A church challenged to match monies spent on Christmas gifts with a donation to a charity helping orphans in Haiti, raised more than $7,000 for the cause.

The congregation of the Centenary United Methodist Church averages just over 40 people.

Between them they were able to raise $7,226 in aid of the Eden Garden Orphanage in Haiti, which they presented to Bermudian Phillip Rego to assist his missionary work there.

The facility was founded by Frenchman Charles Le Morzellec and his wife Gigi ten years ago to give destitute street children food and shelter.

A meeting with Mr. Le Morzellec inspired Mr. Rego to become involved. He has since raised more than $40,000 for the orphanage, which requires $5,000 a month just to operate.

Said Mr. Rego yesterday: "I am so grateful to Centenary United Methodist Church and the Bermuda Union of Teachers, which gave a cheque for $5,500.

"The needs of the children and the community in Haiti are so great, but I've stopped worrying about where the money will come from. I've simply given it over to God and the money finds its way.

"I've driven past Centenary for years, but I'll never drive by it again without thinking about the big power that can exist within the hearts of even a small congregation.

"The donation was a total surprise and I'm glad (Pastor Laurie Pierce Tingley) challenged her church to donate to this fund as there is a great need for it in Haiti."

The former entrepreneur sold his company last year, to dedicate his life to helping children in developing countries.

The funds most recently received will be put towards the purchase of solar panels or used to make improvements in the school or the orphanage.

He said: "I plan on going to Haiti next month. There I would to be able to better determine where their funds should go."

Three high school boys will accompany Mr. Rego on his next visit and he is open to taking more in the future.

"I would like to take them there and let them see how they live as the majority of the country is (filled with) young people who have been left to their own device I guarantee there would be a change in them."

For more information log onto: www.edengardenorphanage.info.

If you would like to help, e-mail Mr. Rego at: feedmylambsministry@gmail.com or telephone 535-8934.

You can also donate directly to the charity's Bank of Bermuda account at: 010305498012.