Dr. Joyce Condemns the Kidnapping of Christian Missionaries in Haiti

Washington, DC Today, Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13) condemned the recent kidnapping of 17 missionaries in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Among the hostages are Americans with close ties to central Pennsylvania. In a speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Joyce called attention to the kidnappings and called for their immediate release.

"This weekend, 17 Christian missionaries were taken hostage in Haiti. These men and women went because they felt called to serve," said Dr. Joyce. "Now is the time to bring Americans, safely home."

The hostages include 16 Americans and 1 Canadian citizen who had traveled to Haiti with the Ohio- based Christian Aid Ministries. Congressman Joyce has been in continued contact with the U.S. Department of State regarding the ongoing situation.

Watch Dr. Joyce's speech here. A full transcript of the Congressman's remarks can be found below.

This weekend, 17 Christian missionaries were taken hostage in Haiti.

I have spoken with their family members, and to hear their story is heartbreaking.

These men and women went to Haiti because they felt called to serve. They said "Here I am Lord, send me."

We cannot allow for Americans to be kidnapped abroad.

When they went to serve, they were met with violence.

Attacks like this prove that we must remain committed to the safety and security of Americans abroad.

We must never capitulate to those who wish us harm.

Whether it is in Haiti, in Afghanistan, or on our Southern Border, Americans must always be protected.

Now is the time to bring Americans, safely home.

I urge all my colleagues to join with me in prayer for the safe return of our missionaries.

Thank you, and I yield.

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