In Memoriam: Monsignor Joseph Willy Romélus – A Great Soul Has Passed Away

*In the silence of bruised hearts, a star has faded. Monsignor Joseph Willy Romélus has left us at a time when Haiti needed his open hands, his gentle but firm voice, his spirit capable of stirring the sensitive chords of the soul and calling for unity. His departure leaves an immense void, but his light continues to guide those who still walk the paths of hope and the common good.* The Bishop Emeritus of Jérémie, Joseph Willy Romélus, a reformist priest, humanist, promoter of development, and ardent defender of human rights in Grand'Anse and beyond, has passed away. His departure, on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Arniquet, his hometown, at the age of 94, leaves an immense void in the religious sphere and the patriotic sector of Haiti. The prelate, whose philosophy placed man and his well-being at the center of his actions, beyond traditional religious concepts, was also recognized for his affability and humor in the ecclesiastical community. He was a champion of his time: the actions he undertook, the works accomplished in the diocese of Jérémie, as well as his religious and social endeavors, will continue to distinguish him among the greats of his era and his Church. The Bible defines death as the wages of sin, as it is written in the book of Romans, chapter 6, verse 23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” For us Christians, death is an inevitable passage; no one escapes it, not even Christ, who was crucified on Golgotha to atone for our sins. However, thanks to him, we know that death does not have the last word. As 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 reminds us: “O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Monsignor Romélus, a Shepherd in the Footsteps of Christ As a bishop, Monsignor Romélus followed in the footsteps of Christ in good times and bad, being a light in the darkness: “Be torches and shine.” He carried his torch with determination and devotion, and it shone brightly. The sparks will continue to illuminate those who knew him, even after his departure. Grand'Anse, this poetic and mysterious land, will remain his last stronghold. Long considered a bastion of culture and spirituality, it was the setting for more than fifty years of his life and career. Before being consecrated bishop of the diocese of Jérémie, he was parish priest of Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours in Latibolière, a suburb of Jérémie. A humanist and progressive at heart, Father Romélus distinguished himself early on by his leadership, generosity, and constant concern for the good of the community. I, Marc Jeris Louis Jean, born in Beaumont, in the district of Corail, grew up cradled by the traditions of the Catholic Church of Grand'Anse. I was first an active member of Catholic action movements, then a seminarian at the Petit Séminaire Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours de Calas, in Jérémie. Having had the chance to interact with Monsignor Romélus, I can testify to his humanity and benevolence. His altruism, patriotism, and commitment to human rights deeply marked me. These qualities inspired me to write the poem “Ode of Honor to Mgr Willy Romélus” in 1997, read by Reverend Father Almonacy Julien during the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of his episcopate, in the presence of Bishops Alix Verrier and Guy Poulard. Beyond the buildings and churches he established, Monsignor Romélus nurtured the youth. As the book of Ezekiel, chapter 34, verses 11-12, reminds us: “I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered.” Under his leadership, many young people from Latibolière chose the priesthood, and he consecrated them himself to serve like Christ and not to be served. Among them: Reverend Father Jean Antoine, Reverend Father Walnès St Clair, and the former parish priest of Beaumont, Jean Edner Mars. An Exceptional Journey Monsignor Joseph Willy Romélus, Bishop Emeritus of Jérémie, dedicated more than 60 years of his life to the service of the Catholic Church. Born in Château, Arniquet commune (South, Haiti), he was ordained a priest on July 13, 1958, for the diocese of Les Cayes, alongside confreres such as Jean Nérée Lindor and Jean Alix Verrier. His exceptional journey illustrates his constant commitment to his faith and community. * 1950-1963: Vicar at the parish of Anse-à-Veau 1963-1964: Vicar at the parish of the Nativity of Dame-Marie 1964-1965: Vicar in Saint-Louis du Sud 1965-1977: Administrator of the parish of Latibolière After the sudden death of Bishop Carl-Édouard Peters on July 4, 1975, Pope John Paul II appointed Joseph Willy Romélus Bishop of the diocese of Jérémie on April 26, 1977. He assumed this responsibility with leadership, responsibility, conviction, and humility until his retirement on August 6, 2009, at 78 years old. During his 32 years of episcopate, he guided the faithful on the path of progress and faith, leaving an indelible spiritual and pastoral mark. The passing of Monsignor Romélus marks the end of a life entirely dedicated to the service of the Almighty Father. His legacy within the Catholic Church of Grand'Anse is invaluable. Like the Apostle Paul, he could say: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” If Haiti learned to cultivate the seeds of light sown by Monsignor Joseph Willy Romélus, every word of kindness, every gesture of justice and hope could blossom into a tree that would shelter the entire nation. From the top of institutions down to the people, rooted in the fertile soil of his courage and faith, Haiti could be reborn. May the words of peace and unity he left behind become the foundation upon which tomorrow will be rebuilt, and may his legacy illuminate the path for generations to come. For even if the star has withdrawn from the sky of the living, its light continues to shine in the souls of those who wish to walk together towards justice, faith, and love. MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE! Marc Jeris Louis Jean, New York
Mlouisjean726@gmail.com