“To God who has given us so much, we want to give everything!”
Despite the turmoil that has shaken Haiti in recent years—forcing many members to leave the country—the 19 brothers and sisters who remain in the Emmanuel Community chose to celebrate their 25th anniversary not with grandeur, but with gratitude and service. Their Jubilee became a mission of compassion, a testimony of resilience and faith.
Community leader Guerda Millien recalls the hopes that once accompanied preparations for this milestone: “We dreamed of seeing the community grow spiritually, in numbers, and in vocations. Our mission is to love and serve God ever more deeply, with love, zeal, and boldness—especially here in Haiti.”
Until 2019, the Emmanuel Community was active in prayer groups, door-to-door missions, visits to the sick and elderly, schools of Charity and Mission, street evangelization, and youth forums. But as insecurity and poverty worsened, many Haitians—including community members—chose exile. “For those who remain, God always provides,” Guerda affirms. “Each household, each gathering keeps alive the small flame of hope.”
A Choir as a Beacon of Hope
In 2022, the community formed a choir with members and friends. “Every rehearsal, every Mass nourishes our hope,” Guerda explains. “Fraternal charity keeps us united, especially in moments of despair, sadness, and fear of tomorrow.” Today, the choir numbers about forty singers, including the 19 members of the Emmanuel Community.
A Jubilee of Service
To mark their Jubilee on October 18–19, the community invited elderly people who were sick or disabled. On Saturday, October 18, they visited a center run by the Sisters Companions of Jesus, home to 18 elderly women. The mission was practical and tender: washing, dressing, styling, feeding, cleaning, and offering hygiene and beauty products. “It was an exceptional encounter, a school of humility, patience, and listening,” Guerda recalls.
“We thank the Lord who allowed us to serve Him with love. The Holy Spirit was surely present.”
The celebration continued on Sunday, October 19, 2025, with a simple yet joyful community day—teaching, adoration, meals, sharing, praise, and Mass. “Truly, with Mary we sang the Magnificat!” Guerda says, her heart turned toward God and the wider world. “We thank the Lord for all the brothers and sisters who carry us in prayer, and we constantly pray for the entire community across the globe.”
