Antiguans and Barbudans living in New York will come together on Sunday to celebrate the annual Thanksgiving Service, after a two-year lull caused by the Covid-19 pandemic

The activity will take place this year at the Church of the Crucifixion at Convent Avenue in Harlem.  

Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Aubrey Webson says the country has survived a period that truly tested its collective will and fortitude as a people.

“It certainly is a timely occasion for us to give thanks for the many blessings that continue to fall on us as a nation,” he said.

The service, which begins at 4:00 pm, will be officiated by Reverend F. Craig Henry while the sermon will be delivered by Archdeacon Franklin Reid. The Antigua and Barbuda International Chorale under the direction of Dean Belgrave Pelle will also feature prominently.   

Chosen Generation will lead the congregation in a praise and worship segment while the City South Steel Orchestra will bring the melodious sounds of the pan to the celebration.  

The annual Independence Gala also returns and will feature once again none other than the pride and joy of Antigua and Barbuda, the legendary Burning Flames.  

The proceeds from the event have been targeted to go towards the Mentorship Programme of the Antigua and Barbuda Associations United.  

This initiative has set out to empower students in Antigua and Barbuda at the secondary school level with the necessary skills and knowledge to make informed educational and financial decisions in a competitive world.  

Ambassador Webson has expressed gratitude to the institutions and individuals who have already come on board as sponsors for the event.  

Antigua and Barbuda’s 41^st anniversary of Independence is being celebrated under the theme ‘Moving Forward with Unity, Strength, and Stability.’