Celebrate the Elderly was the theme of St Paul’s Roman Catholic Church of Couva as parishioners celebrated the Feast day of St Paul on Sunday, July 1. A day-long programme of activities filled the church grounds ending with hugs and kisses.

Seniors of St Paul's Parish, Couva

Vica Chorda entertains parishioners

Episcopal Vicar of the Central Vicariate Fr Kenneth Assing in his message to parishioners explained, “The parish sought to celebrate the lives of parishioners who have attained biblical age, as it were.

Considering the life journey of Saul into Paul, I believes that all of your celebrated lives today in the parish do carry your respective stories of conversion that are stories much needed to be shared.” 

The day started with Mass at 9.00 a.m., celebrated by Fr Robert Llanos. He told a packed congregation they had to examine the role faith played in their lives. Fr Llanos was presented with a small gift on behalf of the parish as he had celebrated 16 years as a priest the week before.

After Mass all parishioners were provided with lunch. Following lunch, the elderly with their families and others returned to the church where they were congratulated for their service to country and Church.

Several recorded interviews with the elderly were played back to the enjoyment of all present. In the interviews the elderly reminisced about long ago and the several changes over time.

The melodic St Paul’s choir sang many popular songs that had everyone joining in. The violin group Viva Chorda also provided musical entertainment.

The afternoon ended with each senior parishioner receiving a gift from the younger parishioners.  In all the lives of 60 parishioners were celebrated.