Haiti Update: Press Release
December 20, 2021
Hostages Freed
December 17, 2021
It is with great joy and deep thankfulness to God that I, David Troyer, General Director of Christian Aid Ministries, confirm the safe return of all 17 staff members of Christian Aid Ministries who were held hostage in Haiti by the 400 Mawozo gang. A U.S.-flagged plane left Haiti with the remaining freed hostages yesterday afternoon.
Everyone, including the 10-month-old baby, the 3-year-old boy, and the 6-year-old boy, seem to be doing reasonably well.
On behalf of the hostages and all of us at Christian Aid Ministries, we express our deepest thanks to the following:
- First, we thank Almighty God, who so wonderfully answered our prayers! As it is written in the Bible, “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created” (Revelation 4:11 NKJV).
- We thank the families of the hostages, who were so gracious, patient, and easy to work with during this very difficult time in their lives. Their trust in God was remarkable and a challenge to all of us.
- We say THANK YOU to the multitudes of people worldwide who prayed, who cared, who wept with us, and who sent notes of encouragement to the families of the hostages. You cannot know how big a blessing you all were and are!
- We thank the U.S. government and all others who assisted in the safe return of our hostages. Thank you for understanding our desire to pursue non-violent approaches.
- We thank the news media. You were courteous, patient, and understanding of the fact that we could not share much information during this ordeal. You spread the news of this difficult situation far and wide, which in turn resulted in untold numbers of prayers to our great God by His people all over the world!
- Here is a message to the Haitian people. We say thank you to the many people of Haiti who have expressed their regret for this incident and offered their prayers and words of encouragement to us. While this time has been very difficult for all involved, Christian Aid Ministries desires to continue to walk with you in the future as best we can. You have resiliently responded to crisis after crisis, and our sincere hope is that your country will flourish both economically and spiritually.
- To our supporters: YOU make our work in Haiti and in many other countries possible. By the grace of God, and with your generous support, we desire that together we may continue to “be the hands and feet of Jesus,” to help care for the widows and the orphans, to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to minister to the sick, and to bring the glorious message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to as many people as we can. Thank you for all your prayers, your patience, and your words of comfort during the past 60 difficult days.
- To all staff members and associates of Christian Aid Ministries: THANK YOU for standing with us, and for your many words of encouragement and kind deeds during this trying time. Thank you for continuing to faithfully carry out your duties and responsibilities during these days of high stress.
A word to the kidnappers: We do not know all of the challenges you face. We do believe that violence and oppression of others can never be justified. You caused our hostages and their families a lot of suffering. However, Jesus taught us by word and by His own example that the power of forgiving love is stronger than the hate of violent force. Therefore, we extend forgiveness to you. The hostages told you plainly how you can also be forgiven by God, if you repent. Our desire is that you and all who hear or read this statement may come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, our Savior, the Son of God, and the Prince of Peace. Jesus died for all so that all can be saved.
What were the former hostages doing in a country like Haiti? Christian Aid Ministries operates various programs in Haiti that minister to physical and spiritual needs. We have been on the ground in Haiti for 30 years. These people (the former hostages and our other staff) were there to:
- Enable thousands of poor children, often in remote parts of Haiti, to go to school.
- Provide help and hope to widows, the elderly, and the handicapped.
- Deliver medicines for the sick and nutritional products for malnourished children all over the country.
- Provide teaching for pastors.
- Supply Bibles, Bible story books, and other Christian literature.
- Oversee the rebuilding of homes destroyed or damaged by the recent earthquake.
- Organize our “work-for-wages” program, which includes projects such as building roads and installing water systems. (These projects give unemployed people an opportunity to do meaningful work to support their families, while at the same time providing crucial infrastructure to needy communities.)
Didn’t these people know it is dangerous in Haiti? Yes, they knew that, but we go to dangerous places in many parts of the world. Why? Because that is usually where the biggest needs are. That’s what Christian Aid Ministries has been doing for decades. If we’d go only where it is safe, we’d stay put in our own communities.
We do, though, try to take proper security precautions. We appreciate the desire of our staff to minister, even in dangerous places. However, this event has given us a heightened awareness of the need to strengthen our safety protocols and better instruct our people about the dangers involved.
And now a few words about the hostages’ experiences that we know at this point:
They were kidnapped a short time after leaving an orphanage where they had verified aid received from Christian Aid Ministries. They had an enjoyable time playing with the children there.
As they became aware of what was happening at the time of capture, the group began singing the chorus, “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them,” based on Psalm 34:7. This song became a favorite of theirs, and they sang it many times throughout their days of captivity.
The hostages were able to spend their captivity together as a group. They spent many hours of each day praying, singing, and encouraging each other. Unfortunately, they did not have a Bible, but they recited Bible verses by memory among themselves. They prayed for their captors and told them about God’s love and their need to repent.
Although we are deeply relieved and rejoice greatly that the hostages are free at last, we realize their journey back to normal life has only begun. They and their families need your continued prayers, support, and encouragement.
We respectfully ask the news media, well-meaning friends and acquaintances, and all others to please allow the freed hostages and their families the space and privacy they need as they recover from their two-month ordeal and resume their lives.
We plan to hold a press conference at the headquarters of Christian Aid Ministries in Berlin, Ohio, at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 20, at which time we hope to share more information with you.
Again, we thank God and all involved in gaining the safe return of our friends. Thank you and God bless all of you!
David N. Troyer, General Director
Christian Aid Ministries
December 17, 2021
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 16, 2021
We glorify God for answered prayer—the remaining twelve hostages are FREE! Join us in praising God that all seventeen of our loved ones are now safe. Thank you for your fervent prayers throughout the past two months. We hope to provide more information as we are able.
“I will sing unto the Lord, for he hath triumphed gloriously” (Exodus 15:1b).
Christian Aid Ministries | December 16, 2021 10:30 a.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
December 15, 2021
Tomorrow it will be two months since our difficult journey began. As we stated one day after the crisis began—As an organization, we commit this situation to God and trust Him to see us through. May the Lord Jesus be magnified and many more people come to know His love and salvation. We again want to affirm our commitment to trust God to guide us.
“I have no words about this sore trial, about what you face,” writes a caring supporter. “But I really care, and I am praying for you today.”
Christian Aid Ministries | December 15, 2021 3:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 14, 2021
As you pray for our loved ones being held, we urge you to pray for another difficult situation facing the people of Haiti. Yesterday a tanker exploded while transporting fuel in Cap Haitien, Haiti’s second largest city. The explosion killed at least 59 people, wounded many others, and severely damaged nearly 50 houses. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who lost loved ones as well as the people whose homes were destroyed.
Following is an excerpt from a note of encouragement that was sent to the families of those being held:
“For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).
Considering this glimpse of God’s interest and activity, I join you in praying for these things:
- That His gaze would linger on the little island of Haiti until [those being held] feel His gaze.
- That suffering Haitians would feel His gaze and His strength daily.
- That you as family may feel Him making Himself strong in your behalf.
- That His gaze would linger on ALL the suffering and imprisoned Christians across the world.
We are still praying that God will bring beauty out of the ashes of a sinful world. May God comfort you today in proportion to your need.
To believers around the world—Thank you for your continued prayers and words of encouragement. We don’t know most of you, but we greatly appreciate the outpouring of love from followers of Jesus.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 14, 2021 3:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 13, 2021
As we step into another week of waiting for the release of our workers, we invite your continued prayers. Numerous people have assured us of their ongoing prayer efforts, which we greatly appreciate. One supporter wrote, “I want you to know that I think of you often and pray for you every day. You are on my mind every morning and every evening, sometimes throughout the day, especially if I am fasting for the people’s releases.”
A 13-year-old girl shared the following note, poem, and scripture with us:
Every night before I go to bed I pray for the hostages, and I check the email to see if there is any news about them. At school we students pray every day for them. We do care, and so does God!
Just take it all to Jesus
And leave your burden there;
He will tenderly support you
If you give him all your cares.
There is sweet, unfailing refuge
In His everlasting arms;
In their loving clasp enfolded
Nothing worries or alarms.
“The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry” (Psalm 34:15).
Christian Aid Ministries | December 13, 2021 3:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 10, 2021
“‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘Therefore I hope in Him!’ The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord” Lamentations 3:24-26.
In life’s challenges, we are grateful that God gives the wonderful gift of steadfast hope. A supporter writes, “We pray the Lord’s total protection over all and HOPE for those who are being held. As children of God, we know His plans, ways, thoughts, and purposes are not ours; yet, He allows us to be His witnesses always…God’s hope be overflowing this day.” We also desire that the people of Haiti experience steadfast hope.
We invite your continued prayers as we stand in hope of this situation being resolved.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 10, 2021 3:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Scripture quotation from New King James Version
Dec 9, 2021
A nine-year-old boy wrote the following note: “I want to encourage you and make sure you know that God is with you…I wanted to share Romans 12:17. It says, ‘Do what is honorable in the sight of all’…Also Joshua 1:9 says, ‘Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or discouraged because of them. For the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.’”
His seven-year-old sister wrote: “I know that it is hard. I pray that [the hostages] would rely on the Word of God…(Matthew 4:7). I pray that the Lord of peace would give them peace at all times and in every way” (2 Thessalonians 3:16).
Notes of encouragement from children are special. Are there other children that would like to write notes to the families of the hostages? With permission from your parents, you can send your notes of encouragement to prayers@christianaidministries.org or mail them to Christian Aid Ministries, P.O. Box 360, Berlin, OH 44610. We will forward encouraging notes from children, as well as adults, to the families.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 9, 2021 1:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 8, 2021
This is the third and concluding day of the time of prayer and fasting we announced on Friday. Thank you for diligently praying, fasting, and crying out to God for His help in this situation. We strongly believe that your ongoing prayers are a spiritual lifeline of support for the hostages. Keep praying!
Truly, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). We have sensed God’s presence and enabling grace during days of waiting and working for the hostages’ release. We are confident the hostages are also experiencing God’s presence, protection, and strength. Join us in praying that the Lord Jesus would daily affirm His presence with them.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 8, 2021 3:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 7, 2021
We are touched to know that people around the world have joined us this week in three days of praying and fasting for the hostages in Haiti. Fasting is not as much about getting God’s attention as it is about purifying our hearts and turning our attention to God. We trust Him to lead us.
We appreciate the continued love and support we receive through notes of encouragement. A prayer supporter in New Jersey writes: “Dear friends, we continue to share your burden every day, and we keep on praying for your precious loved ones and for all of you, as well as for the captors and all of Haiti. We fasted with you this week, and later in the evening I felt the sweet presence of God descend on me as I worshipped and praised Him. At this time praising seems to be key. I was very moved thinking of the thousands of people praying, worshipping, and fasting together that day and how huge that is, and how the Lord Jesus must be cherishing that, One who is so tenderly disposed to our cries, One who is so touched by our trusting Him, even in affliction, even when we don’t understand. He IS Captain, King, Savior! What a Friend we have in Jesus!”
Today, twelve people are still being held. Please continue to pray!
Christian Aid Ministries | December 7, 2021 3:15 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 6, 2021
We are thankful to God that three more hostages were released last night. Those who were released are safe and seem to be in good spirits. As with the previous release, we are not able to provide the names of the people released, the circumstances of the release, or any other details.
As announced on Friday, we would like to focus the next three days on praying and fasting for the hostages. Please continue to intercede for those who are still being held as well as those who have been released. We long for all the hostages to be reunited with their loved ones. Thank you for your prayer support.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 6, 2021 9:30 a.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 3, 2021
Tomorrow will be the seven-week mark since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. It was then, on October 16, that our workers gathered on a beautiful, sunny morning for a time of prayer before leaving on a highly anticipated trip to a CAM-sponsored orphanage. This orphanage, which has been visited by CAM staff numerous times over the years, is 1 ½ hours away from our base. Our staff valued opportunities like this to visit Haitian homes, clinics, schools, and orphanages that we help to support. Little did they know that, on this beautiful day, they would begin a difficult journey of being held hostage by a Haitian gang.
As we continue to pray and rely on God for the deliverance of our people, we feel He has provided knowledgeable people to guide us through what is uncharted waters for us as an organization. As CAM management, we are committed to working tirelessly until this situation is resolved and our loved ones are released, if God so wills.
We received the following proposal from a Haitian brother in Christ: God has laid on my heart to propose 3 days of constant prayer and fasting by all the Haitian churches and schools that are supported by CAM in Haiti. [I propose this] not only in Haiti, but also that the churches in the U.S. open their places of worship and gather the Christians together to fast and cry out to the Father.
Along with this Haitian brother and others who have made similar suggestions, we recognize the power of prayer and fasting. We believe that it is Satan’s goal to destroy the work of God through strongholds of darkness. When Jesus and His disciples sought to overcome such strongholds in Matthew 17:21, Jesus said, “this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” In Esther 4:16, Queen Esther proclaimed a three-day fast when her people were facing danger.
Next week, on Monday through Wednesday, we invite believers around the world to observe focused prayer and fasting for the release of the hostages. We invite you to consider fasting on one or all of these days. However you feel led to join this effort, we appreciate your support.
We do not plan to release an update on Saturday and Sunday unless something develops which we are able to report.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 3, 2021 3:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 2, 2021
Today, someone sent a message of encouragement, reminding us that “[God’s] promises are VERY dear when we are in difficult times” and pointing us to Hebrews 13:5 where God assures His people that “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
This is now the 48th day since the kidnapping took place in Haiti. Undoubtedly, the hostages greatly desire your prayers as their time in captivity continues. We urge you to continue in prayer until this situation is resolved.
Christian Aid Ministries | December 2, 2021 4:15 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Dec 1, 2021
Today, on the 47th day since the kidnapping took place, we are observing a special day of prayer and fasting. We invite you to join us in interceding for our loved ones who are being held hostage, Haitians and others who have also been kidnapped recently, and the millions of Haitians who face uncertainty, fear, and difficulty due to the ongoing political upheaval.
We, along with the families of the hostages, continue to be encouraged by the letters we receive from caring people around the world. Here are a few of the many special letters we have received:
Our hearts are heavy as we think of the 15 precious missionaries who are still being held captive, along with other Haitians who have been recently kidnapped. How we long for their release and for their return home to their loved ones. We are praying for a hedge of protection to be round about them and for the Lord to open the eyes of their captors. May the captors see and experience Jesus through our brothers and sisters in Christ, and may this be their time to walk into the light! A verse we are praying for all who are impacted at this time is Romans 15:13—“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” –location unknown
May our stilled hearts know that you are God when our world is shaken. You still love us. You still care. You’re still with us. You still see us and hear our prayer. You still keep your promises. You still speak, heal, redeem. You’re still seated on your throne. You’re still in control. You still provide good things for your children. You still do miracles. You still have good plans for us. You still satisfy. You still identify with our weakness. Your grace is still enough. –Pennsylvania
Following is a letter from an 11-year-old girl in Alberta, Canada:
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 30, 2021
As we work through the kidnapping of our workers, we are aware that numerous kidnappings—mostly of Haitian people—continue to take place in Haiti. In addition to the families of our workers, we recognize that other families are anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones.
The political situation in Haiti remains volatile. As a result, millions of Haitians face huge challenges, encounter danger, and struggle to provide for themselves. Pray for our Haitian friends.
Tomorrow, on December 1, we invite you to join us in another special day of prayer and fasting for the sake of our loved ones who are still being held hostage, other people who are being hostage in Haiti, and the many Haitians who face an uncertain future.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 30, 2021 3:45 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 29, 2021
While ongoing effort is being made to free the hostages in Haiti, we ask that you continue to commit the hostages, their families, and the kidnappers to God. This situation remains heavy on our hearts, and we sense a great need of your prayers. This is the 45th day since the kidnapping took place.
Here are some specific prayer requests:
- Pray for spiritual and physical protection for the fifteen people who are still being held hostage. Pray that God would shield them from evil and protect them from harm. Ask God to give the hostages hope, endurance, and joy as they experience this time in captivity.
- Pray for the kidnappers, that God would touch their hearts and bring them “out of darkness into His marvelous light” (I Peter 2:9). We desire that God would soften their hearts and that they would release our loved ones.
- Thank God for our government authorities and pray that God would give them wisdom as they relate to this situation. “I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (I Timothy 2:1-2).
We appreciate your faithful prayer support.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 29, 2021 4:00 p.m.
Scripture quotations from New King James Version
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 26, 2021
As our workers in Haiti face the 42nd day since they were kidnapped, we have the assurance that God is with them. Jesus told His followers, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). We have confidence that God is at work, according to His own timing.
We long for the day the remaining fifteen hostages will be released, if God so wills. Until then, we commit ourselves to “rejoicing in hope,” and to being “patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
As always, work will continue throughout the weekend to resolve this situation. We do not plan to post an update on Saturday or Sunday unless there is a development that we are able to report.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 26, 2021
Scripture quotations from New King James Version
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 24, 2021
Thanksgiving Day is tomorrow, November 25. Families get together on this special day to thank God for His blessings during the past year and enjoy good food and fellowship. Overshadowing all of this is the fact that fifteen of our loved ones are still held hostage in Haiti. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” By God’s grace, we choose to be thankful, even during difficult times.
The families of the hostages express numerous things for which they are thankful, in spite of being keenly aware that there will be empty places around their tables this Thanksgiving Day. We hope the following messages from these families will be an encouragement to you.
I am thankful for the goodness and faithfulness of God.
I am thankful for my Father, whose plan is big enough to include the whole world and yet small enough to include the needs of each person in this world.
I am thankful for the only begotten Son of God, who died so we might have eternal life and rose again to give us hope now and forever more.
I am thankful for the Holy Spirit, who comforts me and strengthens me, and in my weakness intercedes for me according to the will of God.
I am thankful for my parents who shared their faith with me and taught me the Word of God. Thank you, Mom and Dad…
I am thankful for the church. We have seen your fasting and prayers for our loved ones. We have rejoiced together and will rejoice together again. Thank you, dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
I am thankful for my [family members who are being held hostage]. Your love and faithfulness bless me. Press on dear ones, walk in truth. I love you.
************************************
We long to be with our child but we thank and praise you, Lord, for Your promise that You will never leave him or forsake him!
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We are so thankful for the thousands of prayers that have ascended for the hostages and us, their families. We are also thankful for the many, many encouragements that have come in from all over the world. May God bless you all.
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Besides the support of caring Christians around the world, there is another support group in the wings, inspiring by example—men and women who have endured hardship to follow Christ and have done it with courage and even joy. I’m thankful for these stories, these examples.
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I’m thankful for all the people who took time out of their busy schedules to write notes of encouragement the past weeks. I usually get my tear ducts cleaned out when I read them! It means more than I can ever say to have that kind of support. I would like those who sent encouragement to know that we greatly appreciate their care and support since we can’t thank the majority of them personally.
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I am thankful for our government’s efforts to free the hostages…We have found [the government agents] to be extremely kind, caring, and respectful… I am also thankful for God’s protection for the hostages. Many times I have asked God to put a hedge of protection around them, and I am only one of hundreds or thousands or millions praying for their protection. I am thankful for multitudes that are holding us up in prayer. There are times when tears come instead of prayers, and I am thankful for the body of Christ, who can formulate coherent prayers when words fail us. Most of all, I am thankful for God’s amazing grace that has carried us in this situation, and that we can be at peace even when we don’t know the outcome. Only a true and living God, only our Creator and the controller of the universe, can give us this kind of peace and calm in the middle of a storm. PRAISE HIS NAME!
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I’m thankful for the good news [of the two hostages that were released over the weekend] and want to encourage continued prayers…God keeps His promises!
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I’m thankful that although I really can’t do anything from here, for our loved ones; I can pray, and God can take my petition, and thousands more like mine and do BIG things…Hallelujah!
As you celebrate Thanksgiving Day, would you like to encourage the family members of those being held hostage? You may send your messages to prayers@christianaidministries.org. Encouraging words, inspiring personal stories, and uplifting prayers will be forwarded to the families. It would be of interest to the families to know the state or country of the person writing.
We don’t plan to release an update tomorrow unless something develops that we are able to report.
A blessed Thanksgiving Day to you all.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 24, 2021 11:45 a.m.
Scripture quotation from New King James Version.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 23, 2021
As we consider the length of time the hostages have been held in Haiti, we encourage you to continue in earnest prayer for them. A believer from a country in which Christians were once severely persecuted reminded us that that our loved ones who were kidnapped have an unusual opportunity to share the love of Christ and “will be there as long as the Lord has determined.” This believer said she is praying that “God will help them in this ministry.”
Following is a portion of a touching message shared by a prayer supporter from Tennessee:
The verse God gave me today is Isaiah 54:10—“For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.”
As my time to pray for you came I said, “God, I have nothing this morning to pray, except tears.” God gave me the okay, so I cried instead.
I cried for the years the Gospel has been preached and still is rejected.
I cried for the years of faithfulness of all the missionaries.
I cried for [those] under the power of demonic forces.
I cried for the hurricanes and earthquakes and diseases that have destroyed Haitian lives and families.
I cried for the kidnapped victims.
I cried for the families who have their loved ones kidnapped.
I cried for CAM who has their missionaries in trouble.
God gave me peace that it was the right thing to cry. He heard my cries. Then God gave me these verses. Psalm 100:1&2—“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.”
Continue to pray for the hostages, the kidnappers, and those involved in working toward their release.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 23, 2021 4:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 22, 2021
As we rejoice about the two hostages who were released over the weekend, we continue to pray for the fifteen who are still in captivity. This is the 38th day since the kidnapping took place.
God has given us much encouragement through the prayers and notes we have received. We, along with the family members of the hostages, treasure this support from believers around the world.
“The news that two of the people kidnapped in Haiti have been released is one of the best pieces of information I’ve received over the recent period.” –Czech Republic
“We rejoice to hear that two of our brothers and sisters have been released! We are thankful for the prayers reaching the throne of God! Yet, we will not stop praying until the remaining fifteen are released. Our God is the God of miracles and we continue to press in and ask that those remaining are released very soon!” –Maryland
“Every morning an alarm rings on my phone, reminding me to stop my work and gather my children to pray. We each take a turn praying, down to the three-year-old who always asks God to ‘help the little children think about You.’ We pray for the captors, the suffering Haitians, family, staff, and government officials who are involved. And we pray for the many who are waiting to see what the outcome will be. May God be honored and glorified, and may His light of Truth shine forth brightly…He is able to deliver!” –location unknown
Christian Aid Ministries | November 22, 2021 2:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 21, 2021
We have learned that two of the hostages in Haiti were released. We praise God for this! Only limited information can be provided, but we are able to report that the two hostages who were released are safe, in good spirits, and being cared for.
We cannot provide or confirm the names of those released, the reasons for their release, where they are from, or their current location. We ask that those who have more specific information about the release and the individuals involved would safeguard that information.
We encourage you to continue to pray for the full resolution of this situation. While we rejoice at this release, our hearts are with the fifteen people who are still being held. Continue to lift up the remaining hostages before the Lord.
“Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and His greatness is unsearchable” (Psalm 145:3).
Christian Aid Ministries | November 21, 2021 12:15 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 19, 2021
This is the 35th day since our workers and loved ones were kidnapped in Haiti. The following message was written by a mother of one of the women who is being held hostage and a grandmother of two small children who are being held.
Has a month ever been this long? We think back to the first few days when our hopes were pinned on a quick response and a timely release, and our hearts cry, “Lord, how much longer must this continue?” And yet, as the saga stretches on and we reach deeper for grace and courage, we find in mining the depths some beautiful shining gems that would no doubt have been missed had we not been forced to go there.
We have experienced the preciousness of belonging to a Christian community, the body of Christ. I Corinthians 12:26 says, “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it” and many of you have demonstrated this truth. We continue to be blessed by the prayers, Scriptures, and messages of encouragement coming from many. We have also been blessed by the days of collective prayer and fasting; and we see the hearts of Christians around the world drawing together as prayers continue for our loved ones and their captors.
Although we long for the waiting to end and for our loved ones to be set free, we are nonetheless grateful for the treasures that we have found in this valley—gifts from our God and from His people.
As usual, work will continue throughout the weekend to monitor the situation and work for the release of our loved ones. We will not post an update on Saturday or Sunday unless there is a reportable change in the situation.
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21).
Christian Aid Ministries | November 19, 2021 1:45 p.m.
Scripture quotation from New King James Version.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 18, 2021
Before leaving for Haiti for his time of service with Christian Aid Ministries, one of the men who is now being held hostage noted the following scripture: “Be strong and of good courage, be not afraid, neither be dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest” (Joshua 1:9).
Our hope is that the hostages are finding strength, courage, and even joy as they await their release. We are grateful for the promise that God is with His children wherever they go.
Today, we are one week away from Thanksgiving Day. We don’t know what God has in store in the coming week, but we long and pray for the hostages to be reunited with their families in time for this special day. Continue to pray for their release.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 18, 2021 4:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 17, 2021
This is the 33rd day since our workers were kidnapped in Haiti. Tomorrow we plan to have another special day of prayer and fasting. We invite believers around the world to join us in seeking God for His mighty hand to work. We request ongoing prayer for those being held, the families of the hostages, government officials who are assisting, and the kidnappers themselves.
“Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite” (Psalm 147:5).
Christian Aid Ministries | November 17, 2021 2:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 16, 2021
Throughout the past month, since our workers were kidnapped in Haiti, we have received hundreds and hundreds of encouraging letters from caring people in forty-five states and fifty-five countries. We, along with the families of the hostages, greatly appreciate your faithful encouragement and committed prayer efforts.
We are touched by the many children who are praying. Following is a note we received from a school teacher who spends time praying about the hostage situation with his students each school day.
“We have the Haiti kidnapping situation on our prayer request list every day at school. The children always make a point of praying for the missionaries and also the kidnappers. Often their prayer is that the kidnappers would want to serve Jesus and let the missionaries free. Our prayers also go to the families of the missionaries and to the Haitians that live in turmoil and unrest. It is such a blessing to serve an all-powerful God, and although it saddens us to think of what the missionaries have to endure, we are excited to see how God will use this situation for the building of His Kingdom.”
Christian Aid Ministries | November 16, 2021 2:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 15, 2021
Tomorrow it will be one month since our workers and loved ones were taken hostage in Haiti. We request your continued patience and prayer as we work with this difficult situation. Many people, including CAM management and government authorities, are working diligently to bring our loved ones home safely. We are grateful for the assistance of those knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with kidnapping cases.
Here are some specific ways you can pray:
- Pray for endurance for the hostages as they face day after day in captivity. Ask God to protect them and encourage them. Pray especially for the children who are being held, that they would sense God’s presence.
- Ask God to give courage to the families of the hostages as they await news about their loved ones. Their trust in God has been a powerful testimony of God’s faithfulness.
- Remember government authorities who are working on the case. Pray that God would give them wisdom.
- Pray that God would touch the hearts of the kidnappers and draw them to Himself. Their souls are precious to God.
Thank you for your outpouring of love and encouragement. Despite the difficulties, we are deeply touched by the care and concern of God’s people around the world.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 15, 2021 4:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 12, 2021
It is now the 28th day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. As we do what we can to work with this situation, we want to surrender to God’s timing. Admittedly, the waiting is difficult. Pray for the hostages—the men, women, and children—as they also wait for this situation to be resolved.
A father of one of the hostages shared the following message with us: “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord” (Psalm 27:14). Waiting on God is not easy. Often it seems that He is not answering our prayers or doesn’t understand the urgency of our situation…But God is worth waiting on. Isaiah 40:27-30 calls us to wait because God often uses times of waiting to refresh, renew, and teach us. Make good use of your waiting times by discovering what God may be trying to teach you in them.
We don’t plan to release updates on Saturday and Sunday unless there is a change which we are able to report. God bless you for praying!
Christian Aid Ministries | November 12, 2021 2:45 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 11, 2021
Today, the 27th day since the kidnapping in Haiti, we have this message to share from a close family member of the hostages:
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Jeremiah 55:8-9).
God is working out a plan that is bigger than we can comprehend. As we wait to see what God is going to do in the lives of the hostages and their captors, we already see what God is doing in the hearts and lives of people around the world. Thank you to all of you who have written to share your testimony, a prayer, or a word of encouragement with us as family members.
We rejoice in the many prayers that are being offered on the behalf of the Haitian people as well as for the hostages and their captors. God delights in the prayers of His people and invites us to call upon Him in the day of trouble.
Thank you for continuing to stand with us in prayer.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 11, 2021 3:30 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 10, 2021
God created you for ministry. If you are not serving, you are just existing. God wants to use you to make a difference in this world.
This saying is posted on the desk of one of our workers who is being held hostage in Haiti. This person, along with the others who were kidnapped, had a heartfelt desire to serve the people of Haiti.
The kidnapping took place on October 16 and we are still waiting and praying for the group of 17 to be released, if God so wills. We request continued prayer for the kidnappers, that God would soften their hearts and that they would experience His love and goodness. As you pray, remember the millions of Haitians who are suffering through a time of serious upheaval and unrest. We desire that God would be their “refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Psalm 46:1.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 10, 2021 3:45 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 9, 2021
“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him” (Nahum 1:7). On the 25th day since the kidnapping, we cling to God’s precious promises. As our loved ones endure another day in captivity, we again commit them to God and His care.
We continue to welcome notes of encouragement, written prayers, and stories of God’s faithfulness that we can share with the families of the hostages. You may send your messages to prayers@christianaidministries.org. We sincerely hope that someday the hostages will have the privilege of reading the messages and prayers that were kindly sent during their time of trouble. Even now, we trust they are being lifted and encouraged through the power of your prayers.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 9, 2021 2:45 p.m.
Scripture quotation from New King James Version.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 8, 2021
It is now the 24th day of this crisis, and our workers and loved ones are still being held hostage in Haiti. We, along with government authorities, continue to work hard to bring them home safely. This is our heartfelt desire, but we want to surrender to God’s plan and timing.
The families of the hostages continue to face long days of waiting for news about their loved ones. The hostages no doubt face long days as well, wondering when they might be released. Your prayers have been a lifeline of hope and encouragement for the families, for us at CAM, and no doubt for the hostages during the past several weeks. Keep praying!
Christian Aid Ministries | November 8, 2021 3:15 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 5, 2021
It is now the 21st day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. The past three weeks have been an intense journey, but God has faithfully carried us and the families of the hostages. We trust He has been carrying the hostages as well.
Though the hostages face difficult circumstances, we pray that God will give them joy and reminders of His faithfulness and goodness. Even though we have no way of communicating with the hostages, we wish them the hope-filled encouragement of Jeremiah 29:11—“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” If we had a way to speak to the hostages, we would assure them they are constantly in our thoughts and prayers, we are working for their return, and many believers around the world are remembering them.
As usual, our staff members will continue to monitor this situation tomorrow and Sunday. However, we will not post statements over the weekend unless there is something notable to report. Continue to pray!
Christian Aid Ministries | November 5, 2021 4:30 p.m.
Scripture quotation from New King James Version.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 4, 2021
A prayer supporter in Indonesia wrote, “I just want to let you know that we are still praying for the release of our seventeen brothers and sisters still held hostage in Haiti.” One from Ireland wrote, “I am drawn every day to meditate before the Lord and remember the hostages in Haiti.” Another from Ohio wrote, “Our church continues to lift up your workers…in prayer and we ask that God would grant their deliverance…May the name of Jesus be glorified.”
It is a great comfort for the families and for us to know that people are still praying, still remembering, and still lifting our workers and loved ones to God. Each day, our hearts are heavy as we face the fact that they still have not been released. This is now the 20th day since they were taken hostage. We continue to commit them to God and His care. We invite you to continue to pray.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 4, 2021 4:00 p.m.
Update on Haiti kidnapping
Nov 3, 2021
This is now the 19th day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. Our workers and loved ones are still being held. Our prayer is that God would protect them and give them courage as they endure yet another day as hostages.
The political situation in Haiti remains extremely volatile. Numerous reports state that nearly half the country is under the control of gangs. Pray for the many Haitians who suffer during this time of upheaval.
Following is one of many notes of encouragement that we continue to receive from various countries.
Please know that many are praying for you and your loved ones being held against their will in Haiti. I just got off a Zoom prayer call that meets twice daily. We were lifting up your/our family before our Father. On the call this night (U.S. time) were brothers and sisters from Oregon, Australia, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Uganda. Those from Nigeria in particular understand. It is unsafe in so many areas to travel from one city to another because of kidnappers, yet they continue to travel for God’s kingdom, trusting our good Father with their lives.
We have not forgotten you and will continue to pray for God’s peace, the release of those being held, for all who are being held to be able to trust God, and for the hearts of the captors and others involved to be changed by the cleansing power in the blood of our precious Savior, Jesus.
Thank you for your continued encouragement and prayers.
Christian Aid Ministries | November 3, 2021 2:30 p.m.
As CAM associates, we plan to have a special day of fasting and prayer tomorrow, October 21. We invite believers around the world to join us in seeking God for His mighty hand to work. As mentioned in previous statements, we invite continued prayer for:
- The victims—for endurance, faithfulness, and a spirit of Christlike love. Pray for their release and that they could follow the example of Jesus who said of His enemies, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34).
- The kidnappers—that they would experience the love of Jesus and turn to Him.
- Government leaders and authorities—as they relate to the case and work toward the release of the victims.
This time of difficulty reminds us of the ongoing suffering of millions of Haitians. While our workers chose to serve in Haiti, our Haitian friends endure crisis after crisis, continual violence, and economic hardship. Despite the difficulties and dangers involved in working there, both our Haitian and American workers carry a vision to minister the love of Jesus in Haiti. Our goal is to seize opportunities around the world, even in difficult contexts, to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, who “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38).
Christian Aid Ministries | October 20, 2021 3:00 p.m.
Haiti kidnapping update
Many people, including CAM management and Haitian and U.S. authorities, are working diligently to bring our loved ones home safely.
The ages of the adults being held captive range from 18 to 48. The ages of the children are 8 months, 3 years, 6 years, 13 years, and 15 years. Today, we again commit our workers to God’s care. “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11). Pray that our workers could respond to hatred with Jesus’ love, overcome the spirit of fear with faith, and face violence with a genuine desire to bless their oppressors.
We request prayers for the Haitian and American civil authorities who are working to resolve this situation. We believe the command of the Bible in I Timothy 2:2-3—“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”
This group of workers has been committed to minister throughout poverty-stricken Haiti. Their heart-felt desire is to share the love of Jesus. Before the kidnapping, their work throughout Haiti included supporting thousands of needy school children, distributing Bibles and Christian literature, supplying medicines for numerous clinics, teaching Haitian pastors, and providing food for the elderly and vulnerable. In recent months, they were actively involved in coordinating a rebuilding project for those who lost their homes in the August 2021 earthquake. When kidnapped, the group was returning from a visit to an orphanage that receives support from Christian Aid Ministries.
God bless you for praying. We immensely appreciate the outpouring of love and support from around the world.
Christian Aid Ministries | October 19, 2021 12:30 p.m.
Scripture quotations from New King James Version
Haiti kidnapping update
We are entering the third day since seventeen of our workers were kidnapped by a gang in Haiti. The media has carried this situation across the globe. Civil authorities in Haiti and the United States are aware of what has happened and are offering assistance. We continue to monitor the situation closely and are in earnest prayer.
We greatly appreciate the prayers of believers around the world, including our many Amish and Mennonite supporters. The Bible says, “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16).
Join us in prayer that God’s grace would sustain the men, women, and children who are being held hostage. In a world where violence and force are seen as the solution to problems, we believe in God’s call to Christians to “…not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). Pray that those being held hostage could find strength to demonstrate God’s love. The kidnappers, like all people, are created in the image of God and can be changed if they turn to Him. While we desire the safe release of our workers, we also desire that the kidnappers be transformed by the love of Jesus, the only true source of peace, joy, and forgiveness.
Christian Aid Ministries | October 18, 2021 1:30 p.m.
Scripture quotations from New King James Version
Haiti Staff Abduction
We request urgent prayer for the group of Christian Aid Ministries workers who were abducted while on a trip to visit an orphanage on Saturday, October 16. We are seeking God’s direction for a resolution, and authorities are seeking ways to help.
The group of sixteen U.S citizens and one Canadian citizen includes six men, six women, and five children.* Join us in praying for those who are being held hostage, the kidnappers, and the families, friends, and churches of those affected. Pray for those who are seeking God’s direction and making decisions regarding this matter.
As an organization, we commit this situation to God and trust Him to see us through. May the Lord Jesus be magnified and many more people come to know His love and salvation.
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust . . . For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” (Psalm 91:1,2,11).
Christian Aid Ministries | October 17, 2021 1:30 p.m.
*Numbers corrected on 10/18/2021.