Regnum Christi consecrated woman Jana Crea is currently in Haiti serving on two consecutive mission weeks. In addition to Jana, this Mission Youth program is being staffed by Fr. Michael Mitchell LC, Fr. Aaron Smith LC, Br. Adam Zettel LC, and RC consecrated woman Becca Olek. During the first week, from July 25 through August 1, 2013, thirty-six missionaries, including the staff members, participated, from cities throughout the country, including Chicago, Detroit, and cities throughout Ohio, as well as other areas. In this first of several installments, Jana shares her experience.
It’s been more than three years since an earthquake devastated the city of Port-au-Prince and the surrounding area in Haiti. Today, the Mission Youth missionaries visited the last of the tent cities that remains from that disaster. Twenty-five thousand people live in this city-within-a-city, forgotten because they are off the beaten path, joyful because they live simply.
So far, the two days that I have been here have been a reminder for me to live the missionary morning offering: Lord Jesus: I give you my hands to work with love. I give you my feet to follow your way decisively. I give you my eyes, Lord to see the needs of the world. I give you my tongue to speak your words of charity. I give you my mind to know and spread your message. I give you my spirit to continue your prayer. Above all, I give you my heart…
When I first came to Haiti just over a year ago, it wasn’t long into my trip that I knew that I needed to come back. Something about the place leaves a mark on your heart or rather, makes you leave a part of your heart here, and coming back was a little like coming home.
I give you my eyes
It is wonderful to see that changes that have taken place. There are still piles of rubble in the middle of the street (we got “high-centered” when our driver decided to try to go over it) but this time it is not remnants from the earthquake, but from the re-building of the road.
A wonderful difference came at the children’s home. Within the past year they were able to move into their new building—so much more space and light! And it was beautiful to see fewer orphans! Four more children are going home to their new families this week!
Everything the eye touches is a reminder of the mission. We walked to the Children’s home praying the rosary yesterday, and I felt the need just to pray for everything I saw. Although it is quite different from anything I have experienced state-side, there is a familiarity here that speaks of home. I guess that’s what it means to see with Christ’s eyes. Nothing is unfamiliar to Him and every land is home.
