To: Clergy and People

From: The Bishop

16th November, 2016

Greetings!

The Four Homicides

It was with great sadness that we learnt of the untimely death of Mrs. Avis Israel and Mr. Ronald Israel of Old Montrose, Mr. Nicholas Layne of Campden Park and Ms. Pamela Williams of Kingstown Park on Monday morning. On behalf of the Diocese of the Windward Islands I extend our deepest sympathy to the immediate family, relatives and friends of the deceased. May God be their refuge and strength at this time.

Let us remember those persons who have lost their loved ones through an act of violence this year. This morning regrettably we heard of the forty eight year old man Mr. Sean Dopweii­ James w o died after being shot in Kingstown. In spite of these incidents may we hold fast to the words of the Psalmist:

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved, and though the mountains be toppled into the depths of the sea; Though its waters rage and foam, and though the mountains tremble at its tumult. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.” {Psalm 46: 1-4}

Let us continue to pray for and to promote a culture of peace. May we always acknowledge that we are our brother’s keeper.

In the process of growth and development of people,especially children,grappling successfully with questions of meaning and significance contributes to developing into a healthy,balanced person and is a fundamentally important component of life;this significantly affects the future well-being of society. How people think about meaning and significance radically influences their values and behaviour. It affects the sort of citizen that they are and will become. It should, therefore, be of interest to everyone concerned with the sort of environment we are creating, attitudes we are nurturing and messages we are communicating as we go about our daily routines and affairs.

For those who have died. Rest eternal grant unto them 0 Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.

For family, relatives and friends. May you experience the comfort of God’s holy presence and know the consolation of God’s love. Amen

Let us also pray for the perpetrators of these acts that God may turn their hearts.

With every good wish and God’s blessings!

Yours sincerely

The R . Rev’d C. Leopold Friday

Bishop of the Windward Islands