A conversation on faith, purpose, and leadership

By Emily Jones

Head Girl, Holy Faith Convent Penal

On Tuesday, April 21, Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon hosted a luncheon for Head Girls and Deputy Head Girls of St Joseph’s Convent, Port of Spain; St Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph; Holy Faith Convent, Penal; and Providence Girls’ Catholic School.

The group, which included Solange Hollingsworth, Gia Richardson, Gabrielle Sadler, Empress Trotter, Phoebe Jérome, Ziah McDonald, and Aaliyah Cooper, gathered for an afternoon of insightful and thought-provoking conversation.

Following introductions, Archbishop Gordon set the tone for what he described as a “no-topics barred” discussion. He encouraged openness and honesty, inviting us to guide the conversation by asking the questions that mattered most to us. From the outset, the atmosphere was open and welcoming, setting the foundation for meaningful dialogue.

Throughout the session, the Archbishop engaged with us in a very genuine and approachable way, making everyone feel comfortable and valued. What stood out most was his humility and the way he listened attentively, showing sincere interest in our thoughts, experiences, and aspirations. This created a space where we felt heard and respected.

As the conversation developed, a wide range of topics naturally emerged, including relationships, career paths, lifestyle choices, social media, vocation, religion, and education.

While sharing a meal together, he thoughtfully responded to each question, offering guidance rooted in faith and real-life experience.

The discussion on vocation was particularly meaningful. The Archbishop reflected on the call to follow one’s purpose in life, referencing Matthew 4:19 “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men”.

He explained that vocation extends beyond religious life, emphasising that each person is called to serve others through their unique gifts, talents, and chosen career paths.

Building on this, he highlighted the importance of living a purposeful life. Referring to Matthew 6:24, he reminded us that “no one can serve two masters”, encouraging us to make decisions that align with our values and contribute positively to society. He stressed that true success lies not only in personal achievement, but in using our lives to solve problems and uplift others.

When asked why a good and all-powerful God allows suffering, the Archbishop explained that God grants humanity free will, and with it comes the reality of human choice and consequence.

He noted that suffering is not a sign of God’s absence, but rather an opportunity for growth, compassion, and deeper faith, reminding us that even in difficult moments, God remains present and walking with us.

After responding to our questions, the Archbishop posed a final reflection: “What is it like being a young woman growing up in Trinidad and Tobago today?”

In response, it was a shared sentiment among us that we often feel both safe and unsafe at different times. While growing up, many of us once believed that crime occurred mainly in specific contexts or due to certain lifestyles.

However, lived experiences and recent events have challenged that perception. When incidents involve innocent individuals, including children, it deeply shifts one’s understanding of safety and vulnerability, raising difficult and emotional questions about society and humanity.

Drawing inspiration from St Carlo Acutis, he shared the quote, “All people are born as originals, but many die as photocopies,” reminding us of the importance of remaining authentic and not conforming to societal pressures at the expense of individuality.

The discussion then turned to prayer and spiritual growth. The Archbishop introduced us to the seven-step prayer process developed by St Ignatius of Loyola, a method of daily reflection designed to deepen one’s relationship with God.

The steps include gratitude, awareness, reflection on significant moments, seeking peace, asking for freedom and grace, praying for others, and concluding with the Lord’s Prayer. Each student was gifted a card outlining this process.

As the luncheon ended, we departed feeling inspired and deeply grateful for the opportunity to engage with the Archbishop. The experience strengthened our commitment to living out our Catholic values and to leading with compassion, integrity, and purpose in all aspects of our lives.