Monthly Archives: August 2021

Our team in Jacmel is preparing to go to Les Cayes to train women to use buckets and filters to provide clean water for the people in need! Thank you for your support in helping Haitians to help themselves.

On Saturday, August 14, after the devastating earthquake in the morning and a few aftershocks in the afternoon and evening, we received a message from Caritas that there is need for medications and clothing clothing to be sent to Les Cayes and Jeremie. The earthquake had destroyed buildings, homes, and roads. It killed and wounded hundreds of people. We immediately went to the container to get whatever clothing, shoes, sheets and towels we had. We also were able to pack medications, bandages and surgical gloves. The plan was that on Monday Caritas would pick up the boxes and go to Les Cayes with them. We are vigilant now of Tropical S torm Grace heading our way and moving towards Les Cayes. We are praying that God will be merciful in this area where people do not have shelter but are in tents or on the streets right now.

This morning at about 8:30 a.m., we experienced an earthquake. We were in our rooms, praying when each of us experienced something different. One sister thought she was dizzy; another felt her room spin; and another felt her chair shake so she thought the cat was underneath the chair. Sr. Inga yelled, “Earthquake; get out of the house!” Without hesitancy, we all ran. As we went outside, we could hear everyone in our area yelling and screaming. Dogs and animals were also crying out! We are okay, and there is no damage here. Now we are in danger of a tsunami. Please pray for Haiti!

On Sunday, August 8, 16 young children and teens celebrated their First Holy Communion at the Felician Haiti Mission. After two years of faith formation at our mission, the children and teens were ready to receive for the first time the Body and Blood of Jesus. Preparations for the day were many, and it took a village to make it happen.

Two months ago, the measuring and sewing began as Sisters Izzy and Julitta went to the market to buy the materials for the communion dresses and robes. After taking measurements, the sewing began with the help of Junior and Rosemarie who made the crowns. There was the learning and practicing of dances and, of course, choir rehearsal.

We also wanted to be sure everyone had the opportunity to continue the celebration. With the help of Annette, Adeline and Melinda, the sisters made and beautifully decorated 16 cakes.

The Lord gave us a beautiful sunny day to embrace us all, especially those who received him in the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist for the first time.

The children were ready, and the procession began with joy and praise. The children prepared the readings, the intercessions and two liturgical dances–one for the Gloria and one for the Magnificat after Communion. After the final blessing, the children processed to the statue of Mary to offer their hearts and to ask Mary for protection in this life as they make their journey to Heaven.

On Saturday, August 7, the Felician Haiti Mission celebrated the sacrament of Baptism for twelve young people and one adult. It was a beautiful day that the Lord had made to welcome new disciples into the Church.