DEAR EDITOR: The greatest challenge in my life took place on July 13, this year. I underwent open-heart surgery to correct a valve and it was the first time in my 60 plus years I was hospitalised. I was not sure which was more frightening.

It was a pleasure meeting my roommate of the same first name, and who is the patriarch of the Della Costa family from Santa Cruz, a very blessed family I soon realised.

However both procedures went very well. Both patients were in high praises for the professional and courteous interaction of all the staff, from the surgeons to the nursing staff on the Hibiscus Ward at the Eric Williams Medical Centre, Mount Hope.

During that time I felt honoured and blessed that so many persons at home and abroad were praying for me. I am grateful to the Della Costa family for bringing me Communion and allowing me to share in the family rosary and praying with me on every visit. May God continue to bless them.

The list of persons to thank is definitely too long, but I wish to mention those who donated blood; those who offered prayers in their respective groups; those who came home to pray with me including my parish priest Fr Kenneth Assing and Rev Fr Carlyle Lynch; my neighbours who took care of me after returning home; and my convalescent manager Mrs Pearl Gonzales.

To all I say a hearty thank you and may God continue to richly bless you all.
Carl Lynch, Chaguanas

DEAR EDITOR: Congratulations Bishop Rivas on your appointment as Archbishop of St Lucia. As a young boy growing up, I remember you attending Mass at Holy Trinity RC Church every morning. I am not surprised that God has raised you up.

I pray that you will receive the support of the clergy, family, country, for it is an honour to have a son of our country to lead the flock of the Catholic Church in St Lucia. I am quite sure past members of the Catholic Youth Organisation (CYO) of which your were a member are proud of you.

May you be richly blessed and have courage to minister to your people. May you be never crushed and remember just as you love the Lord he will surround you, with his presence. I am praying for you.
I am the light of the world whosoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. (Jn 8—12)
From one who cares (via email)