Fort-Liberté, Haiti. The Claretian Missionaries marked 25 years of presence in Haiti by launching a new mission in the northeastern region of the country. During the IX Assembly of the Delegation of Antillas, held in May of this year, the members discerned the need to expand the congregation’s work beyond the already established community in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and to open a mission in the interior of the country.
Following a period of consultation and assessment, the Congregation accepted the invitation of Bishop Alphonse Quesnel, SMM, of the Diocese of Fort-Liberté, who proposed the community of Roqué. This area, recently carved out from an existing parish, faces significant social and pastoral challenges shaped by widespread poverty. Despite these difficulties, the community is vibrant in faith and eager to welcome a stable missionary presence.
The canonical foundation of the new Parish of Our Lady of Lourdes took place on 16 November 2025 in Roqué. During the Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Bishop Quesnel, Fr. Yves Marie Cajuste, CMF, officially assumed the role of parish priest. He will provide pastoral service together with Bro. Manuel Pliego, CMF.
This new mission reinforces the Congregation’s commitment to accompany the Haitian people and to promote faith, hope, and holistic development, particularly in the most vulnerable settings. Amid the country’s ongoing struggles with poverty, violence, natural disasters, political instability, and insecurity, the Claretians renew their dedication to offering a ministry of presence, solidarity, and encouragement.
The life and mission of this new Claretian foundation are entrusted to the Lord through the intercession of the Heart of Mary and Father Claret, so that it may always be a seed of the Gospel and a sign of hope for all.
