The Office of Multicultural Ministry stands in prayer and solidarity with the Haitian community.
The Haitian community is one of the vibrant ethnic communities in the Diocese of Columbus. Most members of the community came to the United States bringing with them a deep Catholic faith, rich cultural traditions and a strong commitment to family and parish life. From the very beginning, the Diocese of Columbus has welcomed them with open arms and continues to accompany them pastorally.
The Haitian Catholic community gathers regularly for prayer and the celebration of the Holy Mass under the guidance of its chaplain, Father Gerson Charles. Columbus St. Josephine Bakhita Parish has generously opened its doors to the Haitian faithful and many other ethnic communities, providing a spiritual home where they can worship in their own language and celebrate their faith while remaining united with the wider diocesan family.
The Office of Multicultural Ministry maintains regular contact with the Haitian community and strives to accompany its members, especially during this difficult period following the announcement of the expiration of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for many Haitians on July 24.
The office continues to participate in the community’s liturgical celebrations, demonstrating that the Church is present with her people not only in times of joy but also in moments of uncertainty and hardship. The office also communicates with the leaders of the Haitian community to listen carefully to their concerns and identify the support they need.
The Church’s mission has always been to walk with those who suffer.
Jesus reminds us, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Likewise, our Lord teaches us, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35). These words are not simply an invitation but a Gospel mandate calling every Christian to welcome, protect, accompany and support those in need.
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As Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly emphasized, migrants and refugees are not to be seen as strangers or burdens but as our brothers and sisters whose dignity must always be respected. He has encouraged the Church to remain close to those who are forced to live with uncertainty, reminding the faithful that Christian hope is expressed through solidarity, compassion and concrete acts of love. His message echoes the Gospel call to accompany those who are vulnerable and ensure that no one feels abandoned.
As an expression of this solidarity, St. Josephine Bakhita Parish organized a special prayer service for the Haitian community earlier this month. All ethnic communities throughout the diocese were invited to participate. This gathering was an opportunity to pray together, strengthen one another in faith and witness to the unity of the Body of Christ, where people of every nation, language and culture are one family in the Lord.
As Catholics, we continue to pray for our Haitian brothers and sisters and for all immigrants who face uncertainty and hardship. We remain hopeful that positive solutions will emerge and that families will be able to live in peace and security. Above all, we place our trust in God’s providence, knowing that He never abandons His children.
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The Psalmist assures us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). With this confidence, the Office of Multicultural Ministry renews its commitment to stand beside the Haitian community in prayer, pastoral care and Christian solidarity.
Together, we entrust all those affected by these challenges to the loving care of our Lord, Who is always faithful and Whose mercy endures forever.
