Johny Oxeda, the founder of the Haitian Refugee Community and pastor of First Haitian Baptist Church Ebenezer in San Diego, relocated to the United States from Haiti in 2010, leaving behind his wife, two sons, and an unborn daughter. Pastor Johny is also the president executive chief commander of the International Christian United Police Chaplain, demonstrating his dedication to both his community and law enforcement.

In Haiti, Oxeda worked as a security provider for high-ranking officials, a role that eventually necessitated his departure for his safety.

After arriving in the United States, Oxeda spent six months obtaining residency. Since his arrival, his primary focus has been on reuniting with his family.

For eight years, his wife and children lived with his wife’s family in Haiti. Oxeda’s attempts to bring them to the United States were repeatedly delayed due to various legal challenges, making his life in the US even more difficult. His deepest wish was to have his family by his side.

Despite feeling isolated in his struggle, Oxeda remained steadfast in his faith, believing that God would help him reunite his family.

Having been a devoted Christian for around 20 years, Oxeda immediately engaged in ministry upon his arrival in the US. However, he found it incredibly challenging to do his pastoral work without his family.

Oxeda maintained contact with his family through Skype, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger, but these virtual connections were no substitute for being together in person.

On May 10 of this year, Oxeda’s family finally joined him in San Diego. The joy and relief of their reunion were beyond words. “It was so good,” he expressed, with evident happiness in his voice.

Though the process was long and arduous, once everything aligned, the family was reunited in just two short weeks. “Everything was simple,” Oxeda reflected, recognizing that it was all part of God’s plan and timing. His family knew he had done everything possible to bring them together, and ultimately, they saw God’s hand guiding them through the eight-year separation.

Since reuniting, the Oxeda family has experienced immense joy and love. The children have enrolled in school, attended football games, gone shopping, and planned their next family outing to the beach. The church community has also come together to support and embrace them.

Ross Shepherd, a leader with the California Southern Baptist Convention church planting initiatives team, has been a supportive ally throughout Oxeda’s efforts to reunite his family. Shepherd even helped the children shop after their arrival in San Diego.

“It’s been a blessing to work with Pastor Johnny,” Shepherd said. “I’m so pleased that the family is finally back together.”

Pastor Oxeda remains committed to his ministry and hopes to inspire others with his story of faith and patience. He envisions his family continuing to serve the Lord and believes that God will ensure everything works out for the best in his ministry and family life.