This year, as the country embarks on completion of its sovereignty, the entire Barbadian Diaspora can participate in the National Service of Thanksgiving, organized by the Ministry of People Empowerment & Elder Affairs. This service takes place on Sunday, November 28th at 10:00 a.m. and will be available virtually.
Barbados is well known for being a proud multi-cultural, multi-faith society. No matter where Barbadians go to live or what other country they may adopt, they always consider Barbados home and maintain some connection with the island. This includes celebration of the country’s moments of significance.
In the words of the Honourable Cynthia Forde, Minister of People Empowerment & Elder Affairs, the ministry responsible for Ecclesiastical Affairs: “We as Barbadians, wherever we are, wherever we live, should all assume an attitude of gratitude. The Psalmist taught us that we should enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name! We have so much to be thankful for, particularly at this time.”
According to the World Fact Book, in its entry on Barbados, it is estimated that, in the Diaspora, there are presently some 38,000 Barbadians living in Canada, about 20,000 living in the United Kingdom, 65,000 in the United States. While most Barbadians choose to migrate to Anglophone countries some groups of Barbadians moved to Latin countries, including Cuba, Brazil and Panama. Very often, their descendants also celebrate their Barbadian roots.
In addition, there are others who have forged special connections with the island. These include commercial legal or historical or cultural links as well as visitors who fell in love with the island and now consider themselves “honorary Barbadians”. What they all share, however, is a love for Barbados and its welfare.
Each one of these Barbadians, or friends of Barbados, therefore, is invited to be a part of the National Thanksgiving Service, which will be attended by the country’s first President Designate, Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados and other dignitaries. (PR)
