In my last post I was fairly harsh with the Haitian government people. But, to be fair, they are not the only ones with issues here. NGOs (non-governmental organizations), large and small, are not always working well together. Many are blowing their horns as though they single-handedly made the biggest difference in the aftermath of the earthquake. Many are also keeping an eye on the big bucks promised by various governments to help rebuild Haiti. Hey, more money means more salaries and more cars and more benefits, non? The UN groups here are operating under strict guidelines and are most often only advisors. While it is true that their presence has a stabilizing effect, so much more needs to be done in terms of intervention and action. Another disappointing sector is religion. You'd think that the churches would be working together, right? You'd be wrong. I've seen pastors giving out food only to their parishioners, refusing to assist "non-believers" and missionaries flying in to console (and mostly convert) the Haitians who have suffered so much loss.
And then there are the well-intended individuals who show up from all over the globe and who cannot really contribute to the effort. These people need food, lodging, transportation which are all limited and should be reserved for those who can really help.
So there! Did I miss anyone?
so who can someone trust? so sad...
ReplyDeleteBravo! Well said.
ReplyDeleteIt's so sad to see people trying to build their political and religious egos while playing "Let's make a deal" at the expense of the suffering.
ReplyDelete"I've seen pastors giving out food only to their parishioners, refusing to assist "non-believers" and missionaries flying in to console (and mostly convert) the Haitians who have suffered so much loss."
ReplyDeleteThis bit was the saddest to read for me, Father. It's a scandal.
You also make an excellent point about people who can't really contribute in a meaningful way, creating a greater burden.
Prayers continue daily for you all.
My prayer is that Christians will work together to help the Haitian people - all the people. Our Lord prayed for unity (John 17) and it is up to us to help make that prayer be answered. God bless you, Fr. Marc.
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