By CECILE SAN AGUSTIN
Reporter

ROCKAWAY - To remember and pray for Haitians after the Jan. 12 earthquake that struck the nation, Haitian-born Father Jean Claude St. Martin, parochial vicar at St. Cecilia and Sacred Heart of Jesus parishes here, celebrated a Memorial Mass Jan. 28 at St. Cecilia Church attended by many people from across the diocese. Along with Father St. Martin, many priests of the diocese came in solidarity to celebrate the Mass as the small Caribbean nation recovers day by day from the massive earthquake.

In his homily, Father St. Martin compared the Sept. 11, 2001 Word Trade Center attack to the natural catastrophe that has "shaken and paralyzed" Haiti.

He said, "Many people might have questioned why God allowed the earthquake to hit Haiti. Why did He allow a poor country in a dire situation to suffer even more? We do not know why. We do not have any answer to their interrogation. However, we believe that love continues to the rescue. No matter what crisis or challenge, the Haitian people or you are facing in your life, God is always there to help and rescue us. We have understood that nothing, as God's people, can separate us from God's love."

As Haiti continues to face such adversity, Father St. Martin reminded that it is the Haitian people's faith and spirit getting them through this difficult time. "After watching countless TV reports after the earthquake, we have received a message of faith. The people of Haiti, in spite of the loss of their loved ones, their suffering, their homeless situation, and their hunger, do not lose their faith. They have kept praying to God, who can motivate other people to respond to their needs and concerns. Since Jan. 12, we have understood that we are Jesus' hands and feet, bringing the good news to the poor and setting people free. We are His hands and feet, eyes and ears. Each of us is priceless in God's eyes because we are made in His image," said Father St. Martin.

At the memorial Mass, $16,000 was collected along with food, which Father St. Martin says will be shipped out immediately to help in the recovery efforts.

Father St. Martin said, "May His love become a foundation for our lives so that we can live in hope and confidence, not in fear or resignation. May we understand that God has loved us from the very beginning of creation and through our ups and downs in life. May God continue to bless the Haitian people, our country friends and the people of the world for their help."

To send aid to Haiti, contact Father Jean Claude St. Martin at (973) 627-0313.