Focus - Relational Encouragement
September 2025 Update
Focus - Relational Encouragement:
A Christ-Centered Call to Build One Another Up
Relational encouragement is more than kind words—it is the Christ-like practice of lifting others up through love, respect, and consistent support. Scripture reminds us to “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). This means walking beside our brothers and sisters in both joy and hardship, offering actions and words that affirm their worth as children of God.
Our desire is to build relationships based on mutual respect and trust, creating a safe space where people can grow spiritually, emotionally, and personally. It involves listening carefully, celebrating each other’s victories, and providing strength in times of struggle. Like Jesus who walked with His disciples, we are called to be present—showing appreciation, offering practical help, and pointing each other toward God’s purpose.
Healthy encouragement also recognizes individuality, just as Jesus did with his disciples, knowing Peter was different from John the “beloved”. By allowing space for personal growth and self-discovery, relationships become stronger and more resilient. Together, we share responsibility, face challenges as one, and deepen our spiritual connection with our brothers and sisters in Haiti.
In Haiti and beyond, we pray for unity and try to create communities of hope—where God’s love is visible through our daily actions, and every person is reminded that they are valued, supported, and never alone in Christ.
September’s Praise Report for the Haiti Ministry begins with the amazing response and support of this year's Pitimi, Haiti community youth schooling. These children are without any means to go without you. Thanks to all of Driftwood Church, as we achieved our goal to send 22 additional children to school this year. Pastor Lucce and the local community leaders are coming alongside these children and their families with your help by supporting school activities, which offer hope of a better future for this community. Through Christ’s love, we seek to break cycles of poverty and build a foundation of faith and opportunity.
Second is the road to Pitimi “Konbit” [kom-BEET] - When a group of local leaders heard the request to improve the road that leads to the Pitimi village and church, a Konbit was formed. This is a traditional Haitian practice where neighbors come together to accomplish what no one person could do alone. Through collective effort, entire communities plant fields, build homes, and create opportunities for everyone to thrive. In this effort, it was the road; today, it's more like a muddy trail in the woods. While not completed yet, as rains continue to complicate the hand-digging efforts of a water trench and mud management. The community is working every weekend together. Praise God for this great example of unity - “Haitian Konbit” in action.
Pastor Lucce’s recent message was about community and teamwork. He’s emphasizing that after working together, everyone is sitting down and sharing a meal, and that’s part of how they support each other. He also mentions that it’s important for everyone to keep helping and that this work is ongoing. Praise God for this community showing mutual support, sharing resources, and continuing to do the work together - Unity.
The Lord may be leading you to become a part of this "Konbit" as we partner with our brothers and sisters in Haiti to make an impact with everlasting results. We would encourage you to pray about your involvement in the ministry that is happening in Pitimi. If you have any questions, email Al & Theresa at 561servant@gmail.com.