Haiti is desperately poor both economically and spiritually. Voodooism is deeply ingrained in society and many nominal Christians are involved in its practice. In the face of these difficulties, the Lord has brought many to Himself over the last 30 years.

 

Haiti is located in the Caribbean. It makes up the western third of the island of Hispanol (the eastern two thirds is the Dominican Republic). The terrain is mostly mountainous and rugged. The climate is tropical, but some areas often suffer from drought conditions.

 

Nearly 7 million people live in Haiti. It is one of the more densely populated countries in the world. 95% of the population is of Afro-Caribbean origin.

 

Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. It continues to be plagued by overpopulation, social unrest, political corruption, droughts, and other natural disasters. Most Haitians feed themselves through subsistence farming. 80% are deeply entrenched in poverty. There is little prospect for near-term improvement.

 

Haiti became the world's first black republic when it gained independence from France in 1804. It has suffered through social unrest and widespread corruption for much of its post independence history. Haiti's first democratically elected president, elected in 1990, was deposed by the military in 1991. He returned to power in 1994 and power was peacefully passed to another president in 1996.

 

The Roman Catholic Church is the official state church, but there is freedom of religion. The Catholic Church is rapidly losing its influence. Most Protestants are evangelical, and evangelicals have grown steadily over the last 50 years. They now account for more the 20% of the population.

 

Voodooism is most pervasive influence in Haiti. Estimates rang from 50 to 75% of the people actively involved in its practice. Many of them are professing Christians. Those Christians who speak out against it are persecuted. Voodoo has been practiced in Haiti for centuries. The president elected in 1990 rededicated the country to Voodooism as its heritage. Pray that believers may have the courage to stand against these evil practices. Pray that many professing Christians will be convicted regarding their participation in such things.

 

Christians also face the challenge of difficult economic circumstances. This is a hard field for missionaries. Many have been forced to leave due to violence against them. Pray for those working in Haiti. There are abundant opportunities for aid ministries.

 

The youth of Haiti have shown a particular disinterest in Christianity. Pray for the Spirit to replace many hearts of stone with hearts of flesh. Pray for ministries specifically targeted at young people.