NEW YORK — Father Juan Luxama, during his recent mission trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico, bore witness to the arrival of a group of 45 Haitian migrants who sought refuge in a local Catholic shelter. The sight of their plight deeply touched him.
Expressing his emotions, Luxama shared with Crux, “It brought tears to my eyes because that’s not how God intended us to live. We are meant to experience happiness and joy, yet these individuals had to flee Haiti due to the unbearable conditions and lack of necessary resources, seeking solace in a foreign land.”
Luxama’s journey to San Juan, facilitated by Catholic Extension in early February, centered around San Mateo Parish. This parish, under the guidance of Father Olin Pierre-Louis, offers a haven for Haitian migrants by providing housing, social services, and support for their integration into Puerto Rican society.
As a Haitian immigrant himself with ties to the country, Luxama felt compelled to reach out to his compatriots. “I embarked on this trip to connect with the Haitian community and offer them hope and reassurance,” he explained.
The situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly in recent times, with escalating gang violence gripping the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation and the alarming statistics of casualties due to gang-related activities paint a grim picture of the country’s turmoil.
During his visit to San Mateo Parish, Luxama observed firsthand the dedicated efforts of Pierre-Louis in assisting Haitian migrants. Regular trips to the docks to welcome and accommodate the newcomers exemplify the parish’s commitment to providing aid and sanctuary.
Upon their arrival at the parish, Luxama recounted how the men and women were accommodated separately, with Pierre-Louis ensuring their immediate needs were met throughout their stay.
The narratives shared by the Haitian migrants encapsulate the pervasive insecurity prevailing in their homeland. Stories of fleeing from violence and persecution, such as the loss of family members to heinous crimes, underscore the harsh realities that forced them to seek refuge elsewhere. Despite these harrowing experiences, Luxama was struck by the resilience and positivity displayed by each individual he encountered.
While acknowledging the pressing needs for essentials like food, water, shelter, and security, Luxama emphasized the importance of extending compassion and support to the Haitian community. He highlighted the significance of offering hope, care, and a sense of belonging to those displaced from their homeland.
Looking ahead, Luxama aims to cultivate a spirit of solidarity within the Diocese of Brooklyn, advocating for a compassionate response to the plight of Haitian migrants. By fostering a culture of empathy and support, he envisions a community that stands in solidarity with those in need, both locally and globally.