Haitian bishops deplore nation’s corruption, fratricidal struggles

December 17, 2013

Recalling that Jesus Christ called for repentance in a land torn by rival factions, Haiti’s bishops issued a Christmas message decrying “endless fratricidal struggles for power.”

The bishops also lamented “lack of respect for the other, norms, and laws,” “moral degradation,” and “administrative mismanagement and corruption.” Like the Holy Family, “many Haitian families continue to flee facing the sea, risking their lives by crossing the border, suffering humiliation, rejection, exclusion and the denial of their fundamental rights. In their travel abroad in search of a better life they find abuse, degradation, xenophobia and even death.”

In the midst of these struggles, “the joy of the Gospel fills the heart and life of those who encounter Jesus,” the bishops said, quoting from Pope Francis’s recent apostolic exhortation.

 

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Further information:

• Message de Noël de la Conférence des Evêques Catholiques d’Haïti (CEH)
• "Just like the Holy Family, many Haitian families continue to flee risking their lives": the Bishops' message (Fides)