This past summer I worked as an intern at a Christian mission in Haiti that is currently partnering with Deaf Child Hope International.
I arrived May 25th and stayed at the mission for four weeks interning at a school for deaf children. I was able to build strong relationships with the deaf teachers and workers in Saint Louis du Nord where the mission is located. I also learned a lot about the current system of education for the deaf—it needs some work. There is very little support for the teachers and students, who benefit greatly from our help. The educators were so enthusiastic and the students always seemed so happy to be at school. (For those who sponsor these people, thank you!) I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to be a part of something so life changing and exciting!
My relationship with God changed quite a bit while working with deaf students in poverty. I have found my prayer life to be much fuller now that I have begun to realize the kind of peace and joy that comes from the life that Christ gives. I have also seen a shift in my thoughts about life; I am starting to see how small I am in the world. I have very little significance on my own and if I try to my make life about me I will certainly be sorely disappointed… Although this has been a difficult thing to accept, I can now better understand my value because of Christ and how wonderful it is to be a part of something bigger than myself! I feel so loved by God and I cannot wait to see what he has planned for the rest of my life.
I was able to make deep friendships with several people–Haitian and American–and I will remember these forever… I miss them so much already. I feel I learned so much about the need for deaf education in Haiti (and all around the world) and how I can be involved by empowering the indigenous people. I am seeing now, more than ever, God’s passion for the deaf and how he will use us to demonstrate His love. How wonderfully exciting to be a part of something so beautiful and fulfilling!
Mary Davenport
DCH Volunteer
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