Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgetown STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017
MISSION – To lead all people to unity, encounter and participation Table of Contents
1 MESSAGE 2 HIGHLIGHTS OF 2017 4 CREATING DISCIPLES 4 Spiritual Growth 6 Catholic Formation Institute 8 Our Youth Development 10 EVANGELISATION • Corpus Christi Community – St. George 12 CELEBRATIONS • 100 th anniversary of Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima • CARIFESTA XIII celebratory Mass 15 OUR CHARITABLE WORKS • Reports • Prison Ministry • The Hub • Living Water Community 25 VOCATION • Seminarians • Ordination of Permanent Deacons • Ordination of Transitional Deacons 31 EDUCATION • Diocesan Catholic Education Team 33 FINANCIALS
Vision By 2019, the Roman Catholic Church in Barbados will be a recognized leader in integral development, forming mature disciples who build strong Christian families and vibrant communities in the service of Christian Unity, the Common Good and the Kingdom of God.
Core Values Prayer | Forgiveness |Gratitude | Hospitality
A PUBLICATION BY THE RC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN www.catholicbb.org © 2018 Message
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:16
Brother and Sisters,
2017 provided incredible examples of vocation, service and commitment to our church -commitment to God’s mission.
Since SYNOD 2014, we have steadily been strengthening our Church by investing more in our members in the pew, our catechists and Sunday school teachers, our children, and persons in ministry, giving them every opportunity to have an encounter with Jesus Christ through the many formation workshops and retreats organized. We also continued the important role of developing the next generation of clergy and young leaders, preparing them to serve God’s people in this digital milieu.
Having invested for five years in the Diaconate programme, our Diocese has now reaped the first fruit with the installation of two Permanent deacons. I was also humbled to install our first two Transitional deacons in over forty years - Rev. Winston Layne and Rev. Kirt Prospere, who are expected to be ordained as priests in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Let me take this opportunity to thank our donors and everyone who has supported our seminarians and deacons along their journey. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
‘The Hub’ is becoming better known for the important role it plays in bringing dignity and comfort to vulnerable persons helping them to become better versions of themselves and have sustainable livlihoods, where that is possible. Many more persons have turned to our Church for help in light of the tough economic situation, and we ask God to bless our parishioners and supporters, who give generously of their time, talent and treasure. A generous spirit shows a grateful heart.
Finally, while I serve as Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Bridgetown until a bishop is installed, I would like to thank each of you for your kind words, support, and prayers. The Church in Barbados is very special, and has the foundation to grow and play an even more important role in the Barbadian society. In 2019 our beautiful historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral will celebrate its 120th anniversary and this will be another wonderful opportunity for thanksgiving for God’s blessings and Grace.
With Gratitude
The Most Rev. Dr. Charles Jason Gordon Apostolic Administrator, Diocese of Bridgetown
STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 1 HIGHLIGHTS of 2017
2017 was a significant year for the clergy and faithful of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgetown. We thank God for all of these blessings and His Grace.
Some of the major highlights include:
• Installation of the Most Rev. Dr. Charles Jason Gordon, Bishop of Bridgetown, as the eleventh Archbishop of Port of Spain, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Port of Spain on 27th December. He will also serve as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Bridgetown until a new Bishop is installed • Diamond Jubilee of Fr. Peter Clarke O.P’s ordination to the priesthood on 15th May. He also celebrated his 86th birthday in April. * Fr. Peter passed away on 27 March, 2018
“Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1
2 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 3 • Ordination of two permanent deacons Rev. George Waithe and Rev. Stephen Foster on 2nd September - the first time in over twenty years • Ordination of two transitional deacons, Rev. Winston Layne and Rev. Kirt Prospère - the first time in over 40 years. They will be ordained priests in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Monsignor Vincent Blackett was the last Barbadian ordained a transitional deacon - in 1974 • Commencement of a new church community, Corpus Christi, in St. George. Mass was held temporarily on Sunday morning at Brighton Plantation but is now held at the Living Water Community Centre. Fr. Vibert Stephens is responsible for the community
• The Diocese’s first pilgrimage on 25th March, joining Catholics across the world to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Fatima. • The annual CAINCO summer camp for our youth, initiated by Fr. Clement Paul, celebrated its 40th anniversary • The Diocese hosted the Opening Mass for CARIFESTA XIII, a joyful celebration with the people, colours and music of the Caribbean • The Diocese joined Catholics across the world to recognize the first ‘World day of the Poor’ on 19 November. The Most Rev. Gabriel Malzaire, Bishop of Roseau delivered a talk on ‘The Eucharist and the Poor’ on 15 November.
2 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 3 “With Christ at the centre of your life you will never be disappointed.” Pope Francis
CREATING DISCIPLES Spiritual Growth 2017 was a very active year in the life of the Diocese and parishioners seized many of the opportunities provided to refresh their faith. Bible classes were held in many of the parishes during the year and the annual Bible month in September was used by parishes as an opportunity to rekindle the faithful’s love for the Word of God. Families were also encouraged to spend more quality time exploring the Word, practicing lectio divina and growing in faith together.
Large numbers of parishioners attended Mass during the Lenten season and participated in Palm Sunday and Corpus Christi processions, professing their faith in the streets. Contemplative worship sessions led by the Our Lady of the Rosary choir every third Thursday, and devotion to the Divine Mercy at St. Dominic’s every Friday are supported by parishioners from across the Diocese from time to time. The Legion of Mary and Cursillo groups continue to be active with longstanding faithful members.
24- HOUR DEVOTION TO THE HOLY EUCHARIST In response to Pope Francis’ call to Catholic Churches worldwide to observe a twenty-hour adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from Friday 24th to Saturday 25th March, parish churches were open all day Friday to midnight and on Saturday morning until 6.pm. Many Catholics took advantage of this special time for adoration. Priests were also available to hear confessions.
24- HOUR ROSARY Our Lady of the Rosary community held another successful 24 –hour prayer session.
4 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 5 CHRISTIAN MEDITATION Two adult groups met once per week either at St. Patrick’s Cathedral (on Monday 10:30 a.m to 11:30 a.m) or at premises at River Road, St. Michael, the “Oasis” from 5.30 to 6.15pm on Tuesday. A smaller group met to meditate at St. Dominic’s Church on Fridays, from 5.00 – 5.45 pm, and this has potential to grow.
OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE AND OUR LADY QUEEN OF THE UNIVERSE PRAYER GROUPS
Our Lady Queen of Peace prayer group met on Thursdays. Some members visited persons in the hospital and Extraordinary Ministers of Communion took Holy Communion to the house bound. The Group hosted three Magnificat meetings at the Living Water Community Centre and a one week Life in the Spirit seminar was held at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral, culminating with a Charismatic Mass on the vigil of Pentecost, with Bishop Jason Gordon as chief celebrant.
4 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 5 CREATING DISCIPLES The Catholic Formation Institute
The Catholic Formation Institute’s Steering Committee offered a wide range of courses to assist the faithful to renew or strengthen their spirituality and grow closer to God. Over 600 persons attended 18 workshops and retreats coordinated by the CFI. This response demonstrates a yearning for and appreciation of the courses which included ‘Our Liturgy explained’, ‘Media and Religious Imagination’, ‘Fundamental Theology’ and ‘Catholic Social Teaching’.
Fr. Michael Barrow SJ facilitated a day of reflection for all people in Ministry on 10th June, 2017 at the Living Water Community, and Bishop Jason hosted an evening of reflection for university students on 4th August.
6 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 7 For the first time since SYNOD 2014, the CFI offered or coordinated courses designed specifically for married couples and families. These included a Marriage Encounter Weekend from 24th to 26th February, and a Family Retreat in June. A Men’s Retreat and Women’s Retreat were held in September and October respectively, and Lenten Retreats were held across the Diocese with the common theme ‘Will you forgive?’
Fr. John Persaud, General Secretary of the Antilles Episcopal Conference and an expert on Canon Law conducted an informative session about the church’s teaching with respect to Marriage, divorce, nullity and remarriage on 25th July 2017.
Since the arrival of Head Catechist, Sr. Margaretmary, Catechists and Sunday School teachers have benefited from more formation. A Lenten retreat led by Fr. Michael Barrow SJ was held at St. Francis on 4th March for this target group, and a workshop for new Catechists was held on 22nd April. Catechists were also recognized and re-commissioned on Catechetical Sunday, September 17, 2017. The theme was ‘Living as Missionary Disciples.’
University of Dayton and the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLFF)
The Diocese has a partnership relationship with the University of Dayton which hosts the VLFF - an e-learning portal which offers 150 courses.
Several Catholics in Barbados have been registering for the online courses via the VLCFF. The platform was a major component of the Diaconate programme in Barbados which produced five Permanent Deacons.
6 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 7 CREATING DISCIPLES Our Youth Development The Diocesan Youth and Young Adult Team (DYAT) hosted quarterly ‘Faith on Tap’ sessions during the year, providing an opportunity for fellowship, sharing and fun with other young Catholics.
The annual Catholic Information Course in Christian Living (CAINCO) camp celebrated its 40th Anniversary with the theme “Hope is expecting His Light despite the darkness.” About 75 young persons aged 15 participated in the week’s activities which offered them a spiritually and mentally enriching experience of the faith. The DYAT also hosted an event, ‘Erupt’, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral as a precursor to the St. Francis of Assisi parish - blessing Feast of Christ the King’s celebratory mass. The event included of pets on October 1, 2017 in honour music, song and spoken word performed live. A Ministry Fair of St. Francis was also organized to show the youth the different ministries in the church and to help them to discern and ultimately recognize God’s call to them.
8 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 9
8 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 9 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matt 28:19 -20
EVANGELISATION Corpus Christi Community – St. George
All Christians are commissioned to share the Good News, and so after an initial start by Monsignor Vincent Blackett some years ago, Bishop Jason Gordon gave the approval for the Diocese to go into the parish of St. George to start a community. This initiative was another collaboration with the Living Water Community with whose assistance the Diocese established a community in St. Philip – Sacred Heart.
The Diocese received the generous offer from the Pile family, to use the Brighton plantation premises for Mass every Sunday at 7:00 a.m – and that was the start of the most unique parish in the Diocese. Corpus Christi Community is led by Fr. Vibert Stephens and the first Mass was held on 28, January 2017. Mass was held al fresco and the cool breezes and sounds of nature awakening when Mass commenced, reminded us of the wonder and beauty of God’s creation.
Very quickly the community grew from 15 to 30 with some additional persons visiting to experience this parish with a difference. The small but growing number of followers worked hard to go into the villages, shops and housing developments, to introduce the community to the residents of St. George.
10 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 11 On Mother’s day, 14 March, 2017, a motorcade traversed the parish, stopping at houses, shops and wherever there was a gathering. Assisted by the youth from Sacred Heart, the members handed out copies of the book “Everybody needs to forgive somebody” along with information about the community and an invitation to attend Mass.
On the 20th May, 2017, the community held a concert featuring the Royal Barbados Police band. Community members, residents from neighbouring districts and Catholics from other parishes all patronised the open air event held on the grounds of the Brighten Plantation.
The community soon outgrew the premises and a tough decision was made to move Mass to the Living Water Community from December 2017. A permanent home for Corpus Christi in St. George is the ultimate goal, and fund raising commenced during the year to achieve that purpose.
10 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 11 Celebrations 100TH ANNIVERSARY of Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima – The Pilgrimage May 13 marked the anniversary of the first of six apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917 in Fátima, Portugal. They were later beatified by Blessed Pope John Paul II and canonized as saints by Pope Francis in 2017 to coincide with the 100th anniversary of their visions.
To commemorate this special anniversary, members of all parishes embarked on a pilgrimage to all seven parishes on Saturday 25th March, 2017. The pilgrimage comprising coaches and private vehicles departed from St Patrick’s Cathedral at 9:45 a.m, stopping at every parish for half hour. Each parish made presentations in commemoration of Our Lady of Fatima. A lunch break picnic style, was held at Our Lady of the Rosary at Verdun, St. John, and the final stop was at St Patrick’s Cathedral, where a closing Mass was held. Priests were available for persons wishing to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The dress code for the day was blue and white.
The day was a major highlight for the Diocese as persons – young and older - from all the parishes, gathered for a wonderful day of prayer, friendship and fellowship.
12 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 13 CELEBRATORY MASS for CARIFESTA XIII
The Caribbean Festival of Arts, CARIFESTA, was hosted in Barbados from 17th to 27th August, 2017 providing a large gathering of artists, musicians and authors with an opportunity to showcase Caribbean and Latin America through arts and culture. The theme was ‘Celebrating our Culture, Celebrating Ourselves’. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgetown held a joyful celebratory Mass “Art aside from to welcome the festival’s participants from different countries. The chief celebrant was Bishop Jason Gordon. being a credible After Mass, the celebration continued in the churchyard, witness to the with an injection of Barbadian culture and warm hospitality. beauty of creation, An art exhibition was assembled in the Church Hall featuring over 40 original paintings of members of the Catholic is also a tool of community under the theme “Windows To The Soul.” evangelization. Coincidentally, Pope Francis’ prayer intention for August 2017 was “That artists of our time, through their ingenuity, In the Church, it may help everyone discover the beauty of creation.” The exists above all arts have provided a window for the appreciation of God’s work. to evangelize: through art – music, The Diocese’s activities for CARIFESTA culminated with Bishop Jason Gordon delivering a paper “The challenge architecture, and opportunity of technology to Caribbean culture and identities” on 22nd August, at the UWI CARIFESTA XIII sculpture, painting – Symposium as a participant on the Cultural Industries and the Church explains Economic development panel. and interprets the revelation… Art has an intrinsic salvific dimension and must be open to everything and everyone, offering consolation and hope to all.”
Pope Francis 12 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 13 CELEBRATORY MASS The Solemnity of Christ the King On 26th November, 2017, St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral was overflowing as hundreds of parishioners from across the Diocese came to celebrate the end of a significant year for the Diocese, and to say good-bye to the Most Rev. Charles Jason Gordon, appointed Archbishop elect for Port of Spain, and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Bridgetown on 22, October 2017. The Mass was joyful and heartfelt tributes flowed from the clergy and church leaders. The Archbishop designate thanked everyone who contributed to the continued growth of the church in Barbados during his tenure, and gave a special thanks to the clergy with whom he worked since September 2011. He offered these words of advice:
“Remember, Christ is our universal “After six years of working king and the way we serve Him together and building life and best is in giving ourselves to Him in love in the distressing disguise sharing moments and sharing of the poor.” life in the church, you really get into a rhythm, but you also get into a lot of relationships and you are able to find different ways to get people to work together toward a common good…. The people of Barbados have become such a part of my heart in the six years.” Archbishop Elect Jason Gordon
STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 15 Our Charitable Works
Our Lady of the Rosary – Verdun, St. John Marina Laurie
HOW WE ASSIST FAMILIES The Saint Vincent de Paul conference of Our Lady of the Rosary helps the families that we care for by mostly assisting with food supplies. We deliver food bags every two weeks and also give them vouchers to obtain clothing and household items from the de Paul’s Mall, located at St.Patrick’s Cathedral. From time to time we receive requests for assistance with utility bills and some health matters.
When the children are due to go “back to school” we make every effort to assist them with school supplies. At Christmas we give them special hampers including treats for the season. Each person in the families – young and old - gets their own parcel of “Goodies” and we select items, that we think appropriate, from the de Paul’s Mall for the families including clothing, towels and other linen items.
We distribute the names of the children to our parishioners who generously donate gifts for each individual.
NUMBER OF FAMILIES We assist up to thirty persons every two weeks. We have about 26 families that we assist consistently, but some families are removed and replaced by others. We assist about 100 persons -from babies up. Our school age children are from 3+ to sixteen/seventeen years and the total is 39 children. We still have about 4 under school age.
HOW WE OBTAIN OUR SUPPORT Every 5th Sunday we receive a special collection from the congregation for which we are extremely grateful. Only two families donate on an annual basis but the others are generous when they can. We did not have our major fundraiser this year and that put a strain our ability provide assistance.
STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 15 St. Francis of Assisi – St. James Jenny Alleyne
The St. Francis of Assissi Conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society is made up of nine permanent members and one overseas member. There are also five or six other ladies who assist the Society.
The Society lends financial support to eighteen families in the district and twelve elderly ladies. Support is given on a monthly basis in the form of groceries and/or money. Assistance is also given when required to settle utility bills, medical bills, clothing etc.
The Society also helps with school expenses for the children of the families. Money is given to cover the full cost of school books and stationery fees and assistance towards purchasing uniforms, shoes etc. Children who live in challenging areas off the bus route are also helped with bus money. The Society also contributes to funeral costs and helps with furniture or appliances where possible.
16 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 17 Prison Ministry Rev. Stephen Foster
In November 2017, the Diocese concluded its first year of Catholic Prison Ministry at Her Majesty’s Prison, Dodds. The prison population is approximately, 900 male and 34 female inmates at the time this report was written. The inmates are ministered to by over 20 different churches and religious organisations, besides the Catholic Church.
The Catholic Prison Ministry team consists of 11 persons from most of our parishes. Fr. Leonard Alfonso is our prison Priest and Fr. Michael Barrow is the spiritual director for members of the ministry. We are scheduled to visit the prison twice a month and occasionally we get in a third visit. The visits usually alternate between the male and female prisioners and are conducted on a Saturday afternoon from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Between 4 to 6 members of the team participate. Any members who cannot participate in a visit are asked to support the visit with prayer.
Bishop Jason Gordon had hoped that the Catholic church would be celebrating Holy mass in the prison since 2016. That still has not occurred but we will set a goal for 2018.
The ministry on Saturday is based on Sunday’s Gospel. We are only permitted to enter the prison with the scripture – it is on the word of God that we enter and on the strength of the word that we minister. The Gospel is proclaimed, a brief homily is given and then inmates are invited to discuss the word that was proclaimed. Many times we have very deep discussions.
We have been well received by both the male and female populations in the prison as well as by the prison officials who see over the inmates. There is much to learn and much work ahead and we rely on the generosity of our brothers and sisters in our parishes in providing cash donations, clothes, food, toiletries etc
We are looking to expand the number of persons who are willing to visit the prison as well as assist Prison Fellowship Barbados, whose ministry supports the families of those incarcerated.
16 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 17 The HUB for the Period: January to December 2017
Ms. Marjorie Riley DIRECTOR
INTRODUCTION The third full year of operations of The Hub has been marked with some success and also some challenges. However through the guidance and counsel of our Apostolic Administrator, The Most Rev. Jason Gordon we were able to remain firmly on course with our objective which is to provide a “hand up” as opposed to a “hand out”, in recognition that everyone can make a difference in his/her life and other people’s lives as well.
OUR ACHIEVEMENTS FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY TO DECEMBER 2017 Assisting persons to meet their basic needs: $44,072.16 • Food hampers and food vouchers: $12,265 • Rent assistance: $15,745 • BL&P and BWA $4,612.80 • Medical & Other Assistance $11,028 The number of persons registered with The HUB increased from 135 at the start of 2017 to 222 by the end of November - an increase of 39%. Of these, the majority sought assistance with their basic needs - (food) and paying of household and utility bills. This support was provided directly through the Hub and also through arrangements with Living Water Community (LWC).
Small Business Grants and Loans: $57,377.88 In 2017, new approaches were developed to the break the cycle of poverty started in 2016 with the establishment of a micro-business grant/programme. During the period under, review five grants were given and five loans were given, and all clients selected participated in a training programme. Two of the businesses that were given loans have performed well, and with continued training and guidance, they have the potential to be very successful.
18 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 19 Provided assistance through agreements with international organisations and regional organisations: $33,871.55 This amount was paid to Barbados Port Inc. for demurrage, transportation and labour. Shipments from Food for the Poor were reduced due the introduction of the National Social Responsibility Levy. This resulted in only one donation made to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital valued at US$2,164,944.49 and two donations valued at US$119,750.56 instead of four, of highly nutritional rice and soy (Manna Pack) product food and one instead of two donations, of general products.
Scholarship Programme & Education Assistance: $3,227.00 The Hub established an agreement with the Career Development Institute of Barbados (CDI) in early 2017. This relationship allows the registrations to improve their opportunities to find employment or to start a business by completing courses offered by the CDI. Under this agreement, the registrants are given a 50% discount on the course fee and The Hub pays this amount on behalf of the registrant. To date two persons have registered and their performances to date have been good. In addition, the recipient of the scholarship to Barbados Community College (BCC) has successfully completed her first year of study and her results thus far for her second year have been extremely good.
18 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 19 “In imitation of our Master, we Christians are called to confront the poverty of our brothers and sisters, to touch it, to make it our own and to take practical steps to alleviate it.” Pope Francis
The EU proposal: $6,276.10 In September 2017, the Diocese was given the opportunity to respond to a call for proposal from the European Union. The response required the submission of a three year project which will allow The Hub to do more for the poor and vulnerable in Barbados. The submission featured the work of the Hub and resulted in the receipt of a €400,000 grant to the Diocese for the implementation of the proposals outlined.
Salary & Office Supplies: $18,016.50 During the period volunteer staff increased by one and the only paid employee resigned.
Governance: In keeping with good corporate governance, an Advisory Team was established to provide the Hub with access to their expertise and experience. The members of this team are: Clairvair Squires (economics), Daniel Farmer (finance), Glenda Medford(law), Hamilton Roach (micro-business) and Juanita Thorington-Powlett (projects).
20 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 21 Living Water Community
Rose Jackman CO-FOUNDRESS / LEADER - BARBADOS MISSION
GENERAL The Living Water Community (LWC) founded in Trinidad and Tobago in 1975 by Rhonda Maingot and Rose Jackman is a Catholic, Ecclesial, Charismatic Community. The mission statement of the Community is as follows: The Living Water Community is a Catholic family on the journey to holiness. Empowered by the Spirit of Jesus, we strive to be His healing presence to all who thirst. United in love, prayer and mission, we joyfully lay down our lives in the service of the Kingdom of God. Upon invitation of Barbados, LWC opened a mission here since January 12th, 2003. The community has four household members living together who are in full time ministry in the community, parishes and Diocese. The Community is also made up of 84 Covenant Members, including 4 Associated members, 7 Consecrated members living on their own and 6 Committed Couples who make an annual commitment every January. They commit to a personal relationship with God and to the service of the poor and needy through the ministries of the Community. LWC provides its members and others with opportunities for growth through Holy Mass, prayer meetings, spiritual direction, counselling, seminars and retreats. Community members are encouraged to actively take part in their parishes and Diocesan events.
COMMUNAL PRAYER From Monday to Friday Holy Mass or Word and Communion Service is celebrated in the Prayer Room. About 12 members and others join the Community’s household for recitation of the Rosary, Morning Prayer and Holy Mass.
Every first Friday of the month the Prayer Room is open for persons to adore Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament from 7.00 am- 6.00 pm. Also, upon request people or groups will spend some time in front of the Blessed Sacrament.
20 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 21 Every Wednesday evening about 40 persons attend a Charismatic Prayer Meeting in the Living Water Community Hall led by the household members and other community members. Seminars such as, Life in the Spirit and Growth in the Spirit, teachings and other spiritual exercises are offered during the meetings.
During the different church seasons such as Lent and Advent, the community offers specific activities such as evening prayers, Holy Thursday and Good Friday meditations.
“If any man is thirsty, let him come to me…and from his breast shall flow fountains of living water.” John 7:37-38
There is a Men’s Group that meets twice a month for a time of prayer and sharing and yearly they have a retreat. Approximately 12 men attend the meetings. They are also encouraged to attend the Diocesan men’s retreat.
Every Thursday morning the Women’s Group meets for spiritual sessions led by a household member or invited person. Weekend and one day retreats are also offered. They are also encouraged to attend the Diocesan women’s retreat facilitated by one of the household members.
Every Friday afternoon and evening children and teens group is being held at the Living Water Community. Special activities such as collecting food items for the poor during Lent, helping with the Feeding program at Hero Square, Community fundraising and Stations of the Cross are being done by the two groups.
CATECHESIS: A community member prepares persons who are interested in becoming Roman Catholics. Individuals are also instructed to become Lay Ministers of the Eucharist. These persons are actively involved in taking Holy Communion to the sick. One household member helps to prepare teens for the Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The community is also asked to lead retreats such as confirmation retreats.
COUNSELLING: The Community offers counselling and spiritual direction to individuals upon request. Marriage counselling is also offered to couples who wants to make that commitment.
FOOD BANK: The Food bank ministry supports families who are need with food hampers, furniture, clothing and other items. As well as on a spiritual level such as being there for people who just want to have someone to listen to them. A hamper of basic food and toiletries items is given to needy families twice a month. At the beginning of the year we had approximately 80 families, by the middle of the year we had 100 and by the end of the year we have about 120 families. The hampers that are being given have a value of $ 150.00. The items are purchased
22 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 23 by the Community as well as donated by individuals, companies and schools. Community members and others support with the packing and delivering of the hampers. In total about 2,240 hampers were distributed with a value of $336,000 in 2017.
Every year the community host a Christmas Luncheon for the families we minister to during the year.
VISITATIONS TO THE ELDERLY AND INFIRMED: Community members visit the elderly in 8 convalescent homes every week and Holy Communion is taken to the Catholics in the homes. Visitations to the shut-ins are also being made. Holy Communion is also taken to the sick at home. Upon request, visits are made to those in hospital.
PRISON MINISTRY: Household, community members and others conduct a developmental programme at a detention centre for girls and another for boys on a monthly basis. These programs include life skills, empowerment and spirituality.
REFUGEES: Through the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) the Community assisted asylum seekers and refugees in this past year.
22 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 23 FEEDING PROGRAM/ HERO SQUARE: For over 10 years, the community prepares and packs 150 hot meals at Living Water Community on a weekly base. This meal along with a drink and a snack is distributed in the evening at Hero Square for the homeless and needy. The value of the meal is about $15.00. In total 7800 hot meals are distributed with a value of $117,000 in 2017.
Before the distribution we minister to the people by singing and sharing with them about God. For Christmas 150 gift bags are given to the people with some clothing, toiletries and snacks.
FUNDRAISING: The Community operates a Cafeteria and Religious Bookshop at its Centre, at St. David’s Christ Church. It supports itself and the different ministries by donations and occasionally fundraisings activities. Every Saturday morning, the Community sells food at the Brighton Farmer’s Market.
LIVING WATER COMMUNITY HALL FOR EVANGELIZATION The Living Water Community Hall for Evangelization is used for various Community activities, as well as different activities from the Diocese such as Clergy meetings, Confirmation retreats, Parish Councils meetings, Bible Studies, various Commissions and Workgroup meetings and Catholic school retreats. The Hall is also used by other Christian denominations for faith-based activities.
DOMINICA HURRICANE RELIEF After Hurricane Maria hit Dominica 18-19 September 2017, the community responded by sending human resources and other resources (monetary and in kind) to the diocese of Roseau. Community members and the wider society responded generous by donating monetary support and in kind to the hurricane relief efforts.
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16
24 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 25 Vocation
Ordination of Permanent Deacons Saturday 2nd September 2017, was a significant day for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgetown, with its first ordination of Deacons in over two decades. Rev. George Waithe and Rev. Stephen Foster entered the Order of Deacons through the imposition of hands and prayers by The Most Rev. Charles Jason Gordon.
Rev. George serves at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Rev. Stephen serves at St. Dominic’ church. The ordination was the culmination of a five year initiative led by Bishop Jason to motivate men in the diocese to listen to and answer God’s call to them, for a life of vocation. Here are some of their sentiments: 1. Rev. George Waithe: “I am privileged to proclaim the Gospels, and conduct funerals on my own. I pray that the rest of my brothers who started the formation process with me will soon be ordained. Every day I mention them in my prayers.” 2. Rev. Stephen Foster: “Four years of study and preparation towards being ordained a Deacon in the Catholic Church was such an incredible gift. Being exposed to the training and study of the faith has opened my eyes to how incredible our faith is. Being an adult with a child’s understanding of the faith, would best describe my journey. This new understanding and knowledge and experience has helped me to become a more mature person with new tools with which to handle the challenges of life. The learning has only just begun, I rely and depend on the prayers and support of my brothers and sisters in Christ as we journey together to Christ.”
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24 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 25 Ordination of Transitional Deacons History was made again on the 12th December, 2017 when Winston Layne and Kirt Prospere, were ordained at St. Patrick’s Cathedral as ‘transitional deacons’, the first time in over four decades that a person from Barbados had been consecrated on their way towards being ordained priests in the Catholic Church. Rev. Winston Layne also made history as the first Anglican priest in Barbados to be baptized a Catholic and ordained a priest. He is also married. Bishop Jason Gordon had to seek a special dispensation from the Holy Father Pope Francis for Rev. Layne’s ordination as a married man, since anyone that wishes to be a Catholic priest must be celibate.
Bishop Jason said: “This is the first time that we are ordaining men to be transitional deacons in 44 or 43 years ... Monsignor Blackett was the last Barbadian to be ordained for the diocese as a transitional deacon 40-something years ago...We still need to find the men and women of this land who will be willing to say yes to Christ, and until we can, in a regular enough way, the church will always be a missionary church, and she will not be a church that stands on her own two feet as an adult member of the Catholic family”.
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KIRT PROSPERE
Once a man enters the seminary, the decision to be a priest is by no means final, and for the last four and a half years I have been discerning my vocation. I have a year and a half left before completing seminary formation. However, I can say, after this past summer I can see myself being a priest.
This past semester my core classes have been, Canon Law II, Advance Homiletics, Homiletics Practicums, Marriage and Trinity. My electives have been, Civil Law & Church Administration, Music Theory and I continue to practice the piano. This year, I have been assigned to the University of Louisville Interfaith Center, and I am working alongside the Chaplin, Campus Minister and a fourth-year deacon. My responsibilities include planning retreats and social activities, guiding Lectio Divina, bible studies and being present to the students. This past summer I completed my Clinical Pastoral Education Internship (Hospital Chaplin) at Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Indiana, this is a requirement for the school which I think is very necessary. After returning from the Christmas break, every third theologian student also has to plan his canonical retreat. This year I will be returning to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians at Holy Hill in Wisconsin. The retreat will be a guided one and will give me time to reflect on my journey thus far especially as I look towards my priestly ordination.
One of the hardest, yet, most fulfilling experience has been my Hospital Internship. This is where I saw my vocation being most active. I said to myself, I can do this. As a Hospital Chaplain, I am not just there to give communion to the sick and say prayers, but to be with persons who are in their last stages of life, or persons who need someone to talk to. One of my most memorable moments was sitting and holding hands with a lady who was dying. Watching her as she took her final breaths brought much calm and peace to the room, and caused me to reflect on my own life, and how I face challenges now, and in the future.
For me, becoming a priest is to witness to the presence of Jesus in my daily life, particularly in the midst of the parish community. To encourage, console, rejoice and support the people of God in their lives.
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OMARIS VALMOND
Hello again to everyone. Another year has gone by and so quickly at that. It seems as though summer was just ending for the start of a new semester, and now Christmas is already here. Time is quite something as it always seems to speed up and never slow down.
I am now at the end of the first semester of my second year in theology. I have two more years and one semester to go. I have learned about the incredible views about Christ’s Resurrection and how the impacts of those views affect our life each and every day; how God’s beautiful revelation to us occurs over and over just through the reading of the texts of the Bible. As we reflect on such a remarkable event in the history of our faith, I consider my own journey and how every day continues to be a revelation from God and what He wants for my life and for the life of the diocese of Bridgetown. I believe that God is constantly reminding us of the incredible world that awaits us on the other side of the challenges and struggles that we go through in life.
I admit that at times I do reflect on my own capabilities in helping the Church in moving forward especially when I consider what it takes to be a priest of the 21st century, but the the prayers and encouragement that I receive from you the members of our Diocese help me to persevere through all those challenges. I think of and pray for our Diocese every day as we embark on the mission of our Church. Christ said that he did not come to be served but to serve, so to I humble myself and become obedient to offer myself to the needs of our Church.
As we enter this Christmas season, I believe that our Diocese, though it is going through a transition period, will be granted every blessing of God. First, we have been granted the gift of such a wonderful Apostolic Administrator, and eventually another bishop of our own. We have also not been granted one or two, but four new deacons, two of whom are transitioning to priesthood. Please do not forget seminarian Moses and me who are trailing a distant behind, but we will be adding to the new crop of clergy that our diocese will be receiving shortly. Remember the harvest is plenty, but the harvesters are few. Let us continue to pray for more harvesters for the harvest.
I thank God every day for such an incredible diocese like ours no matter the challenges; they only bring us closer together. I am praying every day for you, for your family and for your prosperity in life. Never forget that in serving each other we become free, and no matter how far it may seem like God is away from us, He is always there with us, guiding and blessing us through it all. God loves you more than you could ever imagine, and as we await Him during this Advent season, let us consider how much we love Him and how much He means to us.
My gift this year goes out to Christ and hopefully will be felt by each and every one of you. May God Bless you all.
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KABUGA GIKANDI
I continue to journey towards priesthood. The year has been very busy and I have seen tremendous growth in my spiritual life together with my human life. The past year I continued with philosophical studies at UWI Cave Hill campus and I have now completed what is required for me to move into theological studies. For me, doing philosophy was like a mind opener. It has helped me to see life, and all that is in it with a different eye. Issues that most of the time we take for granted such as state politics, knowledge, morality, origin of all that exists and many more topics, were argued in depth using the world’s most brilliant minds of people like, Plato, Aristotle, Kant, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Augustine and many more. I have now moved to Theological studies which will take approximately another three years, followed by ordination. I am excited by this new and last stage of my journey to priesthood and I pray that God will hold my hand and lead me to the path that He want me to walk through.
During the summer last year, Omar and I were assigned to Our Lady Queen of the Universe parish church as part of our summer programme since the parish priest was overseas. It was very inspiring working full time in the parish and getting to know the people. It was my first assignment away from the Cathedral, so I was very nervous at first since I did not know what to expect. A few days later, I was so comfortable in meeting the people, visiting the sick, and engaging the neighbors especially those who did not go to Church. I also worked closely with young people and different ministries in the parish. Young people remain my motivation towards my journey to priesthood. Every time I engage with them, I find a thousand reasons to persevere in my vocation. I thank God for the trust they have in the church and I pray that we who have been entrusted to their care, will lead them faithfully to the light of Christ.
We had our annual retreat with Our Apostolic Administrator, Archbishop Jason , Fr. Paul, Deacon Kirt, Omar and myself. We discussed and prayed for our ministry as the 21st century priests. It was a very grace filled week and at the end of it, we were all renewed and ready for the challenges ahead.
With roughly three years left to my ordination, I think of my journey towards priesthood and it puzzles me. It has been a long journey, full of challenges, with set backs, with doubts at some points, but in all this, I continue to feel the presence of the Lord more powerfully at work in this situations. There are moments that I have felt the weight of the cross that the Lord is inviting me to carry, but also I have experienced his grace working in me and giving me enough strength to shoulder the heaviness of that cross. As I look the young people around our diocese and around the world, I see the need of young priests who will journey with this young people. They need company in their quest for faith and truth. They need shepherds who are one with them. They need priests who they can trust. This is a challenge to my vocation. When I think about all this, I find myself kneeling before the Eucharist and begging the Lord to mold me according to his will.
28 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 29 I continue thanking God for countless people who he has put into my path as my support and guide in this journey. Archbishop Jason is a God send. He came into my life when everything seemed impossible. He pushed me when I could not move anymore. I will always be grateful to God for his guidance. Fr. Paul introduced me to the ministry and ushered me to the ‘Bajan’ culture. He made me feel welcome in a new world and his example and faithfulness to his call as a priest continue to be my greatest inspiration. May God continue to Bless him.
My spiritual director who is Fr. Michael, SJ also has always motivated in my calling. When I listen to him especially when he talks about his life experience, I can not help but thank God that what I experience now, has been experienced by others before who made it. I cannnot fail to thank God for Living Water Community here in Barbados for the opportunity they offer me to serve my brothers and sisters in need. Through them, I was able to fulfill what has always been my desire to be present to the suffering Christ around us. I thank God too for many friends in different parishes who have supported me through their prayers, material help, encouraging words and presence as I journey on. May God bless everyone who has been part of this journey so far. May He Bless also those who have challenged me. They have made me stronger in the Lord. Amen.
“For poor countries, the priorities must be to eliminate extreme poverty and to promote the social development of their people.” Pope Francis
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Rosalind Jackson - Chair
The Diocesan Catholic Education Team (DCET) was established in 2012 with an overarching mandate: To support, serve and ensure Catholic formation through excellence in education by providing an effective governance framework for Catholic schools in the Diocese. It was agreed that excellence in education would require excellence in a) infusing the Catholic ethos b) academic excellence and c) developing the whole person.
DCET’s work in 2017 was achieved primarily through partnering with the teachers, to provide practical ways for improvement in these areas.
In April 2017 a workshop on “Fulfilling our Fundamental WHY through Personal Leadership” was facilitated by the Chair with the teachers from the Ursuline Convent School (UCS).
Emphasis was placed on understanding how each teacher can add value to the school and purposefully avoid negative attitudes in the environment replacing them with positive determination to demonstrate personal leadership as a way of leading our youth by example.
In early September 2017 we had the privilege of having a world class Catholic educator, Sr. Angela-Ann Zukowski, a Professor at the University of Dayton, facilitate a one day workshop for all the teachers at the Diocesan schools. Sr. Angela aptly described the approach of the day as follows:
Our focus today – each one of us to have clarity around (a) an outline of what a Catholic School is (identity) and (b) my role in creating and upholding the identity or differently put, what are the main characteristics of a quality Catholic School for the 21st century and how do I contribute to making this happen in my school community.
30 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 31 In essence, “What do we feel we are called to do for the good and transformation of the world?”
Some essentials: • Cultivate the spiritual life of our students (Christian Meditation: opportunities for encounter with Christ). • Work through the challenges of social media for nurturing quality catholic education. • Constantly refreshing our environment/teaching approaches.
The areas explored were:
1) How we engender Spiritual Leadership in our classrooms. 2) Christian meditation woven into our lives during the school day. 3) Connecting to all in the Classroom. 4) Use of Social Media in teaching and learning. 5) More effective ways to “Set Up” the Classroom. 6) Professional Development suggestions.
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36 | ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BRIDGETOWN STEWARDSHIP REPORT 2017 | 37 St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral, Jemmott’s Lane, St. Michael Located in the UNESCO inscribed heritage site - “Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison”
Blessed: 17 March, 1848 Consecrated: 10 March, 1850 Destroyed by fire: 17 June, 1897 Reopened: 17 March, 1899