It’s a homecoming – Bishop Malzaire

The installation of Archbishop Jason Gordon is a welcome “home” said President of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC), Bishop Gabriel Malzaire of Roseau, Dominica.

Delivering remarks at the end of the Mass of Installation at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on December 27, Bishop Malzaire was happy Archbishop Gordon agreed to undertake the responsibility. He said the people of the archdiocese must be happy and it was a special day with a “son of the soil” leading them to the Kingdom.

Bishop Malzaire said the responsibility of salvation is challenging but Archbishop Gordon was “up to the task”.  “It is because he is up to the task our Holy Father chose him to be your archbishop, your leader. I want to congratulate him and assure him lots of people are praying for him,” he added.

The presence of the large congregation was indicative of the support Archbishop Gordon had and Bishop Malzaire was confident the new archbishop “will do well”.  Even as the people embraced their new archbishop, Bishop Malzaire said reassurance was still needed that they would work with him. “As he (Archbishop Gordon) indicated in his homily the job is not only his, there is no bishop without people. He depends on your support, your prayers, to help him along the way if he has that his future is assured.”

The installation was held on the Feast of St John the Evangelist, the one “whom Jesus loved”, and who, at the last supper, rested on the breast of Jesus. Bishop Malzaire advised Archbishop Gordon to turn to Jesus, “always rest your head on the breast of Jesus, there you will find, peace, assurance, love and support.”

The AEC President thanked Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Harris for the work done in the archdiocese but assured there was still work in the AEC. “He is not off the hook yet,” Bishop Malzaire joked. The AEC welcomed Archbishop Harris’ wisdom and advice as bishops continued their journey leading the Church in the Caribbean. – LPG