A missionary has to deal with the property issue every time they are involved with a construction project. Why? Because as missionaries we are often responsible for missions monies directed towards the project. We have a responsibility to protect the interests of the donors. But even greater is the responsibility we have to the Lord and His kingdom. This investment of missions funds, just like any donation to a church, demands accountability. Often the missionary serves as a conduit to meet the needs.
Securing ministry properties is a must. Recently, I had to talk to a local pastor who is running a school for Haitian children. In our country the Haitian community is very marginalized. Many are illegally in the country, or with lapsed legal papers. Very few of their children are in the public school system. They don't speak Spanish, they don't have legal birth certificates, they may not have the income for the public school
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| Debbie and Ryan Pauly Visit the Haitian School |
We have served as channels in one way or another to provide nearly $5000.00 US for this project. The lastest expense was a hand dug well on the property. Their building is made of what we would consider scrap lumber in the United States. We donated some used student desks to help and some sports equipment. Funds paid for the floors, walls, bathrooms, and roof of the building. The donors were thrilled that they could make a difference in these young lives. As humble as the surroundings are, there is a sense of peace and joy in the school. The children look happy. The pastor and his small staff are providing a good education to about 60 children, who would otherwise have no education.
The problem is that the school is functioning on a piece of property that belongs to the pastor's daughter. We would love to help provide a better facility for this school. But when approaching churches in the US for help, there is always the question of who owns the land. There is a risk that one day the daughter will sell the
