The Church in Haiti is Changing

The church in Haiti has changed in many ways in the many ways in the past 30 years.  Dr. Dorlus pointed out that there is “more discussion on what the church should be like” and how they can engage the Haitian culture.  The church has many more young people, and they have better trained pastors and leaders than in the past.  They partner with others now instead of just being focused on their small local area.

Dr. McMartin added that the Haitian church is taking more initiative and coordinating to further the kingdom.  They have a “compassion to help others find Christ” and “a sense for world mission.”  Not all Haitian churches have realized the application of the Great Commission for their church, but it is spreading.  An impact of the earthquake was spreading the population of Port-au-Prince across Haiti.  As they moved to new areas, they took their biblical training and ideas with them.  In addition, missions organizations, radios, biblical conferences, and S.T.E.P. create an ongoing increase in biblical principles across Haiti.

Dr. Dorlus chimed in that the way of doing ministry has changed since the earthquake.  “They must have ministry beyond the four walls, because the four walls are not there.”  Christians are asking, “What is ministry? What should the church do in the community?”  Fifteen to twenty years ago, they would not have asked these questions.  They have more partners than ever before.  The church has also developed a concern for the environment.