High Commission Holds Service of Thanksgiving

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PRESS RELEASE

Representatives from the British government, senior UK business and political figures, members of the diplomatic corps, the trade and tourism industry, the media and the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora, gathered on Thursday 14th September for a service of reflective thanksgiving following the passage of Hurricane Irma through the Caribbean. The devastation to Barbuda, where 95% of the buildings were damaged, has left the country with the expensive and complex task of rebuilding. However, it was also acknowledged that it was appropriate to give thanks for the preservation of life given the extent of the damage suffered. Prayers were also offered for the family of the sole identified victim.

Among those who spoke was Reverend Katei Kirby who encouraged those who suffer to listen to the voice of God which is often heard loudest in the silence after the storms. Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, spoke of the existential threat caused by climate change to small islands who often lack the capacity to rebuild without external support.

The Bishop of Southwark, The Rt. Reverend Christopher Chessun offered the blessing and expressed his delight in the picture of resilience and hope emanating from the people of the Caribbean as they work to rebuild their countries and their lives.

High Commissioner Hill in her address, noted that Antigua was spared the full effect of the storm and is fully open for business.  She stated that tourism is the life blood of the economy of Antigua and Barbuda and that now more than ever Antigua and Barbuda need the support of the many wonderful people who choose to visit our beautiful islands each year. She however called on the British government and other friendly governments to lend support to the mammoth task of rebuilding that is already underway. High Commissioner Hill stated: “The effort to rebuild Barbuda will require our consistent and extended focus and I can only urge us all to not grow weary in giving until the work is done”.

During the service, a collection was taken for the Rebuild Barbuda relief effort.  In encouraging further giving, High Commissioner gave assurances to all those who gave and will give that every penny will go to the Rebuild Barbuda fund. The High Commission continues to work with a range of partners who have come onboard to support the Rebuild Barbuda effort.

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2 COMMENTS

  1. Greed and disrespect have taken over the Islands….and God is just showing his displeasure towords the way his flock has turned their backs on him………So people of the Caribbean…….YOU NEED TO REPENT AND HONOR YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN…..Stop worshiping matireal things and turn your energy towards God.

    • *eye roll* Can you read God’s mind? Are you God? Are you the one who has turned your back on God? Careful the judgement you pass on others nah farl pan ya head tenfold. Remove the plank from your eyes first! Since you are casting so many stones, I guess you are without sin eh?

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