In a powerful display of ecumenical solidarity, Saint Lucia’s religious leadership delivered compelling messages advocating for national cohesion and ethical revival during the nation’s 47th Independence celebrations. The special praise and worship service at St Lucy Parish National Shrine in Micoud became a platform for profound reflections on the country’s journey since gaining sovereignty.
Pastor Roger Stephen, President of the Saint Lucia Mission of Seventh-day Adventists, framed the independence milestone as both a moment of gratitude and recommitment. Addressing congregants, he emphasized the appropriateness of this year’s theme: ‘Douvan Ansanm; Nourishing our People, Strengthening our Nation.’ The religious leader articulated that true nourishment extends beyond physical sustenance to encompass emotional, social, economic, and spiritual wellbeing for all citizens.
Expanding his vision for national development, Pastor Stephen outlined concrete requirements for progress: ‘We must invest intentionally in ensuring every household accesses healthy, affordable produce while simultaneously nourishing intellect through quality education and technical training that prepares our citizens for global competition.’
Archbishop of Castries Gabriel Malzaire delivered an equally impassioned address, challenging citizens to embody the nation’s identity as the ‘Helen of the West’ and an ‘island of light.’ The Archbishop defined this luminous national character as requiring active moral courage: ‘Light is meant for dispelling darkness. Our light must carry an in-depth denunciation of all that contradicts who we are meant to be.’
With candid urgency, Archbishop Malzaire identified specific social challenges requiring collective rejection: ‘We must refuse the darkness of violence stealing our young men, the crime breeding fear in our communities, and the poverty suffocating human potential.’ In a direct appeal transcending political divisions, he emphasized: ‘We refuse to allow tribalism, political hostility or social fragmentation to divide us.’
Both religious leaders converged on the necessity of shared responsibility, with Archbishop Malzaire articulating a vision beyond governmental action: ‘Strengthening the nation is not the task of government alone—it is the vocation of every citizen.’ This united message from prominent Christian denominations highlighted rare ecumenical consensus on national priorities during the independence observance.