A taste of Paramin

The Catholic News’ Steps for Hope held another memorable pilgrimage. This time, to the scenic village of Paramin on Saturday, November 22. As usual, it was an immersive experience of the unique cultural offering of a local community.

The meeting point was the Anglican Chapel of Ease, Saddle Road, Maraval, where pilgrimage spiritual director Fr Robert Christo, offered prayers. From here the pilgrims were shuttled to the site of the popular ‘Miss Julia’, Julia Lucio, for hot cocoa and to hear some history of the area and the ‘Kwéyòl’ language from tour guide Cornelius ‘Carlos’ Felicien. His lively jocular banter was both informative and entertaining.

The view from the deck at Miss Julia’s was enjoyed by pilgrims who also photographed the traditional dirt oven and other things of interest.

Next stop was the home of Gloria Nicholas, better known as ‘Miss Sylvin’. Mass was celebrated by Fr Christo. His homily evoked many chuckles from the congregation, but the message was serious—make preparations in this life for the afterlife because ‘judgement’ comes. He told listeners they should have a poor person on their Christmas list.

Following the Mass was a Creole lunch and the Amigos de Paramin de Maraval entertained with live Parang, which prompted dancing and a conga line. Next stop was the scenic La Vigie lookout and then on to Our Lady of Guadalupe RC for Eucharistic Adoration and pilgrims accessed Confession. The last stop was the St Augustine RC Church at Cameron.

As the day wound down, Time Out Specialist Judy Joseph Mc Sween conducted Christian Meditation. The transport drivers were invited into the church where Fr Christo led prayers for them and Carlos.

On the tour, pilgrims were able to order green seasoning for which the Paramin community is famous, as well as pastelles and paime. It was a full day, and the group returned to the Chapel of Ease for departure.

Yvette Redhead said it was her first tour of Paramin and she never expected it to be so good. Cheryl Boodoo said the day’s activity was “a bit overwhelming” but the scenery gave a “spiritual” feeling. “I just felt calm. I am always very scared of the heights and whatever, but I’m surprised how calm I felt,” Boodoo said.

Mario Diaz said: “It was nice to have the fusion of culture and spirituality”.

Look out for the next Steps for Hope pilgrimages in 2026! —LPG