Manning calls for assistance from Shouter Baptists

Prime Minister Patrick Manning sang and danced with Spiritual Baptists yesterday at Spiritual Shouter Baptist celebrations in Maloney.

Speaking after many well received performances by Baptist Choirs, Manning said, “It’s a little too soon to end that.” He then began to lead the congregation by singing, “God is a good God, Yes he is.” This marked the beginning of a medley of songs dedicated to the Prime Minister. “One of the most heroic struggles in the history of Trinidad and Tobago is that of the Shouter Baptists,” said Manning. He showered praise upon members of the Baptist faith for overcoming prejudice and other obstacles in the past. He went on to say that the perseverance of the faith should be an “inspiration to us all”. Referring to Government’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2020 the Prime Minister said, “The Spiritual Shouter Baptist movement like all other social organisations must be an important part of that national effort.”

Manning went on to highlight Government’s intention to “employ the resources of our social, religious, and cultural organisations in the transformation of Trinidad and Tobago”. He drew attention to many social ills, including poverty, substance abuse and crime. “Which organisation we might ask, is better positioned than the Spiritual Shouter Baptist movement to assist in dealing with these problems,” asked the Prime Minister rhetorically. “Yours is a story of triumph over poverty and marginalisation,” said Manning, as he praised them for their continuing efforts in liberating others from deprivation and underdevelopment. Adding to his commitment, the Prime Minister spoke of his Government’s plans to “further discuss with the movement how the movement can become more empowered to continue the invaluable work you are already doing throughout the country”.

To the delight of the audience, the Prime Minister also thanked those Spiritual Baptists who joined him at his home the night before, and said, “We enjoyed it so much that we have decided that it would be an annual event.” Former UNC Minister Trevor Sudama also addressed the gathering. “Today is a day not only of celebration but a day of reflection,” said Sudama. He focused on the rich history of the faith and their struggle against discrimination, lauding the “indomitable spirit of the Shouter Baptists over the years”. Sudama shocked many as he too joined in the singing. The congregation followed as Sudama sang,“If I had a bell, I’d ring it in the morning, I’d ring it in the evening, all over this land.” Following the presentation of gifts, the Prime Minister accepted the invitation to dance with a large gathering on the stage.