The Tribune

BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE Grand Bahama community and the Anglican Diocese is mourning the loss of Father Michael Gittens who died Thursday morning in Freeport.

According to reports, Fr Gittens was expected to attend morning mass at the Church of the Ascension, where he is the rector. When he did not show up, persons went to check on him and found him dead at the rectory.

Police officers and a hearse were seen at the rectory sometime after 8am on Neptune Drive in Seahorse Village.

This is the second priest at the Church of the Ascension that has died. Fr Cornell Moss passed away in May 2015 at age 56, and Pastor Gittens was appointed as church rector.

Condolences have poured in from pastors of various denominations after news of his death spread on social media.

Pastor Eddie Victor, of the Living Waters Assembly of God Church, knew Fr Gittens well from high school and said his death is "a great loss" to the Grand Bahama community, and particularly the Anglican Diocese.

"My wife and I knew Fr Gittens and he was an active priest in the community, and more importantly one the fine dedicated servants in the Anglican Diocese," he said.

"I have a history with him, I know him from high school attending Freeport High, now Bishop Michael Eldon High.

"I was not surprised when he went into the priesthood because he always had a personality of one that would serve people," Pastor Victor said.

Pastor Victor said despite his physical challenges, Fr Gittens had continued to serve the church faithfully.

He also taught religious studies at his former high school.

"I know that this is probably a difficult time for the Anglican community, especially the Church of the Ascension because this is not the only priest they've had that passed away.

"And I understand that he was preparing for mass when this happened.

"Pastors here have sent in condolences to his family.

"This is a great loss and we have to pray for the family and the congregation as this is a difficult time for them and a time of transition for them," said Pastor Victor.

A memorial service was held at the Church of the Ascension last night.