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As Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti celebrates 40 years of ministry, Father Frank Rouleau stands among those whose dedication has helped build lasting bonds of faith, friendship and hope between Connecticut and Haiti.

Ordained a priest of the Diocese of Norwich by Bishop Daniel P. Hart on May 27, 2000, Father Frank’s connection to Haiti began even before his ordination. While attending Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, he spent a month visiting the diocesan mission in Port-au-Prince, witnessing firsthand the Church’s work among the Haitian people.

Just six weeks after his ordination, Bishop Hart asked him to travel to Haiti to learn Haitian Creole and prepare for ministry to the Haitian Catholic community at St. Mary Church in Norwich.

That assignment would grow into a lifelong commitment.

Before entering the priesthood, Father Frank worked in addiction and mental health programs, experiences he credits with teaching him the importance of listening — a skill that would serve him well throughout his ministry.

Following the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Bishop Michael R. Cote asked Father Frank to return to the country. He served as chaplain and director of parish twinning, helping strengthen relationships between American and Haitian Catholic communities.

Father Frank remained closely involved in Haiti until deteriorating conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic ultimately led to his departure in November 2021. Today, he continues coordinating parish twinning from the United States and travels throughout the country making mission appeals to support the ministry.

His years of service reflect the enduring mission of Outreach to Haiti: helping Haitians help Haitians through faith, education, health care and compassionate outreach.

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