The stately Archbishop’s House is well established as the people’s house, more significantly the entire people of Trinidad and Tobago.
The house has been part of our cultural and historical landscape for more than a century. It continues to be a hub of activity, and the start-up incubator for major diocesan projects and initiatives, which formidably shape and change the landscape of our church and country.
Most Reverend Patrick Flood OP, the fifth Archbishop of Port of Spain, was the first resident in 1904, and successive archbishops have resided and worked within the weathered walls.
Most Reverend Charles Jason Gordon occasionally welcomes to the house, people from all walks of life. The house is used for meetings which further the mission of the Church, to help evangelise and counsel.
The Archbishop’s House was fertile ground for the growth of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in the Archdiocese of Port of Spain, when Archbishop Anthony Pantin CSSp invited the Living Water Community in 1979, to have their weekly prayer meetings in the grounds of Archbishop’s House.
This Holy Spirit-led movement grew exponentially throughout Trinidad and Tobago, along with several other Catholic Charismatic communities.
In collaboration with several religious leaders, the seed for the Inter Religious Organization (IRO) was planted. Archbishop Pantin considered that bringing the IRO members to meet at the Archbishop’s House was symbolically important, demonstrating that the Church welcomed and was open to all.
Archbishop Pantin wanted this principle to be not only symbolic but a reality that no one was a stranger to the Archbishop’s House. The IRO continues to play an active role in unifying the various religious bodies to ensure there is religious equality in Trinidad and Tobago.
Under Archbishop Joseph Harris CSSp, a Council for Responsible Political Behaviour was created. The Council is tasked with monitoring and evaluating adherence to the Code of Ethical Political Conduct. Though only active during the elections, the Council is a fearless watchdog which is undaunted by the intensity of the political campaigns.
Archbishop’s House needs restoration. Climate change and heavy rains are taking its toll on his residence. The floorboards on the verandah are rotting, compromising the ceiling below, and there are other necessary urgent repairs required at this time.
We appeal to you to assist us in making Our House, Your House, Archbishop’s House.
Please give generously.