Here is a brief history of Jab Jab, especially as it is

known in Grenada and the wider Caribbean:

 

Origins in emancipation

 

Jab Jab (from French diable diable, “devil devil”) is a traditional Carnival masquerade that dates back to 1834, the year slavery was abolished in the British Caribbean. After emancipation, freed people began celebrating at dawn on what is now J’Ouvert, covering themselves in black oil, molasses, or soot and dancing through the streets. The darkened bodies were not meant to represent evil; instead, they were a symbol of freedom and resistance, reclaiming the label “devil” that had been used by colonizers to demean enslaved Africans.

 

Symbolism and meaning

 

Jab Jab is rooted in West African traditions and became a way for the formerly enslaved to mock their oppressors and express liberation. Elements of the costume carry deep meaning: Chains recall the bondage of slavery. Horns, tails, and dark paint deliberately amplify the “devil” image once used against them, turning it into protest theatre. The beating of drums, iron, and the use of whips echoes plantation life while also asserting strength and identity.

 

Development into a national symbol

 

In Grenada, Jab Jab has grown from a local mas into a central symbol of Spicemas and national identity. Though once misunderstood and sometimes associated with violence or “demonic” practices, it is now widely recognized as a proud cultural expression of resistance, joy, and African heritage. Today, Jab Jab is celebrated not only in Grenada but also in Trinidad and Tobago and other islands, with variations such as “Jab Molassie” and “Rope Jab,” each carrying its own history and style.

 

Do you know the role of Godparents at Baptism?

 

The Catholic Church teaches that godparents are not just ceremonial figures. Their role is to help the baptized person, especially a child, grow in the faith and to support the parents in raising the child in the Catholic Faith.

 

Godparents have a real spiritual responsibility to help the baptized person grow as a Catholic. For infant baptism, they present the child with the parents and assist in the child’s Christian upbringing. They should pray for the child and give a good example of Catholic life.

 

Who can be a godparent

 

The Church requires at least one godparent, and there may be one godfather and one godmother, but not two of the same sex.

 

A godparent should be a baptized Catholic who has received Confirmation and Eucharist, lives a life of faith, and is not the child’s father or mother.

 

They are normally at least 16 years old, though the bishop or parish priest can allow an exception for a just reason.

 

In simple terms, the Church sees godparents as spiritual companions who help ensure that Baptism bears fruit in daily Christian life.

 

Their duty is ongoing: prayer, example, encouragement, and support in the Catholic faith; they are meant to be living witnesses of the faith, not simply social sponsors.

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Things we should and shouldn’t do in church/ at Mass.

 

The Church is the Lord’s house, the place where God meets his people in Word and Sacrament; thus, we enter with reverence and humble hearts. Begin by making the sign of the cross and, when appropriate, genuflect or bow toward the tabernacle as a sign of faith in Christ’s Real Presence. Keep a prayerful silence as you prepare to worship: use that quiet to call to mind sins for which you ask pardon, intentions you bring for others, and gratitude for God’s gifts. Active participation matters: listen attentively to the readings, respond and sing with the assembly, follow the Order of Mass, and receive Holy Communion with devotion and proper disposition. Dress modestly and simply so our outward appearance reflects the sacred nature of what we celebrate and shows respect for those around us.

 

Thoughtful behaviour helps the whole community to pray and grow in faith. Turn mobile phones and electronic devices to silent before entering and avoid using them in any way that distracts others. Avoid unnecessary conversation during the liturgy, especially during the readings, homily, and Eucharistic Prayer; whisper only when truly necessary and brief. Arrive in good time so you can prepare prayerfully; if you must arrive late or leave early, do so quietly and with respect for the assembly. Children are a blessing in church— welcome them, guide them gently, offer them simple explanations, and use parish resources (children’s liturgy, activity sheets) rather than allowing prolonged distraction. Assist those who need help— seniors, persons with disabilities, or new visitors—so all may participate fully.

 

Certain actions are incompatible with worship because they interrupt prayer or show a lack of reverence. Do not eat, chew gum, or consume food in the church; avoid taking flash photographs or making loud recordings during liturgy; and do not display advertising, sell items, or engage in political campaigning within the sacred space. Refrain from behaviours that disrespect the altar, sacred vessels, images, or the Blessed Sacrament. If you are unsure about a practice—how to receive Communion, when to kneel, or proper dress—ask a priest, deacon, or sacristan; asking for guidance helps preserve the reverence owed to God and fosters a welcoming, prayerful community.

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