Updates from Port au Prince, Haiti

The violence in Haiti continues to tear the country apart. Over the last two years, more

than 12,000 people have died due to gang violence. Thousands more have been injured

or kidnapped. The gangs have burned businesses, attacked police stations, destroyed

hospitals, and schools have been closed. Thousands of people have abandoned their

homes and communities to seek safety. For many, the daily mission is to find enough

food and water for the day. The country of Haiti needs your prayers.

With the violence raging in Haiti, many have asked, “How is the school theology doing,

and how is the church?” In many areas, the church must meet in smaller groups, in

homes, and at various times to provide safety from the gangs. The threats make it very

difficult for the Christians, but they continue. The church continues to grow as the

Christians reach out to the lost. Pray for the church in Haiti.

IST (the International School of Theology) continues to train preachers and teachers to

proclaim Christ’s message. Unable to meet on IST’s campus, the school moved to the

Santo area. The move worked great for a while, but they had to move again due to

increased gang activity. We have rented a building where it is safe to meet, although, at

times, it is difficult for students or teachers to reach. The gangs will set up roadblocks

preventing anyone from passing through. Despite the problems, the classes continue,

and the church continues to grow. In 2024, we had 191 souls baptized into the body of

Christ and three new congregations planted. God opens the doors because God is in

control. I am able to be in regular contact with the directors of the school weekly. Pray

for our students and teachers as they continue working in God’s great kingdom.

The students and faculty also help provide food and medicine when they can. One way

of reaching the lost is to help them in a difficult time. Even the helping of others must be

handled quietly. If the gangs find that someone is providing food, that person becomes a

target. When they go to deliver the food and medicine, they literally put their lives in

danger, but they do it. Pray for their safety.

We know the time will come when the violence stops, businesses reopen, children

return to school, and IST can move back on the campus grounds. The attitude of the

directors, teachers, and students is, “Even in difficult times, the work must continue, the

lost must be reached, and God’s will must be done. If we don’t, who will?” Pray that

they will continue to have the attitude that they have.

Larry Waymire

Prayers desperately needed for Haiti

Haiti Report

The International School of Theology (IST) in Haiti has faced many problems over the past four years due to gang activity. The area where the campus is located is where there has been considerable violence, including kidnappings, house raids, and killings. To make matters worse, the area that had to be traveled through to reach IST is home to some of the worst gangs. Therefore, we have not been able to use the campus since 2020. While classes have continued and many souls have been saved, the students and the teachers have been in danger almost daily.

The past two weeks have seen the violence increase drastically. The airport was attacked and had to close for several days. Two of the largest prisons were attacked, which resulted in more than 4,000 prisoners escaping and several left dead. Banks, churches, schools, hospitals, and businesses have been attacked, causing many to close. In the past three months, more than 3,500 people have been killed, kidnapped, or injured by gang activity. The roads are blocked with burning tires, and gunshots can be heard throughout the city of Port-au-Prince. The United States recently sent Marines to reinforce security at the US embassy. The embassy has evacuated all non-essential personnel. The prime minister resigned at the demands of the gangs and the request of some Caribbean leaders. The country is on the verge of total collapse. Please pray for Haiti.

How does this affect the school of preaching in Haiti? Our teachers, directors, and students have put their lives in danger each time they travel to and from class. Half of the class has often been unable to attend due to the blocked streets. Due to the increased violence, we have decided to suspend classes until further notice. We hope to resume them as soon as possible, but it may be August before we can start regular classes again. Our local directors will continue to check on students and help provide food and medical care when needed. The students and teachers regularly work with about twenty-five congregations and will continue their work as much as possible. 

Our goal remains to train preachers and teachers of God's word. While we may have to pause regular classes, the work will continue. We know who is in charge and will make way for His message to be proclaimed. There will come a time when the violence will stop, and we can travel again to Haiti. There are people in Haiti who are hungry for the message of salvation, and we plan to see that they have an opportunity to hear it. Please pray for the work, the students, the teachers, and our directors. 

Larry Waymire

Truth prevails even in times of persecution

The International School of Theology continues to thrive, even with the gang violence. The teachers work diligently to encourage the students and the church in Haiti. The students and faculty directly influence twenty-five congregations. Churches are being planted in the smaller villages, and souls are being added to the kingdom of God.

Each time the students attend class, the teachers travel to where the classes are taught, and when the cooks and workers come to help, they put their lives in danger. Yet, they continue! They have refused to allow the gangs to control their lives. They take precautions, and we have told them not to endanger their lives. There are times when the gang activity is so heavy that everyone must stay home. Yet, they continue! It is because of this love for the Lord that motivates us to continue working on their behalf.

We know the time will come when the students can return to the IST campus. The time will come when we can travel to Haiti and teach classes in person. God understands and knows the needs, and He will provide a way to continue in the future.

The building is only a meeting place, and we are not there to own a building. We are in Haiti to train preachers and teachers to move God’s word forward.

Please pray for the students and teachers at IST. 

More Than 2,000 Souls Obey the Gospel 

In 2014, the International School of Theology started with 24 students. Since then, we have graduated 54 men and women who continue to preach and teach the word of God. Each quarter, we receive a report on their efforts. Through August 2023, we have had 225 souls baptized into the body of Christ. This brings the total to 2,030 souls our students and teachers have brought to Christ. The glory belongs to God, for He is the one who has opened the door and softened the hearts of people to receive the message of salvation. More than 30 new congregations have been planted through our students and faculty. Most congregations meet in homes or under pole sheds with tin roofs. Some congregations are small but truly desire to see the church grow. We have also seen about 35 denominational churches leave man-made religion and turn to the truth.

Please take a moment to pray for the church in Haiti.

Trouble in Haiti

The death count continues to rise as the gangs continue to grow in number and ability. The gangs have taken control of about 80% of the capital city of Port-au-Prince and about 50% of the country. The police gain control of one area, and the gangs move to another. Thousands have lost their lives, been kidnapped, or injured because of the gangs. More than 200,000 people have had to flee their homes as the gangs took over neighborhoods. Many businesses have had to close; there is a shortage of food, gas, and other necessities of life. Some report that on the black market, gasoline can go for as much as $20 per gallon. Only the very wealthy can afford to buy gas at those prices. Many have had to shelter in their homes for days due to the violence. Thousands have crossed the border into the Dominican Republic, where they are not greeted with open arms. About half of the schools have been closed due to the violence, which further sets the children back in their education. The gangs recruit children as young as six years old and force them to commit crimes.

Even in the middle of a country torn by violence, the gospel of Jesus Christ, the good news of the kingdom, and the love of God are still being proclaimed. The power of the word is mightier than the sword or bullets. God will continue to open doors; may we continue to step through them. 

Please take a moment to pray for the people in Haiti.

Haiti school continue to evangelize as violence continues

The Violence Continues:

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20). These are the words that come to mind as the unrest continues to climb in Haiti. Every day I hear of more shootings, killings, or kidnappings. Much of the police force is trying to take control, but they are often outnumbered. While it would be easy to become discouraged, we know that God knows the situation in Haiti. The violence will end, and a new door will be opened. Please take the time to pray for Haiti, the church in Haiti, our students, and our teachers at the International School of Theology. (IST)

 IST Attacked the Second Time:

The gangs have entered the property of IST for the second time. This time they ransacked the building and took the solar system, generator, and anything that could be sold for a few dollars. While this is heartbreaking, it is for this reason that we are in Haiti. We strive to train preachers and teachers of God’s word. Perhaps one day, the ones who took the items from IST will give their life to Christ. When the fighting stops and we can return to the campus, we will replace the items taken. The gangs will not prevent the training of preachers and teachers of God’s word.

 IST Continues to Reach the Lost:

The problems in Haiti yet, the students and teachers continue to risk their lives to study and teach the word of God. Some students must travel long distances to reach their Bible classes. There are days when the violence worsens, the roads are blocked, and some students cannot attend class. We have had to move the students a few times for safety reasons. We wish we could use the campus, but at this time, there is not a safe road to the campus. The students and the teachers continue to find ways to reach the lost. Almost every day, I receive pictures of souls being baptized into the body of Christ. Because of the trouble, some students (present and past) have started working in the smaller villages. The work they are doing has resulted in six new congregations being planted. To God be the glory, but we are also thankful to have men willing to preach the word. Pray for their continued success. 

Larry Waymire

Prayers needed for Haiti

Prayers are needed for Haiti. The gangs have now taken over about 60% of the capital city of Port-au-Prince. Many congregations are meeting in private homes to avoid being overly exposed. The Haitian government is almost nonexistent. Many police officers are trying to make a difference but are outnumbered, and the gangs have more and bigger weapons. Prayers are needed for Haiti. 

Despite the breakdown in society, the work of the Lord continues. In 2010 the Lord opened a door of opportunity for the gospel to move forward, which continues today. Thousands of souls have obeyed the gospel, several denominational churches have been converted, and many new congregations have been planted. To God be the glory for all that has been accomplished. 

We now have twenty-four students enrolled at the International School of Theology. Currently, we cannot meet on the campus of IST because of gang activity in the area. Our local director stays in contact with me several times a week. He and the teachers have tried to take every precaution to ensure the safety of our students. The students and teachers have not allowed the problems to stop them from reaching out to lost souls. In 2022 they were able to baptize 137 souls into the body of Christ, and two new congregations were planted. I have not been able to travel to Haiti since January 2021. I am thankful for our men in Haiti who care for the work. Please continue to remember them in your prayers. 

Early on January 6, a group of gang members came over the school's front gate. The guard alerted our caretakers, and they escaped over the back wall. There was no damage to the facility, and for that, we are thankful. Most likely, they were looking for items that could be quickly sold. We were most grateful that Oral and Olia, the caretakers, and their two boys escaped unharmed. Continue to pray for peace in Haiti. 

Pray for peace in Haiti

International School of Theology – Haiti Report

The work continues to move forward in Haiti, despite the unrest. In the past week, there have been at least twenty people shot. The kidnappings continue to climb. In 2021 there were more than 1,200 people kidnapped and held for ransom. There were 81 non-Haitians kidnapped in 2021. I hear from friends in Haiti almost daily, and the situation is getting worse. Many of the churches cannot meet, businesses are closed, and the streets are empty. Haiti needs your prayers.

Our students at the International School of Theology have not been able to meet on campus for more than a year and a half. They have been meeting under a pavilion at the Sonlight Children’s home. We have twenty-three students, but many days only about half of them can meet due to roadblocks and violence in the street. This week it was necessary to move our sixteen children living at Sonlight to a safer location. The gang activity is growing. With the gang activity in the area, our students will not be able to meet until a new site can be found. Since we are in the capital, Port-au-Prince, it may be hard to find a place. 

But souls continue to be saved, the gospel message is proclaimed, and God is glorified. I am so proud of our students, teachers, and directors. They have continued to move forward; they have continued to reach out to others, even when their lives are in danger. They know that God knows their situation and that peace will come one day. Their attitude is, “We are here, and let God use us.”  

The greatest need for Haiti is prayers for peace and safety. We continue to send funds for our teachers, workers, and students so they can buy food; when it is available. Many students and teachers spend days when they cannot travel out of their homes for fear of being shot. Mac, my leading interpreter for IST, said it plain, “The streets of Haiti are not safe; you hear gunshots every day. You say a prayer when you must go out because you don’t know if the next bullet will hit you. You lay in bed at night and hear the shooting, and your wonder if your friends or family are still alive.   You wonder if today will be your last day on earth.”  Mac is twenty years old and is a fine Christian young man and a dear friend. Please pray for Mac, IST, the children, and all the people of Haiti. 

Larry Waymire

Doing the best they can in Haiti

Haiti International School of Theology

It is hard to believe that the work in Haiti is now entering its thirteenth year! What originally was to be a one-week relief effort became an open door for the gospel. During the first three years, we rebuilt church buildings, repaired or built over 500 homes, fed 1,000’s, provided medical assistance, and shared the gospel along the way. As a result, thousands came to Christ. God receives all the glory for what has been accomplished. We know that we are His tools, used in His kingdom, for His glory.  

After the three years of relief efforts, it was time to refocus. Our focus turned towards building and strengthening the church. Many had obeyed the gospel, so now it was time to help mature them, as Christ commanded, “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:20). Thus, giving birth to the International School of Theology in 2014.

In 2021 our students and teachers taught and baptized 207 individuals into the body of Christ. Since the starting of IST in 2014, the students and teachers have taught and baptized more than 1,700 souls. Three new congregations were planted in 2021. They are involved with the teaching and preaching in twenty-five congregations, supported forty-three campaigns, seminars, and lectureships. Again, to God be all glory and honor.  

Haiti is a country that is torn by political and civil unrest and extreme poverty. The gang activity has forced our directors to temporally move location for the classes. This was to protect the safety of our students and the property. We are blessed to have directors and teachers who are able to lead, organize and implement the work. I hope to return to Haiti at some point in 2022 but only if it will not endanger the staff, students nor the work we are doing. Our goal is to train preachers and teachers to carry the gospel forward. Please keep Haiti in your prayers. “…whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Larry Waymire

Help needed in Haiti

Haiti Report

International School of Theology

Prayers are needed for Haiti.  As you may know, on July 7, 2021 President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated.  The nation was already in turmoil and this further plunged it into chaos.  The police have been targeted by the gangs and therefore, many have fled the country.  There has been a drastic increase in kidnappings and violent crime. The people are afraid to go and buy food. Many of the people have fled the area of Port-au-Prince, seeking safety.  Several members of the church are hurting because of lack of funds for everyday needs such as food, water and medication.  Please stop for a moment and pray for Haiti, the church, and the International School of Theology.

The COVID-19 issue has been a problem, yet it could have been much worse.  To date, there have been 20,507 cases of COVID-19 reported, and 576 deaths.  While this is a sad condition, the percentage of deaths is lower than most counties.  There are about 12,000,000 people in Haiti, so this problem could have claimed many more lives.  Pray for Haiti.

In spite of the problems, the gospel continues to move forward.  Our students have changed locations for safety purposes, but classes continue.  IST is about to enter its eighth year of training gospel preachers and teachers of God’s word.  During the months from January through June, our students and faculty conducted six campaigns, and planted one new congregation.  These efforts resulted in 112 souls being baptized into the body of Christ.  Pray for the lost souls of Haiti and our students.

What are our needs?  Our greatest need is funds to help provide food for the hungry.  Brother Felix, one of our directors at IST, reported that twenty homes is the community where he works, Cité Soleil, were burned by gangs. Christians have been trying to provide food and clothing for their neighbors, even though they, themselves, are hurting.  If you can help, even with a small donation to feed the Christians, our students and the people of Haiti, it would be greatly appreciated.  Funds may be sent to Broad Street Church of Christ, P.O. Box 473, Lexington, TN 38351.  The funds will be sent to our directors at IST, and they will buy food and distribute it.  Pray for the people of Haiti.

Thank you for your prayers, concern and support of the work in Haiti.  The International School of Haiti is proud to be a part of the Bear Valley Bible Institute.  Our purpose – Our mission is clear, “What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”  (2 Timothy 2:2)

Larry Waymire

Continued unrest in Haiti

Haiti Report – March 2021 

The International School of Theology in Haiti continues to make progress, despite the problems facing the country. There has been an increase in violent demonstrations and kidnappings over the past few months. Concern for our students and teachers has forced us to move classes to a different location temporally. During this last session, which was completed the first of April, classes met at the Santo Guesthouse, a house owned by the Estes Church of Christ in Henderson, Tennessee. In the past (and hopefully in the future), the house has been used to house groups who travel for medical, evangelistic, and relief efforts. While this is not the ideal situation, it has allowed classes to continue.

Mission Trip Delayed

I was to make a mid-April trip, but our local directors suggested delaying the trip due to the problems. Plans are now underway to travel in August for graduation and the starting of year eight of IST. It is hard to believe the school has been in existence for seven years. Through the efforts of everyone who has helped by offering prayers, giving financially, constructing the building and teaching classes, more than 1,500 souls have obeyed the gospel and several new congregations have been planted. God continues to open new doors to reach the lost and build his kingdom. Please continue to pray for our efforts to equip the preachers and teachers with tools for spreading the gospel. 

Thank you for your continued prayers and support.  

Larry Waymire

lwaymire@gmail.com

Broad St. Church of Christ

131 North Broad Street

Lexington, TN. 38351  

Pray for Haiti

International School of Theology – Haiti

The work in Haiti continues, even in a year like 2020. The great thing about Christ's message is that even a pandemic cannot stop it from moving forward. Souls continue to be being saved, and in Haiti, the gospel is still being preached.  

Please pray for Haiti. 

COVID-19 has had an impact in Haiti with 9,214 reported cases and 232 deaths. We are thankful that not one of our students or teachers had the virus. While the virus seems to be under control, there have been widespread demonstrations, shootings, and kidnappings. I would say that more than 99% of the people in Haiti are good, hardworking, honest, and kind people. Yet, the 1% make it extremely hard on everyone else.  

During the pandemic, the International School of Theology (IST) has continued to function. The students are meeting, and we are looking to extend the program. We are making plans to start a Saturday school, which will allow preachers and others who cannot attend weekdays to attend on the weekend. At this time, we have twenty-eight students. We have both men and women attending who are eager to grow, learn, and teach others.    

Pray for our efforts, pray for the school, pray for the people of Haiti, and pray the church will continue to grow. We know that God has a plan for the future. We may not see His hand working, but He is. God knows our needs, and He knows how to help us meet those needs. As the Christians say in Haiti, "Bondye Bon," God is good.

Larry Waymire

A COVID update from Haiti

Looking down the road, we are excited that the International School of Theology (IST) will soon begin its sixth year of training gospel preachers and teachers of God’s word.   Our students, teachers, directors and alumni continue to reach the lost with the message of salvation.  We now have students in several parts of Haiti, Dominican Republic and Brazil.   Even during the closedown due to Covid-19, souls are being saved.  Troubled times also bring open doors to reach the lost world with the saving message of Jesus the Christ.

We have canceled classes for the rest of this school year at IST.  According to WORLDOMETER, Haiti has reported only 44 cases of the coronavirus with only three deaths.   Haiti has the lowest number of reported cases in the countries of the western Hampshire. I hope this is the truth, but I must say, I have my doubts.  This could be because most of the people have had malaria and have taken medication for it.   Most people in Haiti live in areas that are difficult to reach for testing and the hospitals are limited in services.  While the government has told people to stay home, this is difficult to do for more than one or two days.  Most people have no way for refrigerating food, so they live from day to day. They cook their food on charcoal and must go daily to get provisions.  With the schools closed, the children are at home and not able to find food.  Many of the children are fed through food programs operated by churches or schools. 

So far, all our students are clear of the Coronavirus.  The teachers and the students are ready to go back to school, but the government will not allow schools to open.  As our directors have said, “God is in control and will use this to His glory, as he did the earthquake of 2010.”  Our directors, brothers Felix and Beaubrun, and our teachers continue to stay in contact with the students.  Please pray for the International School of Theology – Haiti.  Pray for the government and the people of Haiti.  Pray for open doors that the gospel may move forward.  We give God the glory for all that is done. 

Larry Waymire

Prayers requested for Haiti

Haiti Report:

As a new session started at IST, the students were ready to move forward.  The last session of 2019 was very difficult because of the violence and demonstrations; for weeks the students could not attend.  Unfortunately, the demonstrations and violence continue, but to a lesser degree. At least for now, the students are able to attend class.  IST has been broken into three times in the last three weeks.  The first time the thieves stole about $1,500 worth of tools and cash. The second time, the guard fired his gun and the thieves ran. The third time the guard tried to stop them and was beaten.  New security measures are being taken to guard against the thieves.  Please pray for IST and the employees.  God knows our situation and our needs.   We will continue to trust his care. (Philippians 4:1-4)

Our teachers work diligently to make sure the students are getting the best education possible.  The teachers realize that training preachers and teachers to share God’s word is the key to a stability church, family and nation.  Our teachers make a great sacrifice and work diligently to improve each class they teach.  Most of our teachers travel two or three hours to teach at IST.  The directors of IST, St. Hubert Felix and Origin Beaubrun, are dedicated to helping IST be all it can be.  They are present every day to work with the students and make sure things continue to move forward. (Philippians 3:12-16)

During 2019, our students and faculty taught and baptized 314 precious souls into the body of Christ.  We also saw the planting of seven new congregations.  IST is focused on spreading the word of God and teaching others to do the same.  (II Timothy 2:2)

The work continues,

Larry Waymire

Prayers requested for Haiti

International School of Theology – Haiti

International Extension School of Bear Valley Bible Institute

Please Continue Praying for Haiti. 

Because of the violence in Haiti, the students have not been able to attend classes for over two months. It now looks like the classes will be suspended until January 2020. The people are calling for the removal of the president. The directors and teachers are in regular contact with the students, and at this time, everyone is safe. The immediate area of IST (International School of Theology) has not had any violent activity; we pray that it will continue. More than 2,000,000 children have not been able to attend regular school, several hotels have closed their doors, stores have not been able to restock their shelves; therefore, there is a food shortage. Many gas stations have not been able to get fuel. The stations that have gas and diesel continue to raise their prices. We know this will pass, and God will use it to his glory – more doors will open for the gospel. The demonstrations do not stop on Sundays; therefore, many of the Christians are not able to attend worship. In some areas, the church is meeting in homes but continue to reach out to others. 

Personal Request for Prayers:

I also ask for your prayers. Recently I was diagnosed with Uveal Melanoma, a tumor on the back of my left eye. It was small, and the doctors believe they caught it at the right time. One doctor said, if it had been any smaller, it would need to grow before it could be treated properly. I received two CT scans and an MRI to see if the cancer had spread. We thank God that it hasn’t. I received Brachytherapy radiation treatment. The doctor places a device on the back of my eye for three days and then removed it. The doctor said there will be some loss of eyesight but not sure how much at this time. I have made peace with whatever happens and have put it in God’s hands. I have double vision at this time and will wear a patch until it clears. The doctors said I should be able to continue regular activity by January. If things have calmed down in Haiti at that time, I plan to return then.

Prayers for Haiti

International School of Theology – Haiti

International Extension School of Bear Valley Bible Institute 

IST Enters Its Sixth Year 

The International School of Theology (IST) has now entered its sixth year of training gospel preachers and teachers.  The graduating class of 2019 was the first group of students to complete the three-year program.  Excited about reaching the lost, planting new congregations and strengthening existing congregations, these men move forward.  Your prayers are requested for them and their service.  With the departing class there is also an incoming class of students.  We are excited to have four ladies who have entered the program.  These ladies presently serve in local congregations.  They are involved in teaching younger women, leading in ladies’ activities and teaching Bible classes for ladies and children.  Their goal for attending IST, is to become better teachers of God’s precious word.  Fifteen men have entered the three-year program.   They have embarked upon a journey that will change their lives and influence the saving of souls for generations.  Please pray for all of our students, teachers and directors. 

Prayers for Haiti 

Prayers are needed for the country of Haiti.  For almost a year Haiti has been in turmoil because of political unrest.  Medical teams, short term mission groups, and working groups have had to cancel their trips.  I had to cancel two of my trips to visit with the students and teach short courses.  There have been weeks when the students of IST have not been able to attend class.  Roadblocks, burning of tires, and shootings often bring Haiti to a standstill and the government has had little power to stop the demonstrations. While there has been no violence directly in the area of IST, the demonstrations prompted the need for more security.  Therefore, a ten-feet high, 460-feet long wall has been constructed on the back portion of the IST property.  This stops crossover traffic and will help keep squatters from trying to live on the property.  When funds are raised, the other side of the property will be walled.  Once this is accomplished, the entire property will be walled and secure; the estimated cost for this is $12,000.   Please pray as efforts are made to enclose and secure the property of IST. 

God Is Still in Control

While concerned about the problems in Haiti and for the safety of the church, our students, teachers and directors, we know that God is still in control.  God does not want the unrest, but if we truly give this situation to him, he will use it to his glory.  Just as he used the earthquake to open the door to thousands of souls, he will use this in some way.  It may not be apparent today how God will use this unrest but trusting in God is the key to weathering the storm.  Thank you for your continued prayers for IST, the government, the people and the church in Haiti.    “Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth!”  The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.  (Psalms 46:10,11)

Larry Waymire

lwaymire@gmail.com.

731-798-0136

Graduation upcoming in Haiti

What a great week it has been in Haiti! A bit warm, daily temperatures from 98-102 but a cool 75 at night.

The new class schedule is almost finished, the student handbook will be finished soon. The graduating students are excited and the new students are nervous. We will have the first graduation on our campus on August 10th. This is an exciting and major step in our development. This also means, more people will be visiting our campus, speaking with our students and seeing that God's word and His are the focus of our teaching.

As of today, we have 12-15 new students who will be attending. It is also exciting to announce our first two female students. The church in Haiti and around the world need more ladies who are able to share God's message with lost souls. More information and pictures will come soon.

We are also adding a three year Saturday program! This will allow those who have full-time jobs to attend IST. I have been meeting with students, the directors and some of the teachers as we approach the new year. On the 30th, we will have an all-day seminar with all of our teachers. To have well-trained students, it is important to have well-trained teachers. Therefore, a continuing education program is being implemented to help our, already great teachers to become even greater.

This week we had a youth retreat at IST. We had between 40 and 50 youth, spending three nights at IST. The singing was great, the classes uplifting and challenging and they spent one-morning knocking doors in the community. Someone made the stated, "maybe next year some of the American youth can join us." Maybe!!!!

My birthday was the 29th and Brother Viciere and our directors Brother Felix and Beaubrun gave me a surprise birthday party. I am so thankful for my Christian family in Haiti.

Keep the work in Haiti in your prayers. "God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." 2 Timothy 1:7

Larry Waymire

Turmoil and triumph in Haiti

PJ Hardy and I are in Haiti at this time visiting with the students and teachers and working on a few other projects.  This is our first trip since January due to violence and unrest.  One of our directors is a policeman and met us at the airport to drive us to the school.  Due to unpredictable gang violence, the local directors have advised us not to leave the school property without Brother Beaubrun, the police officer.  Although, the area where we are located seems very quiet at this time.  

The work continues to move forward with people obeying the gospel.  So far this year we have had more than one hundred baptisms.  This brings the total to more than 1,000 since August of 2014. To God be the glory.  Please continue to keep us in your prayers.  

I plan to return in July and will spend about four weeks.  We have graduation on August 3rd, if there is no violence at that time.  

Thanks for all your help.

Larry Waymire 

A new well in Haiti

The International School of Theology is nearing the end of its fourth year.   These men are serious about their studies and dedicated to the word of God.  It takes all of our students at least an hour to reach IST; some travel three or four hours each way and they do this four days per week.  

We are now looking to the next year at IST.  The new year will bring with it, many challenges and a lot of excitement.   One class will be entering their senior year with graduation set for May 2019.  The freshman students will be coming in August, as we look to enroll fifteen more students.  This will also call for the hiring of one or two new Haitian teachers for IST.  Our directors will do the vetting to make sure each teacher is sound in the faith. 

Healing Hands International recently conducted a dip irrigation seminar for our students and a few visitors.  This will help to provide food for our students and faculty.  HHI also drilled three wells in our area to provide fresh, clean drinking water for the community; one of the wells is just outside our front gate.  John 4 tells us, the women at the well was first introduced to Jesus and then she told others; which led to several believing in Jesus.  IST plans to use the three wells in LaTremblay to reach the lost.  Our students and faculty will visit the wells regularly to offer Bible studies and invite them to visit the church.

Please pray for our students, teachers, directors and the people of Haiti.  Haiti is a great nation with many wonderful people.  The people are hardworking and have a desire to better their lives and their relationship with God. 

January 14th saw a congregation was planted on the campus of IST.  So far there have been five baptisms through their efforts.  There is a regular attendance of about 50.  Each week new visitors from the neighborhood come to visit.  Four of our graduates are working together to lead this work in a positive direction.

Larry Waymire

Coordinator

31 students in Haiti

The work at the International School of Theology – Haiti (IST) continues to move forward.  We now have a total of 31 full-time students.  We have seventeen students in the first-year class and fourteen in our second-year class.  The students and faculty are reaching to several locations throughout Haiti with the gospel.  We recently had a visit from one of the local government officials and he was very impressed with the work at IST.  The news of IST has traveled throughout Haiti and we get inquiries from congregations and individuals regularly.  Our teachers and directors are asked to conduct seminars and special classes.  We have also had people from other countries to request information about attending IST. At this time, we are not prepared to receive foreign students.  

 A new congregation will be planted on the campus of IST, January 14th, 2018.   Brothers Martial Viciere and Origin Beaubrun will serve as the ministers; both of these men are graduates of IST. Martial is now one of our teachers and Origin is one of the directors of IST.  There have already been several baptisms in the community through efforts of the faculty and students.   We plan to air our first services live via Facebook so I encourage you to join us on that day, if possible.  Since it will be stored on my Facebook page, you will be able to view it later.  

Our new facility is almost completed!  Due to the help of several congregations and the kindness of many individuals, we now have office space, three good size classrooms and a room for our visiting teachers.  We will now be able to add our third class in August of 2018.  There are still a few things that need to be finished but we can now use the entire building.   Our major need now is to make sure we have electricity.  Electricity in Haiti is never a sure thing on a daily basis.  We may go two or three days with no electricity and can only count on having electricity about four days per week and then only for a few hours. It is like this throughout Haiti.  Therefore, we are trying to raise $15,000 to purchase an 11KW generator and new batteries as well as install solar panels and finish the building. 

Thanks to all who help support the work in Haiti.  This is not my work but it is the Lord’s work in which I am privileged to serve. If you would like more information about the work in Haiti, you may reach me at 731.798.0136 or lwaymire@gmail.com.

A new year in Haiti

A New Year at IST:  Year four has started at the International School of Theology - Haiti.  This year we have expanded our facilities to accommodate our new students. While we have almost finished the new facilities, there is still much to be done.  There are twenty-five students in the first-year class and fourteen of the sixteen second year students have returned.  We are now moving into the growing phase for IST.  We have a first year and a second-year class and in 2018, we plan to add a third class.  We will have our next graduation in May of 2019 and from that point forward, we will have a graduation each year.  

Meet our Haitian Faculty:  We now have one full-time teacher who will also serve as the administrator for IST and we have four part-time teachers.  

Jean Claude Lemours has a degree in education from the University of Haiti.  Brother Lemours is a 2016 graduate of IST and was our valedictorian.  He has served as the minister for the Butte Boye church of Christ in Haiti for almost twenty years.  He plans to continue his education toward a master’s degree in Bible.

Jean Yves Desmosthene has several years’ experience of preaching and teaching and holds a degree in administration.  

Derrises Alin is a graduate from the school of preaching in Cap-Haitian and he attended one year at IST.  He has served as an evangelist for many years.  

Saint Hubert Felix has been a gospel preacher for thirty-eight years and he is the director of our elementary school and serves as one of our directors at IST.   

Martial Viciere is a graduate from IST and serves as the director of the Sunlight Children’s Home.  He oversees an education program that includes about 125 young people from kindergarten through collage age.  He also is the director of the nutrition center where two hot meals are served five days a week to more than 100 children.  

Church Plant:  Beaubrun Origene, one of the directors at IST, and Martial Viciere have agreed to serve as the evangelists at the La Tremblay church of Christ on the campus of IST.  Plans are being made to start a congregation at the school in January of 2018.  The students and faculty have already started contacting people in the community and one person has been baptized into the body of Christ.  Please pray for this new work.  I will keep you updated at the work progresses.

 As the school grows, so do the needs.  We need both one-time and monthly support.  If you would like to know how you can help, please contact me directly at lwaymire@gmail.com or 731-798-0136.  You are also welcome to contact Bear Valley Bible Institute.  May God continue to use each of us as we continue to serve Him.  

We are thankful for the help of Bear Valley Bible Institute and so many individuals and congregations who have made this possible.  The glory belongs to God for all that has been done.

In Him,

Larry Waymire 

Excitement Is High As Students Near The First Graduation In Haiti...

We serve a living God! 
In the name of our Lord and Savior, we greet you; our fellow workers in the kingdom of God. As we prepare this newsletter, we are reminded of your love for us and the work we are doing together. God has blessed us with many good people and congregations with whom to labor. It is our pray that God will continue to accomplish his will through each of us. We say, “Thank You” for your prayers, encouragement and financial support. This is not “our” work but God’s work; we are but his servants. 

Update: Roberta & JoJo
For more than twenty years our sister in Christ, Roberta Edwards, was the only parent many of the children in the home had known. With her tragic death in October, 2015 there was a loss that words cannot describe. Her absents is felt every day. The five men arrested in connection with her death are still in jail and await trial. While evidence seems to point to the innocence of one of the men, the courts will decide. The investigation continues to move forward and from all indications her death was out of revenge. Two of the men had broken into her home and she reported it to the police. The two men were arrested and the other two brothers took out revenge on Roberta. JoJo has not yet been found. This is so sad and so unnecessary. It is not easy to get information but we will try to keep you updated. 

New House Parents Sunlight Children’s Home: Martial and Ketty Viciere (Lit Amar - 16, Ken Lee - 8)
With the death of Roberta, new parents had to be found. Our new family is the Viciere family. Martial is a student at the International School of Theology, a preacher of the gospel and a dedicated husband and father. Martial and Ketty have been married for 18 years and have two children. I had the privilege of visiting with them in their home and the congregation where they attend. Martial has a degree in political science and served on the Royal Police force in Haiti. Ketty attended beautician school but chose to be a stay at home mom and wife. 

While it will take time to adjust, they have made great progress in the home. It is not easy to go from having two children to having 25. The children have accepted them and most are now calling them “momma” and “papi”. We are blessed to have them in the home and as a part of the Haiti mission effort. I hope you are able to meet them in person one day. Please pray for them, the children and their work. 

Riley Hendrix Teaches At IST
Riley Hendrix was able to travel to Haiti and teach a course at IST. His class focused on the importance of our worship assemblies. 

Since 2013, Riley and Brittany (our daughter) have been a part of a mission team working in Coral Springs, Florida. They are reaching out to the Hispanic world. Riley and Brittany are graduates from Freed-Hardeman University. They also have a five-month old daughter, Juliette. 

This was Riley’s fifth mission trip to Haiti but he has also traveled to St. Lucia, Grand Cayman, Montana and spent three months working in Brazil. His dedication to the Lord and his work is a great encouragement to all who know him. Riley and Brittany work under the oversight of the Pomona Church of Christ in Dickson, TN. 

1 & 2 Timothy and Titus
So far this year I have spent seven weeks in Haiti. I have taught two classes, Ministry Technologies and Timothy and Titus. I love to teach at IST because the men are so eager to learn and grow. These men do not simply accept what is said but love to question and study what is being taught. I am reminded of what Paul said about the Christians in Berea, “they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” I would not want them to be any other way. 

The books of Timothy and Titus are important to the work of an evangelist. Paul, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, show the importance of God’s word, the role of elders and danger of false teachers. Take the time to read these letters. 

First Class of IST Will Soon Graduate
The above picture was the first day of class at the International School of Theology - Haiti, August 13, 2014. I wish there was a way to put into words the growth I have seen in these men. Their ability to preach, teach, lead singing and share the message of God’s word proves the importance of IST. Just in 2015 our students were instrumental in bringing more than 250 souls to Christ. They have conducted campaigns, seminars and gospel meetings throughout Haiti. From the picture above, only two men are no longer in the school. We have changed translators and one student, who was a denominational preacher, decided to drop out of the program. 

On May 28th, these men will walk across the stage and receive their diplomas, being the first graduating class of the International School of Theology. It is hard to believe we have almost completed two years of classes. Most of the classes have been taught by teachers from the USA. This will change in August of 2016, when we hire some of our graduates to teach in the program. Each of the men we will ask to teach have degrees from a university in Haiti. 

We have had several men from the Bear Valley Bible Institute, Freed-Hardeman University and others to teach a class at IST. We have also had several ladies to come and teach special classes to the wives of our students and other ladies. While the number of American teachers will decrease, we plan to have eight short courses taught by teachers from the USA. We will continue to have classes for the ladies and special classes that will be open to the general public. 

As we look to the future, I am reminded of the words of Jesus: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." Matthew 9:37-38

Future Home Of The International School of Theology
For the past two years we have rented our facility. While it has worked well, it was also expensive. We are now planning to move onto our own property. We have been able to purchase a three-acre piece of property in the La Tremblay area, outside of Port-au-Prince. The area is seen as one of the best places to live and to own property. When we first contacted the own, the price was $250,000 but after several months of negotiations, we were able to purchase the property for $100,000. We have borrowed the money to pay for the property and the payment is less than the rent we were paying. Plus, the property already has a house, well, septic tank, power pole, partial block wall and the foundation for the school; this is about $50,000 that we don’t have to spend. 

Thanks to the congregations and individuals in the Cookeville, Tennessee area, we have been able to make repairs to the house. A family will move in soon to watch after the property and there is a private room that I will use as I travel to Haiti. When we have visiting teachers they also will be able to stay at the home. 

Larry Woods, an Elder from Lexington, recently was part of a crew to work on the property. 

Recently Brandon Pruett lead a group of seven men from Cookeville, Tennessee to Haiti. Four of the men traveled to the area of Jeremey and spoke at several congregations. Their mission was to help train leaders and be an encouragement to the members. I have made this trip and it is not an easy one. While the distance is only about 120 miles, it is an eight- hour trip. I am so thankful for these men and their willingness to serve in this way. 

Three of the men from Cookeville stayed with Larry Woods and me to work on the new property. Our mission was to build an additional room on the existing house. This room will serve as a storage room and a battery room. (When we do not have public electricity, our facility runs on batteries.) We hired three Haitian men to “help” but quickly realized we were the helpers. One day we also had three of the students from IST to come and help. While we could not communicate verbally we all understood the task before us. 

Your Help Is Needed! 
As we move into this new phase of work in Haiti and the International School of Theology continues to train preachers and teachers of God’s word, we request your help. While we have secured the funds to pay for the property and we have raised the money to make repairs to the house and rebuild the wall on the front of the property, there is still much to be done. 

Our financial needs are broken down into different areas: 

1.  Maintain the property. This will include the building of a wall around the property. This is for security and safety. 

2.  Build the new facility. We will one day have a facility to provide education for at least 45 full- time students. 

3.  Pay our teachers and daily needs. We want to use the local preachers and teachers to train men and women in their native tongue. 

We want to give our students one meal each day. Many of our students do not have food at home and what we provide may be their only meal. The married students often take what we supply and share it with family members. 

How Can You Help? 
First and foremost, pray often for the work in Haiti. The field is white unto harvest and we must train workers and teachers of God’s word. 

Second, make a generous one-time donation to help build the school. 

Third, help support the school on some monthly basis. While we wish we did not need to ask, it is a necessity. We cannot do the work without monthly support. 

Fourth, tell others about the work of IST and the needs. It is by word of mouth that many great works have been accomplished. 

Fifth, invite us to come and make a presentation to your congregation or friends. We are willing to go wherever is needed to share this work. 

Development of the Property
As we continue to move forward, there is a ten-year plan we are putting together. We know that time, circumstances, government and events can alter our plans, but this is the beginning point. 

1.    We plan to increase our student body to 45 students. This will be a three-year program. All students will not become preachers but will be teachers in many congregations. 

2.    We hope to have the school officially recognized by the Haitian government. This will allow us to offer a degreed program and make IST more valuable to the work in Haiti. 

3.    We plan to have a congregation that meets on the property. This will be a bilingual congregation with an emphasis on English. There are approximately 8,000 English speaking people in the Port-au-Prince area and no one is reaching out to them. 

4.    We plan for the property to be used for area- wide meetings, seminars and lectureships. 

5.    We plan to use the facility for medical teams, special outreach programs and special programs for the Christian women of Haiti. 

6.    We plan to use the facility and grounds for special youth activities. 

Thank you in Advance
As the school grows, so do the expenses. Your help is urgently needed as we expand our program. We plan to move to the new property in April and will start a new chapter in our work. We are asking you to consider a monthly support and if that is not possible, please consider a one-time donation. The cost of the property, the cost of repairs and the construction that needs to take place is very important. Every dollar that is given goes toward the work. A financial statement can be provided upon request for all of our contributors. Thank you for considering this work. Without your help it would not happen. 

Larry & Carol Waymire

Contact Information: Larry Waymire lwaymire@gmail.com
Mobile: 731-798-0136 Office: 731-968-6688

All Contributions Should be sent to: Broad St. Church of Christ Caribbean Ministries
131 N. Broad Street Lexington,TN 38351 

To see the report with pictures, please click here.