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In an outreach exercise in celebration of the Long Island, New York St.John’s Methodist Church’s 60th Anniversary Deputy Prime Minister the Hon. Shawn K. Richards delivered remarks and greetings on behalf of the People of the Federation of St.Kitts-Nevis.

Despite the relatively small membership of SKN nationals at the Church, the Deputy Prime Minister used the opportunity to extend 60th anniversary wishes on behalf of the Ambassador to the United Nations, His Excellency Sam Condor and the Government and people of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

 

 

The Deputy Prime Minister Richards was well received by the enthusiastic and vibrant congregation.

Find below Full Text of Remarks:

“Allow me to take this opportunity to bring warm greetings to you from the Government and people of my beloved island paradise: the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

I am extremely pleased to be worshipping here today on behalf of our nation’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, His Excellency Sam Condor. Unfortunately, because of a previous engagement, the Ambassador could not attend today’s anniversary service.  However, having learned that this church is sister to my home town Methodist Church in Sandy Point, St. Kitts, I have absolutely no regrets in accepting the Ambassador’s invitation to be here in his stead. Please accept sincere commendations from Ambassador Condor as you celebrate this 60^th anniversary milestone.

Rose F. Kennedy, the beloved mother of President John F. Kennedy reminded us that “Life isn’t a matter of milestones but of moments.” To have gotten to a momentous milestone as a 60^th anniversary celebration is no easy feat. This meaningful juncture in your church’s history has come as a result of those significant moments this church has endured. In fact, I understand the St. John’s United Methodist Church of Elmont was actually established since 1830.

I say to you that whether it is 186 or 60 years later, the rich history of this Church has been built on moments of enthusiasm, periods of disappointment and moments of sorrow. It is those very moments that have blossomed into joyous milestones such as this celebration today.

Ecclesiastes 3  vs. 1 is an appropriate reminder of some of the moments in our lives that help to make milestones symbolic. “To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.” In vs. 4 we are reminded, “There is a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance.” Today is your time to rejoice; to dance and to be exceedingly glad! Today is your season of celebration.

I share in your joy, not only as a proud member of the Methodist faith myself but also as a human being constantly challenged to overcome obstacles that threaten to discourage my own aspiration to achieve great things for the people of my Federation. Cliché though it may be, there is depth of truth in the saying, nothing good in life comes easy. How great you must all feel to arrive at this 60^th anniversary milestone?

Today, I salute Reverend Patrick Perrin, Pastor of this respected church, as well as members and supporters, as you have collectively attained impressive successes in the service of mankind. There is no price that can be paid for your stewardship to others.

Again, on behalf of the Government and people of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, I bid you sincere congratulations on this symbolic occasion and I trust you can continue to serve the community of world citizens who find faith, hope and an anchor in this esteemed institution called St. John’s United Methodist Church of Elmont.”