Thursday, August 6, 2026 - A suspended Catholic priest in Grenada is using calypso music as a powerful platform to share his views after being barred from performing church duties.
Father Gerard Paul, who was suspended in 2024, has embraced the island's popular music genre to address issues including social justice, sexual abuse within the Church, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He says music has become his new "pulpit," allowing him to connect with a much wider audience.
The 64-year-old priest recently made headlines after reaching the finals of Grenada's prestigious Spicemas Calypso Monarch competition under the stage name "Father Paul."
His songs deliver bold social commentary, reflecting his long-standing commitment to speaking out on issues he believes deserve greater public attention. Despite remaining suspended from officiating Mass, weddings, funerals, and baptisms, Paul says he has no intention of staying silent.
The story has sparked debate across the Caribbean about freedom of expression, faith, and the role of religious leaders in addressing controversial issues.
While Church officials maintain that his suspension stemmed from repeated criticism of Church leadership, Paul insists that music now gives him the opportunity to inspire discussion and challenge injustice beyond the walls of the church.
0 Comments