Laverne McDowald-Thompson, the president of the umbrella Vincentian group in the United States, Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. (COSAGO) has urged her compatriots not to get tired in giving back to the nation.
In addressing an Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving in Brooklyn on Sunday, Oct. 22, marking the country’s 38th year of political independence from Great Britain, McDowald-Thompson noted that many nationals are always willing to give back, adding, “that is how it should be.
“We do things because of our genuine connection to our country,” she said. “I encourage you not to get tired.”
In alluding to 2 Thessalonians 3:13, McDowald-Thompson said: “And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.”
She said she has “seen the work of COSAGO members, and also of other organizations in the Diaspora.
“You are doing good,” she said, adding: “Hebrews 13:16 reminds us not to neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
“Again, I witnessed you my Vincentian brothers and sisters demonstrated your act of kindness, your love and compassion for others, during the relief drives for those who have suffered great loss due to Hurricane Irma and Maria and Irma,” she continued. “Thanks for giving of your time and for the supplies. Let’s continue to keep them in our prayers. They have long roads to recovery.”
Reflecting on the 38 years since independence, COSAGO president said nationals “can truly say that we’ve come this far by faith, and we know that the Lord will not leave us nor forsake us.
“He will continue to make us strong and even stronger, if we work and pray together,” she said, stating that October is a month of “precious memories, especially in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“But rest assured, we are very proud Vincentians right here in the United States of America, who do not neglect to celebrate our nation’s attainment,” she said. “We fly our flags; we wear our colors to represent us; and, of course, we sing our anthem. We sing [with] pride and joy.
“On behalf of COSAGO, I thank you again for your commitment, the outpouring of love and all that you have contributed in helping St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” McDowald-Thompson added. “To all the leaders and members of various organizations in the Diaspora, thanks for joining COSAGO and the Consulate, because, in times like, these we just need to come together in unity to celebrate and show love to each other.”
