A New Momentum in Hope

It has been several years since the Vincentian Marian Youth in Haiti has been striving to survive thanks to the efforts of different local groups, as the national council had been dissolved for about four years due to the country’s sociopolitical situation. However, we, the members of the association, endowed with a sense of resistance and belonging, renew our promise while opening ourselves to this new phase, which is to continue the mission entrusted to us by Saint Catherine of the Virgin Mary. This year, with the support of our chaplain, Reverend Father Dieuvens Pierre CM, our counselor, Sister Anchela Magophy DC, and a provisional committee created to organize the extraordinary assembly of the VMY in Haiti, everything became a reality.

“Youth, let us commit even more to bring the light of Christ to Haiti”

This was the theme of our national assembly, organized at the Daughters of Charity in Port-au-Prince, the capital of the country, from July 12 to 14, 2024. We experienced this assembly time in prayer, joy, enthusiasm, and team spirit. It was a very strong moment in our history that further strengthened our sense of belonging; the Masses celebrated and experienced with fervor and devotion, moments of prayer, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, the Rosary, Lectio Divina, conferences, and workshop sessions were genuinely enriching. We can say that we experienced extraordinary things under the gaze of our Mother Mary. We truly felt like a family, as the Vincentian Family Council accompanied us to the opening and closing Masses, all the accompanying sisters were present with us throughout the assembly, and the mission priests visited us and celebrated Mass with us. Finally, the big day arrived for the elections; our expectations were met as we could elect a new national council for the proper functioning of the association. “By union and counsel, one overcomes all things” (St. Vincent de Paul). This quote from St. Vincent perfectly encapsulates the meaning of this significant event experienced with faith, trust, determination, and courage.

In essence, this unforgettable moment will always be etched in our hearts. Together, we have promised the new council our support and collaboration to continue working on expanding the VMY in other provinces of Haiti.

TO JESUS WITH MARY!

Alphonse Paulina,

VMY Haiti