Fr David Khan

The day was cold, dark and rainy, but inside the church spirits were lifted as Fr Khan celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving with us. What a joyful day it turned out to be! Deacon David Khan came to St Vincent in June 2004 to work with Fr Ian Taylor who left in October 2004.

After his ordination on December 11, Fr David assumed duties as Parish Priest and manager of five RC schools. Fr David was a wonderful teacher and the children appreciated and understood the Word as it was explained and sometimes dramatised at school Masses.

Fr also taught some of the confirmation candidates of the last class.
All looked forward to weekend liturgies because Fr David celebrated Mass with great zeal. He was an excellent preacher. His homilies were challenging and insightful and very often included stories and real life examples.

During his stay here, he completed the renovation of the Church and was able to clear all outstanding debts. The adjoining shelves were rebuilt, the electrical wiring and lights were changed, and new fans were installed in the church. A major project was the replacement of the 100 year-old pews with new ones.

This was completed in July this year. The senior citizens were delighted and grateful when Father installed rails at the side entrance to assist those who had difficulty in climbing the front steps.

He installed tabernacles at Marac and St Mary’s so that the Blessed Sacrament could be reserved for Communion services at those communities. The roof of the St Mary’s chapel was rebuilt and the surrounding land surveyed with its boundaries being defined.

Fr David showed love and concern for the sick and visited them regularly. He was always available for sick calls.

Together with the Cluny Centre, an intergenerational healing was conducted in 2005. He united prayer groups encouraging us to stick together and pray. Whenever possible, he was present for Eucharistic adoration. He prayed and shared the word with us. Feasts of Mary were remembered and celebrated by Fr David, a true and devoted son of Mary.

Stewardship began in 2005. Last year the financial system was computerised to ensure accuracy and accountability. In November 2004, the first bulletin was issued. They are worth saving because they are filled with stories, meditations, quotations, notices and a weekly letter from Fr David.

During the past year a vibrant men’s group was formed Fr David fully supported their projects, as he did with all other parish groups. He was patient and forgiving. Even illness and other setbacks did not stop him from doing the Lord’s work to which he was called.

Last year he was asked to help in the New Grant parish where he celebrated Mass once a month. In addition, he was invited at times to preach in different parishes, here and abroad.

There was the lighter side of life too with much laughter and fellowship on our family and fun day. Fr David also took us on two trips to Trinity Place for retreats last year. The first was for the confirmation class and the second for adults.

Fr David was generous and could be relied on to assist those in need with foodstuff, clothing, money for transport and other necessities.

On October 14, we, the parishioners, expressed our thanks and appreciation to Fr David for all he did for us during his three years at Moruga. He touched our lives and was a blessing to our parish. We thank God for using him as His instrument to fulfil His plans for us.

Fr David, we pray that you will continue to find peace and joy in your vocation and also in your new parish. God bless you and thank you for making a difference in our lives in Moruga.