With profound patriotic and religious fervour, the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Jamaica hosted a solemn mass in honour of Our Lady of Altagracia, the protective and spiritual mother of the Dominican people.

The ceremony, held at the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral in downtown Kingston, was presided over by Metropolitan Archbishop of Kingston Kenneth Richards, alongside Deacon Bartłomiej Kleczynski.

This marks the fifth mass organised under the leadership of Ambassador Angie Martínez, reflecting her Marian devotion and unwavering commitment to preserving Dominican faith and traditions beyond the nation’s borders.

In her heartfelt remarks, Ambassador Angie Martínez, a proud Salesian and seasoned diplomat, expressed her deep affection for the Virgin Mary and her gratitude for the opportunity to pay tribute in such a significant temple. She emphasized the Virgin’s role not only as a symbol of faith and protection but also as a unifying emblem of national identity for Dominicans at home and abroad:

“Our Lady of Altagracia is far more than a sacred image; she is our spiritual guide and a representation of our essence as Dominican people—a devotion we carry proudly wherever we go,” Ambassador Martínez stated.

A highlight of her tenure was the enthronement of Our Lady of Altagracia in one of the largest and most prominent walls of Montego Bay’s Cathedral. This historic milestone, commemorating the Centenary of the Virgin’s canonical coronation and the conclusion of the Altagracian Jubilee Year, is especially significant as Montego Bay is home to Jamaica’s largest Dominican community.

“We are overjoyed to have brought the Virgin closer to the thousands of Dominicans living in Montego Bay, providing them a permanent space to visit and pray to their Holy Mother. This achievement, realised through collaboration with Jamaica’s highest ecclesiastical authorities, is more than symbolic—it is a sacred space for connection and devotion for present and future generations, reinforcing our identity and strengthening spiritual ties between the Dominican Republic and Jamaica,” said Ambassador Martínez, an international lawyer and diplomat.

Ambassador Martínez expressed deep gratitude to Archbishop Kenneth Richards for his pivotal role in the enthronement of Our Lady of Altagracia in both Montego Bay’s Cathedral and Kingston’s Holy Trinity Cathedral. She highlighted his contributions as “a bridge of faith and brotherhood between Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, beautifully deepening the bonds between our peoples.”

The image of Our Lady of Altagracia enshrined in Kingston’s Cathedral is a painting by former Dominican Ambassador José Ares, gifted during his tenure in Jamaica.

During his homily, Archbishop Richards reflected on the profound significance of the Virgin Mary’s motherhood.

“The Virgin is our protector, a loving Mother who intercedes for us in times of scarcity and difficulty. She not only comforts us but guides us toward her Son with a simple yet powerful directive: ‘Do whatever He tells you.’ These words illuminate the path of hope and faith for all who seek her guidance, especially the Dominican people, who have found solace in her during times of adversity,” he remarked.

In her closing message, Ambassador Martínez urged the congregation to transform faith into action, stating: “Faith must transcend words. The true miracle lies in turning indifference into solidarity, injustice into justice, and despair into opportunity. Jesus calls us to be a light in darkness and to help those in need.”

The Eucharist gathered members of the diplomatic and consular corps, Dominican entrepreneurs, prominent figures of Jamaican society, as well as Dominican residents and worshippers of various nationalities.

Following the mass, attendees enjoyed the traditional reception hosted by the embassy in the cathedral courtyard—a cherished occasion that strengthens bonds between the Dominican community and friends of all backgrounds who join in the celebration.