What is Happening in Haiti?

Good Shepherd has been engaged in discussions, visits, and financial assistance for the past four years with St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Haiti. Recent turmoil - in the Diocese and in the Country - has made contact extremely difficult. This is an update on the situation. Your prayers for the people of Haiti and the children and families of St. Paul’s School are deeply appreciate.     

Turmoil in the Diocese
The Episcopal Diocese of Haiti is in turmoil. Results of Haiti’s recent Episcopal election are being challenged and the process leading to an investigation has begun. The Very Rev. Joseph Kerwin Delicat was elected June 2 as bishop coadjutor, a position that places him in line to replace the Rt. Rev. Jean Zache Duracin as diocesan bishop. Duracin is to retire in March 2019.

The presiding bishop, Michael Curry has received notification of contestation of the election. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry has begun working with officers of Province II to prepare an investigation. Conclusion – there is no one to replace Duracin when he retires and the diocese is split between two opposing factions.

We have not heard from Fr Markendy Jean at St Paul’s Episcopal School where Good Shepherd has provided financial assistance for teacher salaries for the past 4 years. We eagerly wait for his reply to our emails and texts. Our friend Serena Beeks plans to go to Haiti in March. Hopefully she will be able to get information about St Paul’s.

Turmoil in the Country
Businesses and government offices slowly reopened across Haiti after deadly demonstrations over prices that had doubled for food, gas and other basic goods in recent weeks amid allegations of government corruption. A Haitian Senate investigation has alleged embezzlement by at least 14 former officials in ex-President Michel Martelly's administration, but no one has been charged.

Public transportation resumed in the capital, Port-au-Prince, where people began lining up to buy food, water and gas as crews cleared barricaded streets.

Hundreds of thousands of Haitians had protested to demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moise. At least seven people have died in the protests.

Prayer

Prayer for people in need is an essential part of Christian faith. It brings us into communion with God, where our hearts can be tuned to the needs of others — especially those who are suffering. Please pray for Haitians access to necessary supplies, including food, water and fuel, for protection and for peace, direction and wisdom.