‘What e’er the future brings, Our faith will see us through’

Independence Message from Rev. Stephen Ollivierre – District Presiding Bishop, and Pastor of Faith Temple Church

Our National Anthem, a powerful song about our faith and resilience, echoes a truth we have experienced first hand. Our faith, unwavering in the face of the 2021 volcanic eruption and the surge of COVID-19 and Dengue Fever cases, has been our anchor. We trusted in God, and He guided us through the storm, providing the strength to overcome each obstacle.

This year, forecasters accurately predicted a destructive hurricane. While some underestimated the threat, many understood its gravity and took the necessary precautions to protect themselves. In the past, individuals often ignored warnings after a storm failed to materialise, or caused minimal damage. Hurricane Beryl was predicted to pass Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with a wind speed of around 150 miles per hour between Union Island and Carriacou.

The sheer intensity of this hurricane, which struck with unexpected force, unleashed unprecedented destruction across the islands of the Southern Grenadines, impacting homes, lives, and livelihoods. Nevertheless, the devastation to Saint Vincent and Bequia was less impactful. The extent of the destruction in Union Island, Mayreau, and Canouan was staggering. Without speech, one could only console those affected by offering a comforting embrace. A stark reality no one anticipated was the transition from a tranquil Sunday spent with family, to a frantic Monday boarding a ferry to the mainland.

Conversations with those in the shelters on mainland Saint Vincent revealed the depth of their pain. Their questions about why God would allow such a disaster in our cherished land are valid and understandable. We acknowledge your pain and loss. However, Vincentians’ confidence in God did not waver despite the circumstances. They mourned the loss of loved ones and friends, then began taking steps to recovery.

They demonstrated resilience by taking vital steps to reconstruct their lives and residences.

The resilience of those who persisted in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl is truly inspiring.

Many individuals elected to remain on the islands despite the significant obstacles they encountered, such as devastated homes, absence of drinking water, and health hazards.  Their unwavering commitment to reconstruction, regardless of the circumstances, is a testament to the human spirit and a source of inspiration for all.

We must remind ourselves of James 4:14. “How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.”

According to James, the main difficulty is our incapacity to predict or control future events. We are entirely uncertain about what will happen tomorrow. Furthermore, our existence is fleeting and delicate. We are a fleeting mist that appears for a little moment before disappearing. While we cannot predict what lies ahead for our country, faith in God will help us get through. On our nation’s birthday, let us trust and believe in Him.

The efforts of the varying entities to allocate resources to facilitate the cleaning must be commended. The expense is astounding, but we are committed to restoring our islands.

We thank God and the organizations and individuals who stepped in to help those in need, providing financial support and practical assistance. Churches also played a significant role in healing by offering prayers, shelter, provision, advice, and transportation for those seeking solace. The collaboration of the church and various donor agencies during the rehabilitation process was remarkable.

God is genuinely benevolent to this nation. As a Gospel Minister, I pray that we always remember Him. He cherishes us. Thus, it is crucial to turn to Him and honour Him as our Lord and Saviour. Remember the words of the anthem: Whate’er the future  brings, Our faith will see us through. May peace reign from shore to shore; And God bless and keep us true.