Response to the earthquake in Haiti

Dear member of the Mount Mercy community,

None of us can remain unmoved by the human tragedy unfolding in Haiti, after last week’s catastrophic earthquake. Mount Mercy is responding in mercy to this catastrophe for the people of Haiti.

The Mount Mercy Mission Integration Committee and Campus Ministry staff are coordinating a variety of responses with the Mount Mercy Community. We are aware that the situation in Haiti has immediate and long term needs. We begin with a prayer response. A prayer will soon be published and available for reflection and use by the Mount Mercy Community.

In terms of material support, we will be taking up a collection of cash and check donations at Mass on Sunday 24th January in the Chapel of Mercy. These cash gifts will be given to Catholic Relief Services, specifically for Haitian relief work. Other donations in the form of money checks to Catholic Relief Services can be handed in at the Office of Campus Ministry during regular working hours, or donated directly via www.crs.org. Any collected checks will be forwarded to CRS solely for Haitian relief.

At the start of the new term we will begin coordinating a variety of opportunities to learn about Haiti, the people and their challenges and, at the same time, continue to help in material ways of support to Haiti. Mount Mercy clubs, organizations, faculty, staff, and students are invited to consider our College and individual response to this tragedy through the continuation of this academic year.

To share your ideas and interests on how Mount Mercy can foster understanding and support of the Haitian people at this time of need, please contact:

Sr. Shari Sutherland
Executive Director for Mercy Mission and Identity
319-363-8213 x 1700

Bill Mulcahey  
Director of Campus Ministry
319-363-8213 x 1494

Sincerely,

Christopher Blake, Ph.D.
President, Mount Mercy College