Thoughts and Prayers With Haiti

Yesterday morning, UPC was filled with gratitude to have John and Suzi Parker among us. John and Suzi are longtime members of UPC, and in September, they traveled to Leogane, Haiti to assist others as they work to renovate a local hospital and get it running once again.

John and Suzi were working at a nearby Guesthouse, where groups were staying to help work on the hospital. Their apartment, the Guesthouse, and the hospital are all located in Leogane, which was only ten miles away from the epicenter of the earthquake. Their apartment collapsed, and John was trapped for four hours. Thankfully, people were able to get him out, and he had no injuries. The Guesthouse also had damage, but the Hospital remains standing.

John and Suzi addressed the Faith and Life Class on Sunday morning, telling their stories and sharing the difficulties of others. They plan to return to Haiti in a few weeks to continue their work. They have deep hopes of helping the region through the long-term use of the hospital.

UPC is currently raising money for disaster relief in Haiti. So far we have collected over $27,000. We are currently holding the money until John and Suzi can help us know the best place to send it. On Sunday morning, they mentioned that a foundation is being set up for the hospital. Once that is completed, we will send our disaster relief money there.

John and Suzi mentioned that they are particularly grateful for our prayers. We are profoundly grateful for their safety and their work. We do know that many did not fare well in the earthquake. We hope to partner with these people in prayer and support.

If you would like to contribute financially to work on the hospital in Leogane, please write a check to University Presbyterian Church and mark it for Disaster Relief. We will send that money to the most appropriate source, so that it helps the hospital work.


Additionally, Austin Agape organized and participated in a Taize Prayer Service for the congregation on Sunday night, focusing on concern for Haiti. We read four stories from survivors and watched a slide show of pictures.

We want to keep praying, and we aim to be a part of the prayers we make. Our hearts are with Haiti.