NOTE: In November 2008 Deacon Greg Cross began an active ministry with their twinned church, Immaculate Conception Parish in Haiti. We asked Dc. Greg to share a bit on how his ministry began and the developments since last week’s earthquake. This post begins with a few excerpts from his notes while on mission.
Dc. Tim McNerney, Webmaster
Looking Back:
November 13-14, 2008 – We arrived in Haiti, then traveled the mountain ranges 3
5KM from Port-au-Prince to Chauffard, Haiti with Fr. Julien from Immaculate Conception Parish. Roads are comprised of two elements: rocks and ruts!
November 15-17, 2008 – We continue our fact-finding mission in Haiti, detailing the incredible need that his mountain village of 1,500 people has for 
food, medical, education and spiritual support.
Field Notes:
- Regroup committee to determine augmented programs St. Michael & St. Peter can provide.
- Try to purchase batteries for solar power storage asap; perhaps a small refrigerator also.
- Establish interest in annual or more frequent visits
- Send e-photos taken and mail printed photos of students
November 4-10, 2009 – Three MD’s, three nurses, my two daughters, Emily and Catherine, and I arrive back in Chauffard, Haiti to setup an on-site medical clinic for the residents, many of whom have never seen professional medical practitioners in their lifetimes! Because shipping to Haiti is so problematic, the team hand carries all medical supplies on-board the planes to Haiti. The medical supplies where made possible by the generous donations from St. Michael & St. Peter parishes in Syracuse, NY.
Today:
Our news from Chauffard, Haiti (the epicenter) is mixed. Thankfully, our pastor survived as
did our main church, school, and rectory. However, two of our mission churches were totally destroyed, and three were severely damaged. The death toll is unknown yet. We understand there are likely to be many homeless also.
In Port-au-Prince, Matthew 25 House and its resident missionaries are all fine; they are operating an emergency medical clinic and shelter out of the house. Our young interpreters from our November mission are also fine, although one’s home collapsed around her in the quake. She said she felt God carried her outside the house to safety.
I am hoping to go to Chauffard next month to find out more and to adjust plans for how we help them in light of all this. In the meantime, we keep them all in our prayers, and we can send money to meet the incredible need there.
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Anyone wishing to contribute to our mission church in Chauffard Haiti may do so by sending checks to: St. Michael & St. Peter Church – Haiti Mission, 4782 W Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse, NY 13215.
Greg Cross
