Catechetical Month 2025 was launched with an inspiring virtual presentation by Bishop John Persaud of Mandeville, drawing over 300 participants from across the region. Centered on the theme from 1 Peter 3:15 — “Always be ready to give the reason for your hope” — Bishop Persaud’s talk invited catechists, clergy, and the faithful to deepen their understanding of hope as a theological virtue that both grounds and propels the Christian life.
Bishop Persaud emphasized that Christian hope is not mere optimism or a last resort. Instead, it is a confident trust in God’s promises, made secure through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Hope, he said, is “the anchor of the soul” (Hebrews 6:19), sustaining believers through trials and giving them the courage to witness with joy and perseverance.
Drawing on Pope Francis’ proclamation for the Jubilee Year 2025, Spes non confundit (“Hope does not disappoint” Romans 5:5), Bishop Persaud linked the Church’s celebration of Jubilee with the mission of catechesis. The Jubilee, he explained, is a moment of grace and renewal, reminding the faithful that Christian hope is both a gift from God and a task to be lived and shared. For catechists, this means teaching the faith in a way that radiates hope, inspires trust, and forms disciples who can give witness in a changing world.
He urged participants to embody the words of the theme, always prepared to give the reason for their hope with gentleness and respect.
The workshop series continues on Thursday 18th and 25th September at 7:00 p.m., offering further opportunities for reflection and formation. As Bishop Persaud reminded all, Christian hope is not passive—it is active, life-giving, and essential to catechetical ministry in the Caribbean today.
