Horeb Haitian Celebrates World Adventurer & Haitian Flag Day
Horeb Haitian Seventh-day Adventist Church joyfully celebrated the 222nd anniversary of the Haitian Flag on Sabbath, May 23, 2026, during a vibrant worship experience filled with patriotism, gratitude, worship, and cultural pride.
Observed annually by Haitians both in Haiti and throughout the diaspora, Haitian Flag Day is a sacred moment of remembrance and appreciation for the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the founding fathers who gave birth to the Haitian nation and its flag in 1803. It is a day where Haitians everywhere pause to honor their rich heritage and reaffirm the values of unity, faith, liberty, and perseverance.
This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as the Horeb Youth Department and Drum Corps joined together in commemorating both World Adventurer Day and Haitian Flag Day during the weekends of May 16 and May 23. The adventurers under the leadership of Chief Judith Melissa Jean Louis and staff conducted the entire service from Sabbath to divine service. Brother Alexander Celisca presented a powerful sermon that brings the entire child into a different level. The sanctuary was beautifully decorated with Haitian colors as members of all generations gathered in a spirit of worship and national pride.
According to Dr. Brian Ladiny, this year’s observance was particularly remarkable because several political leaders and community representatives from the Metro Washington, D.C. area were present to worship and fellowship with the congregation.
During the divine worship service, Dr. Ladiny delivered a vibrant and inspiring sermon centered on the spiritual and historical significance of the Haitian flag. Emphasizing unity across generations, he invited the congregation to sing the beloved Haitian patriotic song, “Mon drapeau, peau, peau, mon joli petit drapeau…” As the church sang together in unison, the atmosphere became deeply emotional and uplifting, reminding worshippers of the courage and determination of Haiti’s ancestors and inspiring the congregation to continue striving for excellence and unity wherever God has placed them.
The celebration concluded with a special prayer of consecration offered by Dr. Ladiny for the elected officials, political leaders, and community representatives who attended the service. The prayer called upon God’s wisdom, guidance, and blessing upon all leaders serving the community throughout the Metro D.C. region.
The entire event served as a powerful testimony of faith, heritage, unity, and hope as Horeb Haitian Church continues its mission of preserving cultural identity while uplifting Christ in the community.
Submitted by Lorah V.T. Pericles, Youth Director