THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

www.presbyterianchurchtt.org $2 • MAY 2008 • VOL CIV No.5 Happy Mother’s Day! What’s Inside: The Moderator Speaks – Pg 2 Being a good Presbyterian - Pg 4 Annual Men’s Conference – Pg 7 Elders Training Course – Pg9 Ascension & Pentecost – Pg13 Children’s Corner – Pg15 Bible Reading Guide– Pg16 TP Comics– Pg17 B.O.M. take on OSHA – Pg20 Infant girls of Chandernagore Presbyterian School modelling their outfits during the Easter Bonnet parade Reflections: Synod’s 48th Annual General Meeting

he setting was beautifully decorated with green 3. Does our misunderstanding of Christian spirituality as plants and fresh flowers; the aroma of freshly purely “other-worldly” activity result in little or no re- Tbrewed coffee filled the air; cold water and soft sponse to social, economic and political issues? drinks lay chilling invitingly for the thirsty; voices and 4. In the context of suffering, need and crime in our soci- laughter echoed as members greeted each other… ety, are we on the side of the poor and down trodden, or There was a feeling of peace, tranquility and kinship as are we clearly on the side of the status quo? one entered the well-prepared Conference Hall of the St 5. Are the leaders in business socially irresponsible? Is Andrews Theological College. profit-led economic activity associated with social and environmental neglect and poor employer/employee The Agenda for each of the three days was formidable relationships? Discuss wage slavery. but was so well-organized that there was little informa- 6. How do we rate the impact of the PCTT on national, tion overload. Activities shifted between plenary and social and ecological issues small-group discussions. Feature presentations broke the monotony and gave us food for thought. On Day 2, Mr Arthur Naranjit, of the Curepe Pastoral Re- gion, made a brilliant presentation on “An Approach to Feature Presentations a Strategic Plan for the PCTT”. Mr Naranjit asked prob- On Day 1 was Reverend Harold Sitahal’s powerful pre- ing questions such as “Do we need a Strategic Plan?” He sentation on “A Contemporary Agenda for the Jesus explained that a Strategic Plan is “an explicit approach for Movement”. His message was so profound that silence attaining a stated vision for the future through strategies reigned. After his presentation, we discussed the follow- for achieving well defined objectives aligned to mission ing 6 questions: while honouring values.” In other words he dared us to 1. Are we concentrating more on physical structures than think about what we would like the PCTT to be in 5 on people and their needs in our Church activities? years time. Mr Naranjit took the time to explain aspects 2. Is our involvement in education an asset or liability to of, and the value of a Mission Statement while giving us our Christian calling? examples of same. We also looked at core values, how (Continues on page 2) The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 1 statements on national issues such as Crime, Indiscipline • Review of Student Ministers’ allowance Reflections: Synod’s 48th AGM (from pg 1) in schools, the Caroni State Lands, rising cost of food and This matter is to receive urgent attention. so on. This committee would certainly like to hear your views, so send letters, notes or email to the Synod’s Office. • Pension Plan Recommendations accepted to go about doing a SWOT analysis and steps in - Members of the Plan can retire medically unfit and re- strategic planning and success factors. After his Positives ceive full benefits of the Plan. presentation, small groups looked at issues as we Some of the positives which were achieved during this - Pension is to be increased with effect from September tried to determine a path for the way forward. meeting of Synod are as follows: 30, 2006.

Formulating a Strategic Plan for the PCTT has been • PCTT’s Website [ presbyterianchurch.tt.org] • Annual Sports Day long overdue. If we do not know where we are go- - Launched on April 10, 2008 - A new committee was formed to organise the Annual ing, we are likely to end up somewhere else. The - Information is needed for the website. Please encourage PCTT Sports Day. Chairman- Mr Allan Ramdeen present administration of Synod has to be com- members of your church to take pictures, write articles, - Once again, the march past is to be part of PCTT Sports mended for taking a step in the right direction. reports and historical pieces for use on the website. You 2008. Teams get ready to show your region’s colours! The Moderator of Synod also recognizes that this can email your contributions to [email protected]. The Moderator Speaks Plan cannot be top-down, and thus he is planning On behalf of the members of Synod, I will like to thank strategies to involve everyone to participate in • Church Properties the organizers of this 48th meeting for their vision formulating the PCTT’s 5-year Strategic Plan. Each Presbytery would form a Committee, including a and for their careful planning. The many strategies n our Church, we have been making attempts to establish lawyer, who would have regular meetings with the Prop- used were successful and this meeting will long be new ways in which we can communicate with each other Reports from Boards & Committees erty Manager, in order to manage the Church’s Properties. remembered as fruitful, meaningful and spiritually Iso that we can share our information and ideas, and con- We were divided into small Committees to evalu- enriching. Keep up the good work!! May God contin- nect at a level where as we seek to create and maintain com- ate the reports of the various Boards and Com- • New location for school in Arima ue to richly bless us all! munity. We began this year with our new revised version of the mittees of Synod. This was another meaningful An offer was made by HCL to relocate the school from its 1- Trinidad Presbyterian. And thus far your responses have been exercise, where everyone was involved and was acre property to a nearby 5-acre plot of land. HCL is also will- Sitara Gardner most encouraging. given the opportunity to participate. Gone are ing to pay the Church’s portion for building the new school. the days, hopefully, when only a few dominate! As was indicated at our Synod a few weeks ago, this month we Members felt empowered and useful as their have launched our website www.presbyterianchurchtt.org. views were listened to during the evaluation of This is our new home on the internet and we want it to grow the reports. Brief presentations followed where Editorial: Sharing the National Wealth into a lively space where we share information and ideas, as re- recommendations were made either to accept gards the life of our Presbyterian communities throughout the the report being presented, or if there were any country. What we have now is just a beginning and it needs queries or missing information, the report was rinidad and Tobago is enjoying a windfall that we Some people are totally unaffected by these higher pric- your input to grow into a meaningful place – virtual though referred to Synodical Council. Would you believe could not dream about. This is a unique moment in es. Some people are spending more on parties that some it may be. There are web pages for information on all of our that, due to this strategy, all the reports were Tour country’s history. The rising price of oil ( now at families get to spend for the month. To some, especially schools, churches, boards and committees. There is calendar discussed? This was truly a miracle. No Day 4, 5 or $114 US at the time of writing) has resulted in a national the poor, this seems to be a path to increasing poverty for announcing events and places for news and views. We have 6? Days of peaceful accomplishments? Thank you, purse that is full and overflowing. and even destitution. There is anger and bitterness in the already started with an electronic document library. God, for your many blessings, and for helping us to society as some struggle for survival. work smart! To whom does this belong? Whose is it to enjoy? The So what do we need to really turn this website into a lively answer to both questions should be, “Every citizen of How come there is fuel to offer multinationals but not and dynamic space? Your help! All your News – old and new, Concern re: non-attendance at meetings Trinidad and Tobago.” However, as we look at our brothers enough to keep our electricity costs down? Are such price views, histories, biographies and lots and lots of pictures! Thus, Concern was echoed by presenter after presenter and sisters and as we move around the country, it seems increases really necessary? While our system taxes all citizens in a little country where we may sometimes seem far apart, about the poor attendance, or non-attendance that only the select and privileged few are enjoying our for water, there are many who have to do without it for basic this website will connect us at a level through which we can at meetings of Boards and Committees from country’s wealth. In fact there seems to be a growing domestic use. On a recent trip to Plum Mitan, villagers were talk and strive forward. We need to keep this website alive; you the representatives of Pastoral Regions. Why chasm between the rich and the poor. There are some for seen carrying buckets of water from the river for their do- need to keep on sending new information all the time. A good would these Elders accept a position on Synod whom a million dollars is just pocket change to buy one mestic use. In this day and age this is unacceptable and we place to start is with your congregation’s monthly news and and then not attend meetings? How would their car, and there are others who cannot buy rice or flour to as Christians should be speaking out against this. events. Please send to [email protected] Pastoral Region’s views be heard? What feed- feed their children. back was the Pastoral Region getting from these Is it not the duty of the Government to ensure that citi- The Rt. Rev. Elvis Elahie representatives? How can this problem be solved? There is then a need for equity in the enjoyment of the zens receive basic items of necessity like water and basic Members expressed their disappointment about services and goods that our country’s wealth can buy. In- food? The government of the day should find creative poor representation at meetings and put forward stead of a few being able to make huge profits and share ways to spread the wealth around and relieve the suffer- suggestions. One such suggestion is that mem- in the grand plans and building projects, there should ing of the poor. The benefit should be for all and if any- bers of these Boards and Committees should have been systems that attend to all our citizens. thing, especially for the poor. It is time………. come from the Presbyterian flock, from con- gregational members who have the requisite At present all citizens are faced with rising costs. We have : It is time that our Presbyterian Church join with other expertise and who can make a difference. - Rising food prices and shortages of essentials. religious organizations and fight for social justice and - Higher electricity costs. equality. We must carry out our Christian duty by ensur- Discussion on National Issues - Expected increases for water and petrol. ing that we “feed the hungry, clothe the naked...” The objective of this small group discussion strat- - Higher prices for the rental of basic homes. egy was to get members’ input before PCTT makes Felix Rampersad Screen Shot – www.presbyterianchurchtt.org Page 2 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 3 The Trinidad Presbyterian: Communications Committee A red-letter day for Widows he Trinidad Presbyterian, established in 1904, is the • Rev. Ralph Umraw • Rev. Emmanuel Ramdeen aturday 5th April 2008 was a Red-Letter Day for the That vacant space must be filled, for life has to continue. official organ of the Presbyterian Church in Trinidad • Mr Allan Ramdeen • Deaconess Ashmin Gajadhar Widows’ Fellowship, Sisters of the Spirit, of the Jagat It’s like a doughnut, we can choose to see the hole in and Tobago, founded in 1868 by Rev. John Morton. • Mrs Indra Ramsaywak • Mrs Nola Ramlogan T Ka Prakash Congregation of Penal. This group, now the centre or, as she advised, the delicious, sugar-coated • The Rt. Rev Elvis Elahie S 32 years in existence, was blessed by having at it’s Annual edible outer ring! Our decision ought to be, ‘How can I Chairperson - Rev. Dr Randall Sammah Luncheon, the esteemed presence of Mrs. Savitri Nobbee, fill that vacant space?’ She suggested a period of self- Secretary - Mrs Sitara Gardner STATUTORY DATE OF MEETING: THIRD TUESDAY 10:00 AM a qualified Social worker, as its guest speaker. nurturing such as doing something we never had time to Treasurer - Deaconess Indira Roopan ADDRESS: P.O. Box 92, Paradise Hill, San Fernando do before, for example, writing, gardening and walking. Editor-in-chief - Mr Felix Rampersad After a warm welcome, the 25 widows sang, prayed and prepared themselves for the inspiring treat which fol- She assured us that the deceased is no longer in human lowed. Mrs. Nobbee, armed with a white board and form and although the body is dead, the spirit is alive; marker, in her characteristic soothing, comforting and it never dies. Some widows find comfort in writing a Being a good Presbyterian elucidating manner addressed the eagerly anticipating letter to the departed, as a means of freeing the self of group of twenty-two. Her message is one worth sharing unspoken words; also in crying for the chemistry of tears with the wider church for widowhood may be the fate of in sorrow is different to that in joy; it is HEALING! She many women. concluded that each of us has a purpose and we ought he way some of us use the word “Presbyterian” one Our Presbyterian Church in Trinidad and Tobago has to consider: What legacy I am leaving?’ We must fill the would think it is an “Open Sesame” code word to grown within a special context and we have accepted She illustrated the circle of life which is shared by the vacant space by counting our blessings and recreating Tsome extraordinary spiritual treasure. We have customs and accommodated our rituals to what out family. When a space becomes vacant, the family, in this our lives. every right to be proud of and grateful for our heritage people asked and expected of us. Whenever we use the instance, the widow is plunged into a strange sense of which has left us wonderful examples of Christian witness label Presbyterian let us not simply speak of schools and loneliness and emptiness which may result in a loss of After a floral presentation to the guest-speaker, the group and many prestigious schools. The word, however, de- customs. Every heritage has its own strengths and weak- direction with no motivation for living. Thoughts such as, retired to the Church Hall for a specially prepared lun- notes a form of church government, the core group being nesses and ours requires an honest re-examination and dreams not realized, a life unlived and unbelief haunt the cheon by the widows. A period of informative discussion the Eldership. Presbyterianism traditionally implied order, re-assessment. We cannot be boasting of our buildings, widow. This results in anger, self-blame such as, ‘Why me?’ followed into the late afternoon. It was indeed a Red Let- discipline and emphasis on such terms as predestination academic achievements, the contributions and labours of No matter how we react, she assured us, we can never ter Day for the Widows. and the Sovereignty of God. It has also emphasized the our fathers and mothers as if these are spiritual or reli- find the answer to all our questions. importance of Biblical knowledge, study and preaching. gious I.D.’s and Passports to eternal life. Dr. E.B. Rosabelle Seesaran Some mistakenly call many hymns favourite and popu- Being Presbyterian must lead us to consider our faithful- lar Presbyterian hymns. But hymns from every major ness to Jesus Christ, our willingness to be transformed by denomination are found in our books. We sing hymns God’s Spirit, our zeal for understanding God’s Word, our A rare Silver Anniversary Celebration written by Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Methodists Quak- attitudes and conduct at home and at the work-place. ers, Baptists. Even our so-called “Presbyterian” doxology is Whatever be the glorious past of our ancestors, how prof- t the Jagat Ka Prakash Church in Penal, Such distinguished service would not have from a notable Anglican hymn-writer. itable and meaningful is this if we are not daily witness of Mr. Ragbir Umraw, an Elder for twenty- been possible if he did not have the confi- the Christ who died, rose again and seeks to be our guid- six consecutive years, celebrated dence and respect of the congregation and Some mistakenly describe traditional practices among ing light and unfailing source of strength and faith? A twenty-five years as the distinguished Chair of the members of the Local Board. At pres- our congregations as “Presbyterians”. They will be cer- the local Board of Management of the Church. ent, during the Announcement period at tainly surprised to learn there are “Presbyterians” in the Presbyterians should not be a label; it should be a way of Hailing from the Penal Rock Presbyterian Church service and the officiating at other world who know little or nothing about a 40 day Memo- living, of relating to others, a constant reminder of God’s Church where he served as Treasurer of the programmes in the Church, the eloquence of rial Service, the Blessing of a Home or a Car, an annual Sovereign rule and grace and a joyful desire to do every- Local Board, he plunged assiduously in church his voice still resonates through its hallowed Prayer Meeting at a home or Wake Night Services until thing for His glory. affairs at Penal. walls. the funeral. Rev. Everson T. Sieunarine As Chair, he personally supervised and par- He is now retired from the teaching profes- ticipated in every project to ensure its suc- sion at the level of Principal I, but his service cessful outcome: For example, Special Church Ragbir Umraw will always be remembered as a teacher who Services, church-building, and Visitation. At fulfilled the aims of the revered pioneers of Mothers’ Day celebrations he ensured that every mother the Presbyterian Church, that education must not be an Online Presbyterians: Check out PCTT Online: was honoured in a meaningful way. In the distribution end in itself but a means of Christian Evangelisation. of food hampers to the poor and needy he was vigilant www.presbyterianchurchtt.org to see that no deserving person was bypassed. He was a May almighty God bless him and his family as they faithful assistant to every Minister in the successful execu- continue to labour in this field and help to make Jagat tion of his pastoral duties, in so much that any differences Ka Prakash, a brilliant Prakash (Light) in this part of God’s were ironed out thus avoiding a confrontational outcome. Kingdom. e-TP (1.3mb): http://www.zorce.com/ Online Presbyterians: Look out for At present he serves as Vice-Chair of the only Presbyterian trinidad-presbyterian/TP-MAY-08.pdf the PCTT & TP Groups on Facebook! Pre-School in the nation - The Penal Early Childhood Dr. E.B. Rosabelle Seesaran Care and Education Centre (ECCE).

Page 4 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 5 2008 Annual Men’s Conference Marabella Mayfair Teachers’ Convention

he annual Men’s Conference is carded for Saturday May 10th, 2008 at Balmain Presbyterian Church; this comes right after the Women’s Conference which Want to have some fun? THE PRESBYTERIAN SECONDARY SCHOOLS’ T BOARD OF EDUCATION was held in February this year. Come and Enjoy the Cordially invites All Presbyterian Teachers in The packed programme for this year’s event is consistent Annual May Fair at Marabella Government Secondary Schools to with the theme “The Joy of the Lord is your strength”. on Saturday 31st May 2008 A TEACHERS’ CONVENTION beginning at 2.00 p.m. DATE: FRIDAY 13TH JUNE 2008 In its drive to attract younger people to participate in THEME: “THE TEACHER-POWER IN THE CLASSROOM” its activities and programmes, the Board of Men has There will be glorious fun and fellowship for all who FEATURE SPEAKER: MR. ANTHONY WATKINS invited two youthful and vibrant guest speakers; Mr attend. VENUE: PETROTRIN BEACH CAMP, PALO SECO Vasheist Kokaram, an Attorney –At –Law will deliver the Come and enjoy:- TIME: 8:30 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. feature address on the Theme “ The joy of the Lord is Your Maypole Dancing, Tea Stall, Indian delicacies, Roti, Variety COST: NIL Strength” and Intern Minister Damian Seunarine, will talk Stall, Cakes and Candies, Games Stall with a variety of TO CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE KINDLY CONTACT: about motivating the youths. exciting games, Modelling, Indian Dancing, Singing and THE SYNOD’S OFFICE or lots more. THE GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE BOARD - It is hoped that this year, youths from the 6th form from our Mrs. Dianne Phillip-Ramjattan at 672-1303 (H); high schools will join our day of Christian Fellowship. All are Want to be chosen as the Senior Mayfair Queen/ the 665-0136 (W) or 760-8776 Cell) by invited to join us in a packed day of Christian Fellowship. Junior Queen? Then Come!! Wear your most glamorous 31st May, 2008; for Catering Purposes. For further information about participation, attendance Indian outfits and be chosen Best Dressed Male /Female. and luncheon please call: Come out and enjoy an exciting afternoon with friends WE URGE YOU TO COME AND JOIN YOUR COLLEAGUES and family. Your presence will be appreciated. IN EDUCATION FROM OUR FIVE PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOLS Mr Rudolph Seetahal: 647-5647 or 761-6761 or IN THIS REWARDING AND INFORMATIVE, PROFESSIONAL Mr Roopnarine Sankar: 673-1144. DEVELOPMENT DAY.

Borde Narve Pres. Church: A Season of Joy

h what joy as we at Borde Narve celebrate our Sav- May the Good Lord continue to bless the “Presbyterian iour’s Victory over the cross! During this season Fraternity” in its endeavours to bring god’s people closer Oof Lent, we held mid-week services at members’ to Him. houses as an outreach programme, and also in church. Our Holy Week services were held in our church. On Holy Kenneth Sookhoo Thursday we had our agape feast, at which our close and dedicated friend, Mr. Carl Goursahab did the honours. We also celebrated Palm Sunday.

A warm and heartfelt thank you to our friends and well- Available at the Synod wishers who worshipped with us, also members of our Lo- Office, Paradise Hill, S’Fdo cal Board, and others who assisted us. I also wish to thank Assistant Lay Pastor Mr. Hamid Isahark and Presiding Elder The Book of Praise – Word $150 Mrs. Grace Sookoo for their assistance. Not forgetting Mr. Good News New Testament McDonald Mitchell, Presiding Elder Mr. Lennox Sibdial, Mr. with Psalms and Proverbs $25 Lincoln Ramsaran, Presiding Elder Mr. Dennis William and Confirmation Certificates $20 / per 10 Mr. Carl Goursahab. These friends have always willingly Baptism Certificates (New) $27 / per 10 responded to our call over the years. I must also extend Mission & Restructuring Document $10 a special thank you to my fellow elder Mrs. Mona Persad DVDs Convention 2006 $100 for her dedicated support. Also to Mr. Wilbert Greaves, the oldest member of our congregation, whether to cut AVAILABLE FROM THE BOARD and clean our premises, repair a pew, decorate for Palm OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION * Hymns for Children $6 Sunday or assist me in so many ways. Also members of * Basic Guide to Christian Education $15 Susamachar Presbyterian Church who have assisted us * Basic Guide – Easter/ Pentecost/Advent $10 with palm crosses for Palm Sunday. Page 6 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 7 TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO ELECTRICITY COMMISSION

Watty Says Memorandum of Agreement for 2 new Schools!

ecently we have seen on the newspapers and Tele- We look forward with great anticipation to sign the Final “Conserve Energy!” vision, parents and children of some of our Schools Contract as soon as the Government is ready to invite us Rchanting “we want a new school.” Especially vocal to do so. The Minister of Education invited all who were were the parents and children of the Lengua Presbyterian present to renew our relationship with the Government Many of the things we use everyday require energy. But there are ways to use Primary School. based on trust as together we provide quality education. and conserve energy. We want to assure the Government of Trinidad and Toba- We want to assure all the parents and children of the go that our aim is to always partner with them, to provide 72 Presbyterian Primary Schools that the Presbyterian education par excellence to the children of the nation. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They use less energy and emit Primary Schools’ Board of Education and the Synod of much less heat. the Presbyterian Church seek their interests continually. We also thank the Moderator for Meeting with the Princi- The Moderator, the Rt. Rev. Elvis Elahie, signed the interim pals and Staff and the PTA of Lengua Presbyterian School Agreement on April 04, 2008 for two new schools – Len- and the Principal of Inverness, following the signing. This Turn the air conditioning unit off when you are not at home. Also raise the thermostat setting on gua and Harmony Hall Presbyterian Primary Schools. meeting had a positive outcome. The parents are now your air condition and lower the setting from high to medium or which is most comfortable. sending their children back to school. The Government and the Denominational Body have a long history of collaboration in providing public educa- The Presbyterian Primary Schools’ Boards of Education Turn off home computers and televisions when not in use. tion in Trinidad and Tobago. The Presbyterians did not wishes all Principals, Staff and Children a successful term sign the Interim Agreement before because we wanted and invite all of you to continue to work to make our Refrigerator temperature should be kept between 2 o C to 5 o C, freezer temperature between an adjustment to the termination clause, which is within schools shining examples in our country. Continue to o o the agreement. This was considered by the Attorney enhance the communities you serve by providing the -15 C to -18 C. General and as soon as we were informed of the positive best education for all the children in your care. Congratu- outcome the Moderator, whose intervention further soft- lations to all the children who took part in the music fes- Use the microwave oven or toaster in place of your regular electric stove if ened the termination clause, signed the Agreement the tival, Easter Bonnet Parades and all the different competi- following day. The General Secretary and Chairman of the tions. God bless all of you! possible. Presbyterian Primary Schools’ Board of Education were happy to be present to witness the signing of the Agree- Gemma Teelucksingh, Switch off all lights, appliances and electronics when not in ment by the Moderator and the Permanent Secretary, Ms. General Secretary of the Angella Jack. Presbyterian Primary Schools’ Board of Education use.

Minimise the amount of the time doors are opened on your refrigerator and freezer. SATC: Training Course for all New Elders Minimise the use of electric dryers by drying clothes outdoors. ATTENTION!! ALL MINISTERS, CHURCH WORKERS, CLERKS OF SESSIONS FROM: The Principal of St. Andrew’s Theological College Unless it is absolutely necessary use fans instead of air conditioning units. All newly elected Elders are required to undergo a period of training at S.A.T.C., Paradise Hill, San Fernando, before they are inducted as Elders of their respective Congregations. Turn the water heater on 15 to 30 minutes before using the hot water. Turn it off when not in use. We are kindly asking all Sessions to please submit the names of all newly elected Elders in your Pastoral Region if this was not done.

Training Sessions for 2008 are scheduled as follows:

Saturday 03rd May - 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Saturday 10th May - 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Saturday 17th May - 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Saturday 24th May - 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Page 8 Electricity... a cost Theyou Trinidad can Presbyterian control. The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 9 The pain of “Industri-cide”

he State’s current heavy gas-based industrial drive, to make use of this water and of the millions of tons of which includes proposals to build two aluminum protein, vitamin and sucrose stocks which the Peninsula Tsmelters in the South West Peninsula and a steel mill is capable of producing. Fresh water and food industries in Claxton Bay, have alleged that the opponents of these are facing hydro-cide and agri-cide. smelter and steel plants are against industrialization. There is nothing further from the truth. Industrialization is Third, the planet has reached it peak in gas production. one of the vital keys to economic progress. Industrializa- Increasing international demand for this nervous com- tion is the principle of applying technology to common modity will accelerate the rate of depletion. Wars all over stocks of resources to generate wealth. Industrialization the world threaten to escalate oil and gas prices. Instead manipulates stocks of wealth – water, soil, forests, land, riv- of using projected gas reserves to bolster already existing ers, crops, minerals, finance, artificial infrastructure, human gas consuming industries, we are going for gas guzzling managerial skill and technical competence etc – to gener- smelter and steel. If we allow steel and smelter to con- ate common wealth. The question is: will these smelter tinue, the local heavy gas-based industrial sectors and the and steel mill deals do this? The answer is NO. Smelters, manufacturing sector will have less gas. This will lead to and the Essar steel mill in Claxton Bay, would consume increased cost of gas and electricity for all. Smelter and more stocks of wealth than they would generate. Second, steel will bleed some existing industries to an anemic they would convert stocks of wealth and resources from whiteness. the common ownership to ownership by a few - a few professionals in the oil, gas and parliamentary sectors, Fourth, the obsessive focus on gas and oil has robbed the and a couple of global corporations. Additionally, these nation of the opportunity to invest in energy alternatives. smelter and steel deals, as presently configured, will com- The indiscriminate purchase of Foreign Direct Investment, mit “industri-cide”. for a nation once relatively rich in oil and gas, is a “lazy- government” phenomenon. It is so easy to contract inves- Here are five ways in which the present smelter and tors, draw up estates on the West Coast and collect taxes. steel mill agenda will commit industri-cide. It is a way of transferring work from a lapsing tropical economy to an industrious temperate one, a form of self In 2002, a UWI report recommended to the State an in- re-colonization through laziness. To develop energy alter- dustrial plan based on the generation of wealth from the natives requires work. It requires a little industry. Instead lands, the technical resources, the infrastructure of Caroni of building windmill farms on the round hills of Claxton Developing an Ecological Theology (1975) Ltd., which was about to be closed. It recom- Bay, we would shave them flat, compact them, to grant to mended a network of infrastructure on the newly opened Essar Steel Mill. We would rather sap our energy reserves, 77,000 acres of land which would generate industries in impair our communities with steel dust, than create more ver the last two decades, the World Council of Come of Age”, emphasizes that God appointed humans to food, pharmaceuticals, forestry, tourism, diary produce, fu- energy from our natural resources of land, sun, wave and Churches have been covenanting for Justice, be stewards and co-creators of the earth. We have abused els and water. Our nation has been reeling from the shock wind. OPeace and the Integrity of Creation (JPIC). Sadly the understanding of having dominion over the earth as of land and human resource degradation over the past 50 though, churches have been inattentive to the growing a kind of mandate to “mash up the place”. We have devel- years. The UWI plan would create a model, an impetus for Fifth, it is important to remind ourselves that natural habi- threats to life and creation as a whole. Today, humanity oped a world view that places human power at the centre development in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean. tats are industrial complexes. Habitats generate billions of is faced with: Greenhouse gases, Deforestation, Global of life. That is why we feel we can exploit the environment. This plan was rejected in favour of smelter and steel. tons of oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide. More specifi- warming, Acid rain, Population growth, unlimited eco- This is explains the crisis we are facing today. The church cally, the mangroves of Claxton Bay are of historic value. nomic growth and food scarcity. We have forgotten our has to get serious and restore the call to God’s covenant The stocks of food and fresh water in the world are fast They have added hundreds of tons of protein stocks theological and biblical understanding of creation and where the respect for creation is central to our belief and diminishing. India, for example, which achieved national – crab, shrimp, conch, mook, fish, crayfish – to our subsis- ignored how important it is to protect God’s creation as practice. All of life is holy because God is the creator of all self-sufficiency in milk and grains in the last twenty years, tence economy. Our subsistence economy – the economy an experience of our faith. life. If we destroy creation we destroy ourselves. Creation has run out of arable lands. Trade agreements like NAFTA of those who live on part-time work, unreliable incomes, is groaning because of what we have done to it. have eliminated tariffs on food; it has wrecked Mexico’s and scrunting produce from the land – is a large one in Covenant is an agreement between God and ourselves. capacity to produce indigenous food, and swamped its this Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Why should we de- God wants us to live in a wholesome and righteous way We, as God’s people are called to restore our part of the market with Euro-American foods. Big food producers stroy this form of subsistence industry for Essar Steel? and having a concern for creation is vital to the covenant covenant to protect, restore and renew the world. The from nations with large land resources, like Brazil, Aus- relationship. earth is God’s gift to us. Creation exists to bring honour tralia, Argentina and the United States will increasingly Where there is no vision the people suffer. Where there is and glory to God – “The earth is the Lord’s and the monopolize the world food market. Small food producers no principle, the people collapse. Industri-cide is just as We must remember that God is the creator of the world. fullness thereof”. and farms will be agglomerated if not protected by wit destructive to the peoples, the lands and communities, as God is also redeemer and sustainer. Creation is an act of and ingenuity. Instead of getting into fresh water indus- fratricide, infanticide, matricide, patricide, genocide. God’s grace, for “God so loved the world”. Our Reformed God’s people must become partners with God as part trial infrastructure for agriculture and food, we are getting understanding of covenant is that it is a promise made of our Christian witness in preserving the integrity of into water for smelter and steel. The State destroyed three Dr. Wayne Kublalsingh, by God to us. God does not renege on his promises. God creation. dams in Vessigny to make way for smelter. What it needed Lecturer at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine does not change his mind. Douglas Hall, a Canadian to do was to create a Food Industrial Park at Vessigny Member of Mizpah Presbyterian Church theologian in his book, “The Steward-A Biblical Symbol Rev. Dr. Randall Sammah

Page 10 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 11 Post-Easter Worship Ascension and Pentecost at Susamachar Presbyterian Church uring this month of May, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” San Fernando. Phone: 652-2007/2894 we celebrate two very Sundays:- 7:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m. Dimportant events in the Pentecost was a tremendous, life- Christian Year. On May 4th we will saving experience for the disciples April-May 2008: “Exploring The Mystery of celebrate the Ascension of Jesus e.g. Luke, who authored the book The Resurrection” Christ. Jesus’ Ascension takes of Acts. The Holy Spirit empow- place forty days after the Resur- ered Peter, who denied Jesus dur- An Exciting Series: Sermons/Bible Study on rection (Easter Sunday). The day ing His Passion, to convert three the Resurrection appearances of Jesus marks the bodily ascension of thousand after his first sermon! [Acts 1:3 - ‘For forty days after His death Jesus appeared Jesus to heaven in the presence of to them many times….’] the disciples. One Gospel record Pentecost is vital to the Christian is found in Mark 16: 14-19. The faith because it reminds us that June 2008: “Christian Home and Family Month” description is brief: Jesus and the the church is powerless without 01st June: Communion remaining eleven apostles are the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 08th June: Happy Workers’ Anniversary seated at a table, presumably in a Pentecost reminds us of how the (Wife & Mother: Today’s Challenges) room in or near Jerusalem. Jesus Holy Spirit fills all baptized per- 15th June: Fathers’ Day commands his followers to spread sons, empowering, challenging (Father in the Family: Today’s Challenges) the Gospel (this is known as the and guiding them. 22nd June: Children in the Family Great Commission) and that those 29th June: Renewal of Marriage Vows. who believe will be known by All Christians should be aware of their invulnerability to poison, how the Holy Spirit is working in ability to heal the sick, exorcise de- Ascension Art by John Copley (digilib.library.vanderbilt.edu) their lives and in the church as a Information for PCTT’s Skills Bank mons, and the like. After delivering whole. The Holy Spirit acts as our these final words, Jesus is received guide and teacher is all areas of The Synod of the PCTT would like to develop a “Skills Bank” of its membership. into Heaven to sit at the right hand of God. The our life. The sad reality is that we do not listen You are cordially invited to complete the form and submit to the address below. Westminster Confession of Faith (part of the to the Holy Spirit and follow instead our own Reformed tradition in Calvinism and influen- human imaginings. Is it any wonder that there tial in the Presbyterian church), states, “On the is disunity in so many churches? 1. NAME: ……………………………………………………………………………………...... third day He arose from the dead, with the same body in which He suffered, with which We need to recognize that the Holy Spirit is 2. ADDRESS: ……………………………………………………………………………………...... also he ascended into heaven, and there sits at present with us. Because the Holy Spirit lives the right hand of His Father, making interces- in us, Christ himself lives in us. The Holy Spirit is ………………………………………………………………………………………………...... sion, and shall return, to judge men and angels, the third person of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son at the end of the world.” & Holy Spirit). 3. WORK ADDRESS ………………………………………………………. …………………………………………………… This year, Pentecost Sunday is celebrated on In our country, there are some churches that 4. TEL:………………………...…(Home)……………...…………… (Mobile) …………....………………………… (Work) May 11th 2008. The day of Pentecost con- describe themselves as being “Pentecostal”. cludes the Easter season, and is often called We should note however, that no church has 5. SKILLS/AREA OF EXPERTISE …………………………………………...... “The Birthday of the Church”. On Pentecost exclusive rights to the presence of the Holy Sunday, the church celebrates the gift of the Spirit. In fact, all churches (denominations) exist Holy Spirit and the beginning if its mission as because of the Holy Spirit. God’s work is being 6. I will like to serve on the following Boards/Committees of Synod: the servant of Jesus in the world. The events done through all churches. (Please tick those you are interested in) took place on the day of the Pentecost, in Jeru- Pentecost Scene from the Coptic Tradition (www.ancient-future.net) o Presbyterian Primary Schools’ Board of Education o Board of Women salem. The community of Christ’s disciples, was To understand why there are so many Chris- o Board of Theological Education o Board of Men gathered “into an upper room”.Tradition says tian denominations, one has to undertsand that it was the same room where Jesus ate His Last Supper. Church History – the basics of which all Christians should o Presbyterian Secondary Schools’ Board of Education o Board of Youth Affairs The tremendous phenomenon is very well described in Acts know. Presbyterianism for example, was born during the o Board of Stewardship and Finance o Judicial Committee 2:1-4. “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they sixteenth century during a time known as the Reformation – a o Board of Christian Education o Sports Committee were all with one accord in one place. time of great turmoil in the church. o Board of Social Responsibility o Archives Committee o Investment and Development Committee o Communications Committee And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rush- John records that Jesus prays for his disciples just before His ing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were betrayal. He prays that “they may be one” (John 17:12). This is sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as also the prayer for the church. Rev. Dr. Randall Sammah P.O. Box 187, Paradise Hill, San Fernando, Trinidad, W.I. • Phone:653-4788; Phone/Fax: 1-868-652-4829 of fire, and it sat upon each of them.And they were all filled E-mail: [email protected] with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues,

Page 12 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 13 Exchange Pres. wins World Diabetes Day quiz again!

on Thursday, 21st November, 2007. Mr. Carlton Phillip, president of the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and To- bago chaired the function. He congratulated the Couva Branch for their wonderful work. Over forty pupils 9-10 years old from Exchange Presbyterian School each wrote essays on Diabetes and when Mr. Carlton Phillip ques- tioned the pupils they answered like doctors and nurses.

Mr. Basdeo Benson Rampersad complimented students on the quality of their work. Ms. Elsa Lara, the Public Rela- tions Officer of Pheonix Park Gas Processors Ltd., Point Lisas brought greetings and congratulated the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago, the Couva Branch and Children’s Corner: The Joy of a Child the pupils for their high standard of work. She said, that it is important to learn about Diabetes and its’ control as he joy of a child is the joy of the Lord. Joy is the piness to him and to others. In Isaiah 40:31 we read, ‘but this will increase and maintain good health, fortify the feeling of happiness. When a child is happy, God is they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; labour force, increase productivity and cut on health care happy. When children are unhappy God is unhappy. they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run Mr. Basdeo Benson Rampersad makes presentation to Amanda Ramkelawan expenses. Pheonix Park Gas Processors Ltd. was the chief T and Vandana Ramadhar and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint’ sponsor of the project. Senator Wesley George, Parlia- Memory Verse: ‘the joy of the lord is your strength. Ne- he Exchange Presbyterian School has won the mentary Secretary in the Ministry of Health gave the hemiah 8:10. This was our church’s Lenten theme but for Sometimes when you are happy and make joyful noises Seventh Annual World Diabetes Day Quiz given by Feature Address. He congratulated Mr. Basdeo Benson the National Sunday School Rally 2008 the theme was while you play, your parents, your teachers or adults Tthe Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago Rampersad and the Couva Branch for their meritorious ‘The joy of the Lord is in my strength’, and I wondered, do become angry because they see you as making too much – Couva Branch – from amongst the seventeen primary service. children have strengths that can make God happy? noise. They do not see the joy you feel when you play and schools in the Couva Area. run and jump and shout. Children are happiest when they Exchange Presbyterian School has won this Quiz six out The prophet Ezra in the book Nehemiah reminded the play. World Diabetes Day is recognised on 14th November of seven years. Preysal Government School won in 2003. people that it was their strength that would bring joy every year and the theme is selected by the World Health Acting Principal of Exchange Presbyterian School is Mr. to the Lord. From the book of the Law of Moses he read Children, when you are strong you can make your parents Organisation and the International Diabetes Federation. Rolan Jaggernath and the teacher is Mrs. Wendy Gajadhar. for them to understand God wanted them to obey more happy and you can also bring joy to the Lord. For the last seven years the topics were 2001: Diabetes The Balmain Presbyterian School placed second and third than rebuilding the temple and the city walls of Jerusa- and Cardiovascular Disease – Take it to Heart. 2002: Your was Gran Couva R.C. School. lem. Activities: Eyes and Diabetes – Don’t lose sight of the risks. 2003: 1. Write out a list of all the things that make you happy Diabetes could cost you’re your Kidneys – Diabetes in Each pupil who wrote the Quiz received a hardcover story My wonderful children, I saw and heard your strengths or the things that you enjoy or give you joy. Show them the Disadvantaged and the Vulnerable. As from 2007 the book, each teacher who trained the pupils received a when I attended the National Sunday School Rally. When to your friends, Sunday school teachers and your parents United Nations has included World Diabetes Day on it’s token gift and each Principal received a token gift. The I came to your classes and listened to the stories and and family. agenda. schools placing first, second and third received trophies looked at your activities and when you sang and did your and the pupils from those schools received individual tro- actions especially in the afternoon when our student 2. Make a small flag or make a message button or chain. Every year Basdeo Benson Rampersad, chairman of the phies. Every school received a Certificate of Participation. minister Kimberly taught us all that new song she learnt Cut any shape, punch a hole and pass a string through it Couva Branch and an Executive Member and the Public On both days refreshments were served. in India ‘make a melody in my heart’. I believe each of you to wear it as a chain. Tape a safety pin behind to wear it as Relations Officer of the National Body compiles a “Hand- really made God happy. If you remember the song teach a button. out”. The Couva Branch goes to each school with written The Couva Branch does outreach programmes in schools your friends at school and Sunday school. and oral suggestions of how the handout can be used on request. They give lectures on Diabetes, and its’ Con- Write one of the messages on it throughout the school not interrupting the smooth flow trol and Management and on Healthy Life Style. They give Children, God wants all of you to be strong because this ‘When a child is happy, God is happy’ or ‘the joy of a child of the school curriculum, making a copy for each teacher, handouts, do free blood glucose (sugar) testing and free makes him happy, this gives him joy. But how can you is the joy of the Lord’ or ‘the joy of the Lord is my strength. for the temple, mosque, church, PTA and other groups blood pressure testing. They answer questions and pro- become strong? in the community. A copy of the previous year’s ques- vide information via-one-on-one dialogue with people. Song: tion and answers is left with each school. Examples of You can sing choruses and hymns; you can read your Hymns for Children # 46 - I’ve got a joy, joy. Joy, joy … how the questions are formulated from the handouts are Mr. Basdeo Benson Rampersad has successfully moved Bible and pray everyday and you can go to church and shown to each school. a motion and is Chairman of a committee hoping to Sunday school. What gives you the most strength is Prayer: conduct a National World Diabetes Day Quiz among all knowing and doing what the Ten Commandments tell God, our father in heaven we ask you to give us strength On the Quiz day four pupils from each school wrote the Primary Schools in Trinidad and Tobago. The next initia- you to do even as you grow older. What also make you to bring joy to you and to other persons. Amen. quiz containing sixty multiple choice questions. Then tive is to seek sponsorship from the Ministry of Education strong is knowing the stories, the parables and the teach- there is a Prize Award and Trophy Day Function where and the Ministry of Health. ings of Jesus and the golden rule and the greatest com- So until next month, with God Blessings, be good, be safe officials, parents, students and specially invited guests are mandment. and bring joy to others. invited. This took place at the Couva South Multipurpose Hall (opposite the Couva Health facility) Camden, Couva God gives his people strength that can bring Joy and hap- Love – Uncle Bill

Page 14 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 15 Read the Bible in one year: May-June 2008 Guide The Family Can: Celebrate Home

family friendly environment is positive. It is called The family can celebrate … celebrate esteem MAY 16 - Psalm 8: 1- 9 JUNE home ‘home sweet home’. Remember that old song The individual’s self esteem is determined by the family’s 01 - Acts 1: 1 – 14 17 - 2 Cor. 13: 1 – 13 01 - Matthew 7: 15 – 29 A‘Mid pleasures and palaces wherever we may roam, self-esteem. Be it ever so humble there is no place like home’. The family can celebrate … celebrate individuals 02 - Psalm 68: 1 – 18 18 - Matthew 28: 16 – 20 02 - Psalm 33: 1 – 22 Encourage and acknowledge each individual member of 19 - Isaiah 49: 14 – 26 A family friendly environment is one which offers comfort your family 03 - Psalm 68: 19 – 35 03 - Romans 1: 1 – 17 and sanctuary from the rush and the stress of life’s daily 04 - John 17: 1 – 26 20 - Psalm 131: 1 – 3 04 - Romans 1: 18 – 32 activities. It is a place where each member feels relaxed. They The family can celebrate … celebrate privacy 21 - 1 Cor. 1: 19 – 31 are free to share opinions, ideas and views on the events of A family friendly environment provides ‘privacy’. What is 05 - Numbers 11: 16 – 35 05 - Romans 2: 1 – 16 their day without rejection, disruption and negative criti- privacy? 06 - John 7: 1 – 24 22 - 1 Cor 2: 1 – 16 06 - Romans 2: 17 – 29 cisms. 23 - 1 Cor. 3: 1 – 15 Privacy is what you do or enjoy alone or with others. Alone 07 - John 7: 25 – 44 07 - Romans 3: 1 - 20 This month let us take time to initiate or sustain and cel- is important without disruption, prying and the feeling of 08 - 1 Cor. 12: 1 – 11 24 - 1 Cor. 3: 16 – 4: 5 ebrate the family friendly environment of the home. being ‘policed’ in constant surveillance or view of being 25 - Matthew 6: 22 – 34 ‘maccoed’. Privacy is important for debriefing. 09 - 1 Cor. 12: 12 – 31 Individuals share environments; the family resides in a home. 10 - Acts 2: 1 – 21 26 - Genesis 6: 1 – 22 – Bill. Adults and parents need privacy but children also need 27 - Genesis 7: 1 – 24 privacy. You with rooms put up signs – private knock before 11 - Proverbs 31: 10 – 31 The family can celebrate … celebrate belief and faith entering. Private: out of bounds. 12 - Psalm 15: 1 – 5 28 - Genesis 8: 1 – 22 What does a family friendly environment believe in? Belief is 29 - Genesis 9: 1 – 17 not faith. A family of one mind that is belief and acceptance Family members can respect the other’s personal space and 13 - John 15: 1 – 17 and practice of … can make God happy. Where two or three property. Certain things are yours – purchased or received as 14 - Acts 1: 15 – 26 30 - Psalm 46: 1 – 11 are gathered “I am in the midst of them’ says he Lord. gifts, some only for your use, some to be shared or used with 31 - Luke 1: 39 – 56 A family friendly environment has not only the sense of God others limited or unlimited. 15 - Genesis 1: 1 – 2: 4a but through faith and practice keeps God within the home. ‘Happy the home when God is there and love fills every Respect another’s privacy as you want them to respect your breast’ privacy.

The family can celebrate … celebrate forgiveness A MONTHLY THOUGHT TO HELP IMPROVE YOUR FAMILY Memoriam: William & Robert by Hilton R. Siboo

In Loving Memory of In Loving Memory of William Sampath Robert Sankar Sunrise: 24th June 1929 Sunset: 27th April 2005 Sunrise: 13th Oct 1945 Sunset: 28th March 2007 TP Comics: God must have a sense of humour...

Beautiful memories all wo- A year ago ven in gold God called you home This is the picture that we The family chain is broken tenderly hold And nothing is the same. Deep in our hearts his You will always memory is kept. remain in our hearts, We miss him more than any All the memories of you one knows; live on. Tears in our eyes we will wipe away but the ache in our hearts is here to stay.

LOVED AND NEVER FORGOTTEN: MISSED & REMEMBERED BY: By his wife Afrose • Children: Steve, Harold, Errol His wife – Judy • Children – Daniel, Regina, Lynette Charles, Zandra, Zenora, Zalina, Zorida and Lauren • In laws – Elizabeth, Lars and Richard • Grandchildren: 13; Greatgrand: 3 Sons in law: • Grandsons – John and Axel • Brothers, Sisters and Goseine and Vijai • Daughters in law: Lea and Suzzan their families • Other relatives and friends. www.mankindtoons.com www.mankindtoons.com

Page 16 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 17 Naparima Teachers College: 52nd Annual Meeting Are Christians Theologians?

Mr. Basdeo Benson Rampersad asked for one minute n June of last year 2007, I was blessed to attend a gath- However, during one of our group discussions, at the silence for those who have “excited the departure lounge” ering of Heads of Theological Institutions at my Alma recent sitting of our Annual Synod Meeting held in March and they are Mr. Isaiah Boodoo who was a School Super- IMater, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, New 2008, one of these questions asked around the meal visor curriculum development, international artist and Jersey. Some of our readers may remember a lengthy tables at the Princeton gathering crossed my mind, “Do author, Mr. Maurice Gobin who initiated the National article written by yours truly in the August 2007 issue of you think that Christians are theologians?” This occurred Insurance, Mr. Jeremiah Maharaj who became a land the Trinidad Presbyterian. when one of the laity in response to a particular issue, sea supervisor, Mr. Gordon Mohipat teacher at Queens said, “You ministers are the big theologians … you have Royal College, Mr. Hubert Lennard, Principal, Mr. Fulton As I reminisce, one of the most interesting and rewarding the answers.” I sensed the hesitancy of this very loyal and Sieunarine, Principal in Canada, Mr. Edward Manickchand aspects of this gathering was the conversational dialogue ardent member of our church to respond to an issue and Principal, Presiding Elder and fifty years service at Carapi- that took place around the meal tables. I remembered to share in a theological discussion. chaima Carnival Celebrations, Mr. Harold Doodnath who some of the questions asked, that sparked lively discus- established Unique Book Stores and 55 years in Credit sions among us such as: How do you teach students to re- The attempt of this article therefore is to encourage our Union and Mr. Siriram Budri Principal who was “morally, flect theologically? What process do you suggest to help laity and all of us to gain confidence to think theologically religiously and legally upright”. them relate theology to their day to day experiences? Do on our own and to feel comfortable to share in theologi- you think that Christians are theologians? cal discussion and dialogue. Our laity should never feel Mr. Nicholas Manson gave the message based on “Teach- they must “pull out” of a discussion because they do not ing – A Labour of Love”. He spoke of the days when As professors and lecturers of theological institutions possess a theological degree from a recognized institu- Left to Right: Basdeo B. Rampersad, Hubert B. Ramroop, Sonny Nandlal, Augustus Gangadeen, James Gajadhar, Nicholas Manson. teachers went to collect children, children had no shoes, from various continents in the world, we discussed the tion. And no person who has formal theological training came to school with roti wrapped in brown paper, text difficulty of thinking theologically about everyday events should ever deny the laity from fully participating in any he Naparima Teachers College Class of 1956-57 first books were supplied by the school and returned after taking place in the world, in our personal lives, in our mar- theological discussion. The church does not necessarily met on January 16, 1956 and since then they have each lesson, and jiggers, lice and hookworm were preva- riage and family relationships, in issues of social, econom- depend on the so called ‘theological academic experts’ to Tbeen meeting annually. This year they had their lent. Teachers’ salary was $30.00 per month. And when ic or political policy in the church and society. make a theological response to current issues. 52nd Annual Meeting at the home of Mr. James Gajadhar we graduated our salary was $120.00 per month. And yet at Balmain, Couva. The meeting took the form of Prayer “Teaching Was A Labour of Love”. In conclusion he said It was noted that professors and lecturers in theology “I am not equipped to make any theological response and Thanksgiving, a three course meal and socializing let us remind ourselves of how gracious God is to us in urge students to give a theological response to various to any issue – that is for the academics.” This response of and reminiscing on College Days and their experiences keeping us to this day and be grateful and always bring issues, such as the meaning of life after death, vocation, some church members is understandable, because it is during their forty plus years of teaching. The male section to mind the words of the Psalmist - How pleasant it is for ordination, the purpose of the church, abortion, human felt by many that theology is widely taken to be a field for of the class had twenty persons and because these are of brethren to dwell together in unity. sexuality, ecology, gender injustice and the HIV/AIDS experts alone and not for the ordinary ‘pew member’. “one mind and one spirit” they are kept together all these pandemic. years. He said perhaps these very thoughts inspired the hymn How wrong we are, if we think in this manner. writer to express these words: Some of us around the table, with two and three degrees It is unfortunate that there is no universally accepted Mr. Sonny Nandlal opened with prayer: began to wonder how well we were able to give theo- definition “Most gracious and loving Father and Creator of the Uni- Bless be the tie that binds logical responses to pressing concerns of the day. While verse and all things therein we give you all honour, glory and Our hearts in Christian love; students are asked to reflect theologically, many of their Rev. Joy Abdul-Mohan, praise for you are holy and worthy of our praise. The fellowship of kindred minds teachers do not often give them explicit guidance about Principal- St. Andrew’s Theological College Is like to that above. how to do so effectively. One person even inferred that Father we thank you for your everlasting love you showered quite possibly some teachers do their own theological upon us the surviving members of the class of 1956-57 of the Mr. Augustus Gangadeen brought back memories of yes- thinking in a haphazard fashion. Naparima Teachers College as we celebrate our 52nd Annual ter years and remarked that both teachers and students Meeting. For this Father God we are grateful. then put more intense effort in teaching and learning. Mr. Hubert Ramroop spoke of the extra curricular activi- We give thanks Lord for keeping us together for the past year ties and social life. Mr. Ramdharie Indarsingh is not enjoy- and for the wonderful times that we shared in fellowship. ing the best of health. Thank you Lord Jesus for the times which we shared in the experiences in the lives of one another. Those living in Canada are Mr. Hamid Mohammed, Mr. Er- rol Mullahoo, Mr. Stephen Mahabir and Mr. Rawle Sook- Jesus, we remember our brothers who migrated for better nanan who is secretary for life and who telephoned and living. May your Holy Spirit bless, guide and protect them spoke to his friends in the day. They all became Principals. and their loved ones. This bond of friendship over the years has brought them Father we invite your divine holy presence at this time as we so close together that they feel that “a close friend is celebrate our 52nd Anniversary in thanksgiving and we give sometimes closer than a brother”. you thanks, praise, honour and glory. In Jesus precious name we pray. Amen.” Mr. Basdeo Benson Rampersad

Page 18 The Trinidad Presbyterian The Trinidad Presbyterian Page 19 The Board of Men takes on OSHA

any of you will be confused and would want to be required to have Public Liability Insurance , and if we know what the Board of Men and the Church has have in place the infrastructure to maintain compliance Mto do with OSHA? ; in your mind, you are familiar with OSHA we will gain significant credits for a reduced with OSHA being applicable to factories and construc- insurance premium. Secondly, in the event of an accident tion sites, where there are high risks which are often as- or mishap within our church compound, and we are chal- sociated with accidents and mishaps. To lay your mind at lenged legally, we stand very weak without complying rest, all Public Institutions and Organizations must comply with OSHA, the law of the country. Thirdly the culture of with OSHA once that organization has more than 25 Health and Safety should be part of our lives and our well persons who gather regularly at a building for one reason being, and should be practiced in the workplace, as well or the other. as on the road and at home; the church could be a fertile ground for such positive training and thinking. Now, every congre- gation in our Pres- It will take several years byterian Church and a significant num- has more than 25 ber of man-hours to persons and hence get our church build- each church has ings in good shape to comply with for OSHA; however we The Occupational must take a first step Health and Safety and the earlier we start, Act (OSHA). The it will be better for us. Board of Men To prevent the propa- has volunteered gation of errors in the to bring our 100 future, the second Church buildings phase of the commit- into compliance tee, new buildings and with OSHA. If we modifications to exist- start with the ing buildings will need basics, like the to have the scrutiny of provision of toilets the Health and Safety or washrooms, Committee. the provision of drinking water, To get the national hand rails for steps Presbyterian Church and guard rails where necessary, plastics chairs for seat- community sensitized and get started on this very impor- ing, wet and slippery floors, basic fire safety and arrange- tant issue, the Board of Men is planning three one – day ments for car parking facilities, the task could be a very training seminar in line with the structure of the three simple one to bring the church into compliance. Presbyteries as follows :

However, OSHA requires that we establish a permanent (a) South Central committee, i.e. A Health and Safety Committee to monitor Naparima Boys College, San Fernando; 12 April, 2008; and improve the Occupational Health and Safety of our church buildings. (b) North Hillview College, Tunapuna , Sat. 26 April 2008; and In this regard, using the current structure of the three Presbyteries and the Board of Men taking the leading role (c) South East in organizing and administering the work of this com- St. Andrew’s Pres. Church, Princes’ Town – Sat. May 17, 2008 mittee, we can develop a framework for the successful implementation of a permanent OSHA committee for our This training programme and seminar will target every national Presbyterian community. congregation in the church and will cover and deal with a wide range of Health and Safety topics and issues of our Compliance to OSHA, can and will bring several positive church. attributes to the Presbyterian Church Organization in Trin- idad and Tobago. Firstly, in the near future the Church will Rodney Harnarine

Page 20 The Trinidad Presbyterian