The Foundation of Haiti continues to experience more vocations.
The most recent celebration took place in August, when Fr. Dudley Pierre, Superior of the Foundation, presided over newest professions, of Vladimir Lambert, Marc-Innocent Prophète, Matherlikens Stanis, Dickenson Desrivières, Berlensky Cambronne and Jean Mison Duc.
It took place in the Chapel of the Missionary Sisters of Christ the King in Cazeau in Port-au-Prince. Two days later, in the same chapel, Br. Jean Paul Saint-Germain, CSV, was ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Quesnel Alphonse, SMM.
Fr. Robert Jean, CSV, who is a member of the General Council and a native of Haiti, recently reflected on this steady growth in vocations.
“Religious vocations are generally on the rise in Haiti. At least, currently! Most people usually believe in Jesus Christ as a central part of their lives. The Catholic Church, in its social commitment, remains particularly present where the State is absent. Religious communities support the people in their environment of integration as much as possible in the health and education sectors.
“In this socio-ecclesial context, many young people at school and university levels are attracted to religious life because they are witnesses to this reality. There is no lack of interest!
“The young men who enter the Congregation testify to their attraction for the charism of the community. They are fascinated by the way this charism is presented to them. In the vocational camps, the young people learn to better understand Father Querbes’ life, his special attention to catechesis, liturgy and faith education as well as his devotion to the poor. The young people also discover the resilience of the founding father in the face of adversity.
“The testimony of the daily life in the community also has a considerable impact on young people. The joy of fraternity has a positive influence on them. The young men, having already been inhabited by this charism, decide to continue their journey among the Clerics of Saint Viator in order to deepen the call they have received. It is a relevant charism that responds to the needs of the country.”