Sharon Brugger Norton, executive director of Global Mission for the Church of the Brethren, recently visited Haiti to connect with the Haitian Church of the Brethren, known as l’Eglise des Frères d’Haiti, and observe the work of the Haiti Medical Project. Norton’s journey began on October 1 when she took a flight from Ft. Pierce, Florida, hoping to witness the church’s activities despite prevalent concerns about safety in the region due to violence and instability.
Upon arriving, she was greeted by the natural beauty of northern Haiti, characterized by mountainous landscapes, lush fields, and bustling local life. Norton traveled with local pastor Ilexene Alphonse and Dr. Tom Taugher from Project Piti Pami, a liaison for the Haiti Medical Project. Dr. Paul Ullom-Minnich, a physician involved with the project, joined them a few days later.
New Headquarters for l’Eglise des Frères
During her visit, Norton attended a gathering at the newly constructed headquarters of l’Eglise des Frères in Saint Raphael. The church had relocated its operations from the capital, Port-au-Prince, to address ongoing security issues. The headquarters was funded partially through the Church of the Brethren’s Global Food Initiative and includes a storefront for agricultural supplies, guest accommodations, and space for medical project offices. Norton delivered newly printed pastors’ manuals in Haitian Creole to delighted church leaders during her time there.
On Saturday, the Haiti Medical Project conducted a mobile medical clinic in collaboration with local health professionals. The clinic provided care to community members, showcasing teamwork between Haitian doctors, nurses, and medical staff. Dr. Ullom-Minnich actively participated, with Alphonse translating for him, as Taugher observed and learned from the experience.
Inauguration of the Minnich Ministry Center
The following day, Norton preached to a full congregation, emphasizing themes of healing and community support. Later that afternoon, the church dedicated the newly constructed headquarters as the Minnich Ministry Center, in honor of Dale and Beverly Minnich, parents of Dr. Ullom-Minnich and significant contributors to the Haiti Medical Project. This event underscored the collaboration between the Global Mission, Brethren Disaster Ministries, and Project Piti Pami.
Assessing Community Needs
On her final day, Norton visited water projects in Ouanaminthe and Cap Haitien. She observed that existing wells and reverse osmosis systems were malfunctioning, preventing the provision of clean water to local communities. The Haiti Medical Project and church leaders are currently evaluating potential solutions to restore access to clean water. These community engagements highlighted ongoing challenges that many Haitians face, including access to essential healthcare and resources.
Norton reflected on her experience, drawing parallels between the challenges faced by Haitians and her own life in the United States. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather with local leaders and emphasized the importance of understanding and supporting the needs of communities in Haiti.
Looking ahead, the Haiti Medical Project is focused on addressing community health needs and developing effective solutions for sustainable clean water access, while continuing its commitment to pastoral training and health initiatives.
