guidance in what the next step was in my life. Even though I was concerned with this, I didn't want to become TOO consumed with it, that I would miss out on where I am NOW. So, as people continued to ask me, I simply responded, "We'll see where God leads me!". I would go on to describe that I had a passion for children and youth ministry...so that could possibly be an option somewhere down the road.

I remember one week in March, very specifically. It was the busiest week we've had here at NVM, since my arrival; there were 5 or 6 teams and around 120+ people on campus. There was one team in particular that I was excited to meet and work alongside; a team of twelve middle schools kids with their two counselors/leaders from Kanakuk (Christian youth camps). I had been volunteering a lot with the PreTeen/Youth Ministry at my home church in Raleigh, and absolutely loved it. I missed all those kids from home...so I was excited to meet these middle schoolers! I must say that these kids were absolutely amazing here. They got along so well with the Haitian children...it was awesome to see their interactions with each other. Both of their leaders called me aside at different times, to tell me that they absolutely loved how much I poured into their middle school team, and that they think I would do very well in youth ministry. This was very encouraging for me to hear..and very unexpected! To make a long story short(er), I felt like God brought this Kanakuk middle school team  here for a reason: to solidify the fact that I absolutely love youth ministry and need to pursue this as my next "step" in life.

I will be studying Youth Ministry at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, starting in the Fall of 2012. I will only have about a month-and-a-half turnaround between my arrival back in the United States and the first day of class. It's hard to believe that I only have 2 months and 10 days left here in Haiti. I am excited to see what God has in store for me for these next 2 months, as well as my first semester at Liberty University in the Fall! If you feel led to support me with my ministry here in Haiti, or would just like to help out with the expenses that go along with college, then I would greatly appreciate it! IF you don't feel led to support financially, that is completely fine. I would be more than happy with you simply praying for me as I spend the remaining 2 months here in Haiti and as I transition back into life back in the States and at Liberty University! You can never have too many people praying for you :)

These are some of the guys from the Kanakuk Middle School team. They were hilarious and awesome to work with!

These are a few pictures from the VBS Day Camp I helped out with in Onaville, alongside the Kanakuk Middle School team!

Onaville Men's Bible Study

Two men from Saddleback Church (Pastor Rick Warren's church) from California, Brandon Hutchens, Clerice (NVM staff/translator) and myself started a men's Bible Study in Onaville. The study is called, "Being God's Man...In Leading a Family", by Stephen Arterburn, Kenny Luck, and Fred Stoeker. Onaville is an area that consists of roughly 500,000+ people; the majority of which were displaced into this area after the earthquake in 2010. We have a "satellite" church in Onaville (I have posted pictures on my blog of the new tent we put up earlier this year)...where about 500 or so people are attending, since the first service that was held in December 2011. I was very excited to start this Bible study...to build up the men of this community to be the leaders and righteous men we are called to be. 65 men come out to the first session; it was amazing seeing how involved these men were in the study. At the end of the session as we were packing things up, one man wanted to come up and share a little bit before we left. He told us all how thankful he was for us to start this study; they had never heard of accountability partners or been in small groups with other Christian men. He continued on to say that he had somewhat lost his faith or connection with Christ, but this study had gotten him fired up to be the man of God he knew that he should be; so that he could be a leader and positive influence for his family, friends, and community. This study is not only helping these Haitian men, but also Brandon and myself as we sit down each week doing the study ourselves, in preparation for our bi-weekly study sessions. If everyone could keep Brandon, Clerice, Pastor Jim Warner, and myself in your prayers, we would really appreciate it! Pray that God will use us as a tool for His Kingdom, to speak the words that these men need to hear in order to be leaders and positive role models amongst their families, friends, and community. I will continue to post updates about this study for the remainder of my time here in Haiti! Here are a few photos from one of our sessions:

The men split into small groups

My Bible, notes, and "Being God's Man...In Leading A Family" Bible study.

Clerice translating for me as I co-lead the Bible study with Brandon Hutchens

3 Month Update!

Today marks the 3rd month that I have been in Haiti! It is hard to believe that my time here is already halfway finished. It seems like it were only a few weeks ago that I was still in the States, preparing for this trip! Although, some days seem to go by slower than others-the weeks are over before I know it. I have had an amazing time here, thus far. I am beyond excited to see what God has in store for the second half of my time here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries in Chambrun, Haiti. I am thankful for all of the staff here at NVM that I work & spend time with every day. God is doing absolutely amazing things through Pastor Esperandieu Pierre and this ministry.  

I decided to throw together a video this afternoon, since I have not posted one since I have been here..and my time is halfway finished! I want to remind everyone of one of the main reasons why I felt God was calling me to serve here, for 6 months: the children. I absolutely love these children. The majority of this video shows a few events that we have had on campus here at NVM, dedicated to the children/youth of Chambrun and surrounding villages. After serving here for 3 months already, God has shown me the next step in my journey...I will be a first-year Sophomore at Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA) in the Fall of 2012, where I will be studying Youth Ministry.

Check out my video, and share it with your family & friends if you would like! I greatly appreciate all of the prayers and support from everyone!

 
Jordan's Haiti Ministry: 3-Month Update from Jordan piper on Vimeo.

Guezer "Clersondy" Clerveau Wedding

Guezer "Clersondy" Clerveau, Nehemiah Vision Ministries staff member and good friend of mine, was married on campus a couple of weeks ago! Clersondy is one of the most talented people I have ever met. He can play any musical instrument you can think of; is an acoustical engineer; does video & sound production;speaks Creole, French, English, and Spanish; does all kinds of handiwork; is teaching me how to play drums, bass & acoustic guitar; and most importantly, a man of God doing great things for the Kingdom. Here are some of the photos from the wedding:

One of Clersondy's brothers.

Bride and Groom First Dance

Cutting the cake!

Open up!

Mr. and Mrs. Guezer Clearveau

Brandon Hutchens (NVM Missions Team Coordinator, myself, and Clersondy!

NVM Field Day

We had another "field day" on campus after church two weeks ago. Unfortunately, I am just now posting the pictures! These "field days" are awesome...so great to have tons of kids on campus having fun!

A couple of my friends and myself!

This is only a small portion of the kids that were on campus.

What is a field day without basketball?

The kids ALWAYS like to take pictures with my camera. This one ended up looking pretty cool!

One of the nicest kids I have met since I've been in Haiti.

Posing with the basketball

"Yeah, this is my horse. Whassup?"

The lovely Sherlonde dancing!

Cute little guy on the slide!

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Faince; our warehouse manager and an amazing man of God.