WESTERN BUREAU — The Reverend Dr Howard Gregory was yesterday ordained and consecrated as Bishop Suffragan of Montego Bay at a service attended by hundreds of persons including regional bishops, politicians and members of the police force at the St James Parish Church in Montego Bay.

Archbishop of the West Indies, the Most Reverend Drexel Gomez administered the rites at the service, which lasted for over three hours.

Dr Gregory, who has served as chairman of the Jamaica Council of Churches and president of the United Theological College of the West Indies, was elected to the head of the See of Montego Bay at the 132nd Synod of the Church held in April.

He replaced Dr Alfred Charles Reid who was last year appointed Anglican Lord Bishop of Jamaica.

In his sermon at yesterday’s consecration, Rev E Don Taylor spoke of the significance of Bishop Gregory’s acceptance of the “gift” of ordination.

“This is a ‘burden’ (that is) distinct, particular and unique and it addresses the challenges and forces that confront a Jamaica struggling to make ends meet in the economic day to day needs of the people,” Rev Taylor said.

He added that the ‘apostolic burden’ that Gregory has assumed will present him with the challenge of leading God’s people to a clear understanding of the ‘true’ God.

Rev Taylor urged Bishop Gregory to care for his congregation and clergy and challenged him to lead by the example of his own life.

“They may be lonely at times and need to be understood and supported by their Bishop. Love the people who fill the pews of your churches and chapels week after week, offering themselves and gifts, but also waiting to be saved and be loved and understood.”

“Your greatest personal joy as a Bishop will come as you stand in the midst of your people to serve them at the alter, to bless them in the work, to heal them in their pain and to nourish them with the word of God,” he added.

He also called on Bishop Gregory not to allow himself to be overcome by political overtures or be intimidated by the political display of power.

“Do not be afraid to challenge any display of power in the name of Christ and for the common good,” Rev Taylor warned.

After the service Bishop Gregory told the Observer that he would be working with various outreach groups in the parishes under his watch, to ascertain the needs of the people and see how best they can be assisted.

Dr Gregory will oversee the parishes of St James, Hanover, Westmoreland, Trelawny and St Ann.

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