The first instalment of “Youth: Talented and Gifted” comes off November 14 at St Rose Modern Secondary School in Gouyave. The other instalments will be held on the sister islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique in mid-January 2010.

The series is being organised by the Diocesan Youth Secretariat; Fr Carl Haynes is the Secretariat coordinator.

Fr Hugh Logan, who is working with Fr Haynes and conceptualised the event, told Catholic News via e-mail that the idea came from 1 Corinthians 12:4 in which St Paul teaches, “There are many different gifts but it is always the same Spirit… distributing them at all to each individual.”

He said “Youth: Talented and Gifted” is an invitation to Catholic schools, youth groups and individuals “to come and give God thanks and praise in dance, drama, song, poetry, culinary skills, art and craft…”

The criteria for judging and guidelines for each competition have already been distributed to schools and parishes. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners in each category. Among the categories is Religious Drama, with the test piece being “The Descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles” (Acts 2:1-21).

In the Public Speaking category, the topic is “What does it mean to be a Catholic youth?” The test piece for the Religious Dance category is any of the Joyful Mysteries. Fr Logan explained. “As we approach the seasons of Advent and Christmas and the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, these dances can be incorporated in the liturgy where appropriate…. We want our young people to be actively involved in the liturgy and use their gifts and talents for the glory of God.”

While the main event, the cultural extravaganza, runs from 4.00 – 7.00 p.m., the exhibition begins from midday. The prize-giving ceremony follows the extravaganza.

Fr Logan said the planning committee, which includes Sr Delia Monrose, youth group leaders and adults, is currently seeking more sponsorship for the prizes; already giving their support are Grenada Agro Industries, Grenada Breweries and Grenada Teacher’s School Supplies.

For more information on “Youth: Talented and Gifted”, interested persons may call 416-4098 or 444-8340.