Dear Editor,

It is with great regret that I learnt of the death of Barbara Gloudon, who had been ailing for some time.

A well-known and highly respected journalist, playwright, talk show host, and social commentator, Gloudon has been a pillar of support in the advancement of the ministry of the Diocese of Jamaica & The Cayman Islands.

A cradle Anglican, Gloudon was actively involved in the life of the church from her youth. She served as a lay reader and active member of St Joseph’s The Grove, near Gordon Town, St Andrew, where she nurtured many youngsters in the church. Her impact and deep concern for a society in which long-established values are being discarded are testimony to her strong Christian witness.

Gloudon brought her wide range of skills to bear as she served as communication consultant to the diocese for more than four decades, providing a strong, professional link between the church and news media as well as the wider Jamaican society.

Ever willing to share her expertise, she provided invaluable guidance to four successive diocesan bishops, with whom she worked closely. Her contribution in the planning and execution of major diocesan services and events was immeasurable.

The opening service for annual diocesan synods, the historic 14th meeting of the worldwide Anglican Consultative Council held in Jamaica in 2009, and the subsequent visit in 2012 of the Most Reverend John Sentamu, archbishop of York, are among the many events in which she played an integral part.

More than 30 years ago, Gloudon took on the role of editor of The Jamaica Churchman, as the diocesan newspaper was then called. And, under her direction, there was a seamless transition from this quarterly publication to its successor, The Anglican, in 2004 in response to a synod resolution calling for a more “gender-inclusive” title.

Radio audiences still recall her voice on the weekly programme Think on These Things, which is, today, a brand in its own right.

Our diocese also benefited from her theatrical skills, the last time being our highly successful Clergy in Concert production in 2013.

Although she retired in 2017, Gloudon continued to serve the church in several areas.

The Diocese of Jamaica & the Cayman Islands acknowledges, with appreciation, Barbara Gloudon’s tremendous legacy of service in God’s name, and extends its condolence to her family. May her soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine on her.

The Most Reverend Howard K A Gregory

Archbishop of the West Indies, Primate and Metropolitan

Bishop of Jamaica & the Cayman Islands