20 Years of Learning and Love

On January 4^th and 5^th, Pwoje Espwa Sud celebrated 20 years of existence.

The first Haitian Cardinal, Chibly Langlois was the Chief Celebrate for the Mass; Monsignor Cologne, Father Marc, Father Gregoire concelebrated and were assisted by Deacon Peter. Attendees included 300 staff members, older Espwa children, and dignitaries. Staff and children participated in various parts of the Mass, such as the Prayers of the Faithful, the offering, and in the choir. After Mass, a short Spektak (talent show) was performed and dinner was provided to all those in attendance. It was an evening filled with nostalgia and joy as we all celebrated and honored Pwoje Espwa Sud and all those who have contributed over the years.

Father Marc, Deacon Peter, Monsignor Cologne, Cardinal Langlois, and Father Gregoire 

Some house mothers presented different fruits and vegetables to the Cardinal during the offering. 

Frank Irr, Ben Ablies, Linda and Peter Faford with the Cardinal and Monignor after Mass.

We ate delicious peanuts during the reception.

On January 5^th, we celebrated with all of the kids! A ten course meal which included cake and ice cream was provided to each child. As the kids ate they watched a Spektak which included singing and dancing acts from current and former Espwa children, who are now in their mid-20s. Of course, the celebration ended in a wild dance party where kids, dressed to the nines, broke out their best moves.

Look at all those cakes!

Visitors helping distribute cake to the kids.

Matante and Berthony watching the kids celebrate.

How can one capture the work that this place has done since 1998? Pwoje Espwa Sud has been an oasis of hope for so many – children, staff, and volunteers; it has filled hungry bellies, provided laughs for sad souls, and given faith to those who had given up. God bless the children, staff, volunteers, donors, supporters, Matante, and Father Marc. Here’s to 20 more years of learning and love!