The "Celebration of Life" tribute service for Dr. Victor Binkley has been moved to a new location. It will now be at the Zanesville United Methodist Church in Zanesville, IN. The address is 11811 N. Wayne Street. The date and time are the same: Saturday, April 10 at 2 p.m. This change was made to accommodate more people.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
12 March 2010
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
Are you available for one week to assist with a work project in Haiti? Walt & Darlene Baney from College First Church of God (GLC) are leading a work team June 5-12, and there are still openings on the team. The Baneys have a wealth of experience in various cultural settings, including Haiti. If you are interested being a part of this team, please email Dee (dac@cggc.org) as soon as possible. You will need a passport!
Medical team #8 led by a vascular surgeon from the Boston area has been volunteering at the Pierre Payen medical center this week. They leave tomorrow and will be replaced by an orthopedic team (#9) from the Oklahoma City area. It's amazing how God has been at work in bringing so many specialists to assist our medical work in Haiti.
Have a great weekend!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
One medical team from Columbus Ohio created a video of their experience at our CGGC Pierre Payen Hospital. Please check out this three part video from YouTube
22 February 2010
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
Donna Binkley and family have announced the following:
The Celebration of Life Service for Victor Binkley will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2010at Zanesville Church of God, Zanesville, Indiana. The service will start at 2pm and there will be 2 hours before (from 12-2pm) for those attending to come and visit with the family and for those who won't be able to stay for the service.
Please keep Donna and the family in your prayers. All of your cards, emails, and phone calls have been appreciated.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
The 2010 version of our missionary shares brochures for CCM missionaries will soon be available and distributed to all churches. In addition, a small quantity of the free "pray for Haiti" bookmarks are still available. Please contact Dee (dac@cggc.org to request more of them.
Our request last week for a skilled work team to serve right away at Pierre Payen, Haiti has been filled! The team includes 5-6 persons from Indiana and Pennsylvania. They plan to arrive in Haiti next Thursday.
Commercial airlines will resume their flights into Port-au-Prince, Haiti tomorrow (Friday, Feb. 19).
As of this week, more than $260,000 has been received for the Haiti Emergency Fund (CC 9300). The outpouring of support has been amazing!! I spoke by phone with Project Help Manager Steve Mossburg on Tuesday night. The Pierre Payen medical facilities remain full. Patients are being referred from other hospitals to Pierre Payen because of the expertise and quality of care. A newly donated X-ray machine was to arrive today and will be a special blessing to the staff in their work.
It's worth mentioning again that volunteer medical teams specializing in orthopedic and trauma care have provided a phenomenal service at Pierre Payen. The first three teams came from Texas. The 4th came from Pennsylvania/Maryland. The current team is from Ohio State University. Another team is coming from Texas next week. Some medical personnel from other places may have also been added to these teams but, regardless of their origin, their work has been extraordinary!
Continue to pray that God will renew their strength as they serve Him. Also pray for the Christian witness that is glorifying God who is at work in the midst of this tragedy.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
Donna Binkley sent out an email last night and here is a portion of what she wrote:
It is with deepest sadness in my heart that I have to write this email. Some of you already know that Vic passed away today about 1:15pm. He had gotten so weak and had failed so much the past few days. He couldn’t go on anymore and Jesus took him today. It still doesn’t seem real to me, my mind doesn’t want to accept it, but I know that it was God’s plan and we trust Him for that.
Thanks so much to everyone who prayed for months during all this. Even though we didn’t get the miracle of healing for Vic on this earth, there have been many, many miracles that came out of it—for us and for Haiti and for family and we pray that many will still be touched by his life and death and come to know God or closer to Him because of it.
There will be a memorial service in a few weeks and I will send out an email letting everyone know about it.
Love and thanks to all.
Donna
Family members surround her at this time. As you meet for worship tomorrow, please pray for Donna and all the family that the Lord will renew their strength for the days ahead.
Blessings to you.
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
Dr. Victor Binkley went home to be with the Lord this afternoon around 1:15 p.m. He had grown increasingly weaker since returning from Haiti earlier this week. He passed peacefully. Pray for Donna and family members who gather with her this day. May they be comforted by the peace of God which surpasses all understanding.
As you pray for Haiti today, remember those who grieve the loss of their friend and co-worker who poured his life into theirs so that Haiti might be a better place. May his dreams be fulfilled in them.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
12 February 2010 8 a.m.
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
Today marks 1 month since the devastating earthquake in Haiti. A national day of mourning has been declared in Haiti to remember the 230,000 people killed, the 300,000 injured and the 1 million left homeless. A ceremony will be held at the ruined National Palace in Port-au-Prince. At 4:53 p.m. local time (E.S.T.), Haitians at home and abroad will be asked to kneel and pray. You are encouraged to join in that minute of silent prayer.
Project Help Manager Steve Mossburg reports that our Pierre Payen medical facility is getting lots of visits from other organizations and hospitals. The orthopedic medical teams from the States continue to do an amazing job of working with the Haitian staff in caring for earthquake victims who continue to arrive for treatment. To accommodate the influx of patients, plans are being made to complete the 2nd wing of the hospital that was originally constructed but never finished on the inside.
With the increased number of visiting teams, repairs are needed on the house between the guesthouse and the outside wall. Steve has requested a skilled work team of no more than 6 persons to do carpentry and plumbing to come as soon as the commercial airlines begin flying again. (American now says February 19th--but that could change.) Team members would need to have a leader, preferably one who has been to Haiti previously. And all would need to have passports! I know it's short notice, but email us missions@cggc.org and smossburg@msn.com if you have such a team ready to go!
Thanks for your faithful financial support and prayers for this ministry.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
Vic & Donna Binkley sent the following report this afternoon:
We arrived home from Haiti this morning after an all-night trip. The primary reason we went to Haiti was to take care of some serious concerns and problems in the mission and make transfers of everything over to Steve Mossburg. We were able to take care of them by Monday evening although the things Donna wanted and needed to take care of would have taken longer. There were many people coming to see us and she was able to help the surgical team find some supplies they needed.
We were impressed with the 4th surgical team that was there right now. There are many supplies that have been donated and though the teams did a lot of sorting and organizing, they also did lots of consultations, surgery and wound dressings. The previous 3 teams did well over 100 orthopedic surgeries, including spinal surgery. Most of the doctors seem to be very impressed with our facility, especially ones who have worked elsewhere in Haiti, and many want to come back on a regular basis. That is a huge encouragement to us that things will continue as we see our time there coming to an end.
We thank God for your prayers and concern. We feel they had a lot to do with our success on the trip and successful flights down and back. Vic is doing okay and we feel better being back here in case something goes wrong. His energy is very low and endurance mostly non-existent. Again, thanks for your prayers, that with God’s grace, made all this possible.
The Binkleys are preparing to leave Haiti tonight due to Vic's loss of appetite and weakened condition. They are scheduled to depart Port-au-Prince around 10 p.m. (as in..now) on their way to Fort Lauderdale for immigration processing, and then on to Indiana. It will be a long night. Pray for their journey. Despite their short visit to Haiti, they are at peace with this decision and appreciate so much all the prayers which have encouraged them.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
The Binkleys made it to Haiti safely yesterday. Here are Vic's words received in an email this morning:
Good trip down to Haiti. Everything went smooth.
Things humming along nicely at the hospitals. Lots of patients. Doctors still working very long days treating new and dressing older injuries.
One young lady with multiple spine injuries (not paralyzed) needs eminent transfer to the Navy’s Mercy Ship, the only place to get her the care she needs but bureaucracies are holding it up. Very frustrating all the way around.
34 active patients’ wounds are getting intensive care.
The warmth here feels very good to me. This is the dry season and there are water problems. That creates problems for us, too.
Thanks for the prayers and support.
Please keep the medical staff at Pierre Payen in your prayers. Also, continue to pray for Steve Mossburg and Haiti Conference President, Pastor Max Normil as they assess the reports which are still coming in regarding further earthquake damages to some of our churches and member homes. Generous support from CGGC churches in the States will help these repair and rebuilding projects.
I hope you have a super weekend!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
Dr. Vic & Donna Binkley arrived in West Palm Beach, FL last night. They were to fly on to Haiti early this morning.
As of today, total contributions we have received for CC 9300 Haiti Emergency Fund have totaled an amazing $210,507.11 !!!! Individuals, companies, organizations and churches have been very generous. Thank you!! In the coming weeks, we will be giving a report of how those funds have been used.
Continue to pray for the medical teams serving at Pierre Payen, Haiti. Ask God to guide those who continue to assess damaged areas and provide relief efforts to those in need.
Thanks for allowing God's faithfulness to generate in you a responsive heart toward others.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
Continue to pray for Vic and Donna's travel plans to Haiti on Thursday and Friday. And remember that we serve a God who delights to work through impossible situations!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
We are extremely grateful for the generous response of individuals, organizations and churches which are helping to fund the relief effort in Haiti.
However, we are receiving many checks with unusual payees such as "Project Help" or "CCM" or "Haiti Emergency 9300" which could cause problems (1) for us when making bank deposits and (2) for the donor in receiving a legitimate tax deductible contribution. None of the above names are listed as a 501(c)3 religious nonprofit organization.
All checks should be made payable to Churches of God, General Conference or CGGC.
Please indicate on the "memo" line "CC 9300 Haiti Emergency."
We simply want to make sure that all donations are processed and receipted as quickly as possible. Thank you.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
The flight taking the Binkleys to Haiti has been delayed until Thursday afternoon. They plan to arrive in Port-au-Prince this Friday morning. Continue to keep Vic& Donna in your prayers.
I received an update from Walt & Darlene Baney working with the Red Cross in Florida. There have been 9,000 Haitians and/or Haitian-Americans come through the Sanford and Orlando airports. Medical evacuation patients who have received treatment in Haiti will soon be coming there as well. They will be triaged at Orlando and then taken by ambulance to other hospitals in northern Florida. They have requested spiritual assistance from Creole-language speakers. With the help of William Primè, they have been put in contact with the President of the Orlando association of pastors. Continue to pray for the Baneys (from College First Church, Findlay) and Creole-speaking pastors who may assist with spiritual counsel to the newly arrived Haitians.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
Missionary Flights International has posted an updated list of items needed for the rescue effort in Haiti. In addition to what has been on previous lists, they are requesting the following:
Bleach and Other Disinfectants
Tents (Any Size-Highest Quality)
Tarps (All Sizes)
Shoes and Flip-Flops
First Aid Kits
Antibiotics
Blankets
Continue to ship items to:
Missionary Flights International
3170 Airmans Drive
Ft. Pierce, FL 34946
They urge that no clothes or glass containers be sent!
As of Thursday, MFI has taken 60 flights into Haiti since the January 12th earthquake. They have transported 350 tons of supplies and taken in teams of workers as well as flown out Americans and Haitian orphans.
Project Help missionaries Dr. Vic & Donna Binkley leave on Monday at 9 a.m. from Goshen, IN to fly to Haiti to serve a week or two at our Pierre Payen medical facility. Pray for Vic's continued strength. Their return to Haiti will be a great encouragement to them as well as to so many of their Haitian friends!
If possible, continue to maintain some type of fasting and prayer on Mondays during February for the people of Haiti, for the Binkleys, and for the Mossburgs. Also, remember to pause and pray at 4:53 p.m. every day in remembrance of the moment the earthquake first hit on January 12.
Thanks so much for sharing so generously in this effort on behalf of the people of Haiti."...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me"(Matt 25:40).
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
Cross-Cultural Ministries
Churches of God, General Conference
P.O. Box 926
Findlay, OH 45839
29 January 2010 3:30 p.m.
New law makes Haiti earthquake relief deductible in 2009
President Obama signed a new law on Friday allowing people who contributed in 2010 to charities providing earthquake relief in Haiti to take a tax deduction for the contribution on their 2009 tax return instead of their 2010 return. This means you can receive an immediate tax benefit, rather than having to wait until you file next year's return.
Certain requirements apply:
*Only cash contributions made to these charities after January 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010, are eligible. This includes contributions made by text message, check, credit card or debit card.
*The contributions must be made specifically for the relief of victims in areas affected by the January 12 earthquake in Haiti.
*You may deduct these contributions on either your 2009 or 2010 returns, but not both.
In addition, the general rules about tax deductions for charitable donations apply:
*You must itemize your deductions on Schedule A; those claiming the standard deduction, including all short-form filers, are not eligible.
*You must keep a record of any deductible donations you make.
For donations by text message, a telephone bill will meet the requirement if it shows the name of the donee organization and the date and amount of the contribution.
For cash contributions made by other means, be sure to keep a bank record, such as a cancelled check, or a receipt from the charity showing the name of the charity and the date and amount of the contribution.
*Contributions to foreign organizations generally are not deductible.
Make sure your contribution goes to a qualified charity. Most organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible donations are listed in a searchable, online database available under Search for Charities. Some organizations, such as churches or governments, may be qualified even though they’re not listed on IRS.gov.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
29 January 2010 3:15 p.m.
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
While missionaries to Thailand Brook & Sara Sarver had some recent R&R away from their studies, Sara picked up a bad case of food poisoning. She has recovered from that, and they are back in Lopburi focused on their language acquisition skills. Continue to remember them in prayer.
The Tsaile-Wheatfield area of Arizona had 2 feet of snow last week. Worship was cancelled atTsaile Community Church. Remember to pray for this Navajo congregation as they cope with these challenges when so many people are snowed-in. Worship was also cancelled at Gamercoand Hooghan Nizhoni.
Phyllis and I visited with Vic & Donna Binkley yesterday afternoon. Vic is much improved in the last week. A bile drainage tube had severely weakened him, but his appetite as well as renewed strength has returned. He has lost 30 pounds of swelling. There are no plans for further chemotherapy or treatment at this time. In last night's email to family and friends, they wrote:
"We sincerely thank you for your many prayers, phone calls, visits, emails, cards and letters, and your continuing concern for both of us. It has been great to sense the arms of God around us by your prayers and loving concern."
Plans are being made for Vic & Donna to fly back to Haiti next week on a donated corporate jet carrying some supplies. There are many things they wish to coordinate with the staff in Haiti during this trip. Please pray for Vic's strength to improve so this trip can be made. He knows that the odds are against him to beat this pancreatic cancer. But God has a way of showing off His power and love that defies the odds!
Many of you have joined with me in praying and participating in some type of fast on Mondayssince the earthquake in Haiti. May I ask that we continue that practice through February?? And as you pray and fast on behalf of Haiti, remember missionaries: Dr. Vic & Donna Binkley andSteve & Shirley Mossburg for their service on behalf of Haiti.
A couple days ago, a large supply of food items was taken to the Bon Repos congregation on the north edge of Port-au-Prince. Our Pierre Payen clinic/hospital is filled to capacity with many patients fleeing from the capital. Rotating medical teams from the States are scheduled through the end of February to assist the Haitian staff. We thank God for the way in which the Project Help ministry is able to bless the people of Haiti during this tragic time.
Tim Carl who serves on our CGGC Communications Commission is putting together a website to better communicate visually what's happening in Haiti with our Project Help relief effort. His goal is to have it operational on Monday. We appreciate so much his work on this. We'll let you know when it's up and running.
Thank you for your generous response to Haiti Emergency Fund (CC 9300). As of this morning, a total of $152,305 has been received for that need. We had previously sent $25,000 to Project Help, $5,000 to Missionary Flights International, and $5,000 to Samaritan's Purse to help with the relief efforts. I have authorized another $80,000 to Project Help ($15,000 for medical ministries, $25,000 for emergency relief, and $40,000 to begin reconstruction/repair of church, school or housing for Churches of God congregations damaged by the quake. As with previous funds, Project Help Manager Steve Mossburg will oversee the distribution of these funds. In addition, we are sending another $5,000 to Missionary Flights International for their assistance in flying hundreds of boxes of supplies gathered by CGGC churches for the relief effort in the Port-au-Prince area.
By the way, many new donors are responding to the need in Haiti. I was especially blessed to learn that the New Life Stockholm and New Life Gothenburg churches in Sweden took special offerings on behalf of our Project Help ministry. We received their very generous online donations this week!
Correction: On my last listing of supplies to send to MFI, I included "flashlight batteries" but failed to include "flashlights." Both are needed. The list is now corrected in the online version.
While the events in Haiti are quickly taking a backseat to politics in the media, I have confidence that Christians who gather this Lord's Day will continue to pray for their brothers and sisters who are attempting to resurrect their lives from the rubble. Thank you for caring and sharing.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
26 January 2010 4:30 p.m.
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
Last night I received a translated letter (via Pastor William Primè) from Pastor Max Normil who is President of the Churches of God in Haiti. A preliminary report reveals that some members of our churches were killed in the earthquake. These include one from Gesse, three at Gilbert, 3 atChandelle, one at Jolly, and one injured person from Chandelle. One of the brothers of Emmanuel Jules (recently elected Conference Lay Activities Coordinator) is still missing. Several churches have friends who were killed by the quake.
The Bon Repos church building (on the north edge of Port-au-Prince) was 90% destroyed. The pastor's house at Jeanin (not sure if it's Jeanen 1 or Jeanen 2) was damaged. We need a more specific assessment of the damage to these facilities, and some of the Haiti Emergency Funds (CC 9300) will be used to make repairs. CCM Missionary Steve Mossburg is working with Pastor Max to provide food and water to the Bon Repos congregation as they determine further needs among the people there. Keep them in prayer.
The current team at our Pierre Payen medical center includes 3 orthopedic surgeons, 1 trauma surgeon, 1 anesthesiologist, and 3 skilled nurses. We got our first pictures today and hope to get some webpages up soon so you can visualize what's happening there with the excellent response of personnel as well as financial resources.
I received an email last night from Walt & Darlene Baney in central Florida. They are members at College First Church (GLC). Both have been deployed by the American Red Cross into disaster situations in the past. She has been working at two airports in a health triage and administering first aid as well as helping to process plane-loads of Haitian orphans coming through the airports. Walt is helping with feeding persons coming to the airports and delivering supplies for distribution. Darlene says that persons coming are "loving, exhausted, dehydrated, and hungry." Pray for the Baneys and many volunteers like them who are assisting Haitian refugees at this time.
Just talked to Vic Binkley by phone this afternoon. Although the cancer has progressed, he got an encouraging report from the doctor this morning. He is hopeful of making another trip to Haiti in the near future. Continue to pray for him and Donna as the Lord provides His healing strength.
God is working in marvelous ways through this tragedy in Haiti. The testimonies and praises of God's people in Haiti are being heard around the world. Continue to pray for God's glory to be manifest in the lives of all who are touched by what happened there.....now two weeks ago today.
And thanks again for your generosity in sharing. It is making a difference!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
25 January 2010 5:15 p.m.
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
A recent international briefing about Haiti reports that as many as 67 search-and-rescue teams with 1,918 civilian and military personnel have operated throughout Port-au-Prince and other towns in the impacted area. Teams have rescued 132 people since the initial quake struck. During the search and recovery mission, bodies are being removed and affected areas cleaned up in order to avoid health hazards and limit the spread of disease. Haitian authorities have estimated 150,000 deaths thus far, with the final death toll much higher.
The United Nations will begin bringing in heavier equipment to allow teams to move larger amounts of debris from collapsed buildings. Meanwhile, approximately 140 flights a day are operating from the PAP airport. To relieve congestion, humanitarian cargo is being moved to a forward dispatch area at the end of the runway. Relief efforts are also being routed through an airstrip in Jacmel in southern Haiti and through the Dominican Republic capital. Limited aid shipments have also begun arriving via Port-au-Prince's main seaport.
Aftershocks continue to occur. A 4.7 magnitude shock struck 20 miles west of Port-au-Prince on Sunday. Most people are sleeping outdoors since the quake. There are still widespread reports of looting in the capital. Police patrols have increased to prevent further crime.
We can report that our CGGC team arrived safely back in the States over the weekend. This includes Andy, Theresa & Miranda Snyder (Bare Memorial Church, ERC), Dick VanHorn, Lewis Haugh, Kenny Stein, & Penny Miller (Mt. Tabor, GLC), Jeff Shifler (Middletown, ERC) and Dirk Detweiler (Chambersburg, ERC). Pray for them as they rest up and process with loved ones all that they experienced during their time in Haiti.
Continue to pray for Project Help missionary Steve Mossburg who has done an extraordinary job of coordinating efforts "on the ground" at Pierre Payen and Borel. Steve reported this morning that there are now 11 medical people at Pierre Payen. Most, if not all, are from Texas. Six more from Canada are arriving today. A 2nd operating room is being set up in the clinic area. Some type of ambulance transportation is being arranged to get people from the Port-au-Prince area out to our medical facility at Pierre Payen.
The visiting medical teams at Pierre Payen are bragging about our excellent hospital facilities! The orthopedic doctors are saying there are lots of people they can save from having arms and legs amputated. Thank the Lord! I spoke with a doctor in Fort Worth, TX last night who is helping to coordinate teams with Steve. Additional medical teams are now scheduled through the end of February. They anticipate volunteers willing to come and serve long after the immediate crisis is over. We hope to have pictures of the scene at Pierre Payen available very soon.
On behalf of the Haitian people, "Thank You!" to all who have boxed up items from the requested list and shipped them to Missionary Flights International in Florida. Please continue to collect those items for shipment. We are grateful for MFI's assistance in getting needed items to the people in the Port-au-Prince area. Late last week, we sent $5,000 from the Haiti Emergency Fund to assist Missionary Flights International with their transportation costs of flying to Haiti. We also sent another $5,000 to Samaritan's Purse which quickly mobilized after the earthquake to get aid into the damaged area. As previously reported, we have sent $25,000 to Project Help for the medical and relief effort at our facility at Pierre Payen as thousands of Haitians flee north from the capital.
The latest word from the airlines is that American Airlines will resume flights into Haiti onFebruary 1, and Delta Airlines will resume on February 14. Of course, this schedule is subject to change.
As I arrived back in the office today, I was amazed to learn that $48,339 was received just last Friday for the Haiti Emergency Fund (CC 9300). That brings the total response to $93,494 since January 12 !!!! Thank you for your generosity!! We will be transferring more to Project Help this week as we continue to get updated on the needs.
We have learned that Pastor Pierre Fequierre and his family of the Pierre Payen Church left the capital prior to the earthquake and are safe. Thanks for your prayers on their behalf. We are still awaiting word from the Bon Repos church. Continue to pray for that congregation which was the closest church to the devastation.
Former Project Help missionary Sharyn Babe will probably be in the hospital at Ft.Lauderdale another week. She will be in recovery for several months. She and Rodney are most grateful for your prayers of support. Rodney continues to stay in Port-au-Prince at this time where he is assisting with relief efforts. He's been sleeping on the floor of an office in the U.S. Embassy. Continue to pray for the Babes.
And, as you pray, continue to pray for Dr. Vic & Donna Binkley whose hearts go out to the Haitian people and would rather be serving in Haiti right now. Pray for God's gracious healing in Vic's life right now.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
20 January 2010 8 p.m.
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
As most of you know by now, another aftershock hit Haiti this morning about 6:00. It was a 6.1 magnitude tremor, the largest since the original quake. No additional major damage has been reported from this aftershock.
Relief efforts are continuing in Port-au-Prince. At least 120 people have been pulled out alive from the rubble of the original quake and more continue to be rescued after more than a week! The USNS Comfort hospital ship arrived today in the bay. The ship carries 550 doctors, nurses and medical personnel on board. It has 6 operating rooms and can care for 1,000 patients. U.S. military helicopters are ferrying patients from the city to the ship for treatment.
While roads are being cleared to speed up the process of providing aid in the city, the security situation in Port remains tenuous. While the overall environment remains calm, there are reports of random violence. Meanwhile, thousands of Haitians continue to flee north from the city as well as toward the Dominican Republic seeking food and assistance. Pray for ministry to these refugees to bring comfort and hope.
I recently reported on Rodney & Sharyn Babe, former Project Help missionaries. Sharyn is in a Ft. Lauderdale hospital with three breaks in her back, broken ribs, minor bleeding in her brain, and severe bruising as well as numerous abrasions. Rodney reports she is in a body cast and making good progress on the way toward healing. Rodney is doing fine. Thanks for your prayers, and continue to pray for Sharyn's healing.
Project Help missionary Steve Mossburg has just reported to me tonight that the fuel shortage has eased, and fuel tankers are on the road again to supply fuel to gas stations. Thank God!
Andy, Theresa, & Miranda Snyder (who were booked to return to the States yesterday) are scheduled to leave Haiti with the first medical team this Saturday on a corporate jet. Another medical team of primarily orthopedic surgeons will arrive this Saturday. Continue to pray for these medical teams assisting our medical staff at Pierre Payen clinic and hospital.
Our office has had numerous contacts from persons who want to go to Haiti to assist. As previously announced, priority is being given now to surgeons and trauma medical workers. My assistant Dee dac@cggc.org has compiled a list of persons who are ready to go, and efforts are being made to schedule a team. One of the logistical challenges is arranging transportation to Haiti and making sure the team can safely get to where they need to go. Pray for these efforts.
Thanks for your response to the need by collecting items and shipping them to MFI in Florida for their daily flights to Haiti. Once again, the items include:
snack-type foods, like granola bars
cereal
peanut butter
blankets
towels and washclothes
personal hygiene, such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.
first aid kits, antiobiotics
flashlights and flashlight batteries
generators
please: NO clothes at this time!
Ship the items via UPS to
Missionary Flights International
3170 Airmans Drive
Ft. Pierce, FL 34946
Many churches are taking special offerings and sending them to CGGC, Box 926, Findlay, OH 45839 and designating for CC 9300 Haiti Emergency Fund. You can also go to our websitewww.cggc.org and make a donation online. Clicking on the "Haiti" map on the right side of our home page will take you to the CC9300 page for making a contribution.
Thank you to all who have responded thus far. We sent $10,000 last week to assist Project Help with medical supplies, fuel, food for refugees, etc. I authorized another $15,000 today. Steve Mossburg is responsible for administering these funds. Pray for wisdom as he assesses the need.
Remember to pause at 4:53pm every day to remember Haiti in your prayers. Thanks!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
18 January 2010 10 a.m.
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
The Jim & Kasie Brinson family arrived in Sweden late last week to begin their missionary assignment serving with New Life Gothenburg Church. Pray for them as they await the arrival of their container of shipped goods and begin to adjust to their new surroundings. Also remember their family back in the States who begin to adjust to their absence.
Other CGGC misson areas are responding to the crisis in Haiti. Our brethren in Kenya are giving to the Kenya Red Cross for the relief effort. Our Good News Bible Churches in Brazil are taking up special offerings each Sunday in January to assist Project Help ministries as well as having special times of prayer on behalf of the needs in Haiti. A moment ago, I received word fromBangladesh that churches had moments of prayer for Haiti on Sunday and have just concluded a time of prayer and fasting at 5:30pm (it's already Monday evening there). We rejoice in how the family of God is responding with prayer, support and sacrifice.
Children and adults are still being rescued alive from the rubble in Haiti. Pray for the specialized teams who continue to aid in this rescue effort. I received reports yesterday that 70,000 victims have now been buried in mass graves. A U.S. general in Haiti now says the death toll could reach 200,000. Medical supplies and fuel are urgently needed. In many instances, medics are operating without anesthesia. There is an increase in looting, and some attempted thieves are being killed. While relief supplies are pouring into the country, getting the food and water to the people in an orderly fashion is a challenge. Pray for the coordination of those efforts.
We have not yet heard from the Bon Repos congregation on the edge of the city. Pray for the people of that area. Also, I was reminded late last week that the pastor of our Pierre PayenChurch--Pastor Pierre Fequierre--and his family live in Port-au-Prince. We have not yet heard whether they are safe or not. Pray for them.
A friend of missionary Steve Mossburg, Dr. Ric Bonnel, arrived in Haiti with a medical team and supplies on Saturday via a donated corporate jet, to assist at our Pierre Payen medical facilities. They are putting together another team for this Saturday. Pray for these arrangements.
The Snyder family from Bare Memorial Church (ERC) were scheduled to depart Haiti tomorrow (Tuesday), but their carrier (Delta) has suspended all flights until mid-February. Steve is attempting to get them out with the current medical team on Saturday. Pray for that to happen! The remainder of our CGGC team from PA and OH are scheduled to depart Haiti on the 26th on American Airlines but may also leave this Saturday if there is room on the plane. In talking to an American representative last night, they said their flights are scheduled to resume on January 25....but that could change.
Given the present situation, all of our eyewitness teams and work teams planning to assist specific churches in the next several weeks will need to be postponed. Medical teams are a PRIORITY right now. I know that a few scheduled teams are willing to shift their focus to help provide aid. Frankly, it is too soon to tell right now how much that is manageable since there are enormous health and safety issues for teams arriving in Port as well as transportation difficulties due to fuel shortages. If you are a team leader, please communicate with both Steve Mossburgsmossburg@msn.com and Dee at our CGGC office dac@cggc.org (or 419-424-1961) to determine if your team should go at this time.
Our CCM Commission had a conference telephone call on Saturday to discuss the situation. Thedental team scheduled for March has been postponed so that room can be made for a medical team. More funds will be sent to Haiti this week as a result of the generous response of churches and individuals. Thanks for participating in this effort.
Don't forget...every Monday this month spend some extra time for prayer and fasting for Haiti....and pause at 4:53pm every day to remember.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
16 January 2010 5:45 pm
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
Another aftershock was felt in Haiti late this morning. It was a strong tremor of 4.5 magnitude More reports of looting, robberies, and violence are emerging in Port-au-Prince as people await the arrival and distribution of aid. Meanwhile, thousands continue to flee north.
Good news to report: Lois Habecker's adopted son, Silne, contacted John & Frances earlier today from the mountains north of Port-au-Prince. He is on his way to Saint-Marc. Thanks for your prayers! (For those unfamiliar with our history in Haiti, Lois Habecker was a veteran missionary in East Pakistan before serving 25 years in Haiti. She lost her battle to cancer in the late 1990's).
Former Project Help missionaries Rodney & Sharyn Babe who have served more recently with the Presbyterian Mission in Haiti were both injured during the quake. She was in their apartment when it collapsed. She is now recovering in a hospital in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Rodney was not home at the time and sustained less injuries. As of yesterday, he was attempting to return to the States to be with Sharyn during her recovery. Please pray for them.
Numerous CGGC teams were scheduled to visit Haiti in the coming weeks. PRIORITY is now being given to scheduling medical teams, and then relief teams. Skilled medical personnel who are interested in volunteering for a week or more should contact Dee dac@cggc.org at our CGGC office. Arrangements are being made with Missionary Flights in Florida to fly a team to Haiti sometime next week. When emailing Dee, please describe your expertise and/or skills. Creole translators are also needed.
Keep praying for our medical staff at Pierre Payen medical facilities as they address the needs as best as possible.
I was blessed today in receiving an email from Pastor Joseph Mwaura representing our ministry in Kenya. He and other leaders are concerned about (and asked about) specific Haitians they met in November while attending the International Conference at Borel. The churches in Kenya are sending money to the Kenya Red Cross to assist with the relief effort in Haiti!!
"I wanted you to know about the grace that God has given the Kenyan churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity" (2 Cor 8:1-2, Dennison version)
Thanks in advance to churches which are accumulating supplies requested by Missionary Flights posted a few days ago on http://www.cggc.org/CCMUpdate.htm as well as those churches taking special offerings tomorrow. Supplies must be sent to the MFI address in Florida. Please send financial gifts to CGGC, Box 926, Findlay, OH 45839 (Designate CC 9300 Haiti Emergency Fund).
Don't forget....special prayer in Sunday worship on behalf of Haiti...fast and pray sometime on Monday....then pause at 4:53pm every day to remember.
God is faithful!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
15 January 2010 7:45 pm
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
A few quick notes about recent developments in Haiti:
our CGGC team of persons from PA and OH currently in Haiti are busy and doing well
Dr. Ronald at Pierre Payen medical facilities reported last night that they are nearly out of medical supplies as well as fuel for the generator. They have been overwhelmed by patients fleeing north from Port-au-Prince
$10,000 was transferred to Project Help today to provide resources for medical care as well as extra fuel and food
a medical team of 5 persons are expected to arrive in the Dominican Republic by tomorrow and travel to the Pierre Payen clinic/hospital to assist. They are taking a large amount of medical supplies and medicines.
numerous Christian organizations are working together in sharing resources and information to better serve the needs of Haiti. God is surely pleased with that demonstration of unity!
Please pray for the Bon Repos congregation as we await information on how they have been impacted by this quake.
Pray for Silne Habecker, adopted son of missionary Lois Habecker. Silne went to Port-au-Prince on December 26 to stay with friends, and he is now missing. Pray for John & Frances Habecker in the States who are anxious to receive any information about him.
This Sunday as you worship, please take a few moments for silent prayer on behalf of Haiti and the devastating loss the country has endured. Pray for the massive rescue and relief effort. Remember those Haitians in the USA, Canada, throughout the Caribbean, and in Haiti who mourn the loss of their loved ones who are missing or confirmed dead. Haitian officials reported today that 40,000 have been buried in mass graves thus far.
Please announce a time of prayer and fasting for Haiti on Monday. Feel free to adapt that to your local setting. Some type of fasting seems appropriate to remind us (at least briefly) what most Haitians experience on a daily basis, even more so now.
And then, to take it one step further, may I encourage you to pause at 4:53 p.m. (EST) every day for the remainder of the month to remember Haiti. (4:53 p.m. marks the time when the earthquake changed Haiti forever.)
Thank you!
"And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those of who love him, who have been called according to His purpose" - Rom 8:28, NIV
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
14 January 2010 8:30 pm
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
Thank you for your prayers and efforts to generate support on behalf of Haiti during this very traumatic week. If you're like me, and you have been in Haiti previously, you were probably in shock on Tuesday and Wednesday as your mind filled with images from the disaster scenes. I (along with 4 friends) arrived back in the States from Haiti on Sunday night following the annual conference at Borel which we attended, even as missionary Steve Mossburg and other CGGC volunteers were arriving to help with projects. No one could have imagined what would soon take place. You can go to http://project-help-haiti.blogspot.com to get Steve's most recent perspective on what they saw and experienced.
On Sunday, I went from Haiti to Columbia, SC where I am taking D.Min classes this week and next. During breaks and evenings, I am communicating via email and cell phone with our CGGC staff in Findlay as well as via email with Haiti and concerned persons in the States. We have been in the process of gathering information and mobilizing resources to respond in the most strategic way we possibly can. We rejoiced today with some of our Haitian friends here in the States who emailed to say they have been able to communicate with some relatives in Port-au-Prince who are safe and well, despite significant damage to their homes. I was also deeply moved today when I received an email from Bangladesh field director Uttam Dewan (who was in Haiti in November) asking about the situation and assuring us of their concern and their prayers for the people of Haiti.
At this point, we have received no reports of injury to our personnel. However, I am very concerned about the congregation at Bon Repos on the northern edge of Port-au-Prince. I have received no word on their situation and am endeavoring to get a report.
Tomorrow (Friday), we will transfer $10,000 emergency aid to Project Help in Haiti so that (1) our medical personnel at the clinic and hospital will have supplies to respond to some of the thousands of residents of Port-au-Prince who are fleeing north from the city to find medical care; (2) to help purchase fuel for available vehicles to be able to respond to needs; and (3) to provide food for the refugees being treated. More funds will be sent next week!! Please send to CGGC, Box 926, Findlay, OH 45839 and designate CC 9300 Haiti Emergency Fund. You can also go to our website www.cggc.org and make an online donation by clicking on the Haiti map in the upper right corner of the home page.
As I'm writing this, Steve Mossburg just sent an email that "lots of quake victims are coming to the clinic with lots of broken bones...(and) fuel lines are long at stations that still have fuel." He is in communication with a few doctors and medical personnel in the States who are preparing to be in Haiti by this weekend. Orthopedic surgeons and other doctors are needed!! Antiobiotics, IV's, pins and rods and supplies to set broken bones are needed!! If you know of medical personnel who are willing to go to Haiti to assist with this effort, please email Steve atsmossburg@msn.com.
For years, we have used the services of Florida-based Missionary Flights International (MFI)for the purpose of shipping mail and packages to Haiti. They have DC-3 and DC-6 aircraft to provide relief supplies and to transport volunteer teams. A team from Samaritan's Purse flew in to Haiti on their first trip. Dee (in our Findlay office) is getting a team schedule from them on Friday, and we'll report that to you. Meanwhile, MFI has requested the following items to be gathered and shipped to them for transport to Haiti. The list includes:
snack-type foods, like granola bars
cereal
peanut butter
blankets
towels and washclothes
personal hygiene items, such as soap, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.
first aid kits, antibiotics
flashlights and batteries
generators
please: NO clothes at this time!!
Send the above items ASAP via UPS to:
Missionary Flights International
3170 Airmans Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34946
Do not send them to our CGGC office in Findlay! Please ship them to MFI as soon as possible!
Meanwhile, the FAA has suspended regular commercial airline flights to Haiti until further notice. The runway and tarmack are presently jammed with relief planes and supplies. President Preval has just reported that 7,000 quake victims have already been buried. The International Red Cross estimates that the death toll could reach 45,000-50,000. No after-shocks have been felt since 8:00 a.m. today.
Finally...
"But You, O Lord, are a shield about me,
my glory, and the lifter of my head.
I cried aloud to the Lord,
and He answered me from His holy hill." Ps 3:3-4, ESV
On behalf of the people of Haiti, "thank you" for your prayers and efforts.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
13 January 2010 9 pm
Greetings in the powerful name of Jesus!
I just received this report from Dr. Vic Binkley concerning his health condition:
"I became quite jaundiced recently and a stent was put in Monday to bypass the blockage. All that bile being dumped into my intestine was not fun and yesterday was my worst day since this all started. I am better today and not yet ready for a deep hole to rest in. The PET and fusion CAT shows some spread to nodes and possibly to the liver, depending upon whom you listen to.
In general, this was not good news today, so if God is going to do a miracle, He is waiting to do a really big one. I'll probably go back on chemotherapy next week and, if it shows some decent results, may go with more radiation.
Thanks for all the prayers and support. Wish we had better news for you. We rest in the arms of our Savior and leave the results to Him. We are still in good humor, and we don't think it is denial. We don't know when we will go back to Haiti."
Vic and Donna were scheduled to return to Haiti tomorrow (Thursday). Continue to pray for them, especially as you plan to fast and pray for Haiti.
Jesus said, "Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." (Jn 16:24)
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
13 January 2010 5 p.m.
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
A short time ago, I received this report from Steve Mossburg:
We are all safe and finally at Borel, about 2 hours later than planned. Thankfully God was with us as the plane landed 30 minutes ahead of schedule and our people were in the first group out. If not for that they would have been getting their luggage around the time the quake hit at 4:55. We had arrived at the guest house and just unpacked our things into our rooms when the quake it. At first as I was standing on the second floor balcony and a plane had just de[parted I thought the slight vibration was from the plane. That was quickly not the case as the whole upper floor started undulating like waves on the ocean we all ran as fast as possible to get down and out of the building. Everyone got safely out even the handicapped orphans, almost all the walls fell down around World Harvest compound and 1/4 the church roof collapased. There were after shocks most all night and everyone slept outside with mattresses on the ground.
There is much devastation across the down and as far out as Cabaratte many buildings collapsed we saw 3 bodies as we drove out of port this morning and the toll may go into the thousands. As of now you may know more than me but it seems no incoming or outgoing flights of commercial airplanes there is little phone or cell services though I can get some haitian calls here at Borel suppose it may be routed through Cap Haitien. Little traffic in Port but crowds of people walking everywhere in the streets long lines at gas stations it took us almost an hour to get fuel. The quake was hardly noticable here at Borel the tell us.
If you can get the word out that is much appreciated you can tell people that I will try and post a more detailed story tonight on the Project Help Haiti blog. Thak everyone as we know many were praying for our safety.
Steve Mossburg
13 January 2010 1 p.m.
Greetings in the gracious name of Jesus!
Missionary Steve Mossburg emailed me this morning. The Haiti earthquake had hit just after the newly-arrived team made it to a guesthouse near the airport (where they had planned to spend the night.) Everyone on the team is fine. They have gone on today to Montrious and will be at Pierre Payen and Borel tonight. I'm sure they will be assessing the situation as to how best to serve in this immediate crisis. Pray for the Lord to guide them.
Also, some of you might have seen an interview this morning conducted by Matt Lauer on NBC with Dixie Bickel of God's-Littlest-Angels ministry. Everyone there is safe, but damage was done to their facilities up in the mountains above the city.
I received an email from a young man I know at Borel--Joseph Watson--who says that he and his family there are well, but they have many friends and family members in Port-au-Prince who are without contact. There is currently no cell phone service in Haiti. The communications tower at the airport has collapsed, but the airport remains open. American Airlines, Spirit, and Delta have cancelled all flights until further notice. Pray that communications will be restored quickly.
The initial quake has been followed by at least 28 strong aftershocks! Initial reports are that thousands have died as a result. 3,000 UN troops in the city are seeking to maintain order while another force is at work clearing debris from roadways. Pray for all Christian and international relief efforts mobilizing to respond to this crisis. According to Doctors Without Borders, all hospitals in Port-au-Prince have either collapsed or have been abandoned.
Because it is so difficult and costly for us to get supplies there now, the best response is to send funds. Our CC 9300 Haiti Emergency Fund account is very low. Contributions can be designated for that fund so we can respond appropriately to the need. Please mail to CGGC, Box 926, Findlay, OH 45839.
Other recommended relief organizations include World Vision (www.worldvision.org),Samaritan's Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org) or Compassion International(www.compassion.com).
I am requesting that a time of special prayer and fasting for Haiti be done across the CGGC. You may wish to do so in your church tomorrow (if you can get the word out in time). Otherwise, plan for a time on Monday when your church will be devoted to pray and fast for the people of Haiti and their loved ones in the States and other nearby countries who anxiously await the news.
Thanks for your prayers!!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
13 January 2010
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
Last night I received a couple emails from Dr. Ronald Chalestin at Pierre Payen in response to my email. No report of damages or injuries in that area. Daylight will allow better assessment. He did mention some damage as close as Montrious.
After I sent my previous email, I was reminded of where affiliate missionaries John & Dixie Bickel (Lodge Church, MRC) are located in the mountains above Port-au-Prince. Please pray for them and the children they are serving in the God's Littlest Angels ministry. No report has been received from them.
I spoke last night with Pastor William Primè in Orlando. He and his wife just returned from Haiti with me on Sunday. They have family in the Saint-Marc area. Because of communication problems with phone systems, they've received no information.
Remember in prayer all the Haitians in the States who are distressed about their family members who are unable to communicate with them from Haiti. Also pray for missionaries and relief workers as they assess their situation and opportunities to serve.
More later...
Thanks for your prayers!!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
12 January 2010
Greetings in the wonderful name of Jesus!
Please pray for the people of Haiti. A 7.0 magnitude earthquake centered 10 miles west of the capital Port-au-Prince hit Haiti a couple hours ago. Initial reports indicate major damage and loss of life around the capital. After-shocks have also hit the area. An early tsunami warning has been cancelled.
We are attempting to make contact with our Project Help leaders. Missionary Steve Mossburgarrived in Haiti on Sunday and is hosting several CGGC persons who arrived today. These include Andy, Theresa & Miranda Snyder from Bare Memorial Church (ERC) who are atBorel; and Dick VanHorn, Lewis Haugh, Kenny Stein, & Penny Miller from Mt.Tabor Church (GLC) and Jeff Shifler from Middletown First Church (ERC) & Dirk Detweiler from Chambersburg 1st Church (ERC) who are at a guesthouse before going to Borel. In talking to Dr. Vic Binkley (who is in the States) a few minutes ago, Penny Miller did call the States and they are fine. More on this soon!
Continue to pray for Dr. Vic. He had recently become jaundiced. Following a PET scan and endoscopic ultrasound yesterday, a stent was put in and the jaundice is subsiding.
The Jim & Kasie Brinson family from Tulip Church (MRC) are leaving for Gothenburg, Sweden on Thursday. God has answered so many prayers on their behalf as they have prepared to go. Pray for their travel and adjustment in the coming weeks. Also pray for family and friends back in the States during this time of separation.
Thanks for your prayers!!
Blessed to be a blessing,
Don Dennison, Director
CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries
