The Valley, Anguilla (July 3, 2017) – At 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 2, Dominion Faith Centre (DFC) installed new pastors, Jerome and Ruthlyn Harrigan, known for their far-reaching radio ministry, NBR Grace FM. The mid-afternoon service welcomed many attendees, including local and visiting clergy from the United States and British Virgin Islands. Officiating ministers were Pastor Dexter Welcome, founding pastor of Dominion Faith Centre, Pastor Jonathan Calderon, Pastor Frankie Rathanum and Bishop Michael Greenaway.
The well-attended service began with musical preludes, including a rendition of the Anguilla’s national song by Merwyn “Foster” Rogers and Lennox Vanterpool. Following the invocation by Bishop Bernard Joseph, the rousing worship session was led by Pastor Dexter Welcome and the DFC Worship Team. As the service progressed, those in attendance enjoyed songs, a dance, and brief remarks from many, including former Chief Minister, Hubert Hughes, and a duet by the incoming pastors’ daughters, Jeronique and Jeralyn Harrigan. The sermon was delivered by Pastor Jonathan Calderon who alluded to Moses and Joshua, and reminded the group that “every aspect of our lives is transition. We go through changes….we grow in knowledge, wisdom and stature.” He admonished the congregation to remember that, “Christ’s opinion of us is what counts. Faithfully believe in what Christ did for us…”
After Jerome Roberts and Reverend Candis Niles presented bios on both Ruthlyn and Jerome Harrigan, respectively, Pastor Frankie Rathanum performed the solemn Act of Installation. He lovingly charged the incoming pastoral couple to hold fast to “integrity of the heart as integrity brings true and everlasting success.” He went on to share that, “faithfulness requires dedication, discernment, determination and discipline…which God honors.” Bishop Michael Greenaway then fervently blessed the couple in prayer.
After Pastor James Harrigan, brother of Pastor Jerome Harrigan, sang “In Christ Alone”, the newly installed pastors responded to the Charge and shared their joy of accepting the mantle of leadership, giving God all the praise and thanks. Pastor Jerome especially thanked the Welcomes for opening their hearts to them to share in the gospel with their family members. They also thanked the DFC family for embracing them and committing to working with them, moving forward, as they continue the good work of teaching the message of faith and grace. He said, “We are workers and labourers together with God. The Welcomes have laid a wonderful foundation of ministry…We just continue to carry the mantle.”
Pastor Ruthlyn Harrigan also continued with a vote of thanks to the many persons who supported them – in this new position – including local radio stations, media houses and those tuning in by social media. After a final congregational song, Pastor Rodwell Grant said the closing prayer and benediction.
As the new pastors look forward to continuing to serve the Anguillian community, the island celebrates Dominion Faith Centre’s founding pastors, Dexter and Natasha “Rushelle” Welcome, who are transitioning to the USA to continue the work of the Lord. All are welcome to fellowship at Dominion Faith Centre on Sunday mornings at 10 and Wednesday evenings at 7:30. You may also fellowship online and stream live Sunday services at www.facebook.com/dominionfaithcentre.
– Contributed
