Raphaëlla is a bubbly and sweet sixth grade student at our school in Haiti. In most ways, she is your typical kid who loves to play soccer with friends and learn about French and History in school, but through a significant life experience last year, Raphaëlla’s faith journey was transformed. She learned about the healing power of Jesus in a new way and that experience continues to have a huge impact in her life today!
As the second oldest child, Raphaëlla is growing up in a big family with four siblings. Her mom is a strong presence and role model in her life and was the first person to introduce Raphaëlla to Jesus at a very young age. Raphaëlla has fond memories of her mom taking her and her siblings to church on Sundays and she loves that her mom teaches her how to pray and live right.
In a recent conversation with Raphaëlla, we asked her what it means to her to be a Christian. Raphaëlla responded by saying that it means to have a “new life in Jesus!” and reflected on a personal healing experience. Last year, Raphaëlla and her mom became very sick. With limited access to quality healthcare in Haiti, common illnesses can quickly become life-threatening. Through prayer and believing, Raphaëlla and her mom both witnessed the healing power of Jesus and their bodies were restored to good health.
That healing experience continues to have a significant impact on Raphaëlla and how she lives today. Her favorite verse is Exodus 14:14, which translates to “The Lord is fighting for us. Peace be with you.” in Haitian Creole. Raphaëlla loves the promise in this verse that we can have peace because the Lord is fighting our battles. She understands what it means to have a new life in Jesus and she shares that with others as she reminds her siblings and classmates that they are important and loved by Him.