This most sacred Solemnity in the Roman Catholic Calendar celebrates the tradition and belief in the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ and his Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist.
Corpus Christi is primarily celebrated by the Roman Catholic Church, and in some countries where Catholicism is one of the dominant religions, it is celebrated as a national holiday. Some Anglican and Lutheran Churches also celebrate Corpus Christi.
As a proud citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, and as Prime Minister, I am delighted that we have a rich and valued history of religious freedom as enshrined in our Republican Constitution. Indeed, here in our beloved nation the words of our National Anthem ring true when we profess that “every creed and race finds an equal place”.
I am also happy to note that this year marks the 229th anniversary of the celebration of Corpus Christi. This public testimony of one’s faith is an inspiring example of the fact that we are a people of prayer with a deep-rooted belief in a higher power.
The religious and moral values that we hold dear and espouse must be passed on to our children and younger generation. At the same time, there must be openness to God so that He can use us as his instruments of peace, of compassion, love, wisdom, justice, and mercy.
In all things, we must seek truth and beauty and bring out our best selves, as brothers and sisters and upright citizens of our beloved nation. Our religious beliefs, traditions, and observances must influence our lives so as to make this place we all call home a place where peace, harmony and prosperity for all reign.
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, and on my own personal behalf, I extend Corpus Christi greetings to the Roman Catholic community and all citizens of the nation. May the religious seeds we sow today bear abundant and lasting fruit for ourselves and our country.
God bless you and God bless our nation.
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