It was Friday, September 8, and while the Church was celebrating the birthday of Mary, we, of the Parish of Mary Immaculate Queen of the Universe at Bourg Mulatresse were also celebrating the 25th anniversary of the ordination of our parish priest, Fr Arnold Francis.

Promptly at 5.00 p.m. the choir began singing The Canticle of the Sun, as the procession entered the church. Accompanying our parish priest were Archbishop Edward Gilbert, Frs Michel de Verteuil, Michael Makhan, Hugh Joyeau, Henri Brenon and Christian Pineau of the San Juan parish and others.

It was the beginning of a beautiful afternoon of celebration as the Archbishop reminded us in his homily that “celebration” is an important part of life and on this occasion it gave us an opportunity to review and reward the ministry of Fr Arnold Francis, as well as giving him the opportunity to “re-confirm his commitment to the people whom he serves.”

The procession makes its way into the church. Archbishop Gilbert flanked by Fr Michel de Verteuil and Fr Arnold Francis, Msgr Michael de Verteuil and Fr Michael Makhan, Frs Henri Brenon FMI, Gerard Tang Choon O Carm and Christian Pineau FMI.

The Archbishop further described our parish priest as a “tiger” when presenting his point of view in any discussion, at the same time, informing us of how well qualified Fr Francis is to carry out the many duties assigned to him.

Sr Katrina of the Carmelite community then filled the church with her beautiful singing as she paid tribute in song. Fr Francis remarked that the song was a favourite of his mother and sister, both deceased, and Sister’s singing certainly evoked beautiful memories for him. We were also reminded that his sister was a member of the Carmelite Community in her lifetime.

The Mass came to an end and we were all invited to the Parish Hall where the celebrations continued. Everyone was awestruck at the transformation of our hall. The décor and ambience were serene and captivating and certainly set the tone for the evening’s proceedings.

 After welcoming us all, the chairperson, Angela Preddie, invited Peter Gilalta, the chairperson of our Parish Pastoral Council to make a presentation to Fr Francis on behalf of the parish community.

This was followed by several other presentations as individuals as well as groups demonstrated their love and appreciation for their “Father”, friend, pastor and counsellor.

Then came time for Father to reply. He thanked all who assisted in making this event a reality. He expressed his gratefulness for the love shown to him and re-affirmed his commitment to his parishioners, while expressing thanks to all who came from neighbouring parishes, from the UWI and the seminary where he serves at the chaplaincy and lectures respectively.

All enjoyed a delicious meal followed by a very tasty dessert, and as guest mingled with one another after dining, we were serenaded with lovely music from a visiting group. Our parish priest is indeed, very fortunate to have been celebrated twice in his native home and in his adopted home. May God’s richest blessings be with you always, Fr Arnold Francis. 

CARIBBEAN: Antigua celebrates Fr Arnold's anniversary