October 16 marked the one-year anniversary of the kidnapping of 17 CAM workers in Haiti. We continue to praise God for the way He delivered the hostages.  

 In recent months, the political situation in Haiti has rapidly deteriorated. Gangs rival for power in the vacuum of a functional government. In recent weeks, a gang took over the town of Titanyen, where CAM’s base is located. They gained control of much of the surrounding area. The gang forced their way into the CAM compound and have taken control of that as well. To our knowledge, all our Haitian staff members are safe and are no longer at the base. No American CAM staff members are stationed in Haiti at this time.  

 As the turmoil escalates, Haitians are facing severe hunger. The dreaded disease, cholera, is breaking out as many people do not have access to clean water.  

 The people of Haiti need our prayers! Following are some specific ways you can pray:   

• Pray for the government of Haiti. 
• Pray for the many Haitians suffering from hunger and illness. 
• Pray that the cholera epidemic would be kept in check. 
• Pray that God would soften the hearts of the gangsters who are perpetrating wickedness. 
• Pray for protection for our Haitian employees and their families.  
• Pray for other missions, that their work could continue.  
• Pray that God would protect the CAM compound and that order could be restored.
• Pray for wisdom in knowing how to move forward with our work in Haiti when the time is right.  

 Thank you for praying! 

 Christian Aid Ministries 

October 17, 2022  

Just Released: Kidnapped in Haiti

In October 2021, 17 Christian Aid Ministries workers were kidnapped in Haiti. The event made headline news. The Kidnapped in Haiti book tells the story of their captivity. Read how Christians around the world prayed as the hostages faced physical danger, spiritual darkness, sickness, boredom, and discouragement. When and how would their captivity end? Would the God of Daniel deliver them?

October 16, 2021, dawned clear and warm in Haiti—a perfect day for the planned trip to the orphanage. Little did the seventeen missionaries realize they would not make it home that day. Not even when the cry came, “Roadblock ahead!”

Although violence was an expected part of life in Haiti, the missionaries had not sensed any great danger; the gangs normally only wanted their money. Today, however, was different. As the bus hurtled down the road with armed gangsters in control, the missionaries faced a horrifying truth—they were being kidnapped.

For the twelve adults, two teenagers, and three children, the coming days were a harrowing ordeal. As they faced danger, health issues, and possible death, they cried out to God—and He supplied. But one prayer remained unanswered: their prayer for release.

Behind the scenes, mission administrators and government officials grappled with how to address the crisis. Around the world, people prayed.

Though increasingly desperate to leave, the hostages were unable to agree on a course of action.  

One day the impasse was finally broken. As they yielded to each other, they became of one heart and one mind. Now God could work.

That night He did. 

Order Your Copy Here

To place your order you will be leaving christianaidministries.org and will be redirected to tgsinternational.com. TGS International is a for-profit subsidiary of Christian Aid Ministries. You may also call 330.893.4828 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. to place an order. 

Haiti Update: Press Release

Dec 20, 2021

Hostages Freed

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

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 11:00 a.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

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

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

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

“‘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.

Scripture quotation from New King James Version

Update on Haiti kidnapping

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

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

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

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

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

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

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:

Christian Aid Ministries | December 1, 2021 2:00 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

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 held 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

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

As our workers in Haiti face the 42nd days 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 11:00 a.m.

Scripture quotations from New King James Version

Update on Haiti kidnapping

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!  

************************************

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.

************************************

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.

************************************

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.

************************************

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!

************************************

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!

************************************

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

Update on Haiti kidnapping

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.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

This is now the 18th day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. While we wait on God to bring resolution to this very difficult and trying circumstance, we believe that God has heard and is hearing our prayers. We believe that He is acting in response to many thousands of fervent prayers that have been sent heavenward.

In times like these, we can turn to the Bible to understand how we should think and pray. “For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

God’s Word brings peace and hope: Our feelings ebb and flow in times of grief and despair. However, meditating on the Scriptures and talking with God can bring peace and hope to people’s hearts, even when they are facing some of the worst situations.

God’s Word tells us how to respond to evil and injustice: If we feel anger and sadness at the injustices of our world, the scriptures tell believers what to do. “Weep with those who weep . . .  Repay no one evil for evil… live peaceably with all men…Do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12). While we ask and plead with God to bring resolution to the heartaches we are experiencing, we can trust the Judge of all the earth to do right in His time.

While our hearts are heavy for those being held hostage, our deep longing is that the kidnappers would come to know and experience God’s great love. While we wish for evil to be stopped in our world, those of us who have received mercy from Jesus for all the wrongs we have done wish for mercy on behalf of those who have not yet experienced His mercy. Our prayer for the kidnappers is that God would “open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me” (Acts 26:18).

Christian Aid Ministries | November 2, 2021 3:45 p.m.

Scripture quotations from New King James Version.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

This is now the 17th day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. Our workers and loved ones are still being held. Voices from around the world continue to cry out to God to sustain the hostages. We desire wisdom from God as we work through this difficult situation.

Throughout the long days of waiting, a special network of global prayer support has gathered around the hostages and their families. Every 15 minutes of the day and night, the torch of prayer is passed on. Some time periods have over 20 individuals or groups praying at once.

If you would like to join the hundreds of individuals or groups who have joined this scheduled prayer effort, send an email to prayers@christianaidministries.org. (If at some point you’re unable to continue, you may send us an email requesting that your name be withdrawn.). Please mention what Eastern Daylight Time period you are committing to pray (e.g. 10:00-10:15 a.m.), your email address, and a phone number if you’d like to receive recorded prayer updates. You may also call (330) 893-2428 if you wish to join the prayer chain.

In addition to this organized prayer effort, we recognize the many thousands—if not millions—of other people who are praying. Your commitment to stand with the hostages and their families in this way is deeply appreciated. God bless you for praying!

Christian Aid Ministries | November 1, 2021 4:00 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

We appreciate the prayers and notes of encouragement we continue to receive. What a wonderful blessing it is when God’s people join together in times of adversity. Hundreds of messages have poured in from the United States, Canada, and forty other countries. Following are a few of the many messages we have received:

“I commit to praying daily until our dear brethren and sisters are safely released.” –Malawi

“Dear fathers, mothers, brother, sisters, friends, church families, and everyone affected by the missing missionaries in Haiti. My heart has been broken for you and your loved ones. I pray over and over every day, and I have wept and fasted, and yet have not seen the answer we have all been aching to see. We all want to see the hostages released safe and sound!” –Tennessee

“Our Father who is in heaven, we pray for the safe release of the seventeen people held captive in Haiti. We pray that the hearts of those who are holding them would change. We pray for strength and peace for family and friends. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen…Many Ethiopian Christians are aware of situation in Haiti, and they are praying too.” –Ethiopia

“We heard of your tragedy, and we empathize with you. We do not only live in a different country; we live on a different hemisphere. We are very far from each other, but we are one in Christ Jesus, and we are children of one Father. Recognizing your pain, our hearts respond in grief, and we ask the Lord to comfort you and strengthen your faith. We implore the Lord that those who have suffered would feel His special closeness and would not doubt His goodness and faithfulness.” –Kazakhstan

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 plan to have staff monitoring and working on the situation throughout the weekend. Please pray for them as they continue to work toward a resolution. We will issue our next public statement on Monday, unless there is a significant change in the situation that we can report on.

Christian Aid Ministries | October 29, 2021 3:45 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

This is now the 13th day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. As we approach the two-week mark, we continue to pray that God would protect the hostages and give them grace to respond with Christ-like love in the face of evil. We pray for the kidnappers, that God would soften their hearts and draw them to Himself. Our prayers are also with the families as they wait day after day for the release of their loved ones.

As we continue this difficult journey, we claim God’s promises and depend on Him to carry us through. “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

Haiti political situation

Millions of Haitians are also facing great difficulties due to ongoing political problems that have intensified in recent days. Haiti is in a state of anarchy with no active government. Gangs are in charge of many areas and controlling the fuel and goods at the seaports.

In many areas fuel is not available and where it is still available it costs an exorbitant amount. Most people are staying close to home because travel is too dangerous. Fear abounds everywhere. Pray that God could bring peace and stability in the midst of this fear and chaos.

“Ah, Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You” (Jeremiah 32:17).

Christian Aid Ministries | October 28, 2021 4:00 p.m.

Scripture quotations from New King James Version.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

This is now the twelfth day since the kidnapping in Haiti took place. The situation remains critical, and we ask for your continued prayers. We again commit the hostages to God’s care and desire that our Lord Jesus be glorified through this difficult situation.

This kidnapping case is of great concern to the U.S., Haitian, and Canadian governments, and they are working for the safe release of the hostages. We took note of yesterday’s White House Press Conference in which the U.S. National Security Advisor said, “The children aspect of this is something the President is quite focused on, to make sure they’re taken care of and they get home okay.”

Join us in praying for the various government officials and agents who are working on this case. May God grant them wisdom as they make decisions.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6).

Christian Aid Ministries | October 27, 2021 1:00 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

As we continue to work toward the release of our workers in Haiti, we are planning another day of special prayer and fasting on Wednesday, October 27. We invite believers from around the world to join us. We again request ongoing prayer for those being held, government officials who are assisting, and the kidnappers themselves.

Recent media attention has focused on the kidnapping of our workers and loved ones, but a civil society group reports that 600 kidnappings in Haiti were recorded from January to September 2021, compared with 231 over the same period last year. While fasting and praying, we encourage you to remember others who are being held hostage as well as those recovering from the experience of being kidnapped.

Occasionally we are asked why our workers were in Haiti. Why travel to dangerous places? Why not let these countries take care of their own issues? These are good questions which deserve an answer.

We live in a very broken world. A world of broken relationships, broken trust, and broken political systems. It is a world of loneliness, fear, and violence. And Jesus came, not just so men could go to heaven when they die, but also to show the kind of a world God intends right here on earth.

God desires a world where the hungry are fed, abandoned orphans are cared for, and where lonely refugees are provided for. Jesus came to redeem this broken world, and has called His church to work with Him. We go to places like Haiti because we have found Jesus and His teachings to be the answer for our own lives and we want others to enjoy the joy, peace, and redemption we have experienced in the kingdom of God.

We travel to Haiti to help, but we can always return to our comfortable lifestyles here in the United States. But many in Haiti do not have this luxury. In their current lawless situation, where anarchy reigns, Haitians live under constant fear. They have no way to escape. For many, every trip to the market is overshadowed by the continual threat of violence. As we continue to pray earnestly for our American staff, we also encourage fervent prayer for the Haitian people.

Christian Aid Ministries | October 26, 2021 12:45 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

It is now the tenth day since our workers and loved ones were kidnapped in Haiti. Today, we have a heartfelt message for you: PLEASE DON’T STOP PRAYING. Don’t grow weary. We sense a great need of your prayers. Your prayers are a vital part of resolving this situation. We don’t know how God will choose to bring resolution, but we desire that His will be done.

24/7 prayer chain: Throughout history, our loving Creator God has taken a special delight in the united prayers of His people. In honor of God’s desire for us to obtain His sovereign help in the day of trouble, we have organized a 24/7 prayer chain for the Haiti kidnapping crisis. Today, we are inviting followers of Jesus from around the world to sign up to pray daily during a 15-minute time period of their choice. If you would like to commit to praying daily until this situation is resolved, send an email to prayers@christianaidministries.org. (If at some point you’re unable to continue, you may send us an email requesting that your name be withdrawn.) Please include what time period (Eastern Daylight Time) you’re committing to pray (e.g. 10:00-10:15 a.m.), your email address, and a phone number if you’d like to receive recorded prayer updates. “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16b).

The seventeen hostages need your prayers, for endurance and faithfulness, as they continue to be held. Pray for their families as they wait for this situation to be resolved. Pray that the gang members could turn to Jesus and enter the kingdom of God. One family member of a hostage expressed a desire that the gang members “follow Jesus by turning their lives over to Him, and to love and serve the men, women, and children of Haiti.”

Thank you for walking with us and lifting this difficult situation to God. Please don’t stop praying.

Christian Aid Ministries | October 25, 2021

We have received various comments about our position on loving those who wrong us. While this teaching has been promoted for many years in Amish, Mennonite, and other conservative Anabaptist communities, we believe this is God’s desire for all people. Click here to read more about this teaching.

Scripture quotations from New King James Version.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

This is the ninth day since our workers were kidnapped in Haiti. Today, we will share some of the many notes of encouragement we have received from around the world.

“Praying often for your precious loved ones and also for the captors’ salvation. My baby is not sleeping well recently, and it has given me new purpose to face nights with little rest, knowing my prayers will move God to act on behalf of His captive children in Haiti.” ––Ohio

“I pray for a safe and speedy return of your staff members. I pray that this incident doesn’t discourage your team from continuing to work in Haiti and I hope God continues to bless your ministries. We will keep you in our prayers.” ––Haiti

“I wanted to write to you to let you know that I am praying for your relatives who are being held hostage in Haiti.  Although I cannot fathom the grief you may be experiencing at this time, I do hope that the Lord will grant you His peace which surpasses all understanding, and that He will comfort you with the knowledge that He is sovereign and in complete control over every detail of every event that ever has or ever will take place.” ––California

“Been praying and will keep on. God cares even about the sparrows and so much more for His children.” ––Brazil

“Just as Peter was called out of the boat, so too did Jesus call your family members to serve in Haiti to be His hands and feet and share the Gospel with the lost. We are praying for those who have been abducted, as well as you—their family and friends. We are also praying for those responsible for this act.” ––Maryland

“I pray and believe that God is working to bring glory to Himself in this situation. We do not know what He may have planned, but we know that it will have a good result in His Kingdom (Romans 8:28).” ––Indonesia

“A scripture that helps me often through trying times is Isaiah 26:3, “You keep him in perfect peace because his mind is stayed on you.”  I pray that this scripture will be a blessing to you. A Christian sister and I get together for a time of prayer and Bible study on Thursdays. We lifted up your loved ones to the throne. May God keep all of you and may your loved ones soon be released to continue their service for the Lord.” ––Eswatini

“We pray that we will see Your hand move to release them. We know that You can do anything. You have shut the mouths of lions and brought men out of a fiery furnace. You have caused prison gates to open to free some of those who have served You. You have routed the enemies of Your people all throughout history, and You have sent Your angels to care for those who have needed you. But Almighty God, even if You don’t, we trust You and Your purposes, knowing that nothing You do or allow in our lives is wasted. We know that nothing can thwart Your purposes, and we trust You for the eternal protection of Your servants and their families. We ask for and trust that You will give Your loved ones, their families, their faith community, and all of us who pray for them, peace that passes anything we can possibly understand…and the eternal protection that no one can take away.” ––South Carolina

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.

Christian Aid Ministries | October 24, 2021 6:15 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

Today marks one week since our workers and loved ones were kidnapped in Haiti. This group is still being held hostage. It has been a week of many tears and thousands—if not millions—of prayers.

As the families of the hostages stated earlier this week, “God invites us to call upon His name in the day of trouble…We thank Him that He is God, and ask Him to hear our prayers and bring our families home.”

One father of a hostage shared about the kidnappers, “We are interested in the salvation of these men and we love them.” Another father said, “As a family we are giving forgiveness to these men. We are not holding anything against them.”

Though the past week has been difficult, the families are united in their desire to follow Jesus’ teaching of forgiveness. “As a group of Christians, our King [Jesus] said that He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance,” a family member shared. “That is our desire for the men who are part of the gang.”

Yesterday we invited people to share encouragement for the families of the hostages. Since then, an outpouring of love has come from around the world, including the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Ireland, Hong Kong, Swaziland, Nigeria, Australia, the Philippines, Mexico, and Brazil. Families have found courage in your words of blessing, written prayers, and stories of God’s faithfulness. You can continue to send these to prayers@christianaidministries.org. Family members appreciate knowing the state or country of the person writing.

One supporter wrote the following note to the families of the hostages: “I have a beautiful mind picture—that of thousands, likely millions of believers joining hands around the globe, their prayers ascending as a sweet incense to the Father of mercies. It matters not so much what denomination, or race, or culture…we are all joined in one common heart-rending plea…Lord, have mercy. Show yourself mighty and strong…We plead that all involved in this situation may remain faithful to the cause of Christ and that ultimately your most high name may be glorified. Amen.”

Many children are praying for the people who have been kidnapped. One three-year-old child prayed that “the naughty people would become good.” Another five-year-old child prayed that “the baby could have milk and the moms and dads and children could have food” and “that there would be an angel sent that could maybe help them.”

Christian Aid Ministries | October 23, 2021 4:00 p.m.

Update on Haiti kidnapping

We are entering day seven since the kidnapping of our staff took place in Haiti. While the group of 17 hostages (6 men, 6 women, and 5 children) are still being held, we continue to face each day with the assurance that our great God is in control. “Thus says God the Lord, Who created the heavens and stretched them out, Who spread forth the earth and that which comes from it, Who gives breath to the people on it, and spirit to those who walk on it: I, the Lord . . . will hold Your hand” (Isaiah 42:5-6).

You may wonder why our workers chose to live in a difficult and dangerous context, despite the apparent risks. Before leaving for Haiti, our workers who are now being held hostage expressed a desire to faithfully serve God in Haiti. One of them said he wants to be of use to bring glory to God, whether at home or abroad. Another shared a desire to use God-given talents to build God’s kingdom while helping those in need. Pray that their commitment to God could become even stronger during this difficult experience.

Would you like to encourage family members of the hostages?

Day after day, families of those held hostage face uncertainty. They long for the return of their loved ones. While we are unable to disclose the personal information of family members, we would like to create a channel through which people can bless them.

Following are some ways you may wish to encourage them:

• Words of encouragement and Bible verses to lift them up during this difficult time. “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing” (I Thessalonians 5:11).
• Written prayers we can share with the families. In this time of distress and tension, they find comfort in prayers written by others. We strongly believe prayers lifted to God’s throne in the name of Jesus are powerful. “Pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17).
• Personal stories of God’s faithfulness to you in times of great difficulty. This would no doubt be a great encouragement to the families of the hostages.

You may send your messages for the families to prayers@christianaidministries.org. Encouraging words 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.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

Christian Aid Ministries | October 22, 2021 2:30 p.m.

Scripture quotations from New King James Version

Haiti kidnapping update

Today, Christian Aid Ministries associates in the United States, Canada, and other countries are observing a special day of prayer and fasting. We invite believers around the world to join us.  We would also like to relate to you a message that family members of the hostages want to share with the world.

Dear Church of Christ around the world,

 Thank you for your prayers on behalf of our family members who are being held hostage in Haiti.

 God has given our loved ones the unique opportunity to live out our Lord’s command to, “love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you” (Matthew 5:44).

 God invites us to call upon His name in the day of trouble. (Psalm 50:15) We thank Him that He is God, and ask Him to hear our prayers and bring our families home.

 We also pray that the light of God’s love might shine out into the darkness of sin, and that the gang members might be freed from their bondage to sin and experience freedom in Jesus Christ.

 Thank you, brothers and sisters in Christ, and PLEASE keep praying!

 The families of the hostages

These families are from Amish, Mennonite, and other Anabaptist communities in Wisconsin, Ohio, Michigan, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Oregon, and Ontario, Canada. They continue to support each other with prayers and encouragement during this difficult time. Times of difficulty have a way of bringing people together. Pray for these families.

We will mention a few other specific things to pray for on this special day of prayer and fasting.

• Pray for the hostages—for their release, that they could endure faithfully, and that they would display Christlike love. Jesus, when nailed to the cross, said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”

• Pray for the kidnappers—that they would experience the love of Jesus and turn to Him. We see that as their ultimate need.

• Pray for government leaders and authorities—as they relate to the case and work toward the release of the hostages. We appreciate the ongoing work and assistance of those knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with kidnapping cases.

Thank you for your prayers. We greatly appreciate the outpouring of support during this difficult time. God bless you.

Christian Aid Ministries | October 21, 2021 1:30 p.m.

Haiti kidnapping update

We are entering day number five since our workers and loved ones were kidnapped in Haiti. We, along with government authorities, continue to work hard to bring them home safely. We appreciate the work of those knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with kidnapping cases.

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.