Members of the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora residing in the tri-state area of New York will kick off their celebration of the country’s 44th political Independence anniversary this Sunday.

The festivities will feature the annual Independence Thanksgiving Service, taking place at the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx at 4 PM. This event will once again unite Antiguans and Barbudans for an afternoon filled with reflection through song and prayer, giving thanks for the many blessings bestowed upon the nation since November 1, 1981.

photo by New York Offices of the Government of Antigua

A dedicated clergy corps, comprised of Antiguans and Barbudans, will lead the worship service. Rev. F. Craig Henry from the Little Rock and Shiloh Baptist Churches in Brooklyn will officiate, while the sermon will be delivered by Rev. Dr. Lennox Pigott of Grace Wesleyan Church in the Bronx.

Enhancing the service will be the Antigua and Barbuda International Chorale, directed by Dean Belgrave Pelle of St. Mary’s Anglican Church. The City South Steel Orchestra will also be present, performing a beautiful medley of patriotic songs that evoke fond memories of their homeland.

Additionally, retired Antiguan Minister Rev. Stanley Charity will present a special hymn of reflection, contributing to the atmosphere of reverence and celebration expected to fill the church on Sunday.

photo by New York Offices of the Government of Antigua

Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Walton Webson, is anticipated to address the gathering on behalf of Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne, focusing on this year’s Independence theme: “Solid, Stable, Soaring.”