His Grace, the Most Reverend and Dr. the Hon. John Holder, Bishop of Barbados and Archbishop of the West Indies, in the courtyard after his sermon.
Bishop Holder wishes Guyana well on 50 years of Independence
Tue, 05/24/2016 - 12:00am
“DO nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.”
This is the advice coming from the Most Reverend and Dr. John Holder, Bishop of Barbados and Archbishop of the West Indies, during the 50th anniversary of Independence of Guyana Church Service at the Cathedral of St. Michael and All Angels.
Rev. Holder, who quoted the advice of St. Paul to the Philippians, emphasised, “This verse can function as the Mission Statement of any group, any country, any family, any association because it captures the essence of what is necessary if human beings are to live together in peace and harmony.
“It proposes ideals that should replace negative opposites. Humility should replace selfish ambition and conceit, a focus on the interest of others should overtake our own interests.”
He noted, “Not that it is easy to do so. But we must try. We have learnt the hard way from history that when humility and a focus on the interest of others are absent from relationships in which a disproportionate amount of power is vested in the hands of a few, then these great virtues can be relegated to the ‘not necessary’ category. They disappear all to ensure that power remains where it is.
“When we celebrate national milestones like Independence, we need to ponder on how these two great qualities are being used to balance and indeed direct the power and authority we have invested in our leaders.”
The Bishop also highlighted, “The ripples of emotion and nationalism that envelop us around Independence should work not only to affirm our national heritage, but serve as a reminder that we are proud members of a Caribbean family. One that stretches across the refreshing waters of the Caribbean sea and should never downplay our interdependence or overlook the significant contributions we have made to the development of each other’s country.
“Independence for us both, is not a time to gaze inward and become all enclosed in nationalism, but the opportunity to reflect on how we have reached out to each other across the waters, have embraced each other and contributed to each other’s welfare.”
On a final note, Rev. Holder encouraged, “As you celebrate your 50th anniversary, let it be a time when you reflect on the country you call home. As those living in the Diaspora, ask yourselves what more can you do to contribute to its continuing development, keeping in mind the advice of St. Paul...
“As you press on, ensure that humility and a deep concern for the welfare of others are the pillars upon which you build your community here and in Guyana.” (TJ)