‘Our doors are open’

One Catholic priest wants the Barbadian public to know that the church doors are open, and all are welcome.

Father Andrew Rosiak gave this message during a brief interview with The Barbados Advocate on Monday. At the office of Our Lady Queen of the Universe Church, the religious leader spoke about his experience in the new parish and his plans for the church.

With his recent Sunday’s sermon focused on the importance of prayer and community, Father Andrew reiterated the church’s commitment to building a strong connection to the people in Black Rock.

To engage his parish, Father Andrew told The Barbados Advocate that there will be Mass Monday to Saturday from 12 noon and the Sunday service starts at 8 a.m. It has been just three weeks since the priest has taken up his post at the Black Rock church. But he is encouraged by the warm greetings from his congregation.

Father Andrew, who is originally from Poland, has been in Barbados since 2008. However, this is his first time leading the Catholic church in the Black Rock community. With his European roots, the Catholic priest confessed that his transition from Poland to Barbados was interesting. He noted the differences in cultures, food and climate.

As it relates to food, he expressed a fondness and appreciation for mango which he said is not seen in his homeland. He also noticed the difference in the congregation’s response to the liturgy in the Caribbean versus in Poland. He explained that in his homeland, the reaction to the service is usually reserved.

Despite the differences, Father Andrew continues to network with fellow Polish people who live in Barbados and visit from time to time.

His profession has allowed him to visit several countries and islands including St. Lucia. This year he will celebrate 20 years as a Catholic priest.

Father Andrew is a member of the Pallottine Order, which was founded by Saint Vincent Pallotti.

He attended a theological seminary in the town of Oltarzew, Poland. He explained that his calling to become a priest came from his early experiences with the church.

“It is something you can’t explain but you can feel it,” said Father Andrew.