In the heart of Liberta Village, Antigua, stands the venerable St. Barnabas Anglican Church, a timeless sentinel that has watched over the community since it was built in the 1600s. Its sun-kissed stone walls and vibrant, weathered façade tells a tales of resilience and faith, serving as a cornerstone of the Christian presence in the St. Paul’s community. Generations of worshippers have passed through its doors, each leaving their mark on the fabric of this sacred space.
Today, Sunday, June 8th 2025, the church filled with a warm glow, not just from the Caribbean sun pouring through its newly installed windows but from the collective spirit of joy and reverence that enveloped the congregation. The air buzzed with anticipation as members from both the St. Paul’s and St. Barnabas congregations gathered for a special service: the rededication of the church’s magnificent stained glass windows.
As the gathered community took their seats, the echoes of shared stories and hymns intermingled in the air, weaving an intricate tapestry of faith and history. Amongst the attendees were distinguished figures to include the Governor’s Deputy, Sir Clare Roberts and Lady Roberts, alongside the area’s parliamentary representative, Hon. E.P. Chet Greene. Their presence signified the importance of the occasion, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between the church and the broader community.
Presiding over the service was The Rt. Rev. Ernest Flemming, Bishop of the North Eastern Caribbean and Aruba. His sermon radiated peace and authority, guiding the congregation through this momentous occasion. With a commanding yet comforting voice, he spoke of the significance of the stained glass windows, which were not merely decorative; they were windows to the divine, each intricate design telling stories of hope, love and faith that grounded the community. He reminded his audience of St. Barnabas’ ministry of encouragement, reconciliation and evangelism.
As the service progressed, a sense of unity enveloped the attendees, their hearts and spirits entwined in a shared purpose. The ceremony included a tribute to Robert Foisie and Patricia Biss, whose generous contributions made the restoration of the stained glass windows possible. Their dedication to preserving the church’s beauty did not go unnoticed and the recognition they received further solidified the bond between past and present.
With reverent anticipation, the parishioners watched as the stained glass windows were blessed. Light filtered through the original and newly restored panes, casting brilliant colors onto the ancient stone walls. The kaleidoscope of hues danced to life; reds, greens and blues mingled, each vibrant color a testament to the faith that had flourished within these walls over centuries.
As the service concluded, a tangible sense of hope filled the air, hope that echoed in the smiles exchanged among the congregants and the whispers of prayers that floated upwards towards the heavens. This rededication was not simply an act of honor; it was a reaffirmation of faith, a recommitment to community and a celebration of the legacy that St. Barnabas Anglican Church represents.
And so, as day turned to dusk, the church stood every bit as proud and resolute as when it was first built, its new stained glass windows a brilliant reminder of the light that faith brings into the lives of the people of Liberta Village and the wider St. Paul’s community.
