Jean Denis Ormeus, whose background is in education science, has been tutoring the kids at the Lighthouse Children’s Home for over five years. Through these years he has not only successfully helped the kids advance in their studies, but also become a trusted friend and positive male role model.

We asked Jean to share a little bit about himself, his work, and his faith.

What do you remember about your first day at the Lighthouse?

The first day I taught at the Lighthouse was May 4, 2015. I remember the way the kids looked at me, and I thought to myself, What can I do to get to know them?

What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in the kids since you started working with them?

They care more about school and are more respectful of others.

What’s the hardest thing about your job?

The hardest thing for me in this job is when the government changes time in the fall, meaning I leave the Lighthouse in the dark. [The sun will set in Haiti at 5:16pm when the time changes this weekend. Insecurity is a major issue and the risk increases at night.]

What does a normal day look like for you at the Lighthouse?

I check what assignments and lessons the kids have for that day. Then I split them into a study group and a homework group and switch halfway with them. Before I go, I have everyone recap what they’ve learned.

Do you have a favorite memory at the Lighthouse?

In December 2015, we sat down and had a beautiful meal together and the adults gave the kids advice on how to behave in society. I saw them put these words into practice and that made me very happy.

Just for fun, what do you think each of the kids will be doing in 10 years?

Anne Marie will be an artist. Kimberly maybe a beautician. I think Robenson will be a DJ and Fedner a camera man or have a business. Peterson will be an electrician and Johnny an engineer. I’m not sure for Adriano.

How does your faith in Christ impact your work?

He makes me more humble and encourages me to always share what I know with those in need.

Is there any particular Bible verse that motivates you?

“Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7

Tell us about your family.

My wife and I have been together for 9 years. We understand each other. I love her very much. She is my role model.

What do you do in your free time?

Sing, pray, read and listen to music.

Have there been any moments that changed your life?

The moment that changed my life was when I was baptized because I met the blood of Christ who washed away all sins and gave me the assurance of eternal life.

The other thing that changed my life is when I started working. I was able to meet my needs.

With so many organizations in Haiti, why would someone support JiHM?

JIHM helps many children in education in Haiti, and we know that education is the first element for a developing country.

How can we pray for you?

You can pray for me to love my work more every day and to have a lot of love and support for all the children I work with.

We are so thankful for Jean’s service for over five years to the Lighthouse kids! As a side note, Jean has also been responsible for tutoring a handful of older kids who needed one-on-one help to prepare them to integrate into a classroom at Grace Emmanuel School. Read Mike’s story here.

Kristi Bucher has served as Communications Manager for Jesus in Haiti Ministries since 2014. She currently lives in Minnesota with her husband, Nathan, and two kids. Kristi and Nathan lived in Haiti from 2012–2014.