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Letter of Solidarity to Archbishop Patrick Pinder,
Archbishop of Nassau, Bahamas

Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire

In the name of my brother Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference, I express deep solidarity with our brother, Archbishop Patrick Pinder, the Clergy, Religious and the entire people of the Archdiocese of Nassau, following the horrific devastation caused by Hurricane Dorian.

The distressing images, harrowing requests for prayers and feeling of utter helplessness brought back memories of the traumatic experience of Dominica, caused by Hurricane Maria just two years ago. As a Caribbean people, understand the pain, despair and trauma that the Bahamians and especially the residence of the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama are experiencing at this time. I encourage them to hold on to hope!

As the People of God in the Antilles Episcopal Conference, let us stand ready to assist in whatever way we can, so that our brothers and sisters of the Bahamas may rise from this horrendous situation. As a means of making manifest our solidarity, I have requested that a special collection to be taken up in every diocese of the Antilles Episcopal Conference to aid in the recovery of the people and Church of the Bahamas.

I send sincere condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. We pray that their souls rest in peace. We also remember those who have lost property and say to them, courage, do not lose hope!

Let us accompany the Bahamians with fraternal and prayerful support.

+Most Rev. Gabriel Malzaire
President, Antilles Episcopal Conference

Deacon Candidates Receive Ministry of Acolyte

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Deacon Candidates: Eustace Francis, Eardley Martin and Ancel Knights

The feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the feast which refers to the Blessed Virgin Mary being assumed — body and soul — into heaven at the end of her earthly life is celebrated throughout the Church on August 15. The Cathedral parish which falls under the patronage of the assumption celebrated the feast on Sunday, August 18 with a special Mass.

It was also at this Mass that the three deacon candidates; Eustace Francis, Ancel Knights and Eardley Martin were instituted in the Ministry of Acolyte. This ministry is conferred by the bishop of the diocese and is the next step on their journey to becoming permanent deacons.

During his homily Bishop County encouraged the congregation to learn about the saints: the saints of the country and the saints from which they were named. He urged that they be used as models. He also encouraged them to see Mary as a true model; to reflect on her if they are to become a model of a Christian society. He shared that the bravery of Mary was rooted in her faithfulness and that “our faithfulness must make us available as disciples of Christ.”

As he addressed the candidates, he thanked them for coming forward to be of service and reiterated that “it is all about service”.He then explained the ministry of acolyte and the duties they are expected to perform. The explanation, which was part of the Rite at the ceremony, was also for the edification of the congregation. At the end he encouraged them to “be not afraid, let Mary be your guide”. After being presented to the congregation Bishop congratulated them and officially announced that they would be ordained permanent deacons on November 1, 2019.

After Mass there was sharing of a light breakfast in the Cathedral’s courtyard.

Let us continue to pray for these three men as they continue their journey towards the diaconate.