The Catholic News paper run became my road trip…

As The Catholic News enters its 131st year this weekend, we begin a series featuring those unheralded persons in the parishes committed to selling this publication. We appreciate all who have contributed to this ministry over the years, helping to deliver this paper into the hands of the people in the pews.

THIS SUNDAY WE FEATURE:

Damian Nandoo, from the parish of St Therese RC, Rio Claro

Q: How long have you been involved in selling the paper?

I’ve been involved in the selling of the Catholic News FULLY for the past three years since March 2020.

Q: Why did you get involved?

It was during the period mentioned above that our country was in lockdown due to the Covid-19 virus. During this time, churches were closed. That was when I noticed 65 out of the 100 copies that our parish took had remained unsold in the sacristy.

I told my mom, who is the secretary, that something has to be done about this and we can’t have our parish paying for unsold papers or parishioners without papers. Using the theme STEWARDSHIP, I decided to use my Time, Talent (as being a Driver) and Treasure of doing the #CatholicNews #Homedelivery FREE of charge within our parish, made up of six outer communities and the main church. I also deliver the paper to two other parishes: New Grant and Mayaro.

I must also mention that the video of Fr [Robert] Christo on a bicycle motivated me to push myself even more.

Q: What value or significance do you get from being a Catholic News seller?

By giving my service to our parish, I get to meet and chat with parishioners in the process. I also turned the paper run into a road trip, taking in scenic views via Gran Couva Road through Tortuga, Torrib Trace etc to Rio Claro on my way home from work in Chaguanas.

Q: What is your approach to encourage people to buy or read the paper in your parish?

Being the Assistant Public Relations Officer for our parish, as soon as I get the front-page cover, I share it and all the announcements we have within our parish. As soon as I get a copy of the paper, I elaborate on the upcoming feasts and harvest activities within churches. From here, I stress that the paper could attract plenty of attention and it’s ONLY by having a paper will you know what’s happening, just like a regular daily paper.

Q: How do you think the paper can be better promoted to Catholic faithful?

Our faith could be widened during the distribution by continuing to encourage catechists and vocation people (priest, nuns, lay/Eucharist) to share their experiences.

Q: To be a seller you most probably also read the paper. What are your favourite pages or columns?

Honestly, I browse through the paper firstly to see Kid’s Page from ever since, followed by Parish Life and lastly, upcoming events, harvests, retreats etc to share or make a road trip myself.

Look out next Sunday as we continue to salute our sellers.