Bright Temple AME Church in Warwick proved to be an ideal setting for the second of the current series celebrating the first anniversary of Dale Butler’s inspirational spiritual We are Climbin’ Jacob’s Ladder.

Two most interesting variations this time around included the introduction of the Bright Liturgical Dancers, and tributes to three people who worshipped at the church, and rendered long faithful service.

They included, Mrs Sylvia Robinson, the distinguished patron for the day. She is noted for walking at six in the morning taking cheer to residents at the Matilda Smith Williams Seniors Residence, the hospital, and Westmeath Seniors home. A former Customs officer, she enjoys liturgical dance, Bible Studies and is a keen photographer.

The second worshipper honoured was former Member of Parliament, the late Walter Sinclair Brangman, who was married to Lovette Brangman for 53 years. He learned carpentry at age 11 under his father, became a foreman at age 16, graduated from Danforth Technical School, Ryerson Institute of Technology and at age 24 graduated from the School of Architecture in Canada.

Returning to Bermuda, he designed, built and renovated churches, workmen’s clubs, school, lodges and homes. A historian, bee-keeper, golfer, gardener, traveller, harmonica player; and with his wife standing to the applause of the big congregation, his citation culminated with his recognition as the cornerstone of Bright Temple.

Third tribute was to Ralph Warren “Brownie” Steede. Born March 6, 1915 and deceased- March 31, 2006, he attended the Burgess School in Hamilton Parish and the Berkeley Institute. He then became a waiter aboard the liner Queen of Bermuda and later in various hotels. As a young man he was popularly known as “Dapper Dan” with slick hair and dressed to the nines.

In 1945 he married Gertrude Winifred Caines. They travelled all over the world and were parents of one daughter, Carole Anne, to whom he would often say, “lend me a pair of your old shoes so I can keep up with you”.