Apdar hosts mass to mark International Overdose Awareness Day   |01 September 2021

Father Faustin presiding over the mass (Photo: Jude Morel)

The Agency for the Prevention of Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation (Apdar) organised a mass yesterday at Ile Perseverance’s Holy Spirit Parish Church to commemorate the International Overdose Awareness Day.

The International Overdose Awareness Day is observed every August 31 and is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.

The midday mass was attended by the Minister for Health Peggy Vidot, Apdar chief executive Geralda Desaubin, Apdar deputy CEO Marie-Josette Louise,  staff of Apdar and Ministry of Health, Apdar clients as well as friends and family members of those living with substance abuse or who have lost a loved one from substance abuse.

The mass was presided over by Father Faustin with the assistance of Apdar staff who, among other roles, were the choir for the day.

According to the event's coordinator, Dr Annabelle Marie, this is the first such activity organised by Apdar to observe the International Overdose Awareness Day.

In his sermon, Father Faustin remarked that substance abuse is a sin which takes complete control of someone’s life instead of allowing Jesus to take control.

He added that substance abuse brings along with it violence, crime and sadness which affects families and the person using the substance.

Father Faustin urged the congregation to send out their thoughts and prayers to those who have passed away from substance abuse and overdose.

In an interview following the mass, Father Faustin stressed that tackling substance abuse should be a collective effort, and not just the responsibility of government organisations such as Apdar, which is why the Holy Spirit Parish hosted the mass.

“This is a very important initiative coming from Apdar for our country, for our families and for the Church. The issue of overdose is a real problem for everyone because it affects families and the society in general. Apdar’s services are helping our youths and families a lot and we support that,” stated Father Faustin.

Dr Marie stated that she was pleasantly surprised with the number of people who attended the mass, especially since it was held at noon on a weekday.

“We did not only see family members during the service but also our clients who came and prayed for themselves. People actively participated and sang, some got a bit emotional. We are really satisfied with the turnout.”

Elsie Pointe