What began as a class on Adventist Church history at the Adventist University of Haiti (UNAH) wound up with dozens of theology students researching for months and putting together artifacts, photos, drawings, and documents for the first museum of Adventism in Haiti. The initiative also includes a small center for studies of Adventist co-founder Ellen G. White at the Michel Toussaint Auditorium on campus.
The project’s launch was unveiled on campus as the Adventist Church in Haiti is celebrating its 118th anniversary. Dozens of church leaders, educators, and students gathered on August 15, 2023, for the opening ceremony.
“The museum is there to remind us that we have a history, that we have a mission, that we have a name that carries a particular message,” said Pastor Edgar Étienne, dean of the School of Theology at UNAH. The museum is just at the beginning stage of a rich Adventist history in the country, he said, adding that the enthusiasm and dedication of his theology students resulted in a room full of important historical resources that will enlighten and inspire those who visit.
“Every church field in Haiti and every institution will have space to place their historical relics and documents to make the museum more inclusive and one that truly reflects Adventism in Haiti,” explained Étienne.
Pastor Pierre Caporal, president of the Haitian Union, praised the work of students and so many who were part of making the museum and resource center possible. “Having a museum is a turning point in the history of research on the Adventist Church movement, both in Haiti and abroad,” said Caporal. “It will also allow young people in the country to better know one of the Seventh-day Adventist pioneers whom God used to illuminate the path for His people, His church, through the journey on earth until [they enter] the heavenly Canaan.”
The dream would be to have a building for the museum and the center alone, said Caporal. “Perhaps this small beginning is laying a foundation that can turn into a more permanent site where others in Haiti and around the world can visit,” he added. “The museum will represent more than just a collection of historical objects; it will represent all our history, all our faith, and our commitment to proclaiming the three angels’ messages with more determination—with more fervor and love.”
According to official records, the Adventist Church began on August 15, 1905, when a Sunday school was transformed into a Seventh-day Adventist school.
The museum hall was named Emmanuel Clément Benoit in honor of the pastor for his 50 years of pastoral ministry in Haiti. Benoit is currently the president of the South Haiti Mission. He published a book on Adventism in Haiti in 2005.
“The idea of the museum is very significant. Every time we pass in front of this door, it should remind us that men and women worked to pass on this church to us. In turn, we must work to expand the church,” said Pastor Benoit.
Idony Patrice Augustin is a third-year theology student who, like other students in his class, donated a painting for the museum. “I was excited for this day to come, to see my name on a picture frame that will help, through the museum, to teach the story of the church to young Haitians,” said Augustin.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Haiti has more than 500,400 members worshiping in 1,330 churches and congregations organized into five conferences and missions. The church operates a university, a hospital, a clinic, and dozens of primary and secondary schools.
The original version of this story was posted on the Inter-American Division website.