Megan and I arrived on Saturday evening and were promptly greeted by old friends. We are so thankful for the relationships that we’ve been able to build over the years with people we love so dearly. Evelyn, who was able to visit Des Moines last November, picked us up from the airport. By the time we were at the hostel, I was already receiving texts from Dominican friends.

On Sunday we went to church with Evelyn. The pastor gave a great sermon, finishing their series on Ecclesiastes. It was such a great reminder that no amount of money, possessions, pleasures, etc. will ever satisfy us or bring us more joy. The author, Solomon, had all that money could buy, and he realized after having it all and trying it all, that it was meaningless and he was no happier. I am thankful for that reminder. Being in the Dominican is a break from the rapid pace of life we lead in the United States, which opens our eyes to the people around us.

Last night the rest of the team arrived, some without luggage (hopefully it will come today still!). Several Dominican friends arrived early to spend time together before their classes or work began. We spent the morning reading, praying, and worshipping together. After that, some of the team went to campus to talk to people, look around, and grab some food. Megan and I went with our friend Diana for lunch and to a fruit market to get some fresh fruit for our team.

Diana is such a joy. She is a dear friend with a heart for the Lord who became a believer on our first trip to the DR. She understands a great deal of truth and is able to communicate the Gospel clearly with people. Please pray that she would continue to grow in the Lord and that she would be connected to a body of believers. She is currently not part of a church, though she knows many who are in La Vid, the student group. Diana has classes during the times that they meet.

A storm is rolling in right now, it’s breath-taking to watch it roll into the city over the ocean from the patio at our apartment.  Megan and I are here, waiting for the rest of the team to return–hoping they don’t get totally drenched!

Thanks for your prayers. I would ask that each person who reads this blog pray for this week. Please pray specifically for direction and discernment with the students with whom we are spending time. Pray for the Spirit of God to direct our steps and theirs. Please pray for maturity in the lives of these young believers, that they would continue to press on in their faith and trust in Christ. Please pray for them to grow into a Body that would be faithfully carrying forth the Word of God. Please also pray for us to know how to spend our time and with whom, what to help with and how to be a greater blessing to these students.

Shaly Moyal