Moving Mountains in Haiti
There’s an old Haitian proverb and it goes something like this:
“There are mountains beyond mountains.”
“There are mountains beyond mountains.”
For years, St. Bridget and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart have partnered as a beacon of light in the Haitian village (and parish) of Carissade. In years past, parishioners have donated their time and talents to aid the people of Carissade by building a church, a school, a corn mill, two wells, and a cafeteria.
In many ways, Haiti is in stark contrast with the United States. Not only is the country impoverished, but it is historically met with challenge after challenge, from poverty and starvation to gang violence and natural disasters.
In Haiti, children often attend school in order to make sure they are fed that day. It is a culture of extreme poverty, but with hard-working and happy people.
I have never had the chance to see Haiti, but the stories I hear all capture the same sentiment:
“Material wealth is in severe lack, but joy is in abundance.”
As I reflected on these stories, I started to see this relationship as a profound reminder of the work we are called to as disciples of Christ. Even though Haiti might seem like an extreme example, it is a reminder that even the hardest challenges can yield the greatest reward.
Remember that as Jesus entered the desert for 40 days of prayer and fasting, he was preparing for the suffering of his crucifixion. Be comforted in that suffering and self-mortification are indeed an invitation from God to draw us closer to him.
While we strive to reach perfection in this life, we may even find that there truly are mountains beyond mountains; but take comfort in knowing that in this place we find God.
Remember our brothers and sisters in Carissade in your prayers this Lent, they are praying for you too!
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