In the midst of Haiti’s uncertain and challenging environment, one young man, Daniel Jean Bazil living in Jacmel, Haiti, discovered the transformative power of a personal relationship with Jesus.
During his high school years, Daniel had few friends and followed a solitary routine, going to school and heading straight home. Although he had a head knowledge of God, he lacked a heartfelt connection. He viewed God as a distant figure, always ready to punish him for straying from strict rules, leading him into the trap of legalism and causing him to miss out on God’s grace, mercy, and love.
Daniel’s life took a significant turn in September 2019 when he attended a required Bible class at his public high school—a class unlike any he had ever experienced before. Brisso, his Bible teacher (CIDM staff), radiated joy and hope, creating an atmosphere that felt warm and inviting. For the first time, Daniel was introduced to the idea that Jesus Christ wanted to be his personal Savior and friend. This new view of God was profoundly different from what he had always thought—he learned that God was not a distant figure waiting to punish him, but a loving presence eager to embrace him with grace and mercy.
Brisso stressed that the Bible holds the answers to everyday life and underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy balance among one’s relationship with God, family, academics, biblical teaching, and uplifting friendships. He frequently invited students to join him at Lavi Reyel (CIDM’s New Life Discipleship Bible Study) every Saturday, where they could discover more about living a new life in Jesus.
Despite his shyness and uncertainty, Daniel felt a growing curiosity about Brisso’s faith and what he’d been learning in his Bible class. Encouraged by Brisso’s passion for God and the transformative message he shared, Daniel took a big step by deciding to check out Lavi Reyel, even though he didn’t know anyone there.
In 2020, as soon as Daniel arrived at Lavi Reyel that first Saturday, he was captivated. He had never seen a group of young people so fervently hungry for God’s Word, passionately praising Him and friendly. They had something he deeply desired—a personal relationship with Jesus and a sense of community filled with joy, peace, love, and contentment. Once he fully understood God’s plan of salvation, Daniel prayed to receive Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.
After a few months, CIDM’s staff recognized his leadership potential and dedication, inviting him to join the volunteer leadership team. He eagerly embraced this opportunity, and his self-sacrificial servant’s heart shines through in every task. Donate HERE
Currently, Daniel has graduated from high school and attends a reputable local seminary, gaining further head and heart knowledge of the Bible. His growth has been remarkable, and God has gifted him with the ability to teach His Word. Occasionally, he teaches the bible study on Saturdays during Lavi Reyel (shown above). As a volunteer leader, he also oversees the cleaning group, ensuring the space is clean, tidy and welcoming for all.
We are overjoyed to witness Daniel’s transformation into a strong warrior and spiritual leader for God, making a significant impact on his family, community, and country. His journey stands as a powerful testament to the transformative effects of grace and authentic fellowship in Christ.
Thank you for being part of Daniel’s story. Your partnership in prayer and support has allowed God to transform countless lives through CIDM over the past eleven years. DONATE HERE
Please pray for Daniel as God unfolds His beautiful plan for him of godly leadership in his family, community, and country. Additionally, pray for CIDM and our seven Haitian staff members as together we change Haiti, one life at a time.
A Tale of Two Daniels: Scripture’s Influence on a Modern Heart
Just as the Daniel of the Bible remained steadfast in his faith and teachings amidst adversity in a foreign land, our young Haitian Daniel’s journey reflects a similar steadfastness and transformation as he embraces a personal relationship with Jesus in the face of life’s challenges living in Haiti. Here are some parallels between both Daniels:
Faith in Adversity: Both Daniels face difficult circumstances that test their faith. The biblical Daniel stood firm in his beliefs while in Babylon, and our Haitian Daniel navigates life’s challenges in a difficult environment, ultimately finding hope and strength in Christ.
Transformational Guidance: Each Daniel has a mentor who profoundly impacts his faith journey. The biblical Daniel had his friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who supported one another, while our Haitian Daniel is inspired by Brisso, his Bible teacher, who introduced him to a new understanding of God.
Leadership Development: Both Daniels exhibit leadership qualities. The biblical Daniel rose to prominence in the Babylonian court, while our Haitian Daniel is recognized for his potential and invited to join the volunteer leadership team at CIDM, demonstrating a commitment to serve and inspire others. Additionally, he is learning servant leadership in seminary.
Desire for Knowledge: Both Daniels have a deep desire for understanding and wisdom. The biblical Daniel sought knowledge from God to interpret dreams and serve his people, while our Haitian Daniel pursues further education at a local seminary to deepen his understanding of the Bible and is preparing to teach God’s Word the rest of his life.
Impact on Community: Both Daniels contribute significantly to their communities. The biblical Daniel positively influenced the Babylonian kingdom, while our Haitian Daniel is currently making a godly impact on his family, community, and country through his faith and leadership. We believe that God has incredible plans for him to effect change in his nation based on godly principles.
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