Premier Wheatley Hosts 2026 Interdenominational Service, Calls
The Government of the Virgin Islands and the BVI Christian Council held an interdenominational service on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Queen Elizabeth II Park under the theme “Lord, Our Eyes Are Upon You.” Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley used the occasion to call for a stronger partnership between government and the faith community and urged NGOs and residents to join in social outreach. The event combined scripture, worship and messages of encouragement and reflected ongoing collaboration between government and churches across the Territory.
The Government of the Virgin Islands, in collaboration with the BVI Christian Council, held its annual interdenominational service on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Queen Elizabeth II Park in Road Town under the theme “Lord, Our Eyes Are Upon You,” inspired by 2 Chronicles 20:12, the Government said in its press release prior to the event.
The programme brought together faith leaders, public officials and members of the wider community for an evening of scripture readings, worship, prayers and messages of encouragement. Organisers said the service was intended to unite participants in committing the Virgin Islands into the hands of Almighty God as the Territory begins the new year.
In remarks quoted in the Government release, Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley said the service “provides an important opportunity for our Territory to come together in unity, humility, and prayer as we begin a new year.” He encouraged everyone to join the observance as the Territory commits itself into God’s care for 2026.
Ricketts, President of the BVI Christian Council, emphasised the spiritual significance of the gathering and urged the entire community to participate. “In these times of uncertainty, we are reminded that while some may put their trust in earthly power or ‘chariots,’ our true help and hope come from the Lord God Almighty,” Bishop Ricketts said in the Government statement. “We may not know exactly what the future holds, but we move forward with the unwavering assurance that we know who holds the future.” This year, the Government decided to collaborate with churches across the islands to organise the event, expanding the partnership that underpins the annual service, according to coverage by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO).
Berance of the Virgin Gorda Seventh-day Adventist Church delivered the main message during the service. During his address at the service, Premier Wheatley — who also serves as Minister for Ecclesiastical Affairs — expressed gratitude for the gathering and called for a “much stronger partnership between the government and the church, and not just the church,” urging involvement from all parts of the community, VINO reported.
He appealed to non-governmental organisations, nonprofit groups and residents to work together to “feed the hungry, to heal the sick, to be a comfort to those who struggle,” and to be a voice for the voiceless. The Premier acknowledged that people will not always agree but stressed the importance of staying unified, in dialogue and connected, and of exercising humility. “I’m looking forward to walking through this 2026, in a spirit of unity, and a spirit of love, and a spirit of reverence to God,” he told attendees, according to VINO.
Organisers said the service reflects the longstanding partnership between government and the faith community and underscores the role of prayer, unity and spiritual guidance in public life and national development. The Premier’s Office will continue to coordinate cross-sectoral policies and programmes, organisers noted.
Residents, churches, community organisations and visitors were invited to participate. For further details and updates the Government listed the Premier’s Office contacts: Angela U. Burns, Information Officer II, Premier’s Office, at +1 284 468 9445 or aburns@gov.vg; international media enquiries at BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com; and general resources at the Government website https://gov.vg and the Government Facebook page.
Primary source: BVI Government