United in song and spirit |29 January 2024

Celebrating peace and education at interfaith community gathering

By Sunny Esparon

As part of ongoing activities to mark Education Week 2024, a religious interfaith community gathering was held at the Ministry of Education Garden yesterday morning under the theme ‘Let us sing for Peace’.

The gathering was led by the two masters of ceremony – John Florentine and Gina Adelaide – and was attended by the Minister for Education, Dr Justin Valentin, principal secretary of Education Services, Merna Eulentin and principal secretary for Education Sector Development John Lesperance.

A myriad of poems, songs and prayers that put heavy emphasis on peace were delivered throughout the event.

The service was animated by ‘Melodi Lafanmiy’ choir hailing from Grand Anse Mahe, with their selection of gospel tunes. They were occasionally joined by the Plaisance Boys Choir who sung their hearts out. Other input were from Father Eric Léon who read a bible verse and sang along with the children, and Doreen Nancy, with a short prayer followed by an instrumental version of ‘Make me a channel of your peace.’

Guests were also treated to a sketch performed by students from various schools showcasing many biblical figures of relevance, including Mary and Joseph, in an incident that ended in peace instead of fighting.

To cap off the event, the audience was asked to pick out a symbol of hope from a tray and share with other participants. The symbols included a peace flag, a dove and a pigeon. Participant

When addressing the guests, senior education officer, Erica Derjaques-Inacio, said the event should be a way for the participants to let their hearts walk the durable path of harmony.

“Together, let us continue to embark on a voyage where we will eliminate negative thoughts and reflect and celebrate together the transformational power that education has. This will give us a durable peace,” said Ms Derjaques-Inacio.

In his closing remarks, Minister Valentin commended the entire team that planned the event, stating the service has surpassed his expectations.

“The one word that I want you and the church to stick to is ‘peace’. It is the one word we have used over and over again today and it means something,” said Minister Valentin.

For her part, PS Eulentin conveyed that it was an honour for her to witness such a spiritual event. She had special thanks for the group of men making up the ‘Melodi Lafanmiy’ band.

“Many times we say that men are losers but I enjoyed seeing men in this service. It shows that although there are one or two plagued by substance abuse, there are men who still believe in God and I hope it will bring more young men towards God,” said PS Eulentin.

PS Eulentin added that she was also grateful that children were the ones leading sermons and services, stating she has a lot of hope for them.

The accompanying photos were taken by our photographer Joena Meme.