WORD OF THE BISHOP // AUGUST 5, 2012

Year of Faith

The Year of Faith is an initiative taken by Pope Benedict XVI. Pope Benedict's Year of Faith is slated to begin on Oct. 11 and will serve to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council.

During an entire year the creed of the Christians will be deepened. A lot has happened in the past fifty years. Shockwaves have gone through the Church. Some shockwaves were wanted while others were unwanted. After fifty years we can be grateful for the zest that the Church has displayed. But let us also take a look at the New Evangelization because it is also essential. Many initiatives will be taken to celebrate the faith and to give new meaning to it. New opportunities for everybody!

2nd anniversary Choir School

The Choir School recently marked its two year anniversary. Students from the primary and secondary school presented their skills during the annual concert. It was a huge party. It is magnificent to see what the students have learned in the past two years. Many of them will become singers whose voices will capture the attention of audiences everywhere. Musical director Albert Arens can be proud of the achievements of these students. Congratulations everybody on a job well-done1!

Confirmation at Moengotapoe and Albina

We recently paid a visit to Moengotapoe, Albina and Galibi. The road to these communities was in a bad conditions at certain locations. The trip was therefore very tiresome. We were glad when we finally reached our destinations. There were not many adults at the service at Moengotapoe and Galibi . As it turned out many people from the villages had gone to other places in order to attend other events. However, at Albina many people flocked to the church. Forty-five children and adults received their conformation during a enthusiastic service. After the service everybody got something to eat and to drink. There was also the usual photo shoot. All the children wanted to have their picture taken with the bishop. They wanted a picture which would remind them of an important event in their lives. The first day of their adult life. Congratulations to all who received their Confirmation.

Meeting at Groningen

Now that Father Moessai can no longer perform services because of a cerebral infarction, the community of Groningen needs a replacement. The members of the local parish and Sister Corrie recently discussed church matters. A huge responsibility is being placed on the shoulders of the council members.

+ Mgr. W. de Bekker

Bishop of Diocese Paramaribo