New year update
The New Year is well on its way, and we are excited to share with you the movement and updates God has brought into our ministry. KONBIT has remained in a posture of openness, as we are trusting God’s leadership and guidance in new waters. We have been holding true to the passages within Exodus where God is leading His people into goodness.
Exodus 23, is written about God’s Angel Preparing the Way. To provide historical context, this passage was written about God rescuing the Israelites out of Egypt’s oppressive hold. The Israelites were led into liberation by Moses and were seeking asylum in the Promise Land which was set aside for them. Their journey looked much different than expected, taking 40 years of wandering in the desert.
Yet, God never left them. He performed miracles on their behalf to guide them and encourage them. Miracles such as creating a pillar of fire to lead them in the night, and a cloud by day. While KONBIT has not wandered for forty years, there are moments where all we can do is rely on God’s leading. In Exodus 23, God is speaking of the way He was preparing for the Israelites.
“I will not drive them out before you in a single year; otherwise, the land would become desolate and wild animals would multiply against you. Little by little I will drive them out ahead of you, until you become fruitful and possess the land” (Ex 23:30).
Our God is a God of movement in the desert. He walked with the Israelites and craftily made way for them. Not giving them too much, or allowing them to see the full picture, just little by little. God has been close to KONBIT, giving us exactly what we need for just the day ahead and we are grateful for His leading. The American side of KONBIT is still Stateside, but are running full speed towards the little by little we are given.
STATESIDE UPDATE
While our hearts long to be in Haiti, being Stateside has allowed KONBIT to connect with communities we haven’t seen in a long time. What a gift it has been to see old friends and meet new ones that have quickly become family. The Coleman’s have been itinerating and speaking at many places. Pictured above is from our fundraiser hosted by Le Soliel de Vie, a nonprofit supporting sustainability in Haiti. We had no idea how long this time in the US would last or even what would happen in the meantime. The assassination of the President, then kidnapping and subsequent release of 17 foreigners in Haiti came suddenly and changed so much about our life. When we left Haiti on November 2, 2021, it was because 3 specific things had transpired making our staying unwise and selfish.
1. The kidnapping, ransom, and escape of the missionaries with children
2. The gang control of the route to the airport.
3. The dwindling of supplies (ie. gas, diesel, water, food).
We used these 3 things as a litmus test to determine when we would leave. We have decided to use these same 3 things as a litmus test for when it is safe enough to return full-time.
1. A ransom was paid (some amount) and as a result, this could mean subsequent kidnappings. There have been 2 kidnappings of foreigners since (2 Americans and 1 Cuban Doctor).
2. The route to the airport continues to be blocked and is even more perilous than it was in November. Most of our supplies are bought in through Port and our mail arrives there.
3. While gas/diesel are currently in stock, water and food prices continue to rise due to supply issues.
We are, unfortunately, not seeing the resolution to these things that would enable our full-time return to our home. It is with heavy hearts that we extend our time stateside, and even begin exploring longer term homes/plans. Some exciting ideas will be announced that actually have been on the horizon since before COVID, but were waylaid by the pandemic. Our unexpected evacuation gave us space to pursue those things and God is opening doors.
The next few weeks have them booked as KONBIT is running full speed ahead towards our BIG DREAM of building an assisted living home for the vulnerable elderly in our community. Kris will speaking on the East Coast at the following churches if you happen to find yourself in the area, come and hear about how we're moving forward with good things.
Kris Itinerary
Sunday, January 30, 2022 Tabernacle UMC
6100 Tabernacle Church Lane, Amelia Court house VA, 23002
Service at 9:30am
Sunday, January 30, 2022 Trinity UMC
9061 Washington Street, Amelia Court house VA 23003
Service at 11am
Sunday, February 6, 2022 Mason First Baptist Church
1456 2nd Street, Mason WV 25260
Service at 11am
February 18-19, 2022 Christ United Methodist Church
1475 Center Rd, Venice FL 34929
Missions Conference
ASSISTED LIVING HOME
In a nation where the population is forced to survive on less than $2 a day, it is near impossible for all their needs to be met. Haiti’s life expectancy is 64 years, with much of the population being over 60 years old. The older generation is not immune to the many crises’ plaguing the island, instead they are some of the most vulnerable. KONBIT is dedicated to holistic compassionate care, and feel that the next step for our M2W program is to build this home. Some of our beloved members are no longer able to cook the provided food, they are experiencing housing insecurity, and differing medical needs. This home will provide on-site care as their needs are shifting. We are dedicated to not only protecting the lives of our elders, but also honoring them. Our time in the US will be dedicated to fundraising for this dream, so that when our feet are back on Haitian soil we can break ground immediately. This home will be a communal space, one where breakfast is shared under shaded roofs and gardens are planted with many hands. The heart behind this home is community, so we plan to raise the funds in community. You are invited to take part in this development in several ways. Please take time and pray about what is best for you.
Our Assisted Living Home will in total cost $79,000.
We have already identified the land and have prayed over it as we believe this is led by God. Blueprints have been drawn, and we are now ready to advocate and raise all funds to build this home. Below is the breakdown for the budget.
Land $25,000
Communal Dining Space $4,000
6 Bedrooms $30,000
-$5,000 per room
2 Restrooms & 2 Showers $6,000
-$3,000 per unit
Chain link fence $6,000
Well $8,000
This space will be a refuge for some of the most vulnerable in our community. A space we are praying they can come into and rest and feel strengthened. We want to raise all funds with the same spirit we are praying fills the home. Would you prayerfully consider partnering with us to accomplish this dream? We are asking that churches, groups, and families come together and take portions of this home. We are believing for the global hand of God to move. That little by little He will give us each piece that will continue the fruitfulness in Haiti. Please reach out if you have any questions regarding partnering in this vision!