A letter from Pix Mahler, regional liaison for Haiti, in Virginia
May 2011
Since the earthquake of Jan. 12, 2010, much attention has been focused on the areas that the media presents to the world of fallen houses, displaced people and a continuing great need in the urban areas. While there is truth in this picture, it is only a portion of the reality of Haiti. I have been witness to another spirit of Haiti — l'espwa (hope) — that has NOT been highlighted. In recently produced video clip by PC(USA)/PDA l'espwa is tangible. The video from Willys Geffard — our partner in ACT Alliance/CRWRC (Christian Reformed World Relief Committee) in Haiti — features Willys reflecting on the progress of ongoing house rebuilding programs and the hope and determination of the Haitian people.
There is another area of Haiti that has been equally affected and does not receive the media attention similar to that of blue tarps and crowded urban areas. This demographic of Haiti was not only affected by a mass emigration to the rural areas but continues to be affected by what appears to be people with good intentions. Note the opening statement in an article in the Joining Hands March newsletter: “Haiti can feed itself, if given half a chance and an equitable share of resources.”
I invite and challenge you to read, learn and accompany our Haitian brothers and sisters by reading more:
- Presbyterians at work around the world — Haiti
- Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Response in Haiti
- Presbyterians Today Magazine, March 2011 cover story: “Haiti a year later”
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) maintains several partnerships in Haiti. These include farmers’ organizations FONDAMA/MPP, the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti and partners of Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance.
I believe the Haitian people are and will continue to do what the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti stated: “ ‘Ayiti Leve Kanpe Pou ou Mache.’ [Haiti, Stand Up and Walk.] Haiti needs all of its sons and daughters to work in solidarity to rebuild, to get Haiti back to its feet …. In this spirit we gather as a community, as a church, to pray together and to build up a team to not only work for the church, not only to rebuild our church, but to rebuild our country. Since we believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we believe in the resurrection of all of us and of Haiti.”
Sa ki fē pwomès bliye, sa k’ap espere sonje.
Those who make promises forget, those who are hoping remember.
In Christ’s service,
Pix Mahler
The 2011 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, p. 294
Give to Pix’s sending and support. [You can always give online. See the Give box in the left column of every page. —Ed.]
