It was as a curious six-year-old, that I had my first glimpse inside a church. I went to a kindergarten in that neighbourhood and one day when I was sent to the church compound to fetch something, I took the opportunity to peek into the church and take in the cool dark interior with its rows of pews and stained glass windows.

The New Year's Eve church service at the Talparo Roman Catholic Church brought back that memory, and it made me smile.

I come from a practicing Muslim family. Growing up in Malaysia among people who come from a whole medley of races and religions. I have always been open and willing to learn about religions other than mine. Even as a child, I counted among my closest friends a Malay Muslim, a Chinese Buddhist and an Indian Christian.

Nevertheless, the church service was a new and interesting experience for me. In a time when religion continues to be a catalyst for conflict, I found it heartening to see such open displays of religious unity.

Talparo RC Confirmation students doing liturgical dance at New Year's Eve Mass

Upon observing the bond shared among the churchgoers and the relatively relaxed atmosphere of the service, I saw why so many people here choose to make religion an integral part of their lives.

Music and song made the service expressive and the participation of Talparo community members gave it a personal and affectionate touch. Ånybody could have found something they could relate to in that service, even a first time visitor to Trinidad.

I may practise a different religion from yours, but “different” does not translate into “alien”. Ultimately, religion of any sort teaches the follower about faith, love and respect. I saw these values out in full force during the service, and I thank you for opening your doors to me and allowing me to share a part of your lives.

More interesting than I expected

by Heather Beebee, Albany, New York

Growing up in a small suburban community, I had very few religious influences. Both my parents were brought up in a semi-religious environment but they lost faith over the years as misfortunes befell them.

When the time came to transfer their faith, they did not choose to pass their religious beliefs on to their children. At home, we celebrate the main Christian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, for their sentimental value. It is seen as an opportunity to gather with family and friends and to give thanks.

At first, I was bit hesitant when Stacia asked us to attend the New Year's Eve service because I always feel uncomfortable in religious settings, mainly because they are unfamiliar to me.

I also thought it might be somewhat strange since all of us (Stacia, Anisa, David and I) have different religious backgrounds. However, as soon as I stepped over the threshold, I immediately felt comfortable because everyone was so warm and welcoming.

Stacia introduced us to some of the congregation who she knew well, such as Mr Steele. Even strangers approached us with a smile and went out of their way to welcome us to the community. I was greatly impressed by the openness and the friendliness of the Talparo people.

The atmosphere was one of the best aspects of the New Year's Eve service. I expected the priest to preach for the entire service while the followers sat back and listened.

However, this service was much more interesting than I originally anticipated and I loved how everyone was encouraged to participate. I was quite moved when two of my best friends, Stacia and Safiya, went up to say a prayer.

In the United States, there are no musicians to enhance the service. The choir members were very animated and enthusiastically swayed to the beat of the music.

I loved the dance performed by the children of the parish. It was a great way to get them involved by incorporating religion with other forms of artistic expression such as dance.

What at first I thought might be stressful, turned into an enjoyable experience. I admired the way Fr Moses preached about peace and taking care of one another.

Even though we were from different faiths, we were welcomed. Talparo seems to be a very caring and close-knit community. If given another opportunity, I would love to come back here again.