If you could look down on Haiti from 30,000 feet you would see little pockets of light probably barricaded with concrete and steel rebar but nevertheless pockets in the dark. Just like when you are flying in a plane at night and you see dots of warm light against a dark backdrop. Those dots from the ground may seem randomly placed but from the air you can see their location has meaning. I have visited only a handful of these locations but its clear they are preaching truth and light. I have been blessed to reside at one of these strongholds for the last couple of weeks. Its name is simply Canaan and it’s derived from the OT promise made to the Israelites of a land that would influence and impact the rest of the world.
Canaan here in Haiti is north of Port-au-Prince sandwiched between the ocean and the mountains. The property, which consists of 93 acres, was purchased for around $60. The Haitian government had no value for the land so they basically gave it away. God called sister Gladys a strong Haitian woman and a few others to devote their last 20 years to building a haven for those in need. They began with a piece of scorched earth but with a lot of prayer, sweat and tears have produced a safe harbor and a launching pad for the Kingdom.
Initially they ministered to people with addictions, however, they were receiving more and more kids who needed a home and were forced to make a decision. They decided to focus on the children, the next generation of Haiti. They opened a Christian school on the property and built housing units so the kids could stay on the property. Canaan staff visits local communities and recruit kids to come join the school. At anyone time they can have up to a 100 kids, which receive an education and a loving environment. Most kids come to Canaan not because they are privileged but because their parents are willing to give them up to lessen the burden in their home. Some of the kids are truly orphans who are dropped off or wonder there way here.
Sister Gladys is definitely a no non-sense kind of lady and expects a lot out of not only her staff but the children as well. Most get up at 4 AM to start the day with prayer and devotion followed by preparing breakfast. They then attend school most of the day, which they understand is a huge privilege and take it very seriously. The kids are disciplined when necessary and asked to leave in case of prolonged disobedience. The staff works diligently to improve the grounds and build new facilities. Canaan has partnered with several non-profits in the U.S. to accomplish this dream.
In addition to the school they have built a church on the property that serves the local community. They also have a full time clinic that serves dozens of people each day. As a part of the clinic they participate in Medical Mamba, which has been highlighted on CNN. Staff leaves the property and goes into local communities to feed children and return them from the brink of death. It’s a simple concept in that they feed children for approximately 9 weeks a peanut butter substance packed with nutrients and vitamins. During that time they educate the parents on malnutrition and general childcare. The program has had amazing results and they are looking to expand the breathe of it.
We like to talk about what authentic Christian community looks like in the United States; it has become a topic of interest that edgy up and coming pastors love to debate. Here is an example of how to do it. It’s not perfect, there was no budget to start with and it took 20 years to reap results but it’s off the ground and God has blessed it. I wish you could see the children and the community rally around this place. It’s truly a piece of heaven on earth and the hope of this islands future. The best part is they are not alone and this idea is not unique to them. God has orchestrated the pockets of light and is unifying them more each day.
