The mission team from Pella Christian High School has arrived safely in Pignon, Haiti for a week-long, full-immersion, Winterim experience. The group has spent their first day stretching their limits and challenging their worldview. Follow their journey to see how unfamiliar and, sometimes, uncomfortable experiences can lead to personal growth.

Thursday, January 3, 2019

Waking up at 5:00 am, we had breakfast at Holiday Inn and headed out to go to MFI (Missionary Flights International) for our plane to Haiti. The plane we got on was a 1940’s World War II plane, Douglas DC-3 to be specific. It was smaller than a normal airplane but still comfortable to ride in. Before landing in Pignon, we stopped at Cap Haitian for Customs Check, which went smoothly and easily. Our landing in Pignon was interesting because some goats were on the runway. We basically had to land twice, but we did arrive safely.

Riding in the back of two trucks, we got to the compound where we were going to live for the week. The ride was very fun and all of us enjoyed waving at the local people on our way. The compound is extremely nice, and we have two Haitian ladies that cook amazing meals for us. After a short break with some lunch, we went off to the market with Christi, a super sweet missionary lady who was able to be our guide. At the market, we were able to see how some of the Haitians make their living. The open air stands and flies-surrounded meat market really made us grateful for all the blessings that God has bestowed on us. The comparison between us and them was heartbreaking but also enlightening because we saw how joyful they can be even in such rough situations. We stopped at the MH compound to drop off the things we had purchased then headed to a local rum factory where we learned about the process of making rum. Lastly, before the sun went down, we walked to the suspended bridge. All of us walked across, even though it was quite scary for some of us. Later in the day, Christi reminded us how God works in our life sometimes through fear since growth happens outside of our comfort zone. 

Back at the compound, we had a delicious dinner and enjoyed some refreshing showers. We ended our first day with singing songs to praise the Lord and reflecting upon the day, which we hope to do every day for the rest of our trip. 

Today went smoothly and we look forward to the valuable experiences yet to come!

By: Kitty Gu