School is out

The kids had a wonderful time the last few days of the year, with a team from Vision Trust headed by my friend Andy. He was the only nonsigner on the team of four deaf and four hearing. Andy frequently heads teams, and it was a rather unusual experience for him; this time, he was the one most in need of a translator when working with the local folks.

The team chaperoned the kids on a trip to the Colonial City. Amazingly, some of the kids had never been there before! The Colonial city has a wealth of historical sites, from as far back as Colombus' days. I was especially glad they were able to see Independence Park, one of the most famous sites in the country. There independence was declared from Haiti, and the DR became a country in its own right, and there the fathers of the country, Duarte, Sanchez, and Mella have their tombs.

The highlight of the week, though, was the day the kids had the opportunity to go for a day of camp. They had races, swam, played basketball, had a Bible study, sang, prayed, watched some mimes do drama, and ate till their heart's content. The very next day they were asking me when they get to do that again!

It was excellent having the team here. There are very few educated deaf adults here, and even less who follow the Lord. It makes a big impression on the children when they meet genuine Christians who are deaf. They are wonderful role models, and the students value their opinions greatly. They also love to be able to talk with hearing people who sign; rather unusual here. It broadens their world.

There is a lot more to say, but I'll hold off for a while, so as not to make this into a book!

I'm heading to the US on the 4th of July, and hope to see many of you who read this blog. I wish I could see ALL of you! Thank you all for your prayers and support this past school year. Now let's get going on the next one! :)