Last week, I had the opportunity to host Fr. Nova, the pastor from our sister parish in Dos Palais (in Creole, they spell that simply Dopale).  It was a pleasure to have him with me.  I fear my hospitality has been a pale shadow of his hospitality every time we go down to Haiti.  They truly pull out all the stops when we visit there!

Still, I want to thank all of YOU for making him feel very welcome.  Our pace of life here can be exhausting for him, but you all made him feel at home.  Your simple greetings and smiles touched him deeply.  And we were able to send him back to Haiti aware of some very concrete expressions of our love and support.  The Haiti Rummage Sale and collection will help his parish and two missions get through the year and be a source of outreach to the whole community.  With the sponsorship program, we will have an impact that will be truly life-changing for some of the children there.

Our relationship there, however, is much more than about money.  It is about relationships.  And relationships enrich both sides.  As pastor here, I could clearly see that: as I watched HUNDREDS of Michaelonians working hard, laughing, and getting to know each other better, as we worked together during the rummage sale.  And I hope some more people will consider joining us, as we travel to Haiti in November and February.  Just about everyone who goes feels deeply enriched by the experience, and the people there in Doplale LOVE to see us.

M èsi anpil!  Thank you so much for all you do.  I am truly proud to be part of the St. Michael community.