It is the first time this service was held in Reading, an area reportedly acknowledges having the largest influx of Barbadian nationals in any part of England. However despite the atrocious weather conditions the large church was filled to capacity as bajans travelled from London, Manchester and the surrounding counties to celebrate another year of Independence.
The sermon was delivered by the Bishop of Reading, Rev. Canon Brian Shenton.
An impressive message from Barbados’ Prime Minister, Hon. David John Howard Thompson was delivered by Hon. George Hutson, Minister of International Business and International Transport. Minister Hustson seemed quite impressed with the large gathering of Barbadian nationals in attendance and closed his address by pledging to take the opportunity to mix and interact with as many bajans as possible after the service.
Light Refreshments was served at a reception held in the nearby Reading Borough Council Civic Offices. However, SADLY the expected promise by Minister Hutson to meet and interact with some of the people did not take place. Instead, it seemed the Hon. Minister along with members of the Barbados High Commission and other dignitaries preferred their own company and isolated themselves in a room. It was also SAD to see a Steward stationed at the entrance to ensure no one disturbed the occupants. Meanwhile, there was an air of disappointment permeating the reception area and the topic discussed seemed to be the non-appearance of the above mentioned. SADLY some people were openly vocal with their opinion about what took place, some called it contemptuous, while some of the other comments were not so accommodating. Although there is no evidence of anything thing like this has ever happened before, one believes lessons can and should be learned from what took place and make sure it will not be repeated. Question is, will anyone take heed? Let’s wait and see.
Officiating members of the clergy included: The Bishop of Reading, Rev Canon Brian Shenton, Rev Dr Rosemarie Mallett, Rev. Beverley Hunt. Rev. Jackie Cockfield.
The Second Reading was done by Mr Donville Johnson, Deputy High Commissioner for Barbados to the UK.
Vote Of Thanks: Mrs Hildegarde Padmore
Church Server: Mr Anesta Vaughn
Flag Bearers: Mr Louis George-Vaughn, Mr Terry Neblett
Soloists: Mrs Judy Vaughn, Ms Katherine Callender
Steel Pannist: Mr Jeffrey Hinds
Organist: Mr David Hoyte
Ushers included: Ms Suzette Alleyne. Mr Trevor Vaughn, Mr Jeff Jones, Mr Anderson Springer, Mr Carlisle Bovell, Ms Coral Thomas, Ms Deborah Harper, Mr Milton Alleyne, Ms Rosanne Green, Mrs Stephan Bovell
Presidentenquirer wish beautiful Barbados and its people, HAPPY 43rd INDEPENDENCE
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