“God is in charge!” proclaimed Sr Pamela Blades, leader of the La Divina Pastora prayer group and one of the speakers featured at the 30 th annual rally of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal held last Sunday at the Grand Stand, Queen's Park Savannah.

She spoke on the main theme of the rally “ I know the plans I have in mind for you - it is Yahweh who speaks - Plans for Peace, not Disaster, Reserving a Future of hope for you . ” (Jer 29:11). “

He does not want us to have any doubt about who he is”, she explained, but encourages us to trust our lives with him.

Sr Blades invited the Catholic faithful to “proclaim the kingdom of God ” and to reflect upon his “power, compassion and majesty”. Referring to the theme, she stated that God's “greatest plan is salvation through Jesus Christ” to whom “we must remain attached as branches”.

She also touched on the parable of the talents and reminded all that “God is not too busy for us...He is interested in the minute details.” “Our children need to know their purpose and get their direction from God's plans for them,” she said.

Sr Blades shared that the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives is that of a “senior partner”, to whom we must remain committed. Before closing she asked the large crowd to repeat the words “I must remain in God's presence.” Then she emphasised that there was a need to “restore the spiritual walls around this nation.”

Participants at the Charismatic Renewal Rally

Following her inspiring talk, Br Peter Timothy led the faithful in intercessions, which focussed on the youth, the family and the nation.

During the afternoon session the Grand Stand came alive with praises and lively singing led by Fr Trevor Nathasingh and his team. His focus was on both physical and mental healing. The assembly was encouraged to lay their burdens at the feet of Jesus and not take them up again.

The day ended with the celebration of Holy Mass. Chief celebrant was Archbishop Edward Gilbert, with Fr David Khan, the homilist. Among the other concelebrants were Monsignors Michael de Verteuil and Urban Peschier and Frs Clyde Harvey, Michael Moses and Reggie Hezekiah.

The day ended with the Service Team paying tribute to Ursula Bleasdell and other members of the original team “whose lives were poured out for the Renewal of Christ's Church.”

Also coming in for special honour were Cuthbert and Daphne Mejias who will soon celebrate their 60 th wedding anniversary.

The music ministry ably led by GRACE and People of Praise also helped set the tone of praise and worship for the Rally.