March 2006 
 Team Dominican Republic Update
In This Issue


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Dear Friends

It is hard to believe that we are already into March, as the calendar pages just keep being filled and torn off. Granted, it is not like we battle the cold, snowy winter that sometimes can slow you northerners down. Though some of us miss the snow (Hales), others (Hodges and Mercedes) are perfectly content with everyday feeling like, well, a bit like summer. We won't settle that debate here, but read on to see what the March winds have brought in...

 Church Celebrates Independence Day
 Picnic Caps Off Activities

February and picnic. Those two words probably rarely appear in the same sentence north of Georgia. However, for our church family in the Dominican Republic it was reality, as we celebrated the country's independence day last Monday. Members and regular attendees came out for a time of fellowship, hotdogs and a fun softball game that saw four of the ladies "break-into" the traditionally male-dominated game.

Of course, what mattered more than the outcome of the game was that we were like family - sharing in food, games and plenty of smiles. The day before, in our morning worship service, we had a special program centering around the theme of the country's independence and our role as a church to continue to make the country better. Together, both days served as a great kick-off to the new year's activities and helped strengthened the vision for the future.

 


 Breaking Down Walls
 Youth Group Prepares for Impact

Yes, yes "good fences make good neighbors" as the classic poem goes. But sometimes we must break down the walls in order to see our neighbors! That is exactly what the youth group, headed by Miguel Mercedes, has done as it prepares to better utilize the space behind the current auditorium to reach young people.

One of the ministries that is about to start is an open youth night. We already have a ping-pong table, a video game system is in on its way, board games will be bought, etc. in order that Christian teens can have a revelant place to hang-out in a nurturing, Christian atmosphere. As funds permit, we would like to purchase a pool table and maybe a fooze-ball or air hockey table. Shouldn't the church be the center of our families' worship and recreation? We are convinced it should be, as we continue to seek ways to really make an impact in the family and do our part to better the community through Christ.

 


 In Her Own Words
 Mari Diaz Reflects on Year of Service

It was such an honor for me to work in the Dominican Republic for the year of 2005. After being a part of the internships for two summers, I really felt God opening doors for a longer stay. After much prayer, I knew God wanted me to raise support for a full year. I'm so thankful for a wonderful home church that supported me both monetarily and prayerfully without fail. God is so good.

While working with the Daystar team in San Pedro I was able to work in so many different ministries, ministries I knew I could work in, and ministries I never knew I had the ability to work in. I was challenged and stretched and came to realize that it's not so much about me, but Who is in me. I couldn't begin to describe all the things I learned in my time there. I built relationships with so many that will last for eternity. I felt so much a part of the team, and the Dominican will always feel like home. Spending this time in the Dominican opened my eyes to what the Lord could have in my life, and my responsibilities as a child of God wherever I may be. I thank God for my time in the Dominican Republic and it's continued effect on my life.

 


As always, thank you so much for your faithful prayers and support. To learn more how you can get involved or pray more specifically, email us below. We'd love to hear from you.

In Him,


Team Dominican Republic
Daystar Baptist Missions

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