Piece Description

The Belgian priest, known as Father Damien, was officially declared a saint on Oct. 11, 2009 for ministering to patients with Hansen's disease who were exiled to a remote settlement in Hawaii in the 1800's.

During this tragic era, people in Hawaii were torn from their families and banished from their homes because of fear of the infectious disease. Hansen’s disease, also known as leprosy, affects the skin and nerves, sometimes causing disability and disfigurement.  Back then, there was no cure for it, so patients were quarantined by the government on the isolated Kalaupapa peninsula on the island of Molokai.  They were treated as outcasts until Father Damien, arrived in the late 1800's to care for them.  He helped the patients regain their dignity, and brought global attention to their plight and fight for human rights.  Damien served in Kalaupapa for 16 years (1873-1889), before dying from the disease at the age of 49.

This piece explores how Saint Damien continues to inspire many worldwide, particulary those who were once exiled to Kalaupapa.  "He came in the worst years, and lifted up our hearts, do not despair. He gave us faith and hope," says Norbert Palea, one of the last remaining patients in Kalaupapa.

Father Damien is considered the patron saint of outcasts, including those with Hansen's disease and HIV/AIDS.

Saint Damien of Molokai (1840-1889)
http://www.fatherdamien.com/