On Saturday, October 24, 2026, the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission (AFLC) met with 21 parents of children enrolled in the Confirmation programme at Lady of Lourdes, Maraval Parish, for a session exploring the importance of fatherhood and the role of parents in their children’s development.
Drawing on content from the Children Are a Gift programme, the session was led by Taye Coryatt and David Ramcharan, who shared personal experiences of growing up without the active presence of their fathers. Their reflections encouraged parents to consider how fatherhood influences children’s emotional, social and personal development.
Taye spoke about how his father’s absence affected his understanding of emotional regulation, relationships and masculinity. He reflected on how these challenges became more apparent as he grew older, highlighting the lasting impact a father’s presence, guidance and example can have on a child’s life.
David shared his experience of losing his father at a young age and the importance of the male figures who stepped in to guide him. Their influence helped shape his values and understanding of manhood. He also reflected on how these experiences strengthened his commitment to being a present and active father in his own child’s life.
Following the presentations, mothers and fathers met separately to share their experiences, discuss challenges and reflect on their responsibilities in raising their children. The discussions highlighted the need for greater accountability, stronger community involvement and cooperation between parents to create a supportive environment for their children’s growth and development.
The session formed part of the AFLC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen family life and equip parents with practical insights to support their children as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. A follow-up session is planned for a future date, allowing parents to explore additional topics from the Children Are a Gift programme and continue building on the discussions initiated during this meeting.
