The following is an open letter to the Most Reverend Justin Welby, archbishop of Canterbury:

Dear Editor,

Archbishop, I bid you a warm welcome to our beautiful island. Your presence here is a cherished occasion, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to bask in the spiritual warmth and guidance of such an esteemed leader.

Your life exemplifies the extraordinary qualities of a sincere spiritual leader. The stories of your bravery and calmness in the face of danger, such as the harrowing experiences in Nigeria where you were captured by rebels in 2005 and later arrested by soldiers, speak volumes about your unwavering faith and commitment to your divine calling. The ability to remain composed and fully immerse yourself in God’s work, despite life-threatening circumstances, is a testament to your profound dedication and selflessness.

A true spiritual leader mirrors the ultimate sacrificial love, embodying the willingness to lay down one’s life for the flock. Your actions consistently reflect this highest form of devotion. Whether negotiating peace in the shadows of Al Qaeda or serving as a volunteer chaplain at St Thomas’ Hospital during the COVID-19 lockdown, your life is a beacon of hope and an embodiment of Christ’s sacrificial love.

Nurturing, protecting, and guiding the faithful with unwavering conviction — these are the hallmarks of a genuine spiritual shepherd. Your fearless dedication to prayerfully serve the sick and dying during one of the darkest times in recent history showcases your compassion and deep sense of pastoral responsibility. You inspire us to appreciate that true spiritual leadership transcends the pulpit and permeates every aspect of daily life.

In Jamaica, we cherish values of community, resilience, and faith. Your ministry, characterised by courage, humility, and compassion, resonates deeply with these values, and we are blessed to witness and learn from your living example of Christ-like love and sacrifice.

As you walk among us, praying and sharing in our joys and struggles, we pray that your time here will be as enriching and rejuvenating for you as your presence is for us. May your journey in Jamaica be filled with memorable experiences, meaningful connections, and countless blessings.

Once again, welcome to Jamaica, Archbishop Welby. Your light and love are profoundly valued here, and we look forward to the spiritual upliftment that your visit will undoubtedly bring when the Church meets in worship at National Arena on July 21, 2024 to celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of the Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

Dudley McLean II

dm15094@gmail.com