标签： Dominica

In a heartfelt gesture to mark World Food Day 2025, the World Mission Society Church of God has distributed 25 food parcels to families and individuals in Dominica grappling with economic hardships, health challenges, and the impacts of climate change. This initiative is part of the church’s global “Hold Hope Campaign,” which aims to provide compassion, love, and practical support to underserved communities worldwide, as detailed in a recent press release. The food packages were delivered at the Government Headquarters in Dominica during October, with recipients carefully selected in collaboration with Dominica’s Ministry of Social Services, Community Development, and Gender Affairs, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy. This partnership ensures that aid reaches those most in need. A representative from the Church of God in Dominica expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the government, stating, “Through small acts of sharing, we can bring great hope to those facing difficult circumstances.” Government officials, including Minister of Social Services Cassandra Williams and Permanent Secretaries Kyra Paul (Health) and Ryan Anselm (Agriculture), lauded the church’s generosity and alignment with national efforts to enhance food security and social safety nets for vulnerable populations. Under the leadership of General Pastor Joo-cheol Kim, the Church is actively engaged in the Hold Hope Campaign, which seeks to “share hope with a Mother’s heart” and support communities affected by climate change, economic struggles, and health challenges. Building on its February initiative, which provided daily essentials to 6,400 households across 25 countries on World Day of Social Justice, this year’s campaign aims to assist over 7,400 households in approximately 80 nations, with aid packages valued at around USD 258,800. The initiative also focuses on supporting small-scale farmers, fishers, and livestock producers facing labor shortages, reinforcing its commitment to agricultural and rural communities.

On November 15, young members of the Diocese of Roseau will come together to celebrate Hope as part of the Catholic Church Jubilee 2025. The event, organized by the Diocese, will commence with a vibrant procession at 9:00 AM, starting at the Windsor Park Stadium forecourt and moving towards St. Gerard Hall. The day’s activities are designed to deepen the spiritual connection of the youth with God and foster a sense of community. Following the procession, a Holy Hour will be held, providing an opportunity for the participants to reflect and pray. This will be succeeded by an interactive session with Bishop Kendrick Forbes, where young attendees can seek guidance and clarity on matters of faith. A highlight of the event will be the Praise Festival, beginning at noon, featuring performances by local artists such as Marie Pascal Affana and Lili Octave. The festival will also mark the official launch of World Youth Day 2027, scheduled to take place in Seoul, South Korea, from August 3 to 8, under the theme “Take Courage! I have overcome the World.” The event aims to unite youth from all parishes within the Diocese and Catholic schools, offering them a transformative experience to strengthen their faith. Youth Fest 2025 will be hosted at St. Gerard Hall in Roseau from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. For further information, individuals can contact Shanon John at 245-9060.

The Government of Dominica has announced the formal funeral arrangements for Julius C. Timothy, a revered former Minister of Government and Member of Parliament, who served the nation during the periods 1980-1985 and 1990-2014. The funeral service is set to take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, commencing at 2:00 PM. Prior to the service, a public viewing will be held from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the St. Alphonsus Parish Hall, allowing community members to pay their final respects. In a gesture of national solidarity, the government has declared November 15 as a Day of Mourning, during which all flags on public buildings will be flown at half-mast. The Office of the Prime Minister extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Timothy, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation and his enduring legacy as a respected businessman and public servant.

Dominica is taking significant strides to improve its waste management system with the acquisition of four new garbage trucks by the Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC). These vehicles, received during a formal handover ceremony, will be strategically distributed across the island, covering the north, north-eastern, south, south-eastern, and central regions. This initiative aims to address long-standing challenges in waste collection and disposal, enhancing efficiency and service delivery. Florian Mitchell, General Manager of DSWMC, emphasized the importance of this development, noting that the corporation has already received six trucks and expects two more by December. Mitchell highlighted the critical role of public cooperation, urging residents and commercial entities to adhere to waste management protocols, such as sorting waste and following collection schedules. He also addressed specific issues in Roseau City Centre, calling on businesses to use authorized waste haulers and avoid improper disposal practices. Meanwhile, Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Empowerment, outlined ongoing investments in landfill infrastructure and recycling initiatives. Frederick stressed the need for public education campaigns to foster environmental consciousness and ensure citizens understand their responsibilities. Both officials underscored the importance of collective action in maintaining Dominica’s reputation as the ‘Nature Island.’