Scouts honour for Archbishop

Archbishop Jason Gordon was among the persons recognised by the Scout Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ScoutsTT) last Sunday, February 26 at the Founder’s Day Celebration and Chief Scout Farewell Rally.

On Founder’s Day, February 22, the Scout Movement worldwide celebrated founder Robert Baden-Powell. As part of the celebration locally, individuals in the scouting movement and wider society who contributed to youth development were honoured.

Archbishop Gordon received the Silver Ibis medal which is given for specially distinguished services to the Scout Movement and young people, usually for a period of at least ten years.

Among the others recipients were: The Chairman of the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation, Dr Allen Sammy; Errol Lewis, Helen Graham, Kirk Jean-Baptiste, and Chief Commissioner of the Girl Guides, Jacqueline Dolly.

The Archbishop presided at ScoutsTT 110th anniversary Mass at the Pro-Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, San Fernando, and the awards ceremony followed at the Bishop John Mendes Auditorium.

National Scout Commissioner Mark Ainsley John praised Chief Scout President Paula-Mae Weekes for her dedication to country and young people. “You have served the ScoutsTT graciously and totally embraced the innovation and changes that occurred with your role within the movement, thereby helping us to grow and achieve our goals.”

President Weekes’ tenure ends as she demits the Office of the President this month. In her address, she said it was a privilege being Chief Scout. She lauded the more than 100 years of moulding, nurturing, and preparing young people to face the future with “moxy and metal and instil salutary values, competencies and goals that enable them to be productive members of the society”.

President Weekes received the ScoutsTT Scout flag used during her term as a symbolic gesture of gratitude.

Tokens of appreciation including a mad bull kite from the Tobago district, a 3D beach scene from the Mayaro Sangre Grande District, a bamboo cup set were presented. A parade along Harris Promenade, Chancery Lane and High Street culminated the event.