DEAR EDITOR: The name Godfrey Sealy will always live on in my heart and mind. April 26 was the second anniversary of Godfrey’s death, was Trinidad and Tobago aware of this?

I remember the days, the hours leading up to his death, those memories are still fresh in my mind. But have we as a nation forgotten the contributions Godfrey made to this society? I don’t think enough was done as a nation to honour his memory.

Godfrey was an HIV/AIDS activist, an actor, a social activist for change, a voice for the voiceless, a visionary, a true son of the soil who always opened his heart to all, never turning people away. Are our local unsung heroes forgotten when they die?

Did Godfrey’s plans die with him? Why wasn’t a fund set up in his name to honour his memory, eg the naming of a local theatre, for example the Godfrey Sealy Art Centre, or a room or space set up where his work could be displayed, exhibited? If we truly do not cherish the memories of citizens, then who will?

Godfrey’s contribution was in giving of himself and his God-given talents freely. He was spontaneous in his actions, an honest human being with a passion for life, a people-oriented person. His family members and close friends can attest to this.

May his death not go unrecognised, and may some good soul take up his cause and continue the work he started.

God bless you, Godfrey, may your soul rest in peace, and may you find everlasting joy with the heavenly Father. We still miss you dearly.
A friend always.
Ken Smith, Woodbrook

THE EDITOR: Articles have appeared in the newspapers, local and foreign, about the decline in membership of the Roman Catholic Church, the shortage of priests and the lack of enthusiasm and attendance at Holy Mass.

Scandalous reports of outlaw priests abroad are regretfully another matter of concern. But recently a larger than normal crowd of worshippers attended the Christ the Lord Church in Marabella.

People returned home from nowhere and everywhere: new faces of parishioners, friends, visitors and strangers, the prodigals possibly from the hills of Laventille or from the remote unknown country districts like Timital and Cachipe! Others returning from their secret hiatuses, a figure in a hijab, her companion a bearded relic.

The reasons for the large crowd are obvious - a completely magnificent refurbishment of the church and its surroundings, air conditioned comfort, new pews, new lights, a larger melodious choir, a better sound system and naturally the dynamic Gospel-ridden voice of Fr Urban Hudlun OP. A huge silver cross at the entrance.

The aura of light, peace and beauty is evident everywhere, from pillars to walls; to glass windows, the floor, the ciborium, the polished statues, and a painted bell tower, the effusive conviviality, a gathering of moths.
Astutely chosen blend of colours of quiet warmth and splendour kept the House of God in an ambiance of soulful tranquility.

A caring and responsible priest, a figure of eternal youth, warm hearted leader of the community, Fr Hudlin has always shown humanist qualities, whose impeccable taste for goodness, refined sensibilities, have succeeded in showing excellence in art, that invites perfection in all life leading to the dedication to the Supreme Being whose Spiritual Excellence attracts us to emulate Him.

Thanks to Fr Hudlin for his taste for excellence, which draws us to the Holy Spirit, from the road to Emmaus and all other roads that lead to Christ the Lord Church, in Marabella.

(Blushing modesty aside, I am proud to have been given the privilege to design an altar, ciborium, Crucifix and the Church building in 1975. Now, one of our finest houses of worship across the land, welcoming crowds.)  
WILLI CHEN, Marabella