THE Evangelical Churches in the New Amsterdam District joined in the Mashramani celebrations through the main thoroughfare of the township on Sunday. They expressed themselves through a series of rhythmic and patterned bodily movements, much to the pleasure of onlookers.
It was a historic move by the religious body, which had, previously, opted to divorce itself from taking part in the national event, known for much revelry, scanty dressing, gyration and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
One of the group, who included persons from the United States (U.S.) and West Coast Demerara, told the Guyana Chronicle that their participation was aimed at showing that the occasion can be enjoyed in a “clean way, void of vulgarity.”
Meanwhile, the celebratory parade, which commenced at Tacama Turn in the southern end of the New Amsterdam Township had, at its helm, the symbolic Ark of the Covenant, which signified the presence of God.
The Bible, which is God’s word used by persons of the Christian Faith followed on wheels and the Map of Guyana, with the words ‘Guyana for Jesus‘ inscribed upon the five feet high float, was transported behind on a Canter truck.
As recorded gospel music filled the atmosphere, the uniformed dancers moved along the route, much to the delight of the spectators, many of whom joined in releasing their energy.

Anointing oil
While another group trekked behind singing, others took the opportunity to distribute Holy Bibles and gospel tracts and yet one more poured anointing oil to sanctify their way amidst prayers.  
As the religious floats symbolising the Christian Faith proceeded, persons, initially, thought that the revelling was over but the secular bands, involving students of the secondary schools in the Berbice town brought up the rear.
Artistic Director, Ms. Carol Fraser explained that her designs depicted a clean New Amsterdam, free of litter and garbage.
The participant schools, with students fitted out in colourful attire and fetching music sets, were New Amsterdam Multilateral, Tutorial Academy, School of the Nations, Berbice High, New Amsterdam Nursing and the privately- owned Eureka Lab and Guygas.
In an invited comment, Public Relations Officer of the New Amsterdam Mash Committee, Mr. Christopher Holder said the floats received sponsorship from Scotiabank, Republic Bank and Banks DIH, among others.