The first branch of government honored its tradition Sunday of reflecting on the start of a new Senate session. Elected leaders, relatives, staff members, and supporters filled Cruz Bay Seventh Day Adventist Church for a pre-inauguration ecumenical service.
Adventist church parishioners joined with St. Johnians from other churches in the pews and at the pulpit to welcome their distinguished guests.
It was a moment for transition; outgoing Senate President Novelle Francis making way for new leadership and encouraging everyone to work together.
“As we take our oath of office to uphold the Constitution, to serve the people of these beautiful islands, let us do so with unity, purpose, and a steadfast commitment to justice and equity,” said Francis.
Music, songs, and liturgical dance fostered inspiration. St. John Administrator Shakima Jones-Sprauve sang a gospel tune.
Reverend Dennis Powell played a melodious sax. Ruth Ann Fahie twirled and mimed a prayer before the altar.
But it was Senate Chaplain Charles Brown who captured the moment with a blunt message. He warned incumbents and incoming freshmen and women not to let their elected positions blind them to their shortcomings.
Brown used the Bible story of King David and the prophet Nathan to illustrate. In that story, Nathan — a confidant of the king — upbraided him for taking cruel and insensitive actions. David heeded those words, acknowledged his faults, and asked for forgiveness.
“Every leader needs to have someone who is empowered to share sensitive information to which we will listen and seriously consider,” the chaplain said. “All the members of the 36th Legislature and all of us need Nathans in our lives.”
Sunday’s service concluded with remarks by Senate-President Elect Milton Potter, who kept his message brief. “Let us go forward with open hearts, open minds, and a shared commitment to cooperation and progress,” Potter said.
A formal swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to begin Monday at 10 a.m. in Emancipation Garden on St. Thomas.
