I will give thanks to you, O Lord with all my heart (Ps 9:2)

On Saturday, January 16, Zion RC Community thanked God for its 30^th Anniversary in a joyful Eucharistic celebration, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help church, Harris Promenade, San Fernando. His Grace the Archbishop presided and Msgr Michael de Verteuil, Frs Allan Ventour and John Theodore.

The Mass was preceded by two dancers, Jennifer Alleyne and Janika Cudjoe. They emphasised gestures of thanksgiving! The flags for the nations were brought in by members of Hands and Hearts, Zion’s ministry for less privileged youth, members of Evangel of Morvant Laventille Secondary School and adult members of Zion. The opening hymn, In God’s House was very meaningful as one recalls “Zion, God’s dwelling place”.

Zion co-founders Mary Baptiste and Margaret-Mary Woods lead the entrance procession followed by young Brownies and girl guides carrying flags of the nations. Photo courtesy Michael Thorne, whatsouthsay.com

Ian Bourne, a life member of Zion, read the First Reading effectively the Psalm was sung by Trevor Clarence and Fr John Theodore CSSp read the Gospel. The clear and stirring homily of Archbishop Edward Gilbert (Archbishop’s Column, Jan 24) highlighted God’s generous call and our response, which must be rooted in freedom and strengthened by perseverance. He noted the various aspects of Zion’s growth journey with God and its current place in the Church. He encouraged Zion to persevere for 30 years more beginning now!

Following the homily, and during the singing of Veni Sancte Spiritus, the co-founders Mary Baptiste and Margaret-Mary Woods, Karen Modeste of Zion’s resident household and the Bourne Family renewed Zion’s commitment to love and serve God, the Church and Zion. They promised to continue to build the Archdiocese of Port-of-Spain through the Holy Spirit.

Following Communion, all were inspired by the words of the meditation song rendered by Margaret-Mary Woods and the choir comprising of some members of Vistabella RC church and Zion. The Moderator spoke “Zion’s Word”, sharing on the changes which have occurred with Zion, God’s ongoing provision, aspects of Zion’s ministry and the commitment to face the new challenges in the movement forward. Gratitude was expressed to all who supported Zion and for opportunities to serve the Church here and in other places. Parish priest, Fr Allan Ventour thanked Zion graciously for all ministry done in the parish aimed at building the Church through the years.

The Eucharist ended with the joyful singing of the Litany to the Virgin Mary and choruses. The gathering of Zion’s members, friends and relatives continued in the Community Hall – a simple, happy “lime” with corn soup, refreshments and enriching music provided by Warren Nagee.

Zion thanks all for presence, gifts and prayer! – A member of Zion RC Community