The Church of God of Prophesy in Bunyan Road Kempston Bedford was the location for Barbadians across the UK to celebrate the Barbados 58th anniversary of Independence and three years as a republic. In a packed building, Pastor Stephen Nelson of the Calvary Church of God in Christ – Cardiff led the clergy procession as the congregation sang “All things bright and Beautiful,” a fitting choice for this interdenominational service with the theme “Conserving the planet, preserving the future.”
Local resident Rafael Francis presented the national flag while his brother Joel Francis read the national pledge of Barbados. This event was followed by the hymn “All creatures of God and King.”
In a joyful atmosphere, Pastor Stephen Nelson Leicester read the Bible readings and a poem by Leeds member Sharon Patricia Jones. International Opera Singer Alison Buchanan, who grew up in Bedford, added to the jubilation. Her rendition of The Lord’s Prayer was not just powerful and emotional but also uplifting, so much so that Pastor Nelson responded, “Wow,” before asking Alison to take another bow.
Bishop Richard Trotman, the senior Pastor at this Church of God of Prophecy, delivered a powerful sermon entitled “Independence to Interdependent,” which referred to the Bible reading. On completion of the sermon, Sandra King sang, “This so sweet to trust in Jesus. Bishop Wesley Sealy of NTGC Oxford, Carlston Medford of Alleyne Alumni UK, Tyrone Roach, and Olivia Worrell of BOCFA led the prayers.
This musical celebration continued as the band, which incidentally consisted of keyboards Ronnie Harris, drums j, Tenor Saxophone – Carlston Medford, and occasional guitar – Ezra Hinds, kept the tempo in a reggae-like beat. The congregation responded and sang, “He got the whole world in his hands.” This was an interesting choice before the Barbados High Commissioner HE, Milton Inniss, delivered the Independence message, followed by the national anthem.
Organised by the National Council of Barbadian Association UK, the occasion was a true reflection of community spirit, with members from all over the UK coming together. Local MP Mohammad Yasin, Kempston and Bedford, NCBA Chair Sherry Maxwell and Phillips Alls from the North Pole expedition were among the many invitees.
Cedric Lynch sang a medley of Bajan Folk songs by Joseph Niles, inviting the audience to sing along as they swayed from side to side in authentic gospel style, singing tunes like The Royal Telephone and Holy Train, to name a few.
After retrieving the National flag, Pastor Nelson gave the blessing, and the service ended with “Great is thy Faithfulness.” The congregation then headed downstairs for lunch and conkies with a full Barbadian menu, plus
Tyrone Roach
