DEAR EDITOR: The mounting violence on young people is more and more distressing daily. Our hearts go out to the relatives and loved ones of the deceased.

It is so sad to see that most of these youth are now entering the prime of their lives, and many of them have not begun to exercise any of the gifts which God has given to them.

The facial expression of people who read or listen to the news while travelling tells a story of concern and even panic. The question is “ Who’s next?”. Many people are reluctant to respond to vehicles stopping at their doors, because many of the victims are called out before being executed.

We all have a role to play in attempting to curb this mayhem. I am particularly concerned about the role of catechists. We need to consider the tremendous advantage of having a group of young people in our charge for a period of time, whether they are preparing for First Communion or Confirmation, or whether they belong to Post-First Communion or Post-Confirmation groups.

The First Communion and Confirmation programmes teach the candidates about Jesus Christ, the Church, and other related stuff. The programmes must also focus on lifestyles, values, care and concern for our fellow men as well as respect for authority.

At Chaguanas we take the opportunity to bring the parents and guardians together in a forum where they are challenged by experts to be better parents. So far the feedback has always been excellent. We may not save all, however those who pass through our progranmmes will go on to meaningful and productive lives.
Carl Lynch, Chaguanas

DEAR EDITOR: I am a member of St Anthony's parish. I found an excellent Bible Reading plan on the Internet. It can be downloaded from the website at: http://www.chnetwork.org/journals/readguide04.pdf

I have given copies to members of my parish and they are being very well-received. I thought it would be a good idea to share it with readers as well so that if anyone thinks it is a good idea, they can distribute it as well.
Nneka Bosland via email