A thought became a dream and a dream became a reality. The Catholic Youth Group of St Anthony’s RC Church, Point Fortin, thought about a way to showcase the gifts and talents of not only the youths but the young at heart.

They dreamt of a day that would bring all the parishioners from the different communities within St Anthony’s parish together to explore their gifts and talents.

This became a reality on July 2, our first “Catholics Have Talent Too” preliminaries. The judges were selected, the stage was set, the sound system was checked, the crowd in anticipation, and the canteen filled with snacks and drinks. The emcee Stefan de Gale took his position and as the time crept to 2.00 p.m. the show began.

A pannist (above) and dancers at the concert

Our talent varied from singing to dancing, art to poetry, playing instruments to karate. There was beauty, flow and grace in each performance, with a drop of nervousness. Each one putting his/her best to the test.

Our grand finale was held in the parish hall on July 16. The ten contestants who made it through were Dasha Fortune and Andrea Booker, Clarine Cayenne, Alana Charles and Risa Francis, Jenia Elliot,

Outstanding dancers, Troy Glodd, Marina Roberts, Richelle Roberts, Vanessa Bartholomew and Mervin George. The evening started with a spirit-filled energy.

Singing, dancing, clapping and celebration filled the atmosphere. A rhythm section was formed by a group of young men who created a pleasing and stimulating effect. The sounds of instruments and voices were heard from a mile away.

As the competition came to an end no one was left unappreciated for their contribution, even the noisy supporters led by Kennon Noel and Khelice Rennie.

In our “Pick a Number” ten members from the audience received wonderful prizes. Two special prizes were given to Renelle Mitcham for her unique gift in portraying “Laughing Jesus” in an artistic way, and Shirley Williams, the oldest contestant, singing My Tribute.

Now the moment everyone was waiting for, the results. The contestants who placed fourth to tenth were given tokens of appreciation. Third place was given to the graceful Vanessa Bartholomew who danced to the music Don’t Stop.

Second place went to dancers Alana Charles and Risa Francis who danced to Yet Still I Rise. The winner of the first talent contest to be held at St Anthony’s was Mervin George.

His upbeat medley of songs impressed the crowd with his fun-filled performance and his mastery of both pan and harmonica.

Each one of us has been given a talent and we shall be judged by how we use our gifts. So find your talent! Develop it and use it for the glorification of God!