The nation came together in solemn reflection on Wednesday evening as hundreds gathered at the Kingston Seawall Bandstand in Georgetown for the National Interfaith Prayer Service in remembrance of the victims and survivors of the MV Barima tragedy.
Held on the first day of the three day period of national mourning, the service brought together grieving families and survivors.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Cabinet ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, religious leaders, members of the disciplined services, indigenous leaders and hundreds of citizens were present in a moving expression of national solidarity.
The atmosphere was one of quiet reflection as prayers, scripture readings, poetry, music and dance honoured the lives lost while offering comfort to those left behind.
Throughout the evening, many embraced loved ones, lit candles and stood in silence, united in grief and hope.
Delivering the feature address, Prime Minister Phillips described the sinking of the MV Barima as one of the darkest moments in Guyana’s recent history.
“We gather in prayer during one of the most painful periods our country has experienced in recent memory,” he said.
Extending condolences on behalf of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the government and the people of Guyana, the Prime Minister acknowledged that no words could erase the pain families are enduring.
“We understand fully that there are no words capable of removing the pain you now carry. Therefore, we can only stand beside you, pray with you, and assure you that you will not face the days ahead alone,” he told those gathered.
Prime Minister Phillips reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, while commending the dedication of the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, the Guyana Police Force, medical teams, divers, local fishermen, volunteers and private sector partners working tirelessly since the tragedy unfolded.
He also expressed gratitude to the governments of France, Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago for their assistance.
While urging all Guyanese to continue supporting affected families with compassion and allowing authorised agencies to carry out their work without the added burden of rumours and misinformation.
Meanwhile, the service reflected Guyana’s rich religious diversity, with Christian, Hindu and Muslim leaders offering prayers and messages of comfort, healing and hope for the grieving families and the nation.
Among the evening’s most touching moments was a spoken word performance honouring the courage of the survivors and paying tribute to those who lost their lives. Students of St Stanislaus College, St John’s College and New Hope Secondary School later performed The Prayer, their voices reminding those gathered that hope can still endure even in moments of unimaginable sorrow.
The Guyana Police Force Steel Orchestra, local musicians and the Chosen Academy of Dance also presented moving tributes, while special recognition was given to the courage shown by first responders, local fishermen and ordinary citizens who played vital roles in the rescue and recovery efforts. Lance Corporal John Soong, whose bravery helped save several passengers, was among those recognised during the programme.
As the service drew to a close, mourners signed a book of condolences, left flowers and messages of support for the bereaved families before joining in the final hymn, Come Back and Save Us. The familiar words echoed across the waterfront, bringing an emotional close to an evening that reflected both the depth of the nation’s grief and the strength of its unity.
The National Interfaith Prayer Service was the first of three observances being held during the national mourning period, with similar services scheduled for Port Kaituma and Mabaruma.
DPI
