FAITH, GRATITUDE AND NATIONAL PRIDE MARK ST. KITTS AND NEVIS’ 43RD INDEPENDENCE THANKSGIVING SERVICE IN NEW YORK

Bronx, New York, September 29, 2026 (SKNIS): Faith, gratitude and a strong sense of national pride filled the Crawford Memorial United Methodist Church in the Bronx on Sunday, September 27, 2026, as Kittitians and Nevisians in the diaspora gathered to give thanks for 43 years of Independence and reflect on the enduring bonds that unite the Federation and its citizens. 

The Thanksgiving Service brought together nationals, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, clergy and friends of Saint Kitts and Nevis in celebration of the anniversary under the theme, “One People, One Vision, Endless Possibility.”

Among the most poignant moments of the service were prayers for the continued and full recovery of Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew. Acting Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, who addressed the congregation, shared that the prime minister continues to make encouraging progress and remains appreciative of the tremendous outpouring of support.

“I am happy to share that Hon. Dr. Drew continues to make encouraging progress in his recovery. He remains deeply grateful for the prayers, messages, telephone calls and expressions of love that have come from Kittitians and Nevisians at home and across the diaspora,” Dr. Hanley said.

Prayers were also offered for the country’s leaders and public servants, young people, the diaspora and environment, the Sustainable Island State Agenda, and greater unity across both islands.

Dr. Hanley used the occasion to reflect on the significance of the Independence theme and the important place nationals living overseas continue to occupy in the life and development of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

He recognised their contributions through investment, support for families, professional expertise and continued promotion of the Federation, while making clear that distance does not diminish their place in the national community.

“We do not see you as people who ‘left home.’ You are part of home. We want to deepen that relationship. We want more of your ideas, your experience, your skills, your investment and, most importantly, your involvement in the future of our Federation,” Dr. Hanley stated.

Acting Prime Minister Hanley also assured nationals that the business of Government continues as Prime Minister Drew takes the necessary time to recover. He pointed to ongoing work in water, housing, infrastructure and the energy transition among the national priorities being advanced.

The service included scripture readings, praise and worship, prayers, musical selections and a homily, creating an occasion that blended worship with a celebration of nationhood.

Dr. Hanley was joined by Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas; Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, Hon. Senator Dr. Joyelle Clarke; and other members of the Saint Kitts and Nevis delegation.

As Saint Kitts and Nevis marked 43 years as an independent nation, the gathering in New York reflected the spirit of this year’s anniversary—a people connected by faith, heritage and a shared commitment to the Federation, regardless of where they call home.

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