Advent is a grace-filled season providing ample opportunity for personal preparation for our Lord’s coming – historically, liturgically, and spiritually – both at Christmas and when He will come again in glory.

It can also be a wonderful time to remember those in need, especially the suffering around the world, imprisoned in material poverty and political unrest.

Our brothers and sisters in Haiti experience such suffering daily.  

Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison reminds us, “As we ponder the Blessed Mother preparing to give birth to the long-awaited Savior — the hope for the world — our combined efforts here in the Diocese of Madison can bring great joy and glad tidings to those in the Diocese of Jacmel who suffer from extreme poverty, gang violence, and political unrest”.

For the past two years, the Diocese of Madison has demonstrated our solidarity with the people of the Diocese of Jacmel by offering support to the Sacred Heart Healthcare Center of Thiotte, Haiti. (Centre de Santé Sacré-Coeur de Thiotte or CSST).  

Funds raised during the Advent appeal last year provided medical care to nearly 1,500 expectant mothers and their newborns during 2025.

Support from people in the Diocese of Madison helped to employ two midwives and contributed to the hiring of an obstetrician-gynecologist.

“The hardship in Haiti is significant. Contributions from the Diocese of Madison have been even more vital this year in caring for pregnant women in the most remote region of the Diocese of Jacmel,” said Carole Wakefield, executive director of the Haiti Medical Mission of Wisconsin, which provides funding and technical support to CSST.

“CSST lost most of [its] funding for maternal and child health due to $41,000 in USAID cuts. Gifts from the Diocese of Madison not only go to support the CSST midwives but also help to bridge some of the funding gap for maternal healthcare left by USAID cuts.”

Midwife Widline shared, “We have found great joy in our duties and have witnessed significant progress with the pregnant women we serve. Over time, we have observed a positive change. It is gratifying to receive testimonials from our patients, who consistently express their satisfaction with our services, which brings us great pleasure”.

Midwife Stephanie offered reflections on her daily activities, “My role involves following up on pregnancies, assisting during labor, and providing care after delivery. We are undergoing training to better meet the needs of pregnant women.”  

Stephanie added, “We are here to offer care to women and girls who have been victims of sexual assault.”

Individuals, groups, and families are urged to consider a tax-deductible gift to the 2025 Advent Midwife Challenge.

Our gifts mean CSST can retain the two midwives and provide vital medical care for pregnant women and their newborns.

“Our support of the Advent Midwife Challenge is a tangible way to express solidarity and spiritual support for the people of Haiti,” said Bishop Hying.