| Dear Friends, Our Haitian director, Daniel, has been a very great influence, model and support for people of all ages in the Tricotte area. Just a couple of days ago, Daniel shared the following letter with me. Good evening, Mr. Daniel, I have the immense pleasure of writing to you to thank you for your many acts of kindness toward me. Throughout my medical studies at the Henri Christophe Campus of the State University of Haiti in Limonade, you have always been good to me each time I contact you in case of need. Let me tell you, taking the example of your journey, an ardent motivation never ceases to ignite me, which in fact, contributes to helping me complete my studies on campus. I take this opportunity to let you know that I am choosing you as godfather and witness in the ceremony as I take the Oath to officially become a doctor, which will be held on May 26, 2024, at the campus. Thank you for being there for me, Mr. Daniel and I am counting on your presence. Sincerely, Dr. Kemslot And then, tragedy struck. On the evening of May 25, Kemslot left his home village of Biscaille on motorcycle, traveling to Cap Haitian to receive his doctorate in medicine the next morning. A cow crossed the road directly in front of him and Kemslot hit the cow head on. Kemslot was taken to a hospital and passed away six days later, on May 31. The family and the whole community of Biscaille are devastated. Dr. Kemslot will be remembered as a kind, humble and respectful person. Kemslot’s father, Pastor Wislet Silencieux, has been a part of Starfish Ministries for several years. We have a school and church in Biscaille and Pastor Wislet is on our staff as pastor of the church and the leader of his village. Daniel has a very close relationship with the family and especially with Kemslot. Daniel writes, “From a young age, Kemslot loved and practiced music. He was the maestro of several choirs in his hometown. He was also a worshiper and a preacher.” Our hearts go out to the family of Kemslot. It is hard to imagine what they are going through. Here was a son, brother, friend, just on the outset of his dream to really make a difference in Haiti in the vast voids of medical care. And by our thinking, taken away much too early. We have seen this often in Haiti and throughout our lives. We then often ask the question, WHY? And we don’t have the answer to that question, but God does. Isaiah 55: 8-9, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher that the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” As difficult as it is we can know without doubt that God makes no mistakes. His sovereign will is right, just and He is faithful to His children. Please pray for Kemslot’s family – that God would sustain them during this time, that He would comfort them in this time of sorrow and that He would be their “shelter in the time of storm’. Thank you for your partnership with us as we navigate so many aspects of life as we serve God in Haiti. God has given us the privilege to serve the people of the Tricotte area of Haiti from birth to the very oldest of the population. Babies are born safely in the medical clinic, and healthcare is provided for people of all ages. 60 children, ages four through 17 are cared for in the orphanage. Many more children from preschool all the way through trade school and university are educated and fed through the school ministry. Children and adults alike are fed through the coffee and food program at the churches each Sunday morning. Many of the poorest families in the region have received help through Food Relief. The elderly and handicapped ministry meets needs for 86 previously forgotten people. We are able to hold up our Haitian brothers and sisters in prayer as they go through various trials. And through every means possible, we present the gospel of Jesus Christ, trusting in Him to meet their greatest need. Your partnership with us helps to make all this possible. Thank you for your prayers and support. “To God be the glory, Great things He has done.” Serving the Lord together, Bernie, Sheryl & Philip Bovenkamp |
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