Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Agenzia Fides) – As soon as they heard of the violent earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12, the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) of Europe have been working to respond to the relief effort in favor of this suffering nation. In Germany, the “Sternsinger” (Star Singers) of the Holy Childhood Association immediately donated 100,000 Euros and opened a special bank account for donations. In Austria, the National Director of the PMS of Austria, Monsignor Leo M. Maasburg, made an appeal calling for a united effort on the part of all Europe in bringing spiritual and material aid to Haiti's population and also announced that “Missio” (PMS) of Austria would immediately donate 50,000 Euros and collect further donations.
In England and Wales, PMS National Director Monsignor John Dale has encouraged everyone to support the Haitian people with their prayers and material support, stating that “just as we have been present for the Haitians in the past, we will be there for their future as they try to reconstruct their homes and lives...the people of Haiti are in our thoughts and prayers.” PMS of England and Wales is also working to coordinate donations from parishes in Great Britain for the re-construction of churches in Haiti. In Spain, the Pontifical Mission Societies have sent prayers and announced that “in light of the tragedy that has struck the Haitian population, the Pontifical Mission Societies of Spain has created a bank account for the most urgent needs of the people and the reconstruction of the country.
In Ireland, the PMS have stated that anyone who wishes “can make a donation to Missionary Children” and these donations will be sent without deductions to help the missionary organizations who are working with affected children in Haiti. In Holland, the PMS Offices have created a special bank account for donations for Haiti.
The National Director of the PMS of France, Fr. Pierre Y. Pecqueux, stressed that the earthquake in Haiti "invites us to prayer and to an unprecedented generosity." "The PMS, faithful to their mission, is committed - in emergency and long term - to serve the Church in Haiti and the men, women, and children she serves each day. The Church needs help to keep hope alive and to serve the people of Haiti."
The Foundation “Missio”/Pontifical Mission Societies in Italy supports the initiatives of solidarity promoted by the Italian Church through Caritas. On Sunday, January 24th, an extraordinary collection will be taken up in all parishes to aid initiatives in Haiti sponsored by the Italian Caritas. (AR/SL) (Agenzia Fides 19/1/2010)
