15 Aug Delmas 33 and the First Haitian Conference

Joan Sider, UB Church in Canada

In December 2006, just 4.5 short years ago, Delmas 33 church was birthed. A team from the United Brethren Church in Canada witnessed this event–a weekend of services with around 100 converts.

Since that time, this congregation has forged ahead, even though there have been several obstacles to overcome. A strong wind blew down their first hangar structure. An earthquake, while not destroying any part of the built church at that point, caused grief to every church member who lost loved ones or friends. Praise God, no members of the congregation were killed. Along with these, were the exorbitant prices for building materials.

August 5-7 saw this Delmas 33 church hosting the first-ever convention of all of our UB churches in Haiti. About 20 churches now come under the United Brethren in Christ banner. Attendance ranged from 450 to nearly 600 in the 7 services. Times of worship, outstanding music from several of the churches, excellent speakers (including Jeff Bleijerveld, the Director of Global Ministries), and good fellowship made for a very worthwhile time. The Canadian delegation felt privileged to be a part of this very special occasion.

Pastor Oliam Richard’s vision for a conference center has been realized. A school is on the property now thanks to our partnership with CH Global. About 180 children are sponsored, with about 75 waiting to become sponsored. Pastor Richard’s next goal is to see our own seminary using the center.

In December 2011, the 5th anniversary of the church will occur. God is good!

Continue to pray for our Haiti work and for Pastor Oliam Richard, who provides excellent leadership.