The Celebration of the Holy Eucharist in Thanksgiving
For the life of
Rev’d Canon
Lamuel Wellington Been
Sunrise: 22nd February 1939
Sunset: 28th April 2025
Age: 86
Service Held At:
The Parish Church of St. Thomas, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Island
Date: Wednesday 21st May 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
Chief Celebrant and Preacher:
The Right Reverend Laish Zane Boyd
Bishop of the Diocese of The Bahamas and The Turks and Caicos Islands
Concelebrants:
Archdeacon The Venerable Keith Cartwright
The Reverend Canon Mark Kendall
The Reverend Canon Norman Lightbourne
The Reverend Desire Johnson
The Reverend Father Bernard Been
The Reverend Canon Curtis Robinson
Organist:
Ms Leathe Wilson
Interment Made In:
Canon Lamuel W. Been, retired priest of the Anglican Diocese of The Bahamas and The Turks and Caicos Islands and former Rector of the parishes of St Thomas (TCI), St. Luke and Our Lady and St. Stephen (The Bahamas)., passed away Monday, April 28, 2025, at 86.
Time to be Born and Nurtured
Lamuel Wellington Been whose name means “devoted to God” was born on February 22, 1939 (Ash Wednesday) on Salt Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands, to the late Vose and Exemenia (née Garland) Been. He arrived eight years after his elder brother Lewis and four years before Hilton, both of whom preceded him in death.
Raised in a tapestry of familial and spiritual guidance, his upbringing was shaped by his parents, siblings, paternal grandparents Benjamin and Julia Ann Been, and maternal grandfather Jonathan Garland, a Baptist deacon, alongside grandmother, Adelaide (née Forbes). His Baptist foundations deepened through weekly Wednesday Prayer Meetings with his Aunt Hester, where he often fought sleepiness with “little eyes weighed down,” as he fondly recalled.
Key figures in his early life included godparents Mary Robinson, Frederick Been, and Nathaniel Walkins, and childhood friends like Leonard P.J. Wilson, Oscar Talbot, Charles Taylor, and the late Vincent Wilson, Vincent Jennings, and Theodore Been.
Time for School and Play
He commenced school at the age of six. His teachers included his godmother, the late Mary Robinson, patron of the school and the late educators Mr. Oswald Smith and Eliza Simons (Patron of the Eliza Simons Primary School). Here he also played popular games such as marbles, spinning tops, hopscotch, bat and ball and rounders.
School was not as sophisticated as it is today. He constantly spoke of the work written on the blackboard by the teacher, after which the children wrote on slates, the exercise book of the day. Sometimes the homework was accidently erased
with the day’s work. Subjects included arithmetic (his favourite), History, bible studies, English, and geography made up the studies. He completed school at age 14 as he was not chosen to attend the high school on Grand Turk.
Time for Work on Salt Cay
After school, he began his career as a government timekeeper meticulously signalling 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. by raising a timekeeping ball and ringing a bell at 10:00 a.m. a role he held for six years, perfectly suited to his punctual nature that was reaffirmed especially by his Godmother Mary Robinson, also the school’s principal. Like the other boys at the time, he attended music classes with Thadeus Taylor and Arthur Wilson mastering the saxophone.
His lifelong passion for Scouting was ignited under his cousin, Scout Master Lloyd Been. The principles of community and civic duty was embedded in his upbringing. He also immersed himself in St. John’s Parish Church, then bustling with hundreds of congregants, serving as an Altar Guild member, Chorister, Lay Reader, and Sunday School Teacher. Classes convened at 3:00 p.m., followed by evening services—a rhythm that deepened his spiritual and communal roots.
Transition to Grand Turk
Due to limited opportunities on Salt Cay, he relocated to Grand Turk on January 1, 1959. The following day, he secured employment as a clerk at Turks Islands Importers (TIMCO) Hardware Store. His dedication and hard work earned him a promotion to Manager of TIMCO, then the largest goods importer in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He held this role for thirteen years, contributing significantly to the company’s operations. Residents across the islands deeply appreciated his efforts to secure essential goods for their communities, while maritime captains thrived through his reliable shipping networks. Through these endeavors, he cultivated enduring trust and strengthened connections with communities across the archipelago.
During his early years in Grand Turk, he resided in North Back Salina with his brother Lewis, sister-in-law Monica and their children, including Eustace and the late Rose Ann. This close-knit household fostered bonds, with Lewis’s children and the older Saunders children (of Thomas and Catherine) affectionately calling him “Barba Lam”—a testament to his familial role.
Seizing new opportunities, he later joined Bahamian insurer British Fidelity Assurance Company as Manager, overseeing nationwide operations that required frequent travel to meet clients. His trips to North Caicos often concluded with his family receiving baskets of local fruits from his relatives in Kew, North Caicos a heartfelt gesture bridging his professional and personal worlds.
His love for music grew, as he became more exposed to sheet music. He often recalled the choir under the direction of Mr. Boothe and his times as a tenor singer in the Broadway Plays- Pirates of Penzance and H.M.S. Pinafore under the pianoforte of the late Araminta Tatem and Marjorie Sadler.
Time for Marriage
In an era when young women were chaperoned by male relatives, Lamuel and Cynthia’s courtship unfolded under the watch of her younger brother Earl. Their bond would grow and as time passed and memories were made, including one where Earle, dozing beneath the Butman during Cynthia’s engagement class, nearly fell into the sea as he waited.
A Joyous Union:
On June 24, 1964, Lamuel and Cynthia’s union was celebrated in a heartfelt ceremony officiated by Rev. Fr. Devers. The event featured a Boy Scout Honor Guard honoring Lamuel’s community contributions followed by a lively reception at the home of Cynthia’s cousin, James Fulford. The festivities shone even brighter under the glow of the island’s first city-powered electricity, newly installed to illuminate their historic celebration.
Family Time
The union welcomed the firstborn, Deborah Bridget Colleen, on April 20, 1965, followed closely by Derek, David, Betty-Ann, Michelle, Bernard and Brian. Additionally, his mother Exemenia stayed with them as a closely knitted extended family where family members including Verna Musgrove, Johnathan Lightbourne and the late Aulden Smith (Smokey) resided.
His profound love for family drove him to connect with relatives wherever he traveled. At times scanning through local phonebooks for recognizable surnames a habit that uncovered long-lost relatives in New York and elsewhere. Conversations were never superficial; he delved into roots and ancestry, often helping others uncover unexpected family ties. To him, everyone was a potential cousin, every chat an opportunity to grow the family tree.
Move Community Life
In the mid-1960s, he was a member of the first electric band in the Turks and Caicos Islands, The Flames. Other members were Llewelyn Simons, Lovey Forbes and the late Eliza Simons, Vincent “Picky” Wilson, Charles Taylor, Vernon Ellis, and Preston Malcolm. Lamuel played the double bass and saxophone and sang lead and tenor.
His civic life in the 1970s and 80s was extensive. He was a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Grand Turk, a Member of the Grand Turk Carnival Committee and a Boy Scout Leader for over three decades; attending Caribbean Boy Scout Jamborees in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana, etc. and hosting ten (10) day local camps annually on Grand Turk, where he took vacation to ensure participation. At this time, he was a Boy Scout Master. Hundreds of young men throughout these islands and in The Bahamas often comment on his mentorship as scouts and can attest to the Lanyard, (AKA Lan-ying).
He proudly recalled his childhood sprinting rivalry with Calvin “Small Boy” Simons and his lifelong passion for West Indian cricket, which inspired naming
his son Rohan after cricketer Rohan Kanhai. As a cricket captain, he led a team featuring National Hero J.A.G.S. McCartney, whom he fondly dubbed “his fast bowler.”
God’s Work and Ministry
Prior to committing, he held a family meeting to discuss his choice and received support especially from his wife. It was explained to the children what sacrifices would come as a result. Upon receiving the call to the priesthood, he entered Codrington Theological College, Barbados, in summer 1979. This meant like many before him, leaving his lucrative earthly career and family behind to attend seminary. He left his wife, mother and seven children to answer the call. Things were not the same, and Cynthia often had to make ends meet under challenging circumstances.
In 1981, he graduated from Codrington College and on 29th June 1981 he was ordained to the Deaconate of the Diocese of Nassau and The Bahamas (including the Turks and Caicos Islands) by Bishops Richard Spear and Michael Eldon at St. Mary’s Church. He began ministry at St. George’s Parish, New Providence, under the experienced eye of Canon Dudley Strachan. Canon Strachan advocated for a special collection to be taken at Pentecost and given to Lamuel as the assistant making him the first to supplement his stipend. Whilst serving at St. George’s, Deacon Lamuel was Elevated to priesthood at Christ Church Cathedral by Bishop Eldon on July 22, 1982, and served at St. George until 1984.
In 1984, he returned to Grand Turk and became Rector of St Thomas, St John’s, and St George parishes, he was also instrumental in founding St. Monica’s Church on Providenciales. His seven-year tenure, saw vibrant church revitalization, renovations (including St. Thomas Parish Church) and expanded pastoral and youth outreach
One of the most profound moments in his ministry occurred on 14th March 1986, when he had the honour of hosting the Most Rev. Dr. Robert Runcie, then Archbishop of Canterbury and spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion on Grand Turk. This encounter, which he often described as a cherished milestone, marked the beginning of a lasting connection with Archbishop Runcie—a relationship he deeply valued in the years that followed.
His enjoyment of eucharist was amplified by his distinct, tenor voice, which was powerful and pitch perfect. Some often joked that he could balance the entire Cathedral and would listen keenly for him through the hundreds and pipe organ. This voice remained until the day before his admission to the hospital for an intervention.
His later civic contributions included serving as Commissioner of the Public Service Commission. After the suspension of the 1985 Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution and much uncertainty within the political scene for the Turks and Caicos Islands he was appointed by the Governor to the 1988 Constitutional
Negotiation Team. This pivotal role saw him travel to the United Kingdom to engage in talks for the reinstatement of the Turks and Caicos Islands Constitution, a critical juncture in the territory’s political history.
Much of his contributions to social development were recognized in 1990 when he was honored with the Queen’s Badge and Certificate. Despite recognition he chose not to wear it on his shoulder; as his belief was that these actions were national duties and choices; and service were to be given by all.
Back to The Bahamas
In 1991, Father Been was appointed Rector of St. Luke’s Parish in Rock Sound, South Eleuthera, overseeing six congregations: St. Columba, St. Joseph, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Mary the Virgin, and St. Michael & All Angels. He embraced this role with zeal, strengthening parish life through initiatives like the establishment of a Boy Scouts troop, Girl Guides company and youth mass choir. The partnership between Canon Been and the island community flourished, described as “a match made in heaven.”
In 1995, he assumed rectorship of Our Lady and St. Stephen, spearheading parish repairs, launching the Discovery renewal program, and fostering enduring diocesan relationships through widespread parish visits.
Canon Been and his wife Cynthia, alongside their children, left a profound legacy across The Bahamas. Their hospitality in Eleuthera and Bimini became legendary, touching countless lives beyond their family. Their contributions spiritual, communal, and relational—remain etched in the heart of the islands.
His ministry extended to South Florida, where his visits included stays with the late Uncle Anthony and Aunt Rosa Simons, as well as Mrs. Beverly Burns and her family. His scouting background proved invaluable—he travelled with vestments always packed and ready in his luggage, embodying preparedness. He also fostered meaningful connections, collaborating closely with the late Canon Richard Barry and Rev. Kenneth Major in their shared efforts to serve the Overtown and Liberty City communities, which he enjoyed.
Time to Return
In 1999, Father Been returned home and was installed as Rector of St. Thomas Parish, overseeing the newly elevated Pro-Cathedral of St. Mary and St. John’s Church. That same year, he was elevated to Canon of the Cathedral Chapter—a rare honour, making him the second Turks and Caicos Islander to hold this title. A lifelong devotee of sacred music, He actively sang in choirs across Anglican parishes in the Turks and Caicos Islands and The Bahamas. He held a special fondness for Handel’s Messiah, performing its demanding tenor solos on multiple occasions, his voice becoming a cherished fixture in liturgical celebrations.
Among his most cherished experiences was receiving an invitation to the prestigious United States Presidential Prayer Breakfast an honor that held deep personal and spiritual significance; facilitated by close friends.
Retirement
Following his son’s ordination on June 29, 2004, Canon Been formally retired the next day, June 30, transitioning to assisting with services at St. George’s Parish before later serving as Associate Priest to the Rector of St. Thomas and St. John’s.
After the passing of his beloved wife Cynthia 30th June 2008, he continued to maintain their souvenir store and uphold her legacy. He found solace in baking peanuts and crafting sweet treats, including his beloved queen cakes a labour of love he persisted in sharing until physical limitations prompted him to step back. After Real retirement seeped in, his life evolved to long rides, more puzzle books and travel as he liked.
After Hurricane Irma damaged his Grand Turk home in 2017, he began spending more time on Providenciales with his daughter Michelle and son-in-law Vernon. With their support and the help of his son David alongside his driver and sisterin-law Patsy—he adapted to life there more seamlessly than his family anticipated. He forged new connections through his church community, Michelle’s school circles, and often seen accompanying David.
Daily, he phoned his children, grandchildren, and relatives across Grand Turk, Providenciales, and Salt Cay, remaining deeply connected despite the distance. His cell phone became a lifeline, constantly replenished with minutes to sustain conversations with his wide network of loved ones and parishioners.
Canon Been’s ministry radiated generosity and compassion, his sermons always closing with a call to “live in love.” He prized intangible treasures faith, relationships, and service over material wealth, embodying simplicity in his own life. His heart dwelled on God, the Church, and the spiritual direction of the nation. While he celebrated progress, he gently challenged his community to embrace greater responsibility in shaping a morally anchored future.
Family Time
He referred to his children as the Magnificent Seven. He gave and showed the same love to his grandchildren. When Chelsea was born, he went about with her picture, even showing the tourists. He enquired about their well-being, particularly their education. For Alexander and Andrew, he was equally excited especially knowing that they would carry on the Been name.
Growing up in the home family devotions meant a lot and everyone had to participate, when given the opportunity Bernard would pray for everything including the cats.
Family occasions and gatherings on Grand Turk and Providenciales were special to him, and he was almost always among the first to arrive, as time was important to him. This was a period for high feasting, conversation, and bonding. He travelled through the islands, and the region to attend graduation, birthday events, Christmas, and other holidays that would be family oriented. Picture taking was always interesting as he retained his young days pose, and everyone had to direct him. Family members could anticipate a birthday call, and prayers over the food
were Baptist in nature, long and sincere.
As mentioned already, time was important to him, and if you told him you will collect him at a certain time, be prepared for a phone call 90 minutes before scheduled pickup and calls in 10 - 15 minute intervals until you arrived for him, whereby he greeted you with smile and said, I thought you wasn’t coming or time is time. He played dominoes on many occasions and often came up short despite suggesting he was a good player.
He was good multi-tasker at home, listening to the news (particularly CNN), whilst drinking tea and eating sweet biscuits/queen cakes, while listening and watching television, with his radio to the loudest, tuned into RTC or ZNS. Recently, the tablet became his partner, particularly when he found out he could watch live church services and listen to Jim Reeves. Advanced cell phones never became a part of him. He loved the bubblers.
Time to Die
Canon Been travelled to Nassau on 13th March 2025 to be with Deborah and attend to personal matters. Into his last days he attended holy Eucharist St. George’s. Canon worshipped at St George on Mothering Sunday this year and was recognized as the oldest male in the congregation. On the 20th April, 2025, he celebrated Deborah’s 60th birthday, with his last worshipped at St. Georges, where his Ministry begun. His last community event was the St. James Fair, which he truly enjoyed on the Easter Monday as he got to see old friends and acquaintances, not knowing it would be the last. The Valley Family remained the base for Canon Been Family, for which the family are forever grateful for the congregation’s reception and support.
On the early morning of the 23rd of April he complained of stomach pains and was taken to the Princess Margaret Hospital by Deborah. Early indications and actions suggested that he was progressing medically as he was trying to speak with visitors despite the breathing apparatus. On the morning of Monday, April 28, 2025, the family received a message that he had a critical setback, his condition worsened, despite the medical team attempts to revive; and at 3:20 pm on that same day his transitioned into eternity.
Canon Been, always said that we do not know anything when we are asleep. We pray and hope that you are seeing and meeting with your Father.
May your soul rest in peace and rise in glory.
Left to cherish his fond memories:
3 Daughters: Deborah Greene, Betty-Ann Been, and Michelle Williams
4 Sons: Derek, David, Bernard, and Brian Been
1 Son-In Law: William Greene (deceased) and Vernon Williams
3 Daughters-In-Law: Shonia Thomas-Been, Sandra Been, and Jo-Ann Been
3 Brothers-in-Law: Ronald Francis of the U.S.A., Earle Taylor of Freeport and Harold Taylor of California
Sisters-in Law: Monica Been, Betty Taylor of Freeport, Hazel Taylor of Nassau,
Tinnie Taylor of California, Mary Francis of the U.S.A., Patsy and Barbara Taylor
3 Grandchildren: Martin Fields-Been (deceased), Chelsea Been, Alexander and Andrew Been
2 Great Grand Children: Nyobi and Abinee Fields
Nephews and Nieces: Eustace (Leonza) Been, Theodore (Lorna) Been, Eric (Valarie) Been, Benjamin (Rosenae) Been, and Kevin (Janice) Been, Marjorie Williams, Veronica Been, Barbara (Ferrington) Gardiner and Gillian (Paulette) Been; Mario, Caprina, Katarvia, Kataran, and Katarlah Taylor; Nikeva Ariza, Anna-Alicia (Maxius) Berthier, Terrell, Harold Jr, Trumaine, Patrina. Jennifer and Cassandra Taylor, Dileecia Taylor and Darianna Louison, Damali Lily, Kobie Lily, Yaa Mone Oppong.
Grand/Great Nephew and Nieces: Caden, Caleb, Xyon, D’marion, Raylan, MaddisonGrace, Kasside, Mario Jr, Rashad, Antonio, Kayline, Darnelle, Moeisha, Raniesha, Terrell Jr., Tanae, Scott, Floyd (Taiywatie), Kesha, Hakeem, Shenika ( Lindsay), Tuere, Jasmine ( George), Sherkira, Shaquan, Theo (Melissa), Jamal, Adrianne (Christopher), Rose, Angie, Avianne, Keriann, Tyreake, Tyler, Briann, Britty, Tiarra, Taylin, Kervin Jr., Amelia, Shaquan Jr., Jadin, Leah, Liam, Omni, Carmelo, Bethany, Carnor, Jah-Aya, Christopher Jr., Kimberly, Melanie, Harper, Harley, Harley, Ayven, Taryn and Tanai.
Cousins:Alfred Been, Dorothy Francis, Jerline Roker, Cecilly Roker, Winnifred Jennings, Holton Dickenson, Patricia Simmons; Families of the Been’s, Garland’s and the Gibson’s, Whynn’s, Forbes of North Caicos.
God Children: Flexie Talbot, Colin Hawkins, John Glenn Hanchell, Linda Smith, Alfred Smith, Richard Taylor, Gwella Aneston, Jeanerie Robinson, Barbara Taylor, Nixon Dickenson, Andrew Knowles, Margaret Fulford, Travis Simons, Andrew Knowles, Calvin Astwood, Calvin and Maurice Williams and Cerdric Selver.
Families & Individuals: Saunders, Lightbourne, Astwood families. Families of the late Alexander and Ruthphine Smith; the late Walter and Consuela Garland, the late Sidney Garland and family, the late Anthony and Rosa Simons; the late Jane Durham; the late James and Anita Fulford Sr.; the late John and Leila Robinson; the late Walter and Consuela Garland; the late George and Mercedes Williams, the late James and Annie Simmons; the late Lester & Rosie Williams; Surace and Helen Bhagwandin Wilfred and William Thomas and Family; Edwin and Jonathan Lightbourne and Family, Derek and Betty-Ann Roberts and family; Neville and Lillian Adams; Beverly Burns and Family; Eric and Mavis Smith, Kenneth and Evelyn (Abby) Adams, Chester and Naomi Smith, Hon. Josephine and Joe Connolly, Edna and Collin Sterlin, Arabella Smith and family; Lewis Smith and Family; Lea and Jean Astwood; Walter and Clarabell Garland and family Dr. Leopold & Hon. Cynthia Astwood; Emmanuel and Ella Missick; Sanfra Foster, Desmond and Pansy Quant, Walter and Clarabelle Garland; Wayne and Janet Williams; Hon. Derek and Loleta Taylor; (Flyer) Carl and Marjorie Simmons Thomas Family and Pauline Saunders and Family; The Glintons of South Caicos; Lilieth Allen, Fr. Curtis Robinson and Family.
Extended Family Groups: Ewing, Gibson, Fulford, Robinson, Williams, Wilson, Been, Adams, Taylor, Ingham, Grant, Francis, Malcolm, Gardiner Butterfield, Quant, Dickenson, Durham, Hawkins, Seymour, Missick, Thomas, Smith, Simmons, Simons, Duncanson, Godets and Clarke families.
Churches Served: The Parishes of St. Thomas, St. John and St. George of South Caicos and St. Monica (TCI); St. Georges (New Providence), St. Luke’s, St. Columba, St. Joseph, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Mary the Virgin and St. Michael & All Angels of South Eleuthera; Our Lady and St. Stephen, Bimini and the wider Anglican Community.
The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to the Emergency Team of the Princess Margaret Hospital, New Providence, Bahamas. Also, the multitude of individuals who have extended their unwavering support during this period of profound sorrow. Your kind gestures of compassion have not gone unnoticed and will be duly acknowledged at a more fitting moment.
Canon Been’s legacy can easily be described with humility, faithfulness, and love. Sleep on, Daddy, take your rest, we love you, but Jesus loves you best.
MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE AND RISE IN GLORY!
ORDER OF SERVICE
RECEPTION OF THE BODY:
With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our brother Lamuel Wellington for burial. Our brother was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God our Heavenly Father, the Giver of life, that He will raise him to perfection in the company of the Saints.
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
ALL: And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray.
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our brother Lamuel Wellington . We thank you for giving him to us, his family and friends, to know and love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
ALL: Amen.
OPENING SENTENCES:
Jesus said, I am the resurrection, and I am the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and who ever lives and believes in me shall never die.
John 11:25-25
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed Lamentations 3:22-23
Jesus said, let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me.
John 14:1
I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angles, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.
Romans 14:8-9
We brought nothing into the world, and we take nothing out. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Job 1:21
The Eternal God is our refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27
READING OF THE OBITUARY | Ms Ancha Musgrove (Cousin and Warden St. Monica)
THE HYMN | How Bright These Glorious Spirits Shine
(Hymn 828, CPWI Hymnal)
1. How bright these glorious spirits shine! Whence all their white array? How came they to the blissful seats Of everlasting day?
2. Lo! these are they from sufferings great Who came to realms of light, And in the blood of Christ have washed Those robes which shine so bright.
3. Now, with triumphal palms, they stand Before the throne on high, And serve the God they love, amidst The glories of the sky.
4. Hunger and thirst are felt no more, Nor suns with scorching ray; God is their sun, whose cheering beams Diffuse eternal day.
5. The Lamb who dwells amidst the throne Shall o’er them still preside, Feed them with nourishment divine, And all their footsteps guide.
6. In pastures green he’ll lead his flock Where living streams appear; And God the Lord from every eye Shall wipe off every tear.
THE COLLECT FOR PURITY:
All: Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from You no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You and worthily magnify Your Holy Name, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
COLLECT FOR THE DEPARTED:
Celebrant: Let us pray:
Almighty God, we remember before You today Your servant Lamuel Wellington, and we pray that, having opened to him the gates of larger life, you will receive him more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have served you in the past, he may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
All: Amen.
-Please be seated-
THE OLD TESTAMENT LESSON | Wisdom 3: 1-5,9 | Catechist Holton Dickenson (Cousin)
HYMN | “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” | Crimond—478 CPWI
1 The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want; he makes me down to lie in pastures green; he leadeth me the quiet waters by.
2 My soul he doth restore again, and me to walk doth make within the paths of righteousness, e’en for his own name’s sake.
3 Yea, though I walk through death’s dark vale, yet will I fear none ill: for thou art with me, and thy rod and staff me comfort still.
4 My table thou hast furnishèd in presence of my foes; my head thou dost with oil anoint, and my cup overflows.
5 Goodness and mercy all my life shall surely follow me; and in God’s house forevermore my dwelling-place shall be.
SECOND LESSON | II Corinthians 4:16—5:9 | Mrs. Evelyn Adams (Cousin) -Please Stand-
GRADUAL HYMN | “Pleasant Are Thy Courts Above” (Hymn 740, CPWI Hymnal)
1. Pleasant are Thy courts above, In the land of light and love; Pleasant are Thy courts below, In this world of sin and woe: Oh, my spirit longs and faints For the converse of Thy saints, For the brightness of Thy face, For Thy fullness, God of grace.
2. Happy birds that sing and fly Round Thy altars, O Most High; Happier souls that find a rest In a heavenly Father’s breast! Like the wandering dove that found No repose on earth around, They can to their ark repair, And enjoy it ever there.
3. Happy souls, their praises flow Even in this vale of woe; Waters in the desert rise, Manna feeds them from the skies, On they go from strength to strength, Till they reach thy throne at length, At thy feet adoring fall, Who hast led them safe through all.
4. Lord, be mine this prize to win, Guide me through a world of sin, Keep me by thy saving grace, Give me at thy side a place; Sun and shield alike thou art, Guide and guard my erring heart; Grace and glory flow from thee; Shower, O shower them, Lord, on me.
-Please Stand-
THE HOLY GOSPEL | John 20:1-9 | Rev’d Fr. Eric Miller (Gospeller)
SELECTION | St. Thomas Parish Choir
SERMON | The Rt. Rev’d Laish Zane Boyd
THE APOSTLE CREED
CELEBRANT: Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith into which we were baptized, as we say,
All: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
-Please Kneel-
THE INTERCESSION: | Chelsea Been, Alexander Been, and Nyobi Selver-Field (Grandchildren)
Leader: For our brother Lamuel Wellington, let us pray to the Lord Christ who said, “I am Resurrection and I am life”.
Leader: Lord, you consoled Martha and Mary in their distress; draw near to us who mourn for our brother and dry the tears of those who weep.
All: Hear, us Lord.
Leader: You wept at the grave of Lazarus your friend; comfort us in sorrow.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: You raised the dead to life; Raise our brother to eternal life.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: You promised paradise to the thief who repented; bring our brother the joys of heaven.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: Our brother was washed in baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit; give him fellowship with all Your Saints.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: He was nourished with your Body and Blood; grant him a place at the table in your heavenly Kingdom.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our Lamuel Wellington. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Silence may be kept.
Celebrant: Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to you our brother Lamuel Wellington who was reborn by water and the Spirit in Holy baptism. Grant that his death may recall to us your victory over death, and be an occasion for us to renew our trust in your Father’s love. Give us, we pray, the faith to follow where you have led the way and where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, to the ages of ages. Amen.
THE ACT OF PENITENCE
Celebrant: If we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves, and the truth in not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
A period of silence shall be kept.
Celebrant: Let us therefore confess our sins.
All: Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against You and one another, in thought, word and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For Your son, our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve You in newness of life to the glory of Your Name. Amen.
THE ABSOLUTION
Celebrant: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
-Please Stand-
THE PEACE
Celebrant: We are the Body of Christ. By the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body and have all been made to drink of one spirit.
All: Let us then pursue the things that make for peace and build up the common life.
Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
All: And also with you.
OFFERTORY HYMN | “I Stand Amazed” I Stand Amazed (My Savior’s Love)
1. I stand amazed in the presence Of Jesus the Nazarene, And wonder how He could love me, A sinner, condemned, unclean.
Refrain: How marvelous! How wonderful! And my song shall ever be: How marvelous! How wonderful! Is my Savior’s love for me!
2. For me it was in the garden He prayed: “Not My will, but Thine”; He had no tears for His own griefs, But sweat drops of blood for mine.
3. He took my sins and my sorrows, He made them His very own; He bore the burden to Calv’ry, And suffered and died alone.
4. When with the ransomed in glory His face I at last shall see, ’Twill be my joy through the ages To sing of His love for me.
ELEMENT BEARERS | Monica Simmons (St. Thomas) Tarsha Lewis (St. George) Marjorie Williams (Niece)
THE PRESENTATION OF THE OFFERING OFFERTORY PRAYER
Celebrant: Through your goodness, Lord, we have this bread and wine to offer, the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands. They will become our spiritual food.
All: All things come from you, O Lord, and of your own do we give you. Blessed be God forever. Amen.
1 Hark! The sound of holy voices, chanting at the crystal sea: alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, Lord, to thee: multitude, which none can number, like the stars in glory stands, clothed in white apparel, holding palms of victory in their hands.
2 Patriarch and holy prophet, who prepared the way of Christ, king, apostle, saint, confessor, martyr and evangelist, saintly maiden, godly matron, widows who have watched to prayer, joined in holy concert, singing to the Lord of all, are there.
3 They have come from tribulation, and have washed their robes in blood, washed them in the blood of Jesus; tried they were, and firm they stood; gladly, Lord, with thee they suffered; gladly, Lord, with thee they died, and by death to life immortal they were born, and glorified.
4 Now they reign in heavenly glory, now they walk in golden light, now they drink, as from a river, holy bliss and infinite; love and peace they taste for ever, and all truth and knowledge see in the beatific vision of the blessèd Trinity.
5 God of God, the One-begotten, Light of Light, Emmanuel, in whose Body joined together all the saints for ever dwell; pour upon us of thy fullness, that we may for evermore God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost adore.
THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
All: And also with you.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
All: We lift them up to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
All: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give You thanks, Father Almighty, everlasting God: Through Jesus Christ our Lord; Who rose victorious from the dead and comforts us with the blessed hope of life eternal. For to Your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens.
Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of Your Name.
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Celebrant: Sovereign Lord and Father, to You be glory and praise forever. In Your boundless wisdom You brought creation into being; in Your great love You fashioned us in Your image; in Your tender compassion You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour, to share our human nature; in the power of the Holy Spirit, He overcame the power of sin and death and brought Your people to new birth as first of Your new creation.
On the night that He was betrayed, He took bread and when He had given thanks to You, He broke it and gave it to His disciples and said: “Take this and eat it: This is my Body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of Me.”
And after supper He took the cup of wine: and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and said: “Drink this, all of you: This is My Blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of Me.”
Celebrant: Therefore, Father, according to the command of Your dearly beloved Son.
All: We remember His death. We proclaim His resurrection. We await His coming in glory.
Celebrant: And we offer You, Father, our sacrifice of thanks and praise. Send Your Holy Spirit on these gifts of bread and wine that they may become the Body and Blood of Your Son, Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer. As we partake of this holy food of new and unending life, may Your Holy Spirit establish us as a royal priesthood with the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Thomas, St. John, St. George, St. Monica, St. Luke and all Your sons and daughters who share in Your eternal inheritance; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. With Him and in Him and through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship You, Father almighty, with all who stand before You in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise.
All: Blessings and honour and glory and power be yours forever and ever. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER:
Celebrant: As our Saviour has taught us, so we pray:
All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name; Your kingdom come; Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are Yours, now and forever. Amen.
THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the Body of Christ.
All: Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.
THE AGNUS DEI
Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: Grant them rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: Grant them rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: Grant them rest eternal.
THE COMMUNION
COMMUNION HYMNS
My Jesus I Love Thee (Hymn 531, CPWI Hymnal)
1. My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine; For Thee all the pleasures of sin I resign; My gracious Redeemer, my Saviour art Thou: If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
2. I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me, And purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree; I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow: If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
3. I’ll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death, And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath; And say when the death-dew lies cold on my brow: If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
4. In mansions of glory and endless delight, I’ll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright; I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow: If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.
Alleluia Sing To Jesus (Hymn 569, CPWI Hymnal)
1. Alleluia! sing to Jesus; His the sceptre, His the throne; Alleluia! His the triumph, His the victory alone. Hark! the songs of peaceful Zion Thunder like a mighty flood; Jesus, out of every nation, Hath redeemed us by His blood.
2. Alleluia! not as orphans Are we left in sorrow now; Alleluia! He is near us, Faith believes, nor questions how. Though the cloud from sight received Him When the forty days were o’er, Shall our hearts forget His promise: “I am with you evermore”?
3. Alleluia! bread of angels, Thou on earth our food, our stay; Alleluia! here the sinful Flee to Thee from day to day. Intercessor, Friend of sinners, Earth’s Redeemer, plead for me, Where the songs of all the sinless Sweep across the crystal sea.
4.Alleluia! King eternal, Thee the Lord of lords we own; Alleluia! born of Mary, Earth Thy footstool, heaven Thy throne. Thou within the veil hast entered, Robed in flesh, our great High Priest; Thou on earth both Priest and Victim In the Eucharistic feast.
5. Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to God on high; Alleluia to the Saviour, Who has gained the victory; Alleluia to the Spirit, fount of love and sanctity; Alleluia, Alleluia To the Triune Majesty.
Hark My Soul It Is the Lord (Hymn 518, CPWI Hymnal)
1. Hark, my soul! it is the Lord; ’ Tis thy Saviour, hear His word; Jesus speaks, and speaks to thee: “Say, poor sinner, lov’st thou Me?
2. I delivered thee when bound, And,when bleeding, healed thy wound; Sought thee wandering,set thee right, Turned thy darkness into light.
3. Can a woman’s tender care Cease toward the child she bare? Yes, she may forgetful be, Yet will I remember thee.
4. Mine is an unchanging love, Higher than the heights above, Deeper than the depths beneath, Free and faithful, strong as death.
5. Thou shalt see My glory soon, When the work of grace is done; Partner of My throne shalt be: Say, poor sinner, lov’st thou Me?”
6. Lord, it is my chief complaint That my love is weak and faint; Yet I love Thee, and adore: O for grace to love Thee more.
Here I my Lord, I see thee face to face (Hymn 348, CPWI Hymnal)
1.Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face; Here would I touch and handle things unseen; Here grasp with firmer hand the eternal grace, And all my weariness upon Thee lean.
2. Here would I feed upon the bread of God, Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heaven; Here would I lay aside each earthly load, Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiven.
3. I have no help but Thine, nor do I need Another arm save Thine to lean upon; It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed; My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone.
POST COMMUNION
All: Almighty God, we thank you that in Your great love You have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ, and have given us a foretaste of Your heavenly banquet. Grant that this Sacrament may be to us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom, where there is no death, neither sorrow nor crying, but the fullness of joy with your saints; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
HYMN | Palms of Glory (Hymn 838, CPWI Hymnal)
1. Palms of glory, raiment bright, Crowns that never fade away; Gird and deck the saints in light, Priests, and kings, and conquerors they.
2. Yet the conquerors bring their palms To the Lamb amidst the throne, And proclaim in joyful psalms, Victory through His death alone.
3. King for harps their crowns resign, Crying, as they strike the chords, ‘Take the kingdom, it is thine, King of Kingdom and Lord of lords,’
4. Round the altar priests confess, If their robes are white as snow, ‘twas the Saviour’s righteousness, And his blood, that made them so.
5. They were mortal too like us; Ah! When we like them must die, May our souls translated thus Triumph, reign, and shine on high.
THE COMMENDATION:
The president and other ministers take their place at the body:
Minister: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant with your saints.
All: Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
Minister: You only are immortal, the Creator and Maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth and to earth shall we return. For so did you ordain when you created me, saying, “You are dust and to dust you shall return.” All of us go down to the dust: yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
All: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
Minister: Lord, Have Mercy.
All: Christ, Have Mercy. Minister: Lord, Have Mercy.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name; Your kingdom come; Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are Yours, now and forever. Amen.
Celebrant: Let us commend our brother Lamuel Wellington to the mercy of God our maker and Redeemer. Deliver your servant, Lamuel Wellington O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil and set him free from every bond, that he may rest with all Your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God forever and ever.
All: Amen.
Minister: Into your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend your servant Lamuel Wellington Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive him into the arms of your mercy, in the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light.
All: Amen.
Minister: Let us go forth in the Name of Christ.
All: Thanks be to God.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | For All The Saints Who From Their Labours Rest (Hymn 218, CPWI Hymnal)
1. For all the saints, who from their labours rest, Who Thee by faith before the world confessed, Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blest: Alleluia, Alleluia.
2. Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress, and their Might; Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight; Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light: Alleluia, Alleluia.
3. O may Thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold, Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old, And win, with them, the victor’s crown of gold: Alleluia, Alleluia.
4. O blest communion, fellowship divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine: Alleluia, Alleluia.
COMMITTALL
5. And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, Steals on the ear the distant triumph song, And hearts are brave again, and arms are strong: Alleluia, Alleluia.
6. The golden evening brightens in the west; Soon, soon to faithful warriors cometh rest; Sweet is the calm of Paradise the blest: Alleluia, Alleluia.
7. But lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day; The saints triumphant rise in bright array; The King of glory passes on His way: Alleluia, Alleluia.
8. From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, Singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Alleluia, Alleluia!
All hail the power of Jesus name! Let angels prostrate fall; bring forth the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all.
GRAVESIDE HYMNS
(Hymn 246, CPWI Hymnal)
Crown him, ye morning stars of light, who fixed this floating ball; now hail the strength of Israel’s might, and crown him Lord of all.
Crown him, ye martyrs of your God, who from his altar call; extol the Stem of Jesse’s Rod, and crown him Lord of all.
Ye seed of Israel’s chosen race, ye ransomed of the fall, hail him who saves you by his grace, and crown him Lord of all.
Sinners, whose love can ne’er forget the wormwood and the gall, go spread your trophies at his feet, and crown him Lord of all.
Let every tribe and every tongue before him prostrate fall, and shout in universal song the crownèd Lord of all.
I am so glad that our Father in heaven
1. I am so glad my Father in heaven Tells of His love in the Bible to me! Jesus His Son came to die for my sins, Now I am happy and full of His peace.
Chorus:
I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me! Iam so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves even me!
2. Though I am weak and often may wander, Still He is faithful, my Savior and Friend. When I am lonely, He whispers His love, Guiding my steps to His kingdom above.
3. Someday in heaven, His face I shall see, There with the angels, His glory to sing!
Joy everlasting my song will proclaim: “Jesus, my Savior, still loves me the same!”
All The Way My Savior Leads Me
1. All the way my Savior leads me— What have I to ask beside?
Can I doubt His tender mercy, Who through life has been my Guide? Heav’nly peace, divinest comfort, Here by faith in Him to dwell! For I know, whate’er befall me, Jesus doeth all things well.
2. All the way my Savior leads me— Cheers each winding path I tread, Gives me grace for every trial, Feeds me with the living bread. Though my weary steps may falter, And my soul athirst may be, Gushing from the Rock before me, Lo! a spring of joy I see.
3. All the way my Savior leads me— Oh, the fullness of His love! Perfect rest to me is promised In my Father’s house above. When my spirit, clothed immortal, Wings its flight to realms of day, This my song through endless ages: Jesus led me all the way.
To God be the Glory
1. To God be the glory, great things He hath done! So loved He the world that He gave us His Son, Who yielded His life an atonement for sin, And opened the Life-gate that all may go in.
Refrain:
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord! Let the earth hear His voice! Praise the Lord, praise the Lord! Let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son; And give Him the glory, great things He hath done!
2. O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood! To every believer the promise of God; The vilest offender who truly believes, That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
3. Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done, And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son; But purer, and higher, and greater will be Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.
