Death of Mgr Willy Romelus: A Spiritual and Social Legacy Praised by the Government
By La Rédaction · Port-au-Prince
· 2 min read · Updated 24 April 2026
Translated from French — AI-assisted and reviewed by the editorial team. The French version is authoritative. Read the original · About our translation policy
Haiti prepares to bid farewell to Mgr Willy Romelus. Deceased on August 12, 2025, the prelate will leave behind a profound spiritual and social legacy, praised by the government and the national community. His funeral will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Jérémie, preceded by a wake on Wednesday, August 20, at 6:00 PM at Saint Cathedral of Jérémie.
The Haitian government paid tribute to Mgr Romelus in a statement published on August 13, praising « the greatness of his ministry, his spiritual and social legacy ». The statement also highlights his exemplary pastoral commitment, his deep attachment to the most disadvantaged, and the lasting impact of his ministry on the national community.
Beyond his material achievements, Mgr Romelus was a fervent defender of human rights. Close to the Lavalas movement, he took a stand in favor of the poor and victims of social injustices throughout his life. In recognition of his struggle, he received the European Human Rights Prize in November 1994 in Strasbourg.
The Prime Minister's Office also expressed its solidarity: « The Prime Minister's Office expresses its solidarity with the Catholic Church of Haiti, his family, his loved ones, and all the faithful of the Diocese of Jérémie », reads the official statement.
Mgr Romelus crystallized his time through remarkable initiatives, including the construction of the new Cathedral of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal of Jérémie. From 1996, he mobilized parishes around this ambitious project, destined to become an international pilgrimage site. One must not forget the founding of the schools of law and nursing in Jérémie. All bear the imprint of the former prelate.
Mgr Romelus leaves a lasting spiritual and social legacy and remains an example for future generations. His life and commitment to human rights should continue to inspire and unite the nation around the values of solidarity, justice, and faith.
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