By Dr. Jack Warner
The Most Reverend Archbishop Robert Rivas, OP, Archbishop Emeritus of Castries, passed away peacefully in his sleep at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Sunday.
Rivas had been ailing for some time and has been in and out of the hospital. He underwent several medical procedures in the last two years.
According to Sister Petronilla Joseph, Rivas chose Sunday to die, hours before a fund raising luncheon was about to be held at China Palace Restaurant, Maraval, to help with his medical expenses.
Sister Petronilla, who spoke at the luncheon, said she had visited him last Thursday and he looked fine. So she was at a loss when told that he had died on Sunday morning.
She said the suffering was over and he was now in a good place. The luncheon was well attended. A group of women took the opportunity to sing a parang tune since Rivas loved the artform.
Born in Trinidad, Archbishop Rivas served the Catholic Church faithfully across the Caribbean, including as Bishop of Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and later as Archbishop of Castries where he served from 2008 to 2022 after which he retired. His ministry was marked by dedicated service in pastoral ministry, evangelization, communications, youth and formation.
The Antilles Episcopal Conference of Bishops extended its heartfelt condolences to his family, the Dominican Order, the clergy and faithful of the Archdiocese of Castries, and all who mourn his passing.
Funeral arrangements are still to be announced.
