By Cate Biro

That was my initial thought about Haiti, it sounded both exciting and scary. Something New, can bring the specter of the unknown and at the time I first heard of Haiti I already had too many unknowns in my life. So, I listened and thought about Haiti, knowing the unknown was too scary just then. God had other ideas. I felt like He was keeping Haiti very present in my thoughts. A few years later when my life had turned entirely upside down, everything was scary and unknown, I decided that I needed something New and positive so, I decided to join the Haiti committee. I hadn’t thought to travel to Haiti. My plan was just to help. So, I did something New and a few months later I was in a village in Haiti. I don’t know what I expected but, I didn’t expect to be moved so profoundly. The people of the villages taught me grace and humility. They live in abject poverty, without any of the conveniences that I have in my life and yet they are positive and full of hope.
Then Father Magloire asked us to do Something New, to create a seminar for the Teachers in the villages. We didn’t quite know what that meant but, it was certainly a small thing to ask that would have a large impact. From the very first teacher training the teachers were professional and engaged. We could bring different teaching methods to the villages and add to the professionalism of the teachers. The teacher training has grown in attendance. The teachers felt comfortable enough with us to suggest topics for the training. Being involved with the Haiti committee has taught me that doing something New even if it’s a little scary. Something New can be one of the most memorable experiences in your life.

We invite you to “do a new thing” this Lent. Join us in supporting Haiti or choose another way to get involved in the parish. As always, we appreciate your ongoing prayers and contributions.

Your contribution of $150 (the annual cost to educate one child), or whatever you are able to give, is greatly appreciated.

Be sure to use the drop-down menu and select “Haiti Lenten Alms”
or
send a check to the parish office with “Haiti Lenten Alms” in the memo.

Renmen Bondye, Sèvi Lòt Moun, Fòm Disip
Love God, Serve Others, Form Disciples.