We all work very hard

Cuffie, together with his wife Angela, is the founder of the Couva-based Miracle Ministries. An internet search says the organisation includes a 4,000-plus member full gospel church (“Christ Castle”). Also run by the organisation are a pre-school, skills development and learning centre, a five hundred-student, seven-year Government-assisted high school, an institute of ministry and tertiary education, missionary outreaches, social operations, and radio and television recording studios, which are part of the organisation’s media centre.

The colourful Central-based radio and television evangelist, well known for his hard hitting commentary on national issues, appeared overwhelmed by the award. He said congratulations have been pouring in from the evangelical community and he has been given a greater impetus for service.

Citing the scriptures, he said, “The Bible talks about giving honour to whom honour is due, and that those who work and work diligently should be counted for double honour.”

Calling the award a tremendous inspiration for everyone, Cuffie said he wanted to especially thank the Government for recognising the work of Miracle Ministries.

“We work very hard, a lot of what we do is probably not noticed but one of the functions of government is to inspire citizens and we want to thank the Government for that,” he said.

Commenting on Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar’s statements that the 14-year-old girl who posted racial and obscene remarks against her (the Prime Minister) should not be punished, Cuffie, a father of four daughters, said, “ I believe the Prime Minister was attempting to strike a balance and I hope it would not be misinterpreted. My fear is that deviant people conveniently misinterpret statements.” He said there was need to emphasise the consequences of one’s actions, declaring, “ If you choose the behaviour , you choose the consequences.”

He reminded that tens of thousands of youngsters are looking at this unfolding situation and the authorities must be careful not to send the wrong message.