Blessings of the boats at Orange Valley feast day celebrations

“You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church” (Mt 16:18) were the words of the Gospel which echoed throughout the congregation as the community of Orange Valley gathered to celebrate the Feast of St Peter and to witness the blessing of the boats in the community on Sunday, June 25.

Fr Trevor Nathasingh, parish priest, together with Deacon Tristram Mathura joyfully welcomed all present and in great jubilation sang lustily as Roy Gomes from La Romaine RC and friends led the congregation.

Fr Trevor addressed the congregation paying special homage to all the fishermen in the community and their contribution. He recalled his days as being part of the community of St Peter’s in Mayaro and how much he learnt from the fishermen there and their dedication to St Peter’s Day in Mayaro.

“Cast your nets, respond like St Peter and in all you do evangelise others and build the Kingdom here on Earth.” Fr Trevor reminded the congregation that no one said that it would be easy but in Jesus it is all possible.

Before the end of the liturgy, members of the Orange Valley community presented Fr Trevor with belated birthday presents. This was followed by a procession to Orange Valley Bay for the blessing of boats. The congregation sang in praise and worship as they processed to the bay.

Fr Trevor and Rev Tristram walked around blessing the vessels and all the people who had gathered. After the blessing, the congregation processed to the National Agricultural Marketing and Development Corporation (NAMDEVCO) Orange Valley Wholesale Fish Market for sharing and fellowship. On offer were fried fish, bake, fish broth, fish pies and other delicacies.

May the blessings of St Peter be with us as we continue the mission of building the church here on Earth after the great example of St Peter who professed to Christ “You are the Christ, the son of the living God” (Mt 16:16). —Rosemarie Siewnarine