Haiti’s Terrier Rouge celebrates Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul in a colorful blend of faith and tradition

TROU DU NORD- The Northeast regional town of Terrier Rouge came alive on June 29 for the annual celebration of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul, a vibrant mix of faith, tradition, and community spirit. The festivities were marked by a series of events that brought the town alive with energy and devotion. From the heartfelt prayers of the Catholic faithful to the mystical vodou ceremonies and lively dances at night concerts, the fête is a profound expression of the town’s rich cultural heritage.

“The celebration brings grace and salvation to all members of the community,” said Hervé Félix, a dedicated church member, emphasizing the fête’s significance for everyone in Terrier Rouge.

From June to August, more than 30 provincial towns become alive with their saint patron celebration and a following Fét champét, a cultural and spiritual celebration, drawing Haitians from all corners and beyond. This cultural event unites Catholic and Vodouist celebrants who gather to make requests to the spirits, revitalizing the cities’ economic activity during the celebrations.

As the sun rose, Monsignor Kesnel Alphonse, Bishop of the Diocese of Fort-Liberté, led the town’s faithful to a street procession to Saint-Pierre Church draped in vibrant red and white to celebrate the traditional mass. Under a newly built tent to accommodate more devotees, Mgr. Alphonse spoke to the crowd, urging them to reflect on the life-changing moments of Peter and Paul and to find their moments of spiritual awakening. 

At the mass, Catholic devotees in elegant Sunday outfits poured their hearts into their prayers for the country, their voices rising in songs filled with deep emotion. With eyes closed in intense concentration, they presented their fervent requests and aspirations before God. Whether kneeling at the altar, standing, or sitting under the tent, each person seemed enveloped in a personal moment of connection, seeking divine intervention and entrusting their hopes to a higher power.

In different streets near the church, under colorful tents, vendors offered to the pilgrims everything from rosaries, candles and spiritual imagery bracelets to pray at the feet of the saint. Sellers under umbrellas displayed local snacks and traditional regional cuisine. People mingled, laughed, and enjoyed the joyful atmosphere.

Throughout the day, people moved between the church, the marketplace, and sacred Vodou spots, experiencing the town’s fèt chanpèt spirit. Priests from nearby parishes gathered at the Saint-Pierre Church presbytery for a communal meal, sharing stories and laughter.

In the background, vodou faithful continue their activities in other mystical places, with followers honoring both Saint Peter and Saint Paul and the spirits of the lwa, of their traditions.

As night fell, Place Saint-Pierre became the heart of the celebration, with local music groups playing lively tunes that got everyone dancing. 

“The feast of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul is important for the inhabitants of the city because it gives us the opportunity to highlight the potential of the community, such as crafts, agriculture, and cuisine,” Adrien Angrand a church member said.

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