Through Information OMI, I want to let our Oblates in Haiti know that the members of the General Council, gathered here in Rome in plenary session, and myself, and as I believe all the Oblates around the world, stand in solidarity with them at this difficult time of the earthquake. Many Oblates and friends approach us for news and they ask how they can help.

We have not yet been able to establish contact with Port-au-Prince. We have learned that Scholastic Brother Weedy Alexis has died in the catastrophe, among the many, many other victims. Our prayers and sympathies go to his family and the Oblate community. Thousands find themselves trapped, wounded or without shelter and need assistance; many of them are relatives and friends of our confreres.

It seems that the rest of our Oblates have not been harmed. We know that the theologate building has been destroyed, the new part of the provincial house as well, and the homes of many people the Oblates know. Our General Treasurer is sending out a letter with some explanations to help those who wish to direct donations to the Province of Haiti in response to the disaster. Please contact him directly if you wish more specific information. Our Oblates on the ground are the closest to the needs, and St. Eugene de Mazenod will inspire in them ways to employ the right means in the right place.

By our prayers and solidarity, let us accompany all those who suffer. Being close to them is being close to Christ. This is also a moment to realize that we are one family with the Oblates in Haiti, united through our faith, our charism and our commitment to the poor and most abandoned.

With fraternal greetings

Fr. Wilhelm Steckling, OMI
Superior General

January 15, 2010

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