Episcopal Church works to heal Haiti diocese after years of division
The Diocese of Haiti has been without a bishop since 2019 after a disputed election led to prolonged division. Church leaders in the Episcopal Church are now working to restore stability and support local ministries.
Efforts include improved communication, leadership studies, and practical assistance like sending French-language prayer books to the diocese.
The crisis began in 2019 when two rival factions in the Diocese of Haiti each claimed to have elected the legitimate standing committee. This infighting left the diocese without clear leadership for years.
In 2024, the General Convention approved a resolution to examine the leadership challenges in Haiti. The goal was to create a new canonical process to help resolve the situation. A committee under the Executive Council was also formed to support Episcopal schools and other ministries in the country.
Recently, the church sent 1,500 French-language copies of the Book of Common Prayer to Haiti at the request of its Standing Committee. Bishop Pierre Whalon and the Rev. Wilmont Merchant have been actively involved in offering guidance. The Rev. Charles Robertson, a senior adviser to Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe, is also part of the team working to reconnect with Haitian leaders.
A search-preparedness process has now started to ensure a smooth election and consent process for a new bishop. While no clear timeline exists, churchwide leaders remain hopeful for a stable transition.
The Episcopal Church continues to provide both practical and administrative support to the Diocese of Haiti. Steps like sending prayer books, forming committees, and studying leadership obstacles aim to restore order. The focus remains on achieving a successful bishop election and strengthening local ministries.
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