Governor General His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams joined members of the Moravian Church Antigua Conference on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, for a special anniversary service held at Spring Gardens Moravian Church in St. John's. According to Antigua News Room, the event celebrated the Church's 270th anniversary, beginning at 7:00 p.m. and officiated by Rev. Denise Smith-Lewis, Rev. Judy Winspeare-Philip, and Bishop Kingsley Lewis.
Sir Rodney, himself a Moravian, attended in a spirit of thanksgiving and reflection. He also marked the occasion by sending a letter of congratulations to Rev. Denise Smith-Lewis, Acting Superintendent of the Moravian Church Antigua Conference and Pastor of the Cedar Hall and Cashew Hill churches.
In his message, the Governor General praised the Moravian Church for its long and distinguished contribution to Antigua and Barbuda. He described it as a denomination whose impact has been felt not only in the spiritual life of the nation, but also in education, moral formation, and community service.
Sir Rodney reflected on the Church's deep roots in the twin-island nation and its longstanding role in shaping generations of citizens through worship, outreach, and educational advancement, including teacher training. He noted that the Moravian Church has remained a steady and respected presence in national life, serving communities with faithfulness, compassion, and purpose.
He also commended the Church for keeping its ministry relevant to the needs of the time, while remaining grounded in the values and traditions that have sustained it across the centuries. Sir Rodney said the anniversary was not only a time to celebrate the past, but also an opportunity to honour those who laboured faithfully before and to look ahead with hope.
The 270th anniversary observance was held under the theme "Anchored in Christ, Celebrating Stability, Rooted in History, Growing Intentionally," with the provincial theme "Grounded in Faith, Growing in Grace, Going in Power, Moving as One!" The order of service emphasised thanksgiving for generations of missionaries, pastors, teachers, and members who helped build and sustain the Moravian witness in Antigua and Barbuda.
In extending congratulations to the clergy, officers, and members of the Moravian Church Antigua Conference, the Governor General expressed hope that the anniversary would inspire renewed gratitude to Almighty God and strengthen the Church for continued service in the years ahead. Sir Rodney said the Moravian Church's enduring legacy deserves both recognition and gratitude, and he wished the Conference every blessing as it continues its mission in Antigua and Barbuda.
