We feature 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.
WE FEATURE:
Monica Redhead, from the parish of Holy Cross, Princes Town. She’s a mother of six. Happy Mother’s Day!
Q: How long have you been involved in selling the paper?
I’ve been selling the paper for approximately 16 years now, after taking over from the person who was no longer able to fulfil their commitment. It was no problem for me to take up the responsibility since I never really miss our 7 a.m. Sunday morning Masses. Plus, I always looked forward to receiving my personal copy as I was always intrigued by the contents.
Q: Why did you get involved?
It has never just been about being a Catholic News seller for me since I always took a special interest in evangelisation in any form. From as simple as calling to check on family, friends, and fellow parishioners, to being part of the Legion of Mary and a Eucharistic Minister.
During the Covid-19 lockdown, I made the extra effort in delivering directly to homes of even lapsed parishioners with the help of my children. Even now, when a parishioner doesn’t show up for Mass, I deliver and check up on them.
The value for me in doing things like these is the joy of seeing others come out to church and the joy on their faces, seeing that someone remembers them.
Q: What is your approach to encourage people to buy or read the paper in your parish?
My encouraging words are ‘yes, times are hard, but for a small weekly contribution, you receive an invaluable amount of information, motivation, spiritual strengthening, smiles, education, and even great opportunities’.
Q: How do you think the paper can be better promoted to Catholic faithful?
I think some people still view the paper as it was 20 years ago and are not really aware of the vast and spectacular changes since. We have created a state-of-the-art 21st century paper, and maybe should adapt 21st century strategies in reaching the wider public.
Like maybe 30 to 60 seconds, weekly enticing videos about contents. If we think of it as a main medium of evangelising, we will see the value and make greater efforts. Even if each parishioner tries to purchase for or sell to one person as their form of evangelisation.
Q: To be a seller you most probably also read the paper. What are your favourite pages or columns?
I thoroughly enjoy reading ‘Conversations with Archbishop J,’ just as much as I did read ‘Ask Me Another’ by our late, beloved Archbishop Anthony Pantin. I also take special interest in Daniel Francis’ contributions and ‘Green Thumb’ by Rayanna Boodram. The beautiful parish pictures and sharing also grabs my attention.