By Raymond Syms, Editor
editor.camsel@catholictt.org
Trinidad & Tobago will become the first country outside of the United States to host the North American Secretariat (NAS) Convention of the Worldwide Marriage Encounter (WWME) movement.
The 24th NAS Convention will be held June 20–22, 2025 at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), Port of Spain under the theme Be the light of Christ.
“Married couples and families are invited to attend,” said Rev Malcom Joab who, along with his wife Lynn, are the convention chair couple planning the event that is expected to attract WWME membership from the USA, Canada, and other countries. Fr Ashton Pierre CSSp is also on the planning committee. Rev Joab also told The Catholic News he hopes an invitation extended to a priest based at the Vatican will be accepted.
The official launch of preparations for the convention was announced during Holy Mass, September 23 at the Church of the Assumption, Maraval. Making the announcement were the US-based NAS leadership team comprising Anthony and Sue Morris, and Bishop Emeritus Michael Warfel. Also present were Remi and Bianca Mohamatsaid of WWME Suriname who with Fr Pierre make up the Region 3 Caribbean leadership team, Robin and Sharon Roberts of WWME Guyana, and planning committee member Charles Carvalho.
Bishop Warfel was the main celebrant for the liturgy; Fr Pierre concelebrated while Rev Joab assisted.
WWME was introduced to T&T and the Caribbean 55 years ago by Wilfred and Kay Holder, and Fr Anton Dick CSSp.
In a press release issued following the announcement, Carla Cupid, CEO of Tourism Trinidad said, “This is a significant event for Trinidad and Tobago, and we look forward to welcoming couples from all over the world to our shores. It shows the growing confidence internationally for our destination as always in season for any activity.”
The release added, “Trinidad’s selection as the host destination underscores Trinidad’s growing reputation as a world-class destination capable of hosting prestigious events of global significance. This is why Tourism Trinidad saw it fit to play an instrumental part in getting the bid in for the event. As the convention draws near, Tourism Trinidad is committed to collaborating closely with the organising committee to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience for all attendees. We look forward to showcasing Trinidad’s beauty, culture, and hospitality during this historic event.”
Visit wwmeconvention.com or wwmett on Facebook and Instagram for more information.