Why I believe Archbishop Anthony Pantin is a saint

By Deborah de Rosia

Eternal Light Community

Archbishop Anthony Pantin was a beacon of love, mercy, and compassion—a man whose life was devoted to spreading the Gospel through service to others. For everyone who had the privilege of knowing him or witnessing his work, there remains a deep conviction that he was, indeed, a saint. His influence lives on, particularly through the initiatives he inspired and the lives he transformed.

A legacy of life and hope

Archbishop Pantin’s commitment to nurturing life is powerfully reflected in the work of the Mary Care Centre, which he established in September 1980 for the care of pregnant teenaged girls who had no other support.

In 2024, the Centre provided shelter and support for nine teenagers and three children. During that year, one young mother gave birth to a healthy baby boy in November, while two other mothers, along with their children, found refuge there in December.

These young women received support through the Choices programme of the Child Welfare League, and they even experienced moments of joy by attending plays at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) and visiting the circus.

Despite challenges—such as the unfortunate departure of four girls between February and June—the Centre has remained dedicated to preserving life.

To extend its outreach, an overflow home was established in South Trinidad in a building once occupied by the Sisters of Charity. Since its inception, the Mary Care Centre has cared for 83 young women and witnessed 61 births, while also offering educational opportunities to residents aged 10 to 19, thereby providing a foundation for a brighter future.

A personal testimony

My belief in Archbishop Pantin’s sanctity is deeply personal. He set me on a journey to understand the role of suffering in spiritual growth. Through years of interaction–especially during our annual Christmas Novena, where he led the celebrations–I observed firsthand his profound humility, compassion, and unwavering respect for every individual.

One of the hallmarks of his ministry was his remarkable approachability. Officials, clergy, laypeople, both women and men—and especially the homeless—felt an immediate sense of ease in his presence. He extended himself to be “all things to all people”, a principle he embraced wholeheartedly. He often reminded us that “it is all God’s work”, a conviction that guided his every act of service.

His dedication to his faith and his exemplary life made him an extraordinary role model, and his presence was truly a blessing from God.

When I began praying for vocations in my Community, I sought his intercession, and my prayers have been answered in ways that only divine grace can orchestrate. I am convinced that his spiritual guidance continues to inspire and nurture new generations of faithful servants.

A man of humour, justice, and sacrifice

Beyond his compassionate ministry, Archbishop Pantin was a man of astonishing humour—a quality that endeared him to everyone he met. Yet, beneath that jovial exterior lay the weight of deep personal suffering.

He confronted injustice head-on, never hesitating to call out inequity whenever he saw it. Having witnessed the hardships and unfairness of the world, he tirelessly worked and spoke out against them, giving of himself without reservation.

His generosity reached far beyond his pastoral duties. For example, the Catholic Bible Institute (CBI) would not have found a home without his benevolence, enabling hundreds of Catholics, Anglicans, Baptists, and members of other denominations to study the Bible together—a testament to his inclusive vision.

His silent witness to the virtue of graceful presence was demonstrated by his attendance at every graduation exercise at the CBI, even as he silently suffered from the pain of illness.

He was a constant source of encouragement, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement. He covered us with care, corrected us with wisdom, and nurtured us like a devoted father, never missing a teaching opportunity to enlighten us.

A living saint

Sainthood is defined not only by miracles but also by a life that draws others closer to God. Archbishop Anthony Pantin epitomised this calling through his selfless love, service, and deep commitment to his faith. The ongoing impact of his work and the lives he touched serve as a lasting testament to his saintly influence.

He now joins the company of the saints in Heaven, continuing his mission of intercession and guidance. For all these reasons, I am convinced that Archbishop Anthony Pantin is truly a saint. Pray for us!

Prayer for the Beatification of Servant of God Archbishop Anthony Pantin

O God who by the grace of your Holy Spirit

Tempered the soul of your servant Gordon

Anthony Pantin with fortitude and humility

and raised him to be priest and Archbishop

of the Archdiocese of Port of Spain so that he

may be bearer of your life-giving word to

the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and the

Caribbean region, grant to your church the

Grace of his beatification for your greater glory

and for the special benefit and growth of your people.

Amen.

Prayer for the Intercession of Servant of God Archbishop Anthony Pantin

O God who by the grace of your Holy Spirit

tempered the soul of your servant Gordon

Anthony Pantin with fortitude and humility

and raised him to be priest and Archbishop

of the Archdiocese of Port of Spain so that he

may be the bearer of your life-giving Word to

the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and the

Caribbean region, grant us grace to be strong

in faith, humbly confident in your aid and

tireless in doing good. I humbly pray, through

the intercession of this beloved servant of yours,

Gordon Anthony Pantin, the special grace which

I seek (make your request) from your sovereign

goodness in the name of Jesus Christ Our Lord.

Amen.