High Commissioner Gets Spiritual Welcome to UK

Jamaica’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), His Excellency Anthony Johnson, on Sunday (July 11) received a warm, spiritual welcome to his new post in London, with a service at the Lee New Testament Church of God in Lewisham, South East London.

The welcome service was organised in collaboration with the Church of God of Prophecy.

Administrative Bishop of the New Testament Church of God, Dr. Eric Brown, told Mr. Johnson that while his task was not an easy one, he had the love and support of the church and the Jamaican community.

He urged the High Commissioner to develop a meaningful relationship with the Jamaican community and to use their expertise and knowledge.

National Overseer of the Church of God of Prophecy, Bishop Wilton Powell, in his remarks, assured that the Diaspora is ready to work with Jamaica to develop the country as outlined in the Government’s Vision 2030 national development plan.

The High Commissioner was also welcomed by the Mayor of Lambeth, Sir Stephen Bullock, who spoke of the strong links between Jamaica and the borough.

He informed that Lewisham was working on a number of projects with the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation and is in early talks with the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA) for the possible hosting of special events in the lead-up to the 2012 London Olympics.

High Commissioner Johnson, in his response, thanked the churches for the warm welcome and urged the congregation to remain committed to the ideals taught to them in Jamaica and not to become cynical or bitter.

At a reception following the church service, Mr. Johnson told the Jamaicans to be proud of themselves and their achievements and not to harp on the negatives and the difficulties.

Mr. Johnson said that despite the recent problems in Jamaica, the Government had taken a bold stance against crime in the country.

The High Commissioner urged UK Jamaicans to continue to love and support their homeland and to teach their children about Jamaica’s culture, food and to never forget the church.

Mr. Johnson, who took up office just under two months ago, is Jamaica’s 11th High Commissioner to London.