A Sanctuary of Faith in Tough Times

Story by Francis Tuffour

On an early Sabbath morning, a young man with his baby strapped to his chest steps into the small Haitian church, where voices of praise fill the air in Springfield, Ohio. For members of this faith community, the gathering is more than worship—it’s a source of solace, a sanctuary from life’s hardships.

The Emmanuel Haitian church began with just four Haitian members who met in the basement of the Springfield Hispanic church in December 2021. Named “Emmanuel” to reflect their unflinching faith in God’s presence among them, the congregation quickly grew—first to 17, then to 35, and now to more than 70 members, with as many as 80 to 100 attending each Sabbath.

These immigrants left Haiti, but they did not leave their faith behind. They created a space to grow spiritually, seek God’s guidance and find hope amid their challenges.

According to the Migration Policy Institute, many Haitians have recently migrated to the United States due to political instability, natural disasters, violence and economic hardship. Amid these struggles, the members of Emmanuel face difficulties navigating a new environment while holding tightly to their roots.

While they left behind some challenges in Haiti, life in a new land has brought hardships. Cleoius Joseph, an Emmanuel church elder, explains that members face significant immigration-related difficulties but lack someone to guide them through the process. “We need help with immigration issues, filling applications and someone who can assess our needs and connect us to resources,” he shares.

The church regularly sees new members and visitors, some of whom are not Adventist, arriving in search of help. Many come lacking food, clothing, money or even a place to stay. The financial strain experienced by the members themselves prevents the congregation from hosting after-church potlucks, which they would otherwise use to build fellowship and support.

Joseph also notes that some members have faced ridicule and harmful stereotypes, with rumors circulating that Haitians are responsible for pet disappearances. This misconception has caused distress within the community, leading some families to relocate to other cities in search of a more understanding environment.

Despite facing tough times, church members continually strengthen members’ faith in God through prayer, Bible study, sermons and songs. Worship includes ample time for singing, which they approach with joy and energy (pictured). Though they may lack potlucks, faces beam with hope as they sing hymns like “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

During Sabbath School, they engage in communal study, encouraging participation through questions and personal contributions. Together with the sermons, these moments of worship and study continue to strengthen the faith of every member.

The church, comprised mainly of young people and conducted in French, is led by Roger Melendez-Cabrera, a Hispanic pastor who provides spiritual guidance with the support of his elders.

As the Emmanuel Haitian church grows, its members hold fast to their faith, drawing strength from one another and finding hope for better days ahead. Within this humble congregation, they have genuinely found a sanctuary.