The Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince condemns the kidnapping of nine people, including an Irish missionary and a child with disabilities. The Church describes the kidnapping as an attack on society, undermining civil coexistence and human dignity. The Church appeals to the faithful for prayer and humanitarian help, and to institutions to ensure order, security, and justice. The statement expresses deep sadness and great indignation, emphasizing how such crimes reveal the failure of the State.
4 months ago
The Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince has issued a powerful condemnation of the escalating violence in Haiti, particularly following the kidnapping of nine individuals, including an Irish missionary and a disabled child, from the Sainte-Hélène Orphanage on August 3rd 1 3 4. The Church describes this incident as a "new act of barbarity," a "shameful act," and a "moral collapse" indicative of a "collapse of humanity" within Haitian society 1 3 4. This widespread violence is seen as an attack on the very foundations of civil coexistence and human dignity, where "the unimaginable becomes routine" and even places of care and hope are targeted 1 3.
The Archdiocese expresses "deep sadness" and "great indignation," emphasizing that such crimes reveal "the failure of the State and of a society that is losing its sensitivity to life" 1 3. It urges civil, military, and police authorities to "take responsibility" for public safety and to secure the immediate release of those kidnapped 1 3 4. The Church stresses that Haiti's future cannot be built on "bloodshed, impunity, and fear," calling for a collective declaration of "enough!" and immediate action 1 3.
The Church's appeal extends to the faithful and all people of goodwill, urging them to "raise their voices, unite in prayer, and take concrete measures to reject this climate of dehumanization" 1 3 4. It warns against indifference and internal disputes, cautioning that such complacency would make society "complicit in the slow but certain destruction of the country" 1 3. The dire human rights situation in Haiti is underscored by a United Nations Integrated Office report, which recorded at least 185 kidnappings between April and June, alongside thousands of deaths and millions displaced due to the prolonged socio-political crisis 1.
What is the Church's teaching on human dignity?
The Catholic Church teaches that human dignity is inherent to every person, stemming from their creation in the image and likeness of God . This dignity is not earned or granted by society, but is bestowed by God and is therefore inviolable and inalienable .
Human dignity is an ontological quality, meaning it is inherent to being human and is a constitutive part of every human being . It endures through every moment of life, from conception until natural death, and is brought to complete fulfillment in eternal life .
The Church's teaching on human dignity is deeply rooted in the belief that every person is a unique and sacred creation of God, bearing His indelible image. This dignity is inherent, universal, and inviolable, extending from conception to natural death and encompassing both body and soul. It serves as the bedrock for all human rights and calls for profound respect and care for every individual, regardless of their condition or circumstances.