AN UPDATE FROM OUR BOARD CHAIR

Dear Friends,

Many of you are reading on social media and in the Miami Herald about an attempted kidnapping of Pastor Julio this morning. Pastor Julio is safe.

This past week has been a week of focused prayer for Haiti at Haiti Teen Challenge (HTC) and Rendezvous-Christ Church (RVC). God heard the prayers of His people. Though ruthless people tried to do evil, God protected Julio.

Details are still being confirmed, but a very detailed kidnapping plot unfolded early this morning during the first service at RVC. The HTC/RVC security team’s attention was drawn to several individuals entering the church. One sat behind Pastor Julio. When security realized this individual had a gun, security escorted him towards the exit, where he acknowledged that a plan to attack and capture Pastor Julio was underway. Pastor Julio was immediately taken to a secure location.

​The attackers (gang members), dressed as a Police SWAT team with large guns, entered the church, forced the members to lie down, robbed people in attendance, cut off the livestream of RVC, and stole equipment.

Julio had this to say, “It was a terrible experience, but God is faithful and what Satan meant for evil, God will use for good. Our staff are all safe except for one HTC staff member who was taken hostage. Please pray for his safety and return and for his family."

​Today was a day of worship. The prayer passage focused on Psalm 86:9-10, “All nations you have made will come and worship you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name. For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God." As Psalm 86 continues, it says, “For great is your love towards me; you have delivered me from depths, from the realm of the dead. Arrogant foes are attacking me, O God; ruthless people are trying to kill me – they have no regard for you. But you, Lord are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me; show your strength on behalf of your servant; save me because I serve you. Give a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you Lord, have helped me."

God is in control. Thank you for your prayers. We will keep you posted.​

Vicki Jefferis​
HTC Board Chair