However, incidents over the past three weeks have put the focus on the importance of the mission as it applies in particular to a district contiguous with the capital city of Port of Spain. That area is called Gonzales, bordering Belmont on one side and Laventille on the other.

A little more than half a decade ago a young priest, Fr Jason Gordon with the help of his fellow priest Fr Clyde Harvey took the decision to make a special effort to rein in the upsurge of violence and other criminal activities in the district.

But they did it a little differently; not with bible-toting crusaders on the streets, or forced church attendance, but by creatively using the culture and environment that existed at the time. They entreated residents to love their neighbours; to develop different social norms; to develop latent sporting skills and a new approach to education.

Were they successful? The answer has to be a resounding yes. That was six years ago. Three weeks ago the peace and tranquility enjoyed by Gonzales people was shattered by a quadruple murder.

It severely rocked the process and while there were elements which were quick to suggest that Gonzales would soon be sinking back into the quagmire of crime, the Community Council in an immediate response assured the country that the “Pride of Gonzales” was very much alive, with its heritage, its families and its community remaining deeply rooted in the vision that the area will continue to be a peaceful, united and prosperous community.

The determination of the Gonzales people is an example of their resilience and their desire as families to become what they are, because the seeds of change, sown by the two Roman Catholic priests more than six years ago have given birth to a community that is striving to develop values and virtues in the young and not so young.

A real example of true evangelisation. Thank you Msgr Gordon and Fr Harvey.