Celebrating thirty-two years is a big achievement for any group, especially for the Barbados Overseas Nurses Association (BONA) in London. Founders Oriel Weekes, Pauline Sealy, Jennifer Howell, Sheila Atherley, Iona Gittens, and Carlma Deabrau built a solid base for the association.
However, at this year’s 32nd-anniversary Thanksgiving service, fewer younger relatives and friends are part of the process. At first, the association focused on raising money to help Barbadians in need, both in England and back home, especially those in need of medical care. Social events monthly, an annual excursion, sponsored walks, AGM, Christmas Celebration, and Thanksgiving Service. Their goals include raising awareness about health issues among the elderly and engaging with younger people through seminars and conferences, which still account for the major parts of the group’s fundraising and social agenda
The church is no longer filled with civic dignitaries; it’s half-filled, but it is still customary for a diplomatic representative to attend. This year, Barbados High Commissioner Edmund Hinkson and his wife, Beverly, were there. Hinkson joked that this was his first church service since starting his role in February.
The BONA choir no longer leads big UK events like the Independence Church services, but its spirit lives on. The sudden loss of Secretary Ciefred Goodman was deeply felt. Even so, founder-president Oriel Weeks, with help from her son Patrick, continued to lead with humour and humility despite facing mobility challenges.
Erma Inniss read the First Reading, Psalm 136:1–9. Anna Okokon showed pride and courage as she read the Second Reading from Jeremiah 17:5–9, then returned to her seat on her own, despite mobility challenges. Maria Goddard read the Gospel, Matthew 6:25–34. Rev. Jennifer Matthews delivered a powerful sermon, encouraging everyone to trust God for their daily needs rather than worry about food, drink, or clothing. Rev. Jackie Cockfield gave the blessing before the final hymn, ‘Alleluia, Sing to Jesus.’
The Choir master, along with Hammington Marshall, with Anderson Seale on the organ, continued to contribute to the group. Hammington is no longer able to reach the highest notes, but his determination and leadership stayed strong. Anderson missed a few notes, but this was because of a recent hip operation, not a lack of talent.
Education and community leader Esther Holmes made a memorable contribution that made everyone in the church laugh. She told a story about HC Hinkson being “to the manor born,” remembering when she met his father, who studied in London, and young Edmund, who came from Barbados with his parents. She said his father loved the Bajan community in London so much that he hoped Edmund would one day return as High Commissioner, linking past hopes to the present.
As people left, the organist played with energy and almost a sense of abandon.
