Papal Nuncio calls for religious tourism

PAPAL Nuncio Archbishop Emil Paul Tscherrig yesterday noted that the Caribbean region could consider developing the area of religious tourism, something that is currently non-existent. He noted that this could be done in collaboration with the respective ministries responsible for tourism and would involve establishing an association of Christian tour guides. Such development, he said, should also include providing pastoral care for tourists.

The Archbishop made this observation during his presentation at the two-day symposium entitled “Our Historic Churches” at the Holy Name Convent Chapel. He spoke on “The Cultural Heritage of the Church in the Caribbean.” He explained that the cultural heritage of the Church must be viewed in the context of its evangelical and pastoral duties, noting also that religious art has an important role to play in catechism. He noted too that the Church’s rich patrimony of religious art included sacred vessels, its libraries such as the one at Mount St Benedict, its works of art and collections of literary and theatrical works. The symposium was organised by Claire Broadbridge, PhD, of Heritage Development Consultants, as part of the Historic Church Conservation Programme of the Archdiocese of Port-of-Spain. It was attended by Archbishop of Port-of-Spain, Edward Gilbert who gave the welcome address, as well as members of the Diplomatic Corps, the clergy, and students of Holy Name Convent. Also present were former President, Sir Ellis Clarke and former member of the Senate, Louise Horne.

Other presenters at yesterday’s opening of the syposium included Father Paschal Tiernan, OP who spoke on “Art and Spirituality,” Professor Courtney Bartholomew who gave a presentation on his experiences  in the area of church restoration. Also addressing the gathering was Pat Eli who spoke about her research on the Santa Rosa Church in Arima. Monsignor Michael de Verteuil spoke about “Sacred Art and Sacred Furnishing.” The programme continues today with workshops.