Dominican Republic? Why the DR?

A few years ago, I didn't even know where the Dominican Republic was, much less that it existed. I took my first trip out of the country on my first mission trip ever with my high school and travelled into this tiny Spanish-speaking country. Little did I know that it would soon captivate my heart and overwhelm my thinking. Every day this tiny country filled with resilient, joyful people was in my mind, in my thoughts, and in my prayers. 

I have an opportunity to return to the DR again this summer. I have stepped up as the intern director for DR Missions and thus have the chance to go for an extended internship - 12 weeks. 

You're probably wondering what I do while I'm there.. 

The missionaries who live in San Cristobal started their ministry with an orphanage and feeding program. As their ministry expanded, they were able to extend themselves into the community more and more and are now active visitors in the nearby refugee camp, hospital, Haitian batey, and other parts of the community. 

I spend my days in the orphanage working with kids and loving on them. Whether it's just holding a sleepy baby or running around and chasing each other, I just love them. There are about 15 girls in the orphanage and 115 kiddos in the feeding program. It's always a treat to be around them. Their joy and bright personalities are so fun and exciting. 

Another thing we do is go to the nearby refugee camp. We usually start out each week with a prayer walk, stopping for people who may be sick or hurting and offer them God's blessing and comfort. We often follow up later in the week with a medical clinic which provides basic medical needs to the people there. 

We also travel to the nearby (FREE) hospital. We split up (men and women) and we (the women) go to the maternity ward and offer to pray over newborn babies. We also give them basic baby supplies - baby shampoo, washcloths, and a onesie - and give them a photo of their child, which is often something they do not have the luxury of receiving. 

There are so many amazing things that I love being a part of in the Dominican Republic. The missionaries who live there are extraordinary people who have a passion for the people of the DR. 

If you would like to help me get to the DR, you may email me at kristenclements44@gmail.com, Facebook.com/krisclem, or just use the "Donate" button on this page to send me financial support. 

Thank you for all that you do in my life and please keep me in your prayers. 

-Kristen