Kerina Hall Blog

National Pledge of Barbados I pledge allegiance to my country Barbados and to my flag, To uphold and defend their honour, And by my living to do credit to my nation wherever I go.                                                                                                                                                            ( Author of Pledge, Lester Vaughn) Last post I shared the words of the National Anthem.  Above are the words of our Pledge. These words highlight the fact that we are not merely individuals – doing our own thing, but really are part of a collective....

National Anthem of Barbados In plenty and in time of need When this fair land was young Our brave forefathers sowed the seed From which our pride is sprung A pride that makes no wanton boast Of what it has withstood That binds our hearts from coast to coast The pride of nationhood Chorus We loyal sons and daughters all Do hereby make it known These fields and hills beyond recall Are now our very own We write our names on history's page With expectations great Strict guardians of our heritage Firm craftsmen of our fate The Lord has been the people's guide For past three hundred years With him still on the people's side We have no doubts or fears Upward and onward we shall go Inspired, exulting, free And greater will our nation grow In strength and unity Just had to share these words from our National Anthem with you.  It really is a beautiful piece of poetry, and was written by Irving Burgie . What can I say...

Hey!  It’s beginning to look a lot like…Independence.  Thought I was going to say Christmas, didn’t you? Independence Day in Barbados is November 30 and the stores are gearing up with a wide selection of Independence paraphernalia.  Lots of blue, yellow and black (colours of the flag) items are on display.  Also, Independence bunting is adorning some buildings in the city . The photo above was taken a few years ago on Independence Day after the annual parade.  My husband and I never miss a parade and we just  couldn't  miss the opportunity to take a photo with the Broken Trident (a symbol of Barbados' independence) in Trafalgar Square, Bridgetown. In advance, Happy Independence Barbados! ©Kerina Hall

No doubt about it. I am a parade person.  So here in Barbados the month of November is special to me because there are two significant celebrations which involve – you guessed it – parades! The first event, Remembrance Day, is annually observed on the second Sunday in November.  The other is Independence Day on November 30. For me the first event is a prelude to the other. On Remembrance Day I am torn between two conflicting emotions.  Yes, I enjoy the parading bands but there is sadness as I remember those who lost their lives in the wars and the severe loss felt by their families. I am very touched as I view my favourite band on parade – the Barbados Legion, those soldiers who served in the wars. For me this is the highlight of the ceremony.  Apart from the wreath-laying ceremony, seeing those old vets march onto and off the parade square makes my day. Yesterday there was one of them, bent slightly, but still determined to march....

“I  will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalms 32:8 NLT The best life. Is it really possible to live the best life these days? What with an economy which has “flipped-flopped,” increasing crime, rampant diseases, a world seemingly out of control; an uncertain future? Can we really live the best life? I came across the verse above while doing devotions and thought I would share it with you. I don’t know what challenges you may be facing but I firmly believe that God has your welfare at heart.  He has a vested interest in your life and everything that concerns you. He will give advice and encouragement to you if you only ask. This is a personal promise to you.  Just place your hands in His and He will guide you. I’ve tried it.  It works.  It is working… He’s helping me to live the best life! ©Kerina Hall

“…God is keeping the night-watch for you and for me.”  Jim Reeves I am a fan of Jim Reeves’ Gospel songs.  These were played regularly in our house during my growing-up years. The song above was and still is one of my favourites.  I often imagined God as a sentry on guard scanning the landscape and horizon for any dangers in the dark and dealing with anything which looked threatening. But God does not only keep the night watch but the day watch as well!  In fact, He is on guard 24/7; and 52/12. If you are still alive (and you must be if you’re reading this!) it’s because of God’s round-the-clock sentry duty. You see, your protection is God’s concern.  It is no coincidence; you are alive because of God’s mercy and grace. Also, there is a reason why you are here.  God has His eyes on you.  He has a plan for your life. Your mission – should you accept it – is to discover what it is and do it. While God keeps wat...

A truly awesome evening last Saturday, October 19. The event was the “Our God Is Awesome Concert” sponsored by the Black Rock Wesleyan Holiness Church and held at Mount of Praise Wesleyan. Apparently God was on display both in and out of the church – the sky was lit with nature’s “fireworks” of thunder and lightning; while on the inside the church was lit with magnificent display of colourful stage lighting which illustrated the theme of God’s awesomeness! Great ministry from fellow artistes: Neesha Woodz, De Warrior, Sis Marshall, Patrick Forde, Sydney Yearwood (a member of Black Rock Wesleyan), Faith Dancers, The Silvertones of Barbados and the Salvation Army Orchestra. Really a well deserved tribute to an awesome God!! The pleasure was mine! ©Kerina Hall