Years of Grace Publication Launched

Years of Grace: The History of Roman Catholic Evangelization in Belize is the brainchild of the late Charles Wood Senior.  The Belizean historian spent countless hours documenting the arrival of Spanish conquistadores and the subsequent conversion to Christianity of the inhabitants they encountered in this part of the world.  Following his passing several years ago, Woods’ daughter, Sylvaana, along with co-author J. Alexander Bennett and a dedicated team of editors, proceeded with compiling his research.  That publication was launched today at the Holy Redeemer Parish Hall before an audience primarily comprised of members of the clergy.

Sylvaana Udz

Sylvaana Udz, Co-author, Years of Grace

“Daddy had an idea in 1986, he’d always been a historian, he worked with the cooperative movement, was a registrar at one time and always a strong parishioner of the church and as he was doing his historical studies and through the years it struck him that, “There are so many things that I never realized”, he said and he wanted to document it.  He had done pieces before for what was the website when it went up and other publications but he wanted this.  He wanted to make known the story of evangelization because it is the story of Belize, modern Belize and Bishop O.P. Martin supported him.  He spoke to Father Buehler who had already compiled a ninety-six page piece, his history, the history but was primarily of the Jesuits and they all got together.  He got together, he spoke to David Prendergast at the time.  He spoke to so many people, so many people who encouraged him and once the fever hit daddy to continue he couldn’t stop.  It literally consumed his life.  He died unfortunately but having researched much of the book and put it together it’s his book and we have co-authored it, Mr. J. Alexander Bennett who graciously agreed to join us five years ago and of course our wonderful editorial committee.”