Washington D.C., Aug 8, 2010 / 16:26 pm
A delegation sent by the U.S. Catholic bishops has returned from Haiti after observing relief efforts for the January earthquake. The country is at a “crossroads” and must not lose hope, commented the delegation, which made specific recommendations regarding further recovery work.
Archbishop of Miami Thomas Wenski and Bishop of Brooklyn Nicholas DiMarzio led a delegation from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in a visit from July 26 to August 2. According to a USCCB press release, the delegation also traveled to the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic to assess problems Haitians face there.
“This is a pivotal moment in Haiti’s history which requires cooperation and patience,” stated Archbishop Wenski. “Haiti is at a crossroads and it is crucial that the international community not lessen its commitment to the rebuilding process.”
“It is clear that efforts to clean up and recover from the earthquake are progressing slowly,” the archbishop also said. “However, the international community must remain steadfast in working with the Haitian government to reconstruct the country and strengthen its institutions. The survival and long-term future of the Haitian people are at stake.”