The parish of Gran Couva/Tabaquite made up of the different communities – Gran Couva, Mamoral, Flanagin Town, Brasso, Los Atajos and Tabaquite held its first Parish Assembly on February 25.

Venue was the wonderful green surroundings of the Gran Couva RC School. Fr Roger Paponette, parish priest gave the opening address and the praise and worship session was led by the vibrant parish choir, “Moments”. Theme for the day was Assess, Suggest and Plan.

Fr Roger Paponette with crowd

Group discussion

Sr Diane Jagdeo

The dynamic and well-spoken Sr Diane Jagdeo OP delivered the feature presentation. Hers was an important message for the communities and its different ministries.

Her message was about our identity as well as our belief in community. She stated, “A community that believes is bonded in the inner faith of the community.”

She also shared on the characteristic of Jesus; he was people-centered, his unconditional forgiveness and his attitude towards power showed us that “if we are saints we must carry the sinners and if we are sinners we must carry the saints.” We must remember Jesus and follow him in prayer.

The greater part of the day was spent in group discussion. Each group had to answer four important questions pertaining to faith:

1. What do I need to grow in faith?
2. How can the Church help?
3. Is there a ministry you would like to be part of?
4. Is there a ministry you would like to lead?

While the adults participated in sessions and group discussions the younger children looked at a video. Their part was to compare the video with animated scenes from Atlantis the Lost Empire to the teaching of God. Lynette Pino who was one of the facilitators together with Denise Mohan led this session.

Then came the presentation of the four questions. This session was handled by Ms Williams, Kevin Luke, Sharon Ochoa and Dave Jharilalsingh.

The day ended with the celebration of Holy Mass at which Fr Roger Paponeette presided. There was a tremendous turnout of about 150 to 160 parishioners who enjoyed eating, singing, praising, dancing. Having all the six communities come together as one to share and give thanks made it a beautiful day.

Our photographers for the day were Floriza Mendoza and Nelson Elle; technical staff, Cody La Caille and Karen Samaroo. Last, but not least, Pam Lee Sam filled the post as programme coordinator.

Thanks to the Almighty God for a blessed and wonderful day.