Trip to Trinidad and Tobago

For the first time in almost two years, from Feb. 24-28, 2022, Mary and I were able to visit the brethren in the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago. Our last trip was March 12-16, 2020, leaving on one of the last flights out before Trinidad and Tobago locked down due to COVID-19. They have remained one of the more “locked-down” countries in the Caribbean, but are slowly opening up.

We arrived on Thursday evening, Feb. 24, thankful that our inexpensive, safe and friendly hotel survived the COVID-19 economic woes. We welcomed the Sabbath with a lovely dinner at our hotel with deacon Dale Bissessar, his wife Indeera, and daughters Tiffany and Elizabeth. The next morning, they picked us up for services bright and early. We usually meet in a small hall in Montrose Mall located in downtown Chaguanas, but Dale was able to rent a much larger meeting hall in the same building so that we could spread out according to COVID-19 protocols. We prepared the hall and welcomed the brethren as they arrived for services. Their smiles were covered by masks, but it was heartwarming to see their smiling, welcoming eyes in person! Ater a Caribbean update and sermon about “Waiting for Christ,” we enjoyed one of those famous, delicious Trini meals, which was prepared by several of the ladies. No one can prepare Trini food like the Trinis! We have missed it.

We had a total attendance of 20 persons. Some members were not able to make it this time, including our one and only member on the sister island of Tobago, Ann Solomon-Kerr. We hope that by our next visit, everyone who could not make it to services this time will be able to do so.

After an interactive Bible study, a board meeting was held, where we discussed renting the larger hall full-time, the exciting plan we are about to launch for preaching the gospel in the southern Caribbean, and potential Feast of Tabernacles plans. We have since been able to procure a hotel in Reduit Beach, St. Lucia, for the Feast.

I then accompanied member Junia Marin as he transported a couple of the gentlemen members, Francis Ovid and Carlos, back to their respective homes on the southern end of the island (Mary returned home with the Bissessars and spent the evening with them). Little did I know I was in for a four-hour trip, and I enjoyed every minute of the time fellowshipping with these men and seeing more of the countryside, including the famous La Brea Pitch Lake. This 100-acre lake releases asphalt from the depths below and is the largest natural asphalt lake in the world. The road near the lake actually changes shape and the hills go up and down based upon the outside temperature. The houses in the area also tend to sit unevenly.

We were able to go as far south as Point Fortin, where we visited ailing member Dora Trim. Dora is dealing with serious health issues, and could certainly use our prayers. To hear her on the phone and read her encouraging emails, you would never know how much she herself is suffering. She spends much time praying for others, and encouraging and inspiring us all.

Our last full day was spent at the hotel, counseling and visiting with various members. This has been a most uplifting time for both Mary and me. We leave our Trini family with full hearts, praying that God allows us to visit again soon.