Despite growing chaos in Haiti, the work of Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) will continue. A press notice released earlier today states that the charitable aid organization remains “committed” to its long-term programs. The Diocese of Haiti, which has 79,497 baptized members, according to the 2005 edition of The Episcopal Church Annual, is the third largest in that category, exceeded only by Texas and Virginia.

Police estimate that more than 450 people have been kidnapped in Haiti since March. Crimes are on the rise and gun battles are a regular occurrence. The situation is serious enough that the Rt. Rev. Jean Zache, Bishop of Haiti, requested that a fact-finding team commissioned last year by Executive Council not go to Haiti out of fears for the group’s safety. The violence and political instability are expected to increase due in part to presidential elections which are scheduled for December.

Last year ERD provided assistance to help Haitian communities devastated by floods. In September, ERD and the Diocese of Haiti will open The Bishop Tharp Business and Technology Institute (BTI), the first school of its kind in Haiti. BTI prepares students to enter the private employment sector as mid-level employees in their local community.

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