wfn.org | New Library at Adventist University in Haiti

["Christian B. Schäffler" <APD_Info_Schweiz@compuserve.com>]

November 2, 1999
Adventist Press Service (APD)
Christian B. Schaeffler, Editor-in-chief
Fax +41-61-261 61 18
APD@stanet.ch
http://www.stanet.ch/APD
CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland

Haiti: New Library at Adventist University "Demonstrates 
Commitment to Education and Freedom"

Port-au-Prince, Haiti. (ANN/APD)   The initial phase of a 
new library at the Adventist University of Haiti 
"demonstrates the Seventh-day Adventist Church's 
commitment to education and freedom," according to Dr. 
John Graz, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty director 
at the Seventh-day Adventist World Church Headquarters.

Attending the ceremony on October 24, Graz said that the 
event was part of the development of the University 
to serve the needs of the community.

"A book is not in itself a sacred object, but it is an 
indispensable tool for knowledge and training," said Graz. 
"The goal of Adventist education is to teach people to 
think for themselves, to develop the mental, spiritual, 
intellectual and social aspects which are essential to 
freedom and choice."

The opening ceremony was attended by civic and religious 
leaders, including representatives from the Ministry of 
Education and Youth, the National Library, the Catholic 
University of Notre Dame, and the Protestant Federation.

Speaking for the government, Dr. Moreau, general director of 
the Ministry of Education and Youth, commended the 
Adventist Church as a good example of what people can do 
to help others, in this case by increasing educational and 
training opportunities.

Dr. Etzer Obas, director of the University, welcomed the 
guests and encouraged participation in the development of 
not only the library but other aspects of the University's 
education program. Dr. Elie Henry, leader of the Adventist 
Church in Haiti, also expressed his pleasure in the 
additional facilities the new library would bring, not 
only to the Church but to the wider community.

During his visit, Graz was also able to present a report on 
religious freedom around the world and answer questions 
about human rights and political involvement.