Premier Michael Dunkley today paid tribute to the late Bishop Vinton Anderson, describing the “people’s pastor” as a man all of Bermuda should be proud of.

He said: “Bishop Anderson’s journey from Sound View Road in Somerset to the Episcopacy has been a triumph of faith and commitment over adversity.

“Bishop Anderson’s service is something upon which all Bermudians can reflect with pride.

“This people’s pastor never lost contact with Bermuda and celebrated his humble beginnings all over the world as Bishop, President of the World Council of Churches and as University President.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda I offer my sincere condolences to his wife and surviving family as well as the AME Church in Bermuda, who I know will also be touched by his passing.”

Bishop Anderson passed away on Wednesday at his home in St Louis, Missouri, at the age of 86. He rose to global prominence in 1991 as President of the World Council of Churches and headed the board of Wilberforce University, a prominent US institution.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Vivienne, and his four sons.