Update from Fr. Frantzdy
During a March 12 conversation, Fr. Frantzdy shared an update on the situation in Duchity as well as news about his health. The key points are summarized below:
Health Concerns:
Fr. Frantzdy continues to experience persistent back pain. He needs to travel to Port-au-Prince for a medical scan. Due to safety concerns, the only viable route requires flying to Cap-Haïtian and then taking a helicopter to Port-au-Prince. He estimates that the transportation alone will cost about $700.
Security Situation:
Conditions in Port-au-Prince remain very dangerous. A priest was kidnapped by gangs February 6, and his status is still unknown. Duchity remains mostly safe, though it has become increasingly difficult to identify who may be affiliated with gangs.
Education in Duchity:
Schools are preparing for their second-quarter exams. Fr. Frantzdy emphasized that St. Thomas is the sole supporter of education in Duchity, as most parents are unable to contribute financially.
School Repair Needs:
The school buildings need repairs, and many of the classroom benches and chairs must be replaced.
Concerns About Abuse:
Fr. Frantzdy spoke at length about his desire to provide abuse-prevention training for the young women of Duchity. Because the school grounds are not fenced, inappropriate and abusive behavior sometimes occurs on the property. Confronting the perpetrators is challenging, especially because they are often men and parents from the community. This situation weighs heavily on him.
Please continue to keep Fr. Frantzdy and the people of Duchity in your prayers.
