STA Haiti Fund 2021-2022 End-of-the-Year Report to the Parish
Belle-Rivière, Haiti: A Partnership of Two Faith Communities
St. Jean-Marie Vianney, Belle-Rivière, Haiti and St. Thomas Aquinas, Indianapolis, Indiana
Founded on the Gospel Call to Respond and Connected by Eucharist
On the third Sunday of the month people of both parishes remember and pray for each other as we celebrate Eucharist in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. In the breaking of the bread and the sharing of the cup we affirm our connectedness through Jesus. He continues to call us to walk with our sisters and brothers by providing monetary, informational, and hands-on support.
Since 1990 generous giving on the part of St. Thomas Aquinas parishioners and the many friends of Belle-Rivière has resulted in significant improvements to the quality of life in this mountainous Haitian village. These include the establishment of a K-13 education system, a school lunch program, water filtration and support for the medical clinic, just to name a few. Once a year parishioners and friends collect school supplies, clothing, household goods, and more to send to the people of Belle-Rivière.
Communication between B-R and STA is frequent and on-going. The Haitian pastor provides updates on the school, the medical clinic, and accounts for funds received. We are told of projects completed and current needs, sometimes with photos, and videos. In turn, the Haiti Committee conveys these messages to the STA parish through an annual report, news updates, photo/info displays, and website links.
Haiti meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 7p.m. in the Bethany Room. Any parishioner is welcome to attend. Opportunities exist for all levels of time and talent in this vital STA ministry. If you are inclined to share your treasure, donations can be made in the following ways:
- Checks can be mailed to: STA Haiti Fund, 4625 N. Kenwood Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46208
- On-line donations are accepted at https://staindy.weshareonline.org/
- Parishioners may also use the purple envelopes in their bi-monthly packets.
100% of all donations are used to directly benefit the people of Belle-Riviere.
In addition, Haitian coffee, chocolate, and artifacts can be purchased through a partnership with Singing Rooster. Every purchase earns a small profit for our sisters and brothers in Haiti, using this link only: https://singingrooster.org/partner/685.
Mesi Anpil! Thanks to all of those who contribute to this program through their prayers and/or their financial support. In the words of our current Pastor, Pere Jean Philippe, “Heaven will be grateful to you and may all the celestial powers surround you as well as the parishioners and benefactors of your parish for your testimony of love towards the parish of Belle-Rivière.”
For more information please contact: Steve Bezy, steve.vicki.bezy@sbcglobal.net