Dominican Republic Update

We have been having a wonderful time here in the sunny Dominican Republic. We spent the first two days resting and visiting with family (remember Ruben's family had never met all of his children). We didn't realize how much we needed the rest, praise God for so many aunts who fight to take care of the children. We've had many divine moments right here within the family. Family members have opened up to us in such sweet ways, its as if they've been waiting for someone to come to help them. Their hearts are so ready to receive the truth, discipleship is so needed here.We've also spent time traveling throughout the country to "spy out the land". It was great for our children to see how some live here. We found 15 acres of fruitful land for sale in a town where resorts are being built. It would be great to build the orphanage there. We also spent some time looking at houses here in the city of Santiago and visiting different neighborhoods within the city.We visited a primary school in a poor town and read stories to the children. We spent time telling them how special they are to God. They were so tender, I wanted to take them all home with me! We also visited an orphanage in Jarabacoa and spent some time with a family of 5 children who were abandoned by their parents. Its so awesome to see how God has restored those children. There are so many children here in need. So many whose parents just abandon them, so many whose parents died of AIDS, so many on the street trying to make it...all alone. It breaks my heart. We also took the children to swim in the river at Jarabacoa's water falls, this is the country's 2nd highest mountain peak...the DR has the carribbean's highest mountain peaks. They had a blast in the river.We went to the church were Ruben grew up yesterday and Ruben shared with the congregation for a little bit. Everyone was so happy to see him doing well and with such a large family. Our children have been lights everywhere they go as well; family, neighbors and friends keep asking us what our secret is-they've never seen such obedient children. This gives us a great platform for ministry.We also visited the village where Ruben's family ministers. We had a church service with them and visited many of the families there. Their hearts are so sweet and they are so ready to give the little they have. I was convicted by their willingness to give. The poverty in that village is disheartening...I could barely take it, yet all of their faces were filled with joy because they've all come to know Jesus. He really is all we need and they know that for sure.Last night was spent in church, then ministering one on one to those around us. I'm excited about the work that God is doing here and we would be honored to join Him in ministering to Dominicans. Please keep us in your prayers. We love you so much and we miss you all. The Dominguez family