Theological Institute of Jérémie offers formation for religious and laity

Created in 2024, the Diocesan Institute of Catholic Christian Formation of Jérémie, Haiti, on the initiative of the Marist Brothers and with the strong support of the Bishop of Jérémie, has given itself a noble and ambitious mission: the formation of good catechists and evangelizers, of whom Haiti is in great need. Inspired by the objectives of the Second Vatican Council, this initiative encourages the active involvement of all the baptized in the mission of the Church, emphasizing the need for a spiritual and practical preparation of the disciples and missionaries of Jesus. The Institute thus plays a crucial role in strengthening and renewing the Christian faith in Haiti.

The Diocesan Institute welcomes religious and lay people, all motivated by the same desire to deepen their theological knowledge. This diversity demystifies the idea that only consecrated persons can undertake religious studies.

Haiti, a sector belonging to the Province of México Occidental, has 39 brothers (11 perpetually professed – 7 from the country and 4 from Mexico – and 28 in temporary profession). There are also 4 novices and 6 postulants.

Here down, you can read the Brother Richard Nazaire’s experience at the Diocesan Institute of Catholic Christian Formation in Jérémie.

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This experience of shared formation between brothers and laity is something very precious. For me, a young Marist Brother committed to the Church, having the opportunity to better understand and deepen my faith and the message of salvation is a blessing. This experience had a profound impact on me, because I always wanted to deepen my knowledge and adherence to Jesus and his Gospel.

The atmosphere at the Center is particularly conducive to learning. An atmosphere of peace and openness reigns, favored by fraternity and proximity between students and professors.

In this first summer we had courses on Trinity, the Magisterium of the Church and the Bible.

The course on Trinity had a profound impact on me because of its depth and complexity. It helped me a lot to understand a little more the humanity and divinity of Christ.

We have the mission of bringing the Good News of the Gospel to the children and young people of this 21st century, a task full of challenges and difficulties. I am motivated to take on this challenge by my friendship with Jesus. I am passionate about working in the evangelization of children and young people. There is no fatigue for what we love.

I feel that this time dedicated to my formation goes by very quickly. All in all, a balanced routine allows me to nourish both my studies and my commitment to my community, united around St. Marcellin Champagnat. Sharing time with my brothers and lay people and working with the young people is very rewarding.

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Br. Richard Nazaire