Haiti

In the 1990’s, Rev. Oliam Richard, pastor of a successful Haitian church in Paris, France felt the call to return and work in his native land of Haiti.

Over time, he was supervising several churches in Haiti, and wanted to find a group for them to affiliate with. He learned about the United Brethren church through this website. Contacts were made. In October 2000, UB mission leaders officially decided to launch into Haiti working in partnership with Pastor Richard.

Oliam Richard continues to oversee the work and there are now 25 churches spread through different parts of the country. Haiti continues to be one of the least developed countries in the Western hemisphere, and a challenging place to minister.

The United Brethren churches in Canada have taken a strong interest in the work in Haiti. They have sent several mission teams there, and have given substantial financial support.

Overview Facts for Haiti

• Population: 8.4 million (via UN, 2006)
• Capital: Port-au-Prince
• Area: 27,750 sq km (10,714 sq miles)
• Major languages: Creole, French
• Major religion: Christianity
• Life expectancy: 51 years (men), 52 years (women) (UN)
• Monetary unit: 1 gourde = 100 centimes
• Main exports: Light manufactures, coffee, oils, mangoes
• GNI per capita: US $450 (World Bank 2006)

Flag Description

There are two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a centered white rectangle bearing the coat of arms, which contains a palm tree flanked by flags and two cannons above a scroll bearing the motto L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE (Union Makes Strength).