Quoting 1 Peter 5:3, Bishop of St George’s-in-Grenada, Vincent Darius OP said, “Never be a dictator over any group that is put in your charge, but be an example that the whole flock can follow.”

The Bishop was delivering the homily at the Diaconate Ordination of two sons-of-the soil, Carl S Haynes and Hugh Logan on Saturday, June 30.

The St Andrew the Apostle church in Grenville, was packed to capacity and over-flowing, the congregation included Lady Gloria Williams, Opposition Leader Tilman Thomas, MP Glenis Roberts and Senator George Prime.

Rev Carl S Haynes, Bishop Vincent Darius and Rev Hugh Logan

It was a proud day for the entire diocese but for Petite Martinique in particular as Rev Hugh Logan is from that island.

Expectedly, the large contingent from Carriacou, Petite Martinique and St Vincent included family and relatives, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Bernadette Sylvester and prominent Petite Martinique politician Michael Caesar.

The beautiful ceremony, obviously well planned and well executed, included graceful liturgical dances at the Opening Hymn and at the Gospel Acclamation.

The Rite of Ordination comprises Calling and Presentation of candidates, Election by the bishop and Consent of the faithful, Promise of Obedience, Laying on of Hands, Investiture with stole and dalmatic, presentation with the Book of the Gospel and Greeting of Peace.

In his homily Bishop Darius told the young men that they were called to service. “We serve our people with our gifts and talent, so service is not selfish,” he said.

His Lordship reminded the entire congregation that ministry could never be personal or be “my ministry”’; rather we were called to participate in God’s ministry. Jesus’ way, he exhorted, is always collaborative ministry, he said to “feed my lambs; feed my sheep”.

The Bishop again asked the congregation to continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood and Religious Life and he urged families to encourage their children towards vocations.

To the two young men and the clergy generally, His Lordship said that, despite difficulties and challenges, “people must see us serving joyfully,” we cannot attract vocations when we are sad. Bishop Darius ended his inspiring words with an outline of the duties, responsibilities and engagements of the deacon.

The newly ordained deacons began their ministry immediately as they assisted at the altar with the main celebrant after the Offertory.