Ep 126: From Voodoo to Worship - One Man's Journey to Faith

Plays On Word Radio

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"What happens when God marks you for ministry before you can even walk? Meet Bastia, whose extraordinary spiritual journey begins with a divine appointment when a stranger arrives at his parents' home in Haiti with a message: "God wants that little boy."

Though born into a family steeped in voodoo practices, this moment sparked a transformation that would eventually lead his entire family to faith.
Bastia's testimony weaves through Haiti's complex spiritual landscape, where voodoo remains deeply entrenched even among churchgoers. "Almost all of the Catholic are involved in voodoo," he explains, describing it as "a religion where people worship the devil and do any kind of bad things." This spiritual stronghold, which many Haitians credit for their independence, stands in stark contrast to Psalm 33:12: "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord."
Though active in church music ministry from a young age, Bastia admits he was more performer than worshipper until a profound moment of conviction. While leading an a cappella group he'd formed, he heard a voice warn: "Bastia, you may send so many people to heaven and you, you won't go." That divine intervention led to his genuine surrender to Christ and complete transformation.
The cultural contrast between Haiti and America forms another fascinating thread in Bastia's story. His move to Wisconsin after marrying an American missionary left him speechless with culture shock. From seeing police dogs to experiencing his first buffet ("I almost killed myself!"), his humor and insight bring to life the jarring transition from a place without electricity or running water to American abundance. Yet rather than growing comfortable, this exposure to plenty only strengthened his resolve to return to Haiti after Bible college, bringing hope to communities still struggling with extreme poverty and now, increasing gang violence.
Listen as Bastia shares how God's call on his life has come full circle, from that first prayer over an infant to his current ministry in Haiti's central plateau. His journey reminds us that God's plans transcend circumstances, cultures, and even our own understanding of our purpose.

The School of Grace at Calvary Chapel Caneille: https://www.caneille.org/
Interested in more information about the mission at CC Caneille? Please contact Calvary Chapel Waupaca at https://calvarychapelwaupaca.org/

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Plays on Word Radio (00:00:00)

2. Meeting Bastia from Haiti (00:03:30)

3. Current Situation in Haiti (00:05:30)

4. From Voodoo to Faith: Bastia's Testimony (00:11:40)

5. Understanding Voodoo in Haiti (00:19:30)

6. Culture Shock: Haiti to America (00:21:45)

7. Called to Ministry and Bible College (00:25:45)

8. Future Plans and Closing Prayer (00:28:55)