Nation news - “Call to give brome highest honour”

Right Reverend Rufus Brome

As Barbados celebrates its 200th anniversary of the Anglican Diocese, a thoughtprovoking lecture delivered by Sherwood McCaskie at the St Peter Parish Church recently highlighted the enduring legacy of Bishop Rufus Brome, the nation's first black Anglican bishop.

Delivering his address as part of the parish's Patronal Festival, McCaskie reflected on Bishop Brome's remarkable journey - one rooted in community, faith, and divine purpose.

"These surrounding districts, with their meaningful names, appeared as signs pointing towards his purpose. Collectively, they underscored that faith, hope, renewal, and opportunity were woven into the fabric of his environment," he said. McCaskie emphasised that Brome's story serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating how community, history, and divine aspiration can shape the future.

"Despite the challenges he faced, hope flourished in his humble beginnings, guiding him to become a spiritual leader who embodies the hopes of his community and beyond."

Decolonising

Brome, who joined the service via Zoom link, greeted the congregation and expressed his gratitude to the church for considering his work, contribution and influence. McCaskie said his research revealed that a significant aspect of Brome's leadership was his bold stance in decolonising the church - breaking down the barriers that aligned roles and positions with race and class. His efforts to create greater cohesion within the church paved the way for increased unity and shared purpose.

"He believed that leadership and function should not be the domain of a particular race or class but belong to all who serve with integrity and faith," said McCaskie.

The cultural historian highlighted Brome's "tireless efforts in promoting unity, reconciliation, and social justice, values he championed to foster national renewal

and hope"

Leadership

His advocacy extended beyond the church, impacting education, youth empowerment, and community development, he added. Brome's steady leadership during challenging times and his active engagement with regional and international

bodies underscored his role as a unifying and inspiring figure for all Barbadians, McCaskie said.

The researcher highlighted Brome's close connection to the Barbados Community College (BCC). Brome's profound experiences in the 1950s, when he did not enter sixth form because his family could not afford the fees, immediately sparked a pivotal response.

His story galvanised his classmate, the late Sir Lloyd Erskine Sandiford, who made a firm vow: that no other bright, capable Barbadian, regardless of their economic circumstances, would be denied the opportunity to pursue advanced education.

McCaskie said this promise was the catalyst for what would become one of the island's greatest strides toward equality - the establishment of the Barbados

Community College.

"It was born directly out of Bishop Brome's experience, an unwavering symbol of hope and opportunity, established to ensure that barriers of wealth no longer hinder the brightest minds from reaching their potential," he said.

"Today, BCC stands as living proof of that promise, an institution that has opened the doors of tertiary education wide to countless Barbadians who would otherwise have been excluded. . .

"Bishop Brome's story is a compelling reminder that true leadership is rooted in compassion and justice. It underscores the fact that barriers can be shattered when

driven by the genuine desire to uplift others."

The researcher concluded with a strong appeal to the Government.

"Bishop Brome's legacy is a testament to hope, resilience, and service. It is fitting that Barbados recognises his contributions with the highest honour - bestowing upon him the: Freedom of Barbados Award.

Such recognition would rightly reflect the significance of his service and inspire future generations.

Cultural historian Sherwood McCaskle said the legacy of Bishop Rufus Brome, the nation's first black Anglican bishop, deserved more recognition.

Tribute

McCaskie continued: "As the community of Anglicans celebrates its bicentenary, the call for Bishop Brome to be elevated to 'The Most Honourable' stands as a fitting tribute to a man whose life exemplifies faith, service and hope - a true beacon of the divine promise that continues to inspire Barbados today."

The historian said such an honour would serve as a lasting reminder that true leadership is rooted in community, guided by faith, and committed to uplifting others. McCaskie also urged policymakers to devise a structured system whereby the nation records and shares the inspiring stories of its people, ensuring that their legacy endures within the nation's history.

(PR/SG)

Weekend Nation - July 11 2025, Page 23