By Gary Shillingford
Toronto, Canada, June 28, 2026-The spirit of Dominica burned bright in the heart of Toronto this past weekend as members of the Dominican community gathered for a dual-purpose celebration marking the 13th anniversary of Fr. Brancker John’s ordination and raising vital funds to support the reconstruction of the Grand Bay Roman Catholic Church.
The weekend started with a fundraising dinner on Saturday, June 27, at the Memorial banquet hall, with messages from Frances Delsol, Dominica’s Trade and Investment Commissioner. There were also messages from The Most Reverend Kendrick J Forbes, Bishop of Roseau, Dominica, in which he stressed that Anniversaries provide a wonderful opportunity for Thanksgiving and awareness of God’s favour and blessings. The Honourable Justice Dr. Irving Andre also sent a message on behalf of the Andre Family. Greetings and congratulations to The South City People for Progress (SCPP) and the organizing committee from the Member of Parliament for Grand Bay, Dr. Vince Henderson.
Consul General Henry Mangal (St. Lucia), in attendance, delivered a speech commending the organizers, South City People for Progress(SCPP), for bringing such a celebration to Toronto, mobilizing support for their community.
Highlight of the event, Fr. Brancker John, honour guest, addressed the gala, reflecting on his 13 years of service to the priesthood. The evening focused not on personal accolades, but on the enduring strength of the Dominican spirit of nation-building. The dinner event came to an end with plaques being handed out to founding members of The South City People for Progress (SCPP), recognizing their service and contribution to the Community of Gand Bay.
The celebration continued on Sunday, June 28, with a Creole Mass at the St. Elizabeth of Hungary RC Church celebrating the 13th Anniversary of Fr. Brancker John’s ordination. The Creole Mass was made possible with the coordination and support of the Haitian community in the parish. Fr. Brancker John, in his charismatic sermon, spoke of his appointment as Parish Priest to Grand Bay, recognizing it as a calling to serve.
Following the Mass, a small gathering was held at the Parish Hall, where Fr. Brancker John was serenaded with a cake recognizing his 13th Anniversary of Ordination into the priesthood and service to the Grand Bay community. An update on the fundraising was given, with Fr. John Brancker emphasizing that this is not the end; continuous fundraising activity is needed to continue to fulfill the dream of rebuilding The Grand Bay RC Church. He thanked the organizers, South City People for Progress (SCPP), and all those who came to support such a worthy cause. Special thanks were also given to Frances Delsol, Dominica’s Trade and Investment Commissioner, for her coordination and hospitality in welcoming him to Toronto.
