By Kristine Baul
The Filipino Catholic Community – Gouda and Its Surrounding (FCCG) hosted a vibrant and meaningful social gathering on November 9, 2024, at Antoniuszaal 2 in Gouda. The event was a beautiful celebration of faith, fellowship, and fun, offering members a chance to connect, reflect, and strengthen their bonds as a community.
The evening began with a warm welcome for all guests, creating an inclusive and friendly atmosphere. This was followed by an Opening Prayer led by Father Marcel Uzoigwe, who invoked blessings and peace upon the gathering. The prayer set the tone for a night rooted in faith and shared purpose.
A key highlight of the evening was a Workshop led by Father Cyril Inam. The workshop is designed to deepen spiritual understanding and foster personal and community growth. In particular, the workshop’s focus was on the topic of gossip within communities.
The word gossip has an interesting history that might surprise you. It actually started out as a positive term in Old English, called god-sibb or god-sibling. Back then, it referred to godparents—people chosen to sponsor a child during baptism. Over time, the term also came to describe women who supported a mother before, during, and after childbirth. These women weren’t just there to help with the baby; they were part of a circle of trust, offering care, companionship, and guidance during such an important time.
But as the years went by, the word gossip took on a very different meaning. Instead of being about close relationships and support, it started to describe casual or “idle” talk, often about other people. This kind of talk could be harmless or evaluative, sometimes unnecessary or excessive. Today, when we hear the word gossip, it’s often tied to rumors or speculative conversations about others, and it’s usually seen in a negative light. While rumors can be about anything, gossip always involves people—whether the information is true or not. And even now, the word still carries a hint of judgment or disapproval.
During the workshop, Father Cyril provided an insightful and balanced perspective, defining gossip as idle talk or rumors about others that can both connect and divide people. He highlighted the dual nature of gossip. On the negative side, it can lead to misunderstandings, spread false information, and create divisions, fostering mistrust within communities. However, Father Cyril also emphasized its positive aspects, such as its ability to build social networks, strengthen relationships, and help people understand social norms and values.
The key takeaway was a call for mindful communication. While gossip can help people connect, it needs to be handled responsibly to minimize harm. Father Cyril’s thoughtful reflections left a lasting impression on attendees, encouraging them to foster healthier and more constructive interactions.
After the workshop, the evening transitioned into moments of entertainment and joy, showcasing the community’s diverse talents. Arnold and Lillia performed a delightful musical piece, followed by an energetic dance performance by FCCG members, captivating the audience and lifting spirits.
Adding to the fun, David Beeren led a Bachata Dance Lesson, teaching participants the lively and sensual moves of this joyful dance style. The lesson brought everyone together, reflecting the FCCG community’s vibrant and inclusive spirit.
The night concluded with a lively Disco Party, where everyone let loose and danced the night away. This energetic finale was a perfect way to celebrate the bonds of faith, fun, and fellowship that had been strengthened throughout the evening.
The event highlighted the vital role of faith in connecting and uplifting communities while also underscoring the importance of balancing reflection with joy. It was a powerful reminder that meaningful relationships are built through shared experiences, thoughtful communication, and moments of gratitude and celebration.
The FCCG Board extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the event’s success. This gathering was not just a celebration but a testament to the power of faith, collaboration, and a shared sense of belonging.
