Prime Minister Mottley pays tribute to the late Canon Ivan Harewood

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has been paying tribute to the late Canon Ivan Harewood, who died yesterday at the age of 86.

Ms. Mottley said she was saddened to learn of the passing of an outstanding clergyman who was as loving and friendly as he was quiet and unassuming.

Here is the full statement:

“Today, I join members of the Anglican Church family across Barbados, as well as my constituents in St. Michael North-East, in saying goodbye to a true friend of the community, retired Canon Ivan Harewood.

I was saddened yesterday to learn of the passing of an outstanding clergyman who was as loving and friendly as he was quiet and unassuming. His was not an overwhelming physical stature, and his voice equaled his size — but neither of these features characterised his personality or the extent of his resolve on matters of society and humanity.

And while most Barbadians will know him as a most dignified man of God and servant of the people, whose presence was always clothed in a spirit of quiet humility, many will not know that it was most likely influenced by his experiences after he started his working life in the nursing service of Britain.

His ordination to the priesthood and his return to Barbados were followed by just short of three decades as Chaplain of the House of Assembly, leading parliamentarians of every political colour in prayer and reflection at the start of each sitting — a period that covered some of post-Independence Barbados’ most memorable moments, ranging from economic growth and decline to life-changing political episodes.

Canon Harewood did it week after week, year after year, never once showing a hint of interest in attracting the limelight or a political label to himself. His was an approach worthy of emulation.

On behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, I extend deep sympathy to his family, especially his wife Adele Harewood, sons Curtice Harewood and the Rev. Mark Harewood, and daughter Dr. Susan Harewood.

May his soul rest in peace.”

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