Support for the joint appeal by the Roman Catholic Church and the Protestant Federation of Haiti for prayer for peace, justice and integrity

Letter to the churches and Christian communities in Haiti, 6 May 2002.

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

It was a great joy for me to receive the joint appeal of the Roman Catholic Church and the Protestant Federation of Haiti, calling for a time of worship and prayer for peace, justice and integrity this coming 11 and 12 May.

This common action, in which all the people of Haiti are invited to take part, is a strong sign of the determination of the churches to promote a new awareness and a radical change in Haitian society. An act of reverence before God, which gathers together and involves as many church members as possible, is a deeply Christian way of saying No to violence, injustice, falsehood and corruption. By turning to God, the Christian community can make a new start, drawing confidence and strength from the One who said, "See, I am making all things new."

In the name of the World Council of Churches and its member churches throughout the world, I offer you our support and our solidarity. I assure you that we are in communion with you as sisters and brothers. I would encourage all the churches, all Christian communities and all faithful Christians in Haiti to participate in this time of worship and prayer. I applaud your initiative in calling on Christians to dress in white, as a sign of their common commitment and so that your action may be visible, in the unity of all.

In making this new start, you will be setting out on a long road together. You will need perseverance. Know that you are not alone. The people of Haiti have many friends. The churches of Haiti are part of a network of love, kindness and solidarity. We want to walk this road with you.

God bless you, and God bless the people of Haiti. 

Konrad Raiser
WCC general secretary