Our Lady of Assumption Parish successfully hosted its Lenten Revival from March 6-8, 2023 at the Philip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux-Fort. The theme “Back to Basics” was delivered by internationally renowned Redemptorist priest, Fr. Maurice Nutt, C.Ss.R., from New Orleans, USA. Each night’s program commenced with the Rosary, a praise and worship segment, and preaching.
It was a packed gathering which grew from the second night as people came from near and far, including Castries, Micoud, Laborie and surrounding Vieux-Fort communities. Monday night’s message which was taken from the Gospel of Mark 10:46-52 (Jesus heals blind Bartimaeus) was about “Expecting the unexpected.” We were reminded to have faith and the ability to put our needs before God in order to receive his blessings.
Tuesday’s message which was taken from the Gospel of Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son) was entitled “You can always come back home.” Fr. Maurice expressed that when we make mistakes, do the wrong things or stray away and engage in sinfulness, it is important to acknowledge our sinfulness as God is always ready to welcome us back home. As Christians it is important to say regularly to each other when we are sorry, accept our blame, and ask for forgiveness.
Wednesday’s message which was from the Gospel of Luke 17:12:19 (Jesus heals 10 men with a skin disease) was about showing gratitude. Fr. Maurice reminded us to express gratitude to others by saying thank you to God for all that he has done for us. To put it simply, going back to basics was all about saying I love you, I am sorry, and thank you.
Some of the words that were used to describe Fr. Maurice are vibrant, energetic, and theatrical. He was on fire! His style of delivery was interactive as he incorporated dramatization and elicited the participation of the congregation which made it all the more enriching. Fr. Maurice creatively applied local examples to emphasize his messages and was very impactful. Another highlight was when he called all the young people and children forward to recognize and pray over them. It was a time for spiritual renewal as he prayed, anointed, and blessed those who were present. Persons were encouraged to practice acts of love and gratitude. The praise and worship segment which was lead by Voices of the Faithful from Grace Chapel was truly uplifting.
The revival culminated with the Grace band led by Cuthbert doing some solo renditions. The general consensus was that people were spiritually nourished, as many persons expressed. They also indicated that they wished the revival was for more than the three days.