Catholics of the southern borough of Point Fortin capped year-long 50 th anniversary celebrations by remembering those who contributed to the building of the parish community.

“We thank God for our mothers and fathers, grandmothers and fathers, and all who laboured over the years in this parish,” said Fr Trevor Nathasingh, parish priest of St Anthony's as he began a joyous liturgy filled with music, song and dance.

Gloren Rodd performs a dance - Asi Ko Apani - Jesus be a refuge for me

Celebrations began August 28, last year and culminated last Sunday with Holy Mass concelebrated by Fr Steve Duncan and a former parish priest, Fr Hugh Joyeau.

Cedros parish priest Fr Wilfred John was also present. The chosen theme was We are all part of building the parish .

In his opening remarks, Fr Nathasingh said that while the event was “the end of our anniversary celebrations”, it marks the continuation of our work.

The day began with a procession of parishioners - singing, waving and praising God to the beat of tassa and African drums, all the way from the old site of the church in the heart of the Point Fortin business district, to its current location.

Inside the church, 50 lit candles stood along the railing of the choir loft. The church was well decorated with gold and white balloons, topped off with a large gold balloon with “50 th Anniversary” printed on it. Many parishioners wore their anniversary polo shirts.

Dance formed a key element throughout the celebration – at the entrance procession involving children of the parish, before the homily (youth), and during and after the presentation of gifts.

In his upbeat homily, Fr Duncan said the occasion was a coming of age for the parish, which he noted had grown as Point Fortin had grown over the years: from a village, to a town and now a borough.

Choir members make music with their chac chacs

He said the parish had “exhibited growth in faith, and maturity in praise, worship and thanksgiving.” He spoke of the evolution of the parish, saying many in the congregation could remember the early years, as “many of you were little children then.” “Today”, he continued, “is cause for celebration, for all the tireless workers. We pay tribute to them. May they rest in peace. We thank God for their generous spirit.”

The Tortuga parish priest, who was present last year as a deacon, said God has clearly led the parish over the years and parishioners are the “living stones” upon which he has built the community. “Carry that honour with dignity,” he encouraged

Fr Duncan then reminded parishioners of the many priests who ministered over the years, like Frs Murphy, Hezekiah, Pereira, Peters, Ventour, Compton, Mendes, Joyeau and today, Nathasingh.

The congregation reserved special applause for Canon McNamara, who Fr Duncan said “was synonymous” with St Anthony's, and who started the construction of the current church.

He urged Point Fortin Catholics to take up their responsibilities to continue building church. “You have become a point - a focus – in south Trinidad …You have made your ‘point'– not Fortin – but for good and for God.”

After the homily, a lusty singing of the parish song, Tribute to St Anthony's Parish , was led by the parish's exuberant music ministry.

Some fifteen children made their first communion during the celebration and towards the end of the Mass, a few presentations were made, including one to longstanding parishioner, Lystra Yuille.

Many stayed on after to enjoy a meal and reminisce as the choir sang a special version of Andre Tanker's Ah Went Away . - RS