In a beacon of hope amidst Haiti’s gang violence, economic collapse, and political crisis, 140 children received their first communion on 24 August, thanks to the tireless efforts of Sr. Paësie and her spiritual daughters. This milestone follows several groups of children receiving baptism in previous weeks.
Sr. Paësie, the founder of the Kizito Family, a pious association serving the poor in Port-au-Prince, explained that the children are part of their catechism centres in Citté Soleil, one of Haiti’s poorest communes. The centres provide spiritual guidance to young people who may not have access to sacraments otherwise.
In 2024, the Kizito Family celebrated over 250 first communions and 300 baptisms, with around 40 catechists trained to support their mission. Sr. Paësie emphasized the need for both spiritual and material help to continue their work, citing the children’s struggles with poverty, violence, and lack of access to necessities like food and education.
Despite the challenges, many children who receive sacraments continue to participate in Church activities, offering a glimmer of hope in Haiti’s difficult reality.