Roman Catholic Church launches NGO in honour of Father Lambert Noel |18 August 2021
Members of APEL (Photo: Joena Meme)
A newly formed non-governmental organisation (NGO), the Père Lambert Association (APEL) which seeks to work for the greater good of every member of society and the development of local communities, was officially launched yesterday morning.
In a ceremony held at the St Francis of Assisi Church grounds, Baie Lazare, executive members of the association were joined by Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese Alain Harel, chief executive of the Citizens Engagement Platform Seychelles (Ceps) Alvin Laurence, and other distinguished guests for the launch, and to unveil the organisation’s logo and members.
The chairperson of the NGO is Parish Priest Father Yves Ngoweui, whose initiative it was to create the association, in recognition of the work done by Father Lambert Noel during his time at the Parish. Florita Tirant is the deputy chairperson, while Barry Gendron is the treasurer. Josepha Lepere is secretary.
Additional members of the association include Christine Pejakovic, Marie-Cecile Benstrong, Maryline Joseph, Robin Revera, Sheldon Morel, Mercianne Larame and Daniella Marie.
The objectives of the organisation are to work towards the protection of the environment, the prevention of substance abuse and other forms of abuse, rehabilitation, and community development. As an NGO, the association is calling out to other volunteers to join them, or for others with the financial or material resources to help them in extending open arms to those in need.
“Our newly formed association will give all people of diverse backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity and religion the opportunity to learn and gain knowledge, interact and share ideas, seek for a listening ear, guidance and support. As our slogan says ‘Welcoming you with open arms’ which means that you are not alone,” Ms Marie said.
“Here at the association, we are your friends and we want you to consider us as such. We are ready to work with you, no matter what religion or situation you are facing,” Ms Marie added.
Father Lambert Noel was born on January 9, 1910. He was ordained on July 6, 1941 and arrived in Seychelles on July 12, 1947, where he served at the St Francis of Assisi church for 40 years. Over the years, he realised the construction of the beautiful stone Church and dwelling alongside, the construction of two halls for educational purposes, and a social centre, which is now serving the community as a crèche.
During his time, Father Lambert was very concerned with the well-being of persons within the parish and in Seychelles in general. As such, he would visit families even by foot, and would encourage them through the Gospel.
Bishop Harel expressed a few words in which he wished the association the best of luck and commended the team behind the NGO.
As CEO of Ceps, Mr Laurence also congratulated and thanked all those who planted the seed for the creation of the association and the endeavours that it intends to take on. He also seized the opportunity to affirm Ceps’ commitment towards NGOs.
“From the times that I have spent with the members to understand their work and the objectives, it gives me much hope for the future. Hope that such movements will germinate in other parishes, hope that as Christians we can do much more than what we are doing to save our communities. It is comforting to know that already there are other parishes who have contacted you. It remains but for me to reassure you of the support of Ceps towards your association and others,” Mr Laurence stated.
APEL is but one of seven new associations formed this year, according to Mr Laurence. Anyone wishing to contact the association may do so on (+248) 2619248 or through e-mail on perelambertassociation@gmail.com .
Laura Pillay
