The Voice of the suffering in Latin America

Perhaps the greatest challenge is the distance between communities. The new diocese covers about 40,000 square miles, an area larger than Austria or Portugal. The reality the bishop describes can require extreme sacrifice.

Tony has been going on this pilgrimage since he was three months old. “There are pictures of me being carried along,” he says, his voice tinged with emotion. “I am encouraged by my love for Mary, with the title of Our Lady of Lourdes, and I thank God for allowing me to accompany Our Heavenly Mother on this pilgrimage every year.”

“With the community of the Sisters of Saint Anne and the Haitian Conference of Religious, the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince gives thanks to the Lord for the release of the six Sisters and the other people kidnapped with them on January 19. This traumatic event once again tested our faith, but it remains unshakeable."

“I have never left this place. I know nothing of the world, but I believe in God. He gives me eternal life. I called the friars here to baptize my children. I don’t want anybody to die without getting to know God. Now, the names of all my children are written in Heaven.”

The 19 clerics were imprisoned in Nicaragua for speaking out against injustices and human rights violations, or merely for trying to operate freely. Bur concern remains over the fact that they have been forced to leave the country.

“The idea that politics corrupts has led to a situation where even countries with a great number of Catholics are bereft of politicians who can reflect Christian values.”