The Tribune

CANON Crosley Walkine has urged the government to allow families to have funerals inside churches.

During his sermon at the state funeral for former Deputy Prime Minister and Governor General Arthur Dion Hanna yesterday, Canon Walkine thanked the government for allowing the service to take place.

However, he said, the same courtesy should be extended to other families who are mourning loved ones during the pandemic. He suggested restrictions such as the absence of the body at the service and a limit on the number of attendees, saying these measures would likely be accepted.

“I know some may argue, especially during this time of elections that the government made some wrong decisions during this time of COVID, but I assure you, you got it right this time,” he told the mourners yesterday, which included Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis and members of his Cabinet.

“Because no matter what side of the political, social or economic divide you may be on, the Hon A D was. . .respected and indeed appreciated and loved by so many.

“But human beings being human beings, you no doubt will receive some criticism, some flack for what is happening here today. Although we all appreciate and know the rhyme and reason for having this state funeral for a builder and champion of the nation, there will still be some, and probably rightly so, asking why not the same for their loved ones.

“So allow me please to use this opportunity to make an appeal to the health professionals and to you the government, that when you meet together again for your deliberations. . .that you consider granting permission to have thanksgiving service, homegoing service, memorials, whatever we may call it, allow them to happen in a church setting using the same protocols we use on Saturdays and Sundays when we meet for normal worship,” the Anglican clergyman said.

Under current COVID- 19 protocols, only funerals at the graveside are allowed.