Friday, April 8 saw a very solemn and subdued celebration of the life of Pope John Paul II. At 5:30 p.m. the people of St Joseph 's parish, Scarborough, gathered to say goodbye in their own way to our beloved Pope.

Percy Joseph, a member of the Community Council, told Catholic News that visitors from the surrounding hotels also joined the congregation, strengthening the numbers as Fr Vincent Travers celebrated Mass.

Fr Travers' homily focussed on the life and ministry of the great leader. A photo of John Paul presided over the proceedings on the altar. One parishioner also brought a personal photo of the Pope's 1985 visit to Trinidad .

Fr Travers spoke of John Paul II's ecumenical stance and especially his drive to unite the various Catholic communities. Just as Jesus referred to his disciples as friends, John Paul believed that all who follow Christ can be friends as well.

Prayers were said for the conclave of Cardinals gathered to choose a successor, that God will truly guide their decision. Prayers were also offered for the future pope and the various leaders of the Catholic Church.

This special Mass, with its own simple splendour, was Scarborough 's solemn and beautiful farewell to one of the giants of the last century.

Service for the Pope in Delaford

Sacred Heart Church in Delaford, Tobago , held a beautiful Eucharistic service for Pope John Paul II on Thursday, April 7. According to Aurora Orr of Delaford, Catholics and non-Catholics from Roxborough, Goodwood, Speyside and Delaford shared beautiful memories.

Deborah de Rosia of Eternal Light Community led the well-attended service. There was a beautifully decorated picture of Pope John Paul and tokens with his picture and a short history were given out. The opportunity was given for members of the congregation to share their thoughts and memories of the late pope.

Some spoke of his visit to Trinidad in 1985. Others shared about how he was a true example to the world. One woman said he was an example of forgiveness because he went to prison to speak to and forgive the man who tried to assassinate him in 1981.

The parish community also took time to pray for Pope John Paul's successor, that he would follow in his footsteps. The congregation had the opportunity to sign a condolence leaflet to be sent to the Vatican.