John 10:10 – For the love of Pan and culture

By Denise Scot

Last Sunday I went to pan.

I would be lying if I said I have always loved pan, but in the last few years, Junior Panorama ignited a passion and love for the musical instrument. I just adore how our youths come alive and how they make the steelpan appear to be the most magical drum. I just could not miss pan this year.

As a Catholic woman in Trinidad and Tobago, I see my life as a vibrant tapestry woven with faith, and tradition. One of the most exhilarating threads in this tapestry is my love for Carnival and now the steelpan. These elements of Trinidadian culture are not just events nor instruments; they are expressions of our identity, creativity, and collective joy. Finding Jesus in the midst of this creativity and revelry may seem challenging, but it is a journey of discovering the divine in the ordinary and the sacred in the celebratory.

Calypso, Soca, stick fighting, extempo are happiness to me. Carnival celebrates life, creativity, and the spirit of togetherness. As a Catholic, I approach Carnival with a heart full of gratitude for the gift of life and the ability to express it so vibrantly. In the midst of the revelry, I find Jesus in the joy of the people around me. Each smile, each dance, and each beat of the drum is a testament to the divine joy that Jesus brings into our lives. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Carnival is, in many ways, a reflection of this fullness of life.

So, when I found myself in the pan semis on Sunday night, I found my happy place. The creation of the steelpan itself is a story of redemption and transformation. What was once discarded oil drums were turned into beautiful musical instruments. This mirrors the message of Jesus, who transforms and redeems our lives, turning our brokenness into something beautiful.

On Sunday night, it was the people who amazed me. I saw people of every race and age, rich and poor and various nationalities gathered to enjoy music and each other. I was looking on in awe! The camaraderie, unity, and shared joy during the night, reminded me of the early Christian communities described in the Acts of the Apostles. They shared everything in common and lived in harmony.

I marvelled at the number of priests and nuns I was able to meet up with! I was fascinated that they, too, could see Christ in the midst of this wonderful expression of creativity and music. What blew me away most was that moment when I realised I had found Jesus in the joy, creativity, and community of the Panorama. I am still smiling, days later.

Through prayer, reflection, and a heart open to the divine, I will continue to navigate the revelry with faith, ensuring that my love for these traditions deepens my relationship with Jesus and enhances my spiritual journey.