HAITI “REVERSE MISSION” PILGRIMAGE “What the eye doesn’t see doesn’t move the heart!” [Haitian proverb] What is a “reverse mission” pilgrimage? It’s an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Jesus today among the least of our brothers and sisters in an impoverished nation of the Third World and to encounter Jesus in the poorest of the poor in Haiti, the most economically impoverished country in our hemisphere. A “reverse mission” pilgrimage is a window that allows us to glimpse what life is like for most of the world’s people.  It’s also a mirror that allows us to see ourselves and our own nation in relationship to the rest of the world. It’s an opportunity to minister in solidarity through our presence and our caring and to be changed – converted – by what we see and what we experience. A “reverse mission” pilgrimage won’t change the world, but it could very well change YOU! What do participants in a “reverse mission” pilgrimage do? They get to encounter and be touched by the people of Haiti and those who minister among them.  They give witness to their belief in the dignity of all people by their presence among the poor. They get to confront the contrast between the rich and the poor in Haiti. They experience the love, the faith, and the hope of Haitian brothers and sisters struggling to overcome misery and realize their dream of living in poverty but with dignity. They encounter others living and working in solidarity with the poor.    How often, how long, and how much does a “reverse mission” pilgrimage cost?? “Reverse mission” pilgrimages to Haiti occur annually during the last week of February and sometimes during the first week of June.  They can also be custom designed to accommodate the needs of your group. The time spent in Haiti is one week, the amount of time most busy people are able to allow for this experience. The cost is approximately US $1,300 and includes airfare to Haiti and all transportation within Haiti as well as lodging and two meals a day at Hospice St. Joseph.  There is an additional US $30 tax at the Port au Prince airport payable at the time we leave Haiti.  Most pilgrims will spend an additional US $50-100 to purchase Haitian crafts or products such as coffee or pure vanilla or almond extracts. What should I do to join one of the “reverse mission” pilgrimages? Click here to download an application packet or you may request that an application packet be sent to you. Return the completed application and liability release form Read the other information in the application packet and follow the instructions regarding “health matters” and “packing”. Begin to learn as much as you can about the people of Haiti and their culture (visit our resources section). Attend an orientation meeting with the coordinators and other participants prior to departure. Pray for the safety of all participants and the success of the “reverse mission” pilgrimage. HAITI REVERSE MISSION PILGRIMAGE (Practical Matters) SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS The current situation in Haiti is volatile and unpredictable.  Due to deteriorating socio-economic conditions, violent crime has increased. Visitors must use common sense and act with discretion. Every effort will be made to assure the safety of participants, but traveling in Haiti is not without danger.  Follow the directions of the coordinators. MEDICAL CONCERNS If you use prescription medications, be sure to pack an adequate supply (in their original containers) in your carry-on bag.  Over-the-counter medications should be clearly identifiable. Your tetanus immunization should be current and your doctor may recommend a polio booster. Malaria is endemic in Haiti and your physician will prescribe an anti-malarial drug such as Alaren or (or the cheaper, generic form, chloroquine) which you begin taking (we recommend two) weeks before you travel and which you must continue to take for several weeks after your return. (Malaria in Haiti is NOT chloroquine resistant so your doctor should NOT prescribe Lariam.)  Some physicians will also recommend immunization against hepatitis-A or an injection of gammaglobulin as prevention for hepatitis.  Many travelers in Haiti experience mild to severe diarrhea either as a result of the change in diet or due to foreign bacteria in the intestines. Ordinary travelers’ diarrhea can be treated with pepto bismal or immodium that can be purchased over-the-counter at any pharmacy. Serious cases can be treated with antibiotics at the Hospice St.Joseph clinic. PASSPORT You will need a valid passport at departure and arrival airports and (possibly) another photo ID such as a driver’s license. If you do not have one you must apply for one at a regional post office.  You can download an application from the internet, but it may take several weeks for your passport to arrive. Apply as soon as possible. You do not need a visa to travel to Haiti. However, on the plane you will be given an entry card to complete before arriving in Port-au-Prince. You will need to supply your name, home address, passport number, place and date of birth, your profession, reason for visit, and address in Haiti.  There will also be a customs’ declaration card.  Guidance in completing this card will be provided.  You will need to show this card when you leave Haiti so DO NOT LOSE IT! WATER AND FOOD Food and drink at Hospice St. Joseph are safe. Bottled drinking water (and generally beer and soft drinks) will be available at all times (including a gallon jug of drinking water in your room that can be replenished when needed in the “small” dining room). DO NOT DRINK THE TAP WATER!  DO NOT EVEN BRUSH YOUR TEETH WITH TAP WATER!  You might want to pack some snacks (granola bars, trail mix, peanut butter and crackers) to enjoy yourself and share with the group.  Breakfast and supper are provided at the Hospice and most days we will have lunch away from the Hospice. Some favorite snacks, however, can add a little extra comfort to your stay! MONEY The basic cost of the trip is US $1220 and covers transportation, lodging, and two meals a day.  You will need an ADDITIONAL US $30 in cash for the exit tax at the airport when you leave Port-au-Prince. You may wish to bring extra money for the purchase of crafts or Haitian coffee or vanilla extract, etc.. Most participants spend US $50-100.  Purchases should be made in Haitian currency (although crafts at Hospice St. Joseph may be paid for in US dollars or even by personal check).  The exchange rate is approximately US $1 = H $ 8.  Each participant should plan to exchange US $50.  If you need more, we can arrange for that. If you don’t spend it all, we can buy it back! PACKING Use common sense in packing and try not to overpack. Consult the “packing checklist” provided. If you would like more information please contact the Rich in Mercy Institute by email: info@rimhaiti.org, by postal mail: 329 N. Fairfield Street, Ligonier PA 15658 or by telephone: (724) 238-9204.