Group’s mission work continues in Haiti as the need is still there

BERLIN — The missionaries in Haiti and the work they do continues despite the fact 17 were kidnapped Oct. 16 by the 400 Mawozo gang.

Two hostages were released Nov. 21, after more than a month in captivity.

According to Weston Showalter, a spokesman for Christian Aid Ministries (CAM), the Berlin-based organization that sponsors the missionaries who were taken hostage, the organization has focused on working through the hostage situation while continuing with ongoing programs.

“Suffering refugees, impoverished elderly people, widows, orphans, disaster victims and others continue to need assistance,” Showalter said. “Our staff have done well in continuing the work, despite the constant concern as we consider our loved ones who are still being held hostage.

“These are people that we know and deeply care about,” he continued. “Undoubtedly, for most of us it is the first thing we think about when we wake up in the morning and the last thing we think about when we turn in for the night.”

Showalter said daily prayer time and devotion takes place at the CAM home office in Berlin.

“Since this crisis began, each workday morning there has been a staff singing and prayer time here at the office,” he said. “These times have been a blessing. Our desire is to continue to lift the situation to God, depending on Him to carry us through. We desire that His great name be glorified.”

For the safety of the victims and their families, CAM and authorities connected to the case have released limited details regarding the names of the victims or specifics about where they are from.

Though the organization paused its work in 2019 and 2020 amid growing safety concerns, CAM has been active in Haiti since a 7.0 magnitude earthquake killed more than 200,000 people in 2010, leaving many children orphaned.

According to published reports, Haitian gangs have cut off supplies and other relief efforts, making life extremely difficult for everyone living in the impoverished country.

Showalter pointed out CAM is working to improve the lives of the people of Haiti through education and prayer.

CAM posts daily updates on its website, including the prayers and words of comfort sent from supporters throughout the world.