In early August 1998, three evangelical pastors were arrested near Cap Haitien after they had proceeded with plans to hold a religious revival at Bois Caiman. Bois Caiman has a strong patriotic significance for Haitians, since it is the site of a legendary 1791 voodoo ceremony at which slaves swore to rise up against their masters and risk death rather than continue to live in bondage. The pastors, who had been prohibited by the authorities from holding the revival on the actual anniversary of the ceremony, proceeded instead with plans to hold the event several days before the anniversary, hoping to rid the area of malevolent influences. This offended much of the local populace and local authorities, who arrested pastors Joel Jeune, Jean Berthony Paul, and Gregor Joseph on August 4. They were released on the orders of a judge on August 6.
Ecumenical organizations exist.
Although robbery has not been ruled out, Father Pierre Louis's long history of social activism and speaking out on controversial issues led many persons to believe that his murder was politically motivated. As of mid-1999, the authorities had arrested three suspects, and the investigation continued. The U.S. Embassy discusses religious freedom issues with the Government in the overall context of the promotion of human rights.