I am happy to be given a space in our Church's outstanding newspaper to express sentiments to a special group of Catholic persons.

I was greatly privileged to be part of the recently held COR Retreat of the St Theresa's parish, Malick, Barataria. This was held on the weekend of August 5-7 in the parish.

On behalf of the many participants who attended, I will like to extend my heartfelt thanks and deepest appreciation to all who assisted in making the weekend the great success it was.

The National COR Team, (diligently headed by Ellen Lee Pow), the parish's (St Theresa's, Malick) core team, parishioners, those who prayed for us before and during the weekend, all other support teams and supporters, each deserve God's richest blessings and our deepest gratitude.

It is a custom and policy of the group for the experience to be kept “a surprise” for future participants, and as such I am not at liberty to describe the experience. The most I can say is that the retreat is one of LOVE and FAMILY.

The weekend was capable of nurturing in its participants, and definitely in me, a deeper love for God, self and fellow man, following the two great commandments of Jesus.

It is important for all parishes, parish priests and generally all Catholics to embrace and encourage this group and especially its retreats geared to young persons.

Young persons and young adults, I urge you, get involved with COR and especially its retreats. The group, more so a family, must be commended for its 25 years of service to God's people.

Ask about it, look out for it at a parish near you. Do not hesitate. It is an experience of a lifetime that you will never forget. Once you have decided to attend, please go with an open mind to receive what God has in store for you.