Improving the lives of people in our communities

SINCE 1837, Catholic Churches in Jamaica have been outstanding partners in our quest to improve the lives of people within our Jamaican communities. Today, their consistent efforts in the areas of education, healthcare, and assistance to the poor of our society remain an integral part of our nation’s development and growth.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Montego Bay was established in order to adequately serve our communities throughout the island on December 8, 1967. The Most Reverend Edgerton Clarke was installed in the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, as the first Bishop of the Diocese of Montego Bay. This year commemorates the 50th jubilee year of the Diocese of Montego Bay. It is an opportune time for us to emphasise the importance of forging partnerships that enhance the quality of life on the island.

We share common interests in achieving a positive impact on education, providing low- or no-cost health services, and securing food and shelter for the disenfranchised among us. As leaders within our shared community, we must administer not only to basic life sustaining needs but also the spiritual health of our people.

I applaud the Roman Catholic Diocese of Montego Bay for its accomplishments within our community as we celebrate this important milestone. As a nation, we are grateful for the ongoing missions within our community under the guidance and direction of the current bishop, The Most Reverend Burchell McPherson. In recognition and appreciation of the diocese’s contributions in these areas, let us honour this occasion by reflecting on how we, as a unified community, will continue working together towards building a stronger Jamaica. His Excellency The Governor-General The Most Hon Sir Patrick Allen ON, GCMG, CD, KStJ