St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank Choir
Photo By Erasmus Williams
Basseterre, St. Kitts – Nevis
February 18, 2011 (CUOPM)
The St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank has a rich history steeped in the idea of people development, and as such, has played an important role in the development of the twin-island Federation.
“It has forged a productive mix of Public Sector-Private Sector support that has had profound impact on the socio-economic grow and development,” said St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas in brief remarks at a church service to mark the 40th anniversary of the local financial institution.
Dr. Douglas, also the Minister of Finance paid tribute to the founders of what began as a penny bank.
“We must make note of the founders of what is today National Bank. They were men of great commitment, understanding and vision who, with much effort and belief in what they were doing, laid the foundation of a fine and progressive financial institution. It was not always easy. In fact, there were significant challenges, and the good of the bank prevailed for the good of the people,” said Dr. Douglas.
He pointed out to the congregation that the bank is now operating in a financial environment that is far different than it was in its early days.
“Regardless, there is no end to challenges, but we can be confident that the St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla National Bank is in the hands of responsible staff and management, and that the public can have a high level of confidence in the institution,” said the Prime Minister who thanked “past and present members of the Board of Directors, management and staff for steadfast contribution to the excellent position the Bank enjoys today. In this regard, it would be remiss of me if I were not to mention the yeoman service provided by Sir Edmund Lawrence, who has been an anchor in the developmental processes of National Bank.”
He extended his best wishes for a continuing bright future, and its continuing contribution to the development of the people and of the nation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Other attending the church service at the Wesley Methodist Church included Ministers of Government, members of Parliament, shareholders, customers, various sports organizations and the Board of Directors and staff of the Bank’s subsidiaries who were richly blessed in song.
The National Bank Chorale electrified the congregation with its soulful rendition of O Give Thanks by Hezekiah Walker and Total Praise by Richard Smallwood, moving the audience to a standing ovation as they gave thanks and praise to God for his blessings over the years.
The officiating clergy were Rev. Dr. Wycherley Gumbs Superintendant of the St. Kitts Circuit of the Methodist Church, Rev. Nasel Ephraim, President of the St. Kitts Christian Council, Rev. Joyce Rohan, Methodist Minister, and Bishop Ron Collins, President of the St. Kitts Evangelical Association.