January 22, 2010
How parishes in the diocese are linked to Haiti
By PAUL R. LEINGANG (Message editor)
At least 20 parishes in the Diocese of Evansville have a “twin” in Haiti, according to information drawn from the website, www.Haitindiana.org, an information site for the Diocese of Evansville Parish Twin-ning Program of the Americas. (Related: List of twin parishes in diocese, Haiti)
The program serves those in need in Haiti by
- Encouraging linkages between Catholic parishes, insti-tutions and individuals in the United States and Canada with parishes and institutions in Haiti.
- Developing models for parish actions.
- Encouraging prayerful solidarity with our sisters and bro-thers in Haiti.
- Providing resources and support in religious, educational, me-dical and economic areas.
- Promoting awareness among Catholics of the injustices present in Haiti and our Gospel call to respond.
At least twice annually a report is sent from the Haitian parish to the sister parish in the United States. This letter provides an accounting of how the funds and supplies have been used. The following are typical uses for ongoing needs:
- Religious instruction — Haitian parishes most often use the funds received through the Twinning Program for religious instruction and promoting the faith.
- Schools — Many Haitian parishes also run schools because government-run schools are often irregular and prone to being closed for long periods of time.
- Medicine — Haitian parishes also staff and supply medical dispensaries to treat illness such as malaria, intestinal parasites, dengue and more. Nutrition centers help fight rampant malnutrition, and provide mother and infant care.
For more detailed information, email ParishProgram@aol.com, call (615) 356-5999, or write to Parish Twinning Program of the Americas, 208 Leake Avenue, Nashville, TN 37205.