Grenadian citizens gathered in the city of Valencia in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela last weekend to participate in a Thanksgiving Church Service to celebrate Grenada's 34th Anniversary of Independence. The activity commenced at 4.00pm on Saturday, with an opening prayer by Sheldon Maitland. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance. Ambassador Mc Phail then made some opening remarks and welcomed all present to this important activity of commemoration. This was followed by the singing of the hymn 'O God in Ages Past' and the first scripture reading by Sheldon Maitland. A second hymn was sung 'Now Thank We All Our God' and a scripture reading by Yvonne Charles. We were all blessed by a sermon preached by Pastor Abbas George. Kassandra Collier and Christopher Andall then read two beautifully written poems about the 'Spice Isle'. The Ambassador then read messages from the Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell and Governor General, His Excellency, Sir Daniel Williams. He also made some announcements and presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Miranda Thomas for her unwavering support to activities organized by the Embassy of Grenada in Caracas. The wife of the Ambassador also used this opportunity to briefly outline some of the plans for our 35th Anniversary celebration. The curtains were brought down with a vote of thanks and closing prayer by Samuel Collier, President of the Grenada Association in Caracas. The Church Service was followed by a reception where the attendees were treated to lovely patriotic music and food with a Grenadian flavor. Approximately seventy-five (75) people attended this event. This is the first time that such an activity was convened outside of Caracas. Valencia is located in the state of Carabobo and it is approximately 3-3.5 hours driving. Source: Embassy of Grenada in Venezuela