Mass of The Resurrection FOR THE LIFE AND WITNESS OF
George
Edward Mortimer Born: November 9th, 1949 Died: September 23rd, 2018 Aged: 68 years Services Held At St. Gregory’s Anglican Church Carmichael Road New Providence, Bahamas October 12th, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. Officiating Fr. Stephen Davies Rector, All Saints Parish Fr. Berkley Smith Asst. Priest, All Saints Parish Organist Mrs. Agatha Campbell Interment Made In Lake View Memorial Gardens West New Providence R.I. P. Father, In Thy Gracious Keeping Leave We Now Thy Servant Sleeping
Obituary On November 9th, 1949 a bouncing baby boy was born to McField and Pearline Mortimer in Woodhill in the settlement of Mortimer’s Long Island in 1949. He was given the name George Edward Mortimer. This was third child of eleven children in this union. In the Mortimer household it was always mandatory to attend Sunday school and all church services as George’s father was a Catechist in the Anglican Church. As a young boy George always had chores such as breaking feed for the sheep and the goats, toting wood for the fire and weeding grass in the field. These tasks were not out of the ordinary. In fact all the siblings enjoyed doing this as it was considered the way of life in those days. George attended Mortimer’s All Age Public school where he received his initial education. At seventeen, he left Long Island and came to New Providence where he lived with his Aunt Mable who was responsible for taking care of all of McField’s children when they came to town. In New Providence, George worshipped at St. Barnabas and St. Georges. He then enlisted in the Royal Bahamas Police Force in 1967. George was a family man. Shortly after he joined the police force, he met and married Alvina Mae Mortimer nee Ingraham. They spent 44 years in marriage together. He was the proud father of three children, Mario, Anthen and Shatania. George took pride in his children’s accomplishments and always listened to the problems they had and gave good counsel. George loved his brothers and sisters. He missed his brothers Christie, Carl and Mitchell who passed before him. As George lay on his sick bed all of his remaining brothers and sisters namely John, Annie, Vandolyn, Donald, Sandra, Michael and Willamae would call or visit him. George always spoke with pride about all the memorable times that he had in Long Island with his family. George also had a green thumb for farming. He was referred to as farmer George by his wife. He planted peas, tomatoes, corn, onion, okras, bananas and watermelons. He was also an excellent cook. On Sundays he fed the family and some of the people in his neighbourhood. We will surely miss his scrumptious meals which he spent time preparing. George was a founding member of All Saints Parish and paid his tithes until his death. He worked with many persons throughout his church life and priests namely, Fr. Addison Turnquest, Canon Harry Ward, Fr. Patrick Johnson, Fr. James Moultrie, Canon Sebastian Campbell, Fr. James Palacious, Fr. Stephen Davies and Fr. Berkley Smith. George also took on various duties throughout the years such as Usher Board President and Synod representative. He had also served as a member of the vestry and assistant
treasurer of the Anglican Church Men (ACM). The following are George’s posts, ranks and achievements during his tenure on the police force. DATE OF ENLISTMENT: DATE OF RETIREMENT:
October 16th 1967 09 January 2009
POSTINGS: Southern Division May 1968 Criminial Investigation Department March 1971 Radio Transport March 1976 Criminal Investigation Department June 1978 Police Training College October 1978 Crime Prevention January 1991 Abaco Division January 1997 Northeastern Division September 1999 District Headquarters January 2006 Southern Division June 2007 PROMOTIONS: Corporal July 1979 Sergeant July 1982 Inspector May 1988 Chief Inspector February 1993 Deputy Superintendent July 1998 Superintendent July 2001 AWARDS: Police Meritorius Medal
June 2001
In George’s life there were trials, pains and also many joys. He pulled through the trying times in his life and with God’s help he raised his family to the best of his ability with the strength, morality and focus which God had given him. Survivors He was predeceased by his loving parents Mcfield and Pearline Mortimer, Brothers Christie, Carl, Mitchell Mortimer, Uncle George, Aunts Mable and Ivis.
Left to mourn: His loving and caring wife of 44 years Alvina Mae Mortimer; Children: Mario (Deshan), Anthen (Portia), Shatania Mortimer; Siblings: John, Donald (Eunice), Michael Mortimer, Annie Minnis (Reginald), Vandolyn Mortimer, Sandra Mortimer-Russell (Kevin), Willamae McIntosh (Garth); Sisters –in- Law: Lauretta Denis, Wachenella, Eunice, Sylvia Mortimer; Brothers-in-Law: Alvin Ingraham, Reginald Minnis, Garth McIntosh, Kevin Russell; Grand children: Aaliyah, Anthenique, Destiny, Demari, Demarj Mortimer and Spencer Coakley; Great Grand children: Isabella Milan and Kevin Mortimer; Nephews: Colin, Delano, Angelo, De’Maro, Johnathan Mortimer, Reginald Minnis Jr, Khumalo and Machano Fawkes, Garth Jr. and Nathan McIntosh, Tyrone Rolle; Nieces: Claudine, Miesha, Deshanah, Michaela, Michaelette Mortimer, Denise Minnis, Shanta Fawkes, Claudette Basden, Arlene and Sheena Hercules, Antoinette Denis; Grand Nephews and Nieces: Colin Jr., Amari, DeNahj, Skyla Mortimer, Reginald Minnis III, Abbayomi Brown, Cody Dean, Cierra Major; Cousins: Holland and Elsie Dean and family, Donald, Marcus, Natalia Mortimer-Robinson of Rehoboth Beach Delaware, Maurice and Sandra Moore and family, Beulah and Simeon Smith and family, Oralee Major and family, Ken and Julian Major, Samuel and Ellen Major-Hanna, Laura Sherman and family, Lisa and Chesley Armaly, Ethlyn Major, Marcellus, Karen and Dr. Tanya Hall, Tina Carey, Steven Smith, Demetrius Robinson, Norman, Elder Sandra Mortimer- Robinson, Claude Collie and family; God Children: Commander Warren Bain (RBDF), Tatreka Pinder, Melissa Jones, Nadia Major, Dr. Marlon Moxey, Owen Major, Lesley Dean, Jr.; Other Relatives and friends: Laddy D.J, Paul, Daswell, Rochelle, Paul Bevans and family, Sebastian Coakley, Steven Greenslade and ICS Security Concepts family, Gurth Knowles and family, Freddie Albury and the Executive Motors family, Frank Watson and family, Ian S. Clarke, Harold Watson and family, Patrick Evans and family, Sylvester George and family, Rudy Stubbs and family, Mr. Albert Rahming and family, Christopher Rahming and family, Minister Andrew Huyler and family, Teddy McDonald and family, Cedric Wilson and family, Reginald, Charles, Edwin, Oscar Hunt and family, Marlon Moxey and family, Cecil & Gladys Longley and family, Joan Saunders and family, Olrice & Janet Nixon and family, Ivan & Clara Mcphee and family, Delores Rolle and family, Godfrey and Tamika Lundy and family, Donna Turnquest and family, Zachary & Yvonne Williams, Myrtle Mcphee and family,
Desiree Chisholm and family, Velma Cartwright and family, Densil Major and family, Allan Gibson and family, The Mcphee family, Gwendolyn Stuart and family, Vernal Major and family, Yvonne Bain and family, Barbara Dorsett and family, Helen Thompson and family, Usheika King Forbes and family, Marilyn Ingraham and family, Rev. Val Pinder and family, Elaine Sands and family, Rosalie Greene and family, Karen Pinder and family, Marie Poitier and family, Greta Brown and family, Athama Bowe and family, Dr. Ekedede Magnus and family, Harcourt McCoy and family, Florence McCoy and family, Kryn Smith, former Commissioner of Police Paul Farquaharson, former Commissioner of Police Reginald Ferguson, W/ ASP Rose, 2416 Sergeant Keno Smith, Supt. Damien Robinson and family, Elvis Johnson and family, Dwayne Delancy and family, Joel Hinsey and family, Allardyce Strachan and family, Blaise Taylor and family, Douglas Hanna and family, The Royal Bahamas Police Force, Fr. Addison Turnquest and family, Fr. Stephen Davies and family, Fr. Berkley Smith and family, Canon Fr. Sebastian Campbell and family, Canon Fr. Kingsley Knowles and family, Canon Fr. Harry Ward and family, C.H.Reeves family, Anatol Rodgers family, Atlantis Logistics family, All Saints Anglican Church family, the community of South End Long Island and Malcolm Allotment.
THE CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST OF THE RESURRECTION AT THE RECEPTION OF THE BODY Celebrant: With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our brother GEORGE for burial. Our brother was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God our Heavenly Father, the giver of life, that He will raise him to perfection in the company of the Saints. People:
Amen.
Celebrant: Praise be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all consolation! He comforts us in our afflictions and thus enables us to comfort those who are in trouble, with the same consolation we have received from Him. People:
Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Celebrant: I bless the body of GEORGE with the holy water that recalls his baptism of which St. Paul writes: All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death. By baptism into his death we were buried together with Him, so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live a new life. For if we have been united with Him by likeness to His death, so shall we be united with Him by likeness to His resurrection. All:
Amen.
(The pall is now spread on the casket, as a reminder of his baptism and in hope of the resurrection.) Celebrant: On the day of his baptism, GEORGE put on Christ. In the day of Christ’s coming, may he be clothed with glory. People: Amen. V. R.
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray: O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our brother GEORGE. We thank you for giving him to us, his family and friends, to know and to love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before, through Jesus Christ our Lord. People: Amen.
THE PROCESSION TO THE SANCTUARY BEGINS Clergy & Color Party TRIBUTES:
1. All Saints Usher Board 2. ICS Concepts 3. Commissioner of Police 4. Minister of National Security
INTROIT HYMN | Through All The Changing Scenes Of Life Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.
Oh, make but trial of His love, Experience will decide How blest they are, and only they, Who in His truth confide.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me, With me exalt His name; When in distress to Him I called, He to my rescue came.
Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; Make you His service your delight, Your wants shall be His care.
The hosts of God encamp around The dwellings of the just; Deliverance He affords to all Who on His succor trust.
PREPARATION OF THE EUCHARIST Celebrant: People:
Alleluia! Christ is risen! The Lord is risen indeed! Alleluia!
The Celebrant then says: Celebrant: People:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray: Almighty God, we remember before you today your servant GEORGE and we pray that, having opened to him the gates of larger life, you will recieve him more and more into your joyful service that, with all who have served you in the past, he may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. THE LITURGY OF THE WORD FIRST LESSON | Isaiah 25: 6-9 | Anthenique Mortimer (Grand daughter) At the end of the reading, the reader says: The word of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God.
PSALM 23 ANTHEM | All Saints Choir NEW TESTAMENT LESSON | Ephesians 3:14-19 | Sandra Mortimer Russell (Sister) At the end of the reading, the reader says: The word of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God. GRADUAL HYMN | And Can It Be And can it be that I should gain An interest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Long my imprisoned spirit lay Fast bound in sin and nature’s night; Thine eye diffused a quickening ray I woke, the dungeon flamed with light; My chains feel off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
’Tis mystery all: thee Immortal dies: Who can explore His strange design? In vain the firstborn seraph tries To sound the depths of love divine. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more.
No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach thee eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
He left His Father’s throne above So free, so infinite His grace Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race: ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, For O my God, it found out me! * (The mourners and the congregation stand out of respect for the gospel as gradual hymn is sung.) THE GOSPEL Priest: The Lord be with you. People: And also with you. Priest: A reading from the Holy Gospel according to St. John 6: 37-40 People: Glory to Christ our Saviour At the end of the Reading, Priest: This is the gospel of Christ. People: Praise to Christ our Lord. Anthem | Royal Bahamas Police Force Choir HOMILY | Fr. Stephen Davies
Anthem | All Saints Choir THE CREED Celebrant: Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith into which we were baptized, as we say, All: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. THE PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL | De’Maro Mortimer (nephew) Leader: People:
We have gathered to celebrate the entry of GEORGE, into life eternal. To affirm with praise and thanksgiving the goodness of the Lord.
Leader: Let us rejoice in God’s presence with us, in death as in life among those who now see God face to face. People: Our lips will shout for joy, for God’s love is over all that God has made. Blessed be God’s glorious Name forever! Leader: We feel the pain of separation, we are conscious of our loss, but we hope in Jesus Christ. People: We give thanks to God from whom comes all life and death and who surrounds us in both. We have affirmed our faith and rejoice in Christ’s victory over death, which is God’s promise to us. Leader: People:
Lord, you raised the dead to life; Give to our brother GEORGE eternal life.
Leader: People:
Our brother GEORGE was washed in baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Give him fellowship with all your saints.
Leader: People:
GEORGE was nourished with your Body and Blood. Grant him a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom.
Leader: People:
Comfort us, Lord, in our sorrows at the death of our brother GEORGE. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope.
Leader: Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to you our brother GEORGE who was reborn by water and the Spirit in Holy Baptism. Grant that his death may recall to us your victory over death, and be an occasion for us to renew our trust in your father’s love. Give us we pray, the faith to follow where you have led the way; and where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit to the ages of ages. All: Amen. THE PENITENCE The President shall introduce the Act of Penitence
Celebrant: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Silence Let us therefore confess our sins. All: Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and one another, in thought, word and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve you in newness of life to the honour and glory of your Name. THE ABSOLUTION Celebrant: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. All: Amen. THE GREETING OF PEACE Celebrant: We are the Body of Christ. By the One Spirit we were all baptised into one Body and have all been made to drink of the One Spirit. All: Let us then pursue the things that make for peace and build up the common life. Celebrant: All:
The peace of the Lord be always with you. And also with you.
OFFERTORY HYMN | Lord You Give The Great Commission Lord, You give the great commission: Heal the sick and preach the Word. Lest the Church neglect its mission, And the Gospel go unheard, Help us witness to Your purpose With renewed integrity, With the Spirit’s gifts empower us For the work of ministry.
Lord, You make the common holy: This My body, this My blood. Let us all, for earth’s true glory, Daily lift life heavenward, Asking that the world around us Share your children’s liberty With the Spirit’s gifts empower us For the work of ministry.
Lord, You call us to Your service: In My name baptize and teach. That the world may trust Your promise, Life abundant meant for each, Give us all new fervor, draw us Closer in community. With the Spirit’s gifts empower us For the work of ministry.
Lord, You show us love’s true measure: Father, what they do, forgive. Yet we hoard as private treasure All that You so freely give. May Your care and mercy lead us To a just society. With the Spirit’s gifts empower us For the work of ministry.
ELEMENT BEARERS | Cody Dean (nephew) Takeem Knowles & Carlos Ferguson (cousins)
Lord, You bless with words assuring: I am with you to the end. Faith and hope and love restoring, May we serve as You intend And, amid the cares that claim us, Hold in mind eternity. With the Spirit’s gifts empower us For the work of ministry.
PRAYER OVER THE GIFTS Celebrant: Father, All: We offer to you these gifts which you have given us; this bread, this wine, this money. With them we offer ourselves, our lives, and our work to become through your Holy Spirit a reasonable, Holy and lively sacrifice. As this bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ, so may we and all your people become channels of your love through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. HYMN | I Am Thine O Lord I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice, And it told Thy love to me; But I long to rise in the arms of faith And be closer drawn to Thee.
Oh, the pure delight of a single hour That before Thy throne I spend, When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God I commune as friend with friend!
(Chorus) Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord, To the cross where Thou hast died; Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer blessed Lord, To Thy precious, bleeding side.
There are depths of love that I cannot know Till I cross the narrow sea; There are heights of joy that I may not reach Till I rest in peace with Thee.
Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord, By the pow’r of grace divine; Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, And my will be lost in Thine. THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER Celebrant: All:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant: All:
Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord.
Celebrant: All:
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Father Almighty, Everlasting God: Through Jesus Christ our Lord; who rose victorious from the dead, and comforts us with the blessed hope of everlasting life. For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name: All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Celebrant: All Holy and glorious Father, our Creator God, we give you thanks because in your loving wisdom you brought all things into being, and are truly worthy of praise from every creature you have made. Again and again we have turned away from you; yet in every age your steadfast love has called us to return, to live in union with you: for it is your eternal purpose to put new life into all things and make them holy. Through your Son, Jesus Christ who took our human nature upon Him you have redeemed the world from the bondage of sin: and by the power of your Holy Spirit you have gathered a people to yourself, to make known in every place His perfect offering which He made to the glory of your Name. Hear us, therefore, Father, through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord; And grant that these gifts of bread and wine may be unto us His Body and Blood. For, on the night He was betrayed He took bread, and when He had given thanks to you, He broke it and gave it to His disciples and said: “Take this, and eat it: This is my Body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” And after supper He took the cup of wine: and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and said: “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.” Celebrant:
Let us proclaim the mystery of our faith.
All:
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Celebrant: And so, Heavenly Father, rejoicing in His Holy Incarnation; His Blessed Passion and His Perfect Sacrifice made once for all upon the Cross; His Mighty Resurrection from the dead; His Glorious Ascension into heaven; and looking for His Coming in glory; we offer to you this Bread and this Cup. We pray that you will accept this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; and grant that all who eat and drink of the Body and Blood, of your Son, our great High Priest, may be renewed by your Holy Spirit, and be one Body, one Spirit, in Him. Let faith and love increase in us. Unite us with all Bishops, all other ministers of your Word and Sacraments, and with the whole people of God, living and departed, whom you have made for yourself. Confirm us in holiness, that we may be found ready to join the company of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Holy Apostles, and all your saints, when our Lord Jesus Christ comes again: Forever giving you thanks and praise through Him from whom all good things do come. With Him and in Him and through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship you, Father Almighty, with all who stand before you in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise: All: Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen. THE LORD’S PRAYER Celebrant: As our Saviour has taught us, so we pray: All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name; your kingdom come; your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen. THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD Celebrant: All:
We break this bread to share in the body of Christ. Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.
THE AGNUS DEI Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant him rest. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant him rest. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant him rest eternal. INVITATION TO COMMUNION President: My brothers and sisters in Christ, draw near and receive His Body which he gave for you, and his Blood, which He shed for you. Remember that He died for you, and feed on Him in your hearts by faith with thanksgiving. All: Grant Gracious Lord, that we may so eat the flesh of your dear Son Jesus Christ and drink His Blood that we may evermore dwell in Him and He in us. Amen. COMMUNION HYMNS | And Now, O Father, Mindful Of The Love
And now, O Father, mindful of the love That bought us, once for all, on Calvary’s tree, And having with us Him that pleads above, We here present, we here spread forth to Thee, That only offering perfect in Thine eyes, The one true, pure, immortal sacrifice.
And then for those, our dearest and our best, By this prevailing presence we appeal; O fold them closer to Thy mercy’s breast! O do Thine utmost for their souls’ true weal! From tainting mischief keep them white and clear, And crown Thy gifts with strength to persevere.
Look, Father, look on His anointed face, And only look on us as found in Him; Look not on our misusings of Thy grace, Our prayer so languid, and our faith so dim; For lo! between our sins and their reward, We set the passion of Thy Son our Lord.
And so we come; O draw us to Thy feet, Most patient Savior, who canst love us still! And by this food, so awful and so sweet, Deliver us from every touch of ill: In Thine own service make us glad and free, And grant us nevermore to part with Thee.
I Am Not Worthy Holy Lord I am not worthy, holy Lord, That Thou shouldst come to me; Speak but the word; one gracious word Can set the sinner free.
I am not worthy; yet, my God, How can I say Thee nay; Thee, who didst give Thy flesh and blood My ransom price to pay?
I am not worthy; cold and bare The lodging of my soul; How canst Thou deign to enter there? Lord, speak, and make me whole.
O come! in this sweet morning hour Feed me with food divine; And fill with all Thy love and power This worthless heart of mine.
Breathe On Me, Breath Of God Breathe on me, Breath of God, fill me with life anew, that I may love what thou dost love, and do what thou wouldst do.
Breathe on me, Breath of God, till I am wholly thine, till all this earthly part of me glows with thy fire divine.
Breathe on me, Breath of God, until my heart is pure, until with thee I will one will, to do and to endure.
Breathe on me, Breath of God, so shall I never die, but live with thee the perfect life of thine eternity.
POST COMMUNION PRAYER All: Almighty God, we thank you that in your great love you have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ, and have given us a foretaste of your heavenly banquet. Grant that this Sacrament may be unto us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom where there is no death, neither sorrow, nor crying, but the fullness of joy with all your saints; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. HYMN | When Peace Like A River When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. (Chorus) It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul, It is well; it is well, with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blest assurance control that Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend Even so, it is well with my soul
THE COMMENDATION Celebrant: People:
Give rest, O Christ, to your servant with your saints. Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
Celebrant: You only are immortal, the creator and maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth, and to the earth shall we return. For so did you ordain when you created me, saying, “You are dust, and to dust shall you return.� All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! People: Give rest, O Christ to your servant with your saints, where sorrows and pain are no nore, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Celebrant: People: All:
Lord, have mercy.... Christ, have mercy.....
Lord, have mercy...
Celebrant: Our Father, People: Who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come; thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us. Celebrant: And lead us not into temptation. People: But deliver us from evil.
Celebrant: People:
From the gate of hell Deliver his soul, O Lord.
Celebrant: People:
May he rest in peace. Amen.
Celebrant: People:
O Lord, hear my prayer. And let our cry come unto thee.
Celebrant: People:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray: Into your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend your servant GEORGE. Acknowledge, we humbly ask you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive him into the arms of your mercy, in the blessed rest of eternal peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light where to live and reign with you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, in glory everlasting. All: Amen. Celebrant: People:
Rest eternal grant unto him O Lord. And let light perpetual shine upon him .
Celebrant: People:
May he rest in peace. Amen.
Celebrant: All:
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | For All The Saints For all the Saints, who from their labors rest, Who Thee by faith before the world confess’d, Thy Name, O Jesu, be forever blessed. Alleluia!
And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, Steals on the ear the distant triumph song, And hearts are brave, again, and arms are strong. Alleluia!
Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress and their Might; Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight; Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light. Alleluia!
The golden evening brightens in the west; Soon, soon to faithful warriors comes their rest; Sweet is the calm of Paradise the blest. Alleluia!
O may Thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold, Fight as the Saints who nobly fought of old, And win, with them, the victor’s crown of gold. Alleluia!
But lo! there breaks a yet more glorious day; The Saints triumphant rise in bright array; The King of glory passes on His way. Alleluia!
O blest communion! fellowship Divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia!
From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, Singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost: Alleluia!
GRAVESIDE HYMNS Glad Reunion Day There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below. Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow. That will be a glad reunion day.
Heaven’s Jubilee Some glad morning, we shall see Jesus in the air Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share What rejoicing, that will be, when the saints shall raise Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies.
(Chorus) Glad day, a wonderful day, Glad day, a glorious day; There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay, That will be a glad reunion day.
(Chorus) Oh what singing, Oh what shouting On that happy morning, when we all shall rise Oh what glory, hallelujah? When we meet our blessed Saviour in the skies.
There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice. Tell him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice. That will be a glad reunion day. When we live a million years in that wonderful place Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face. It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace. That will be glad reunion day. Its Alright Now There was a time I travelled a lonely sinful road; Beneath a heavy burden bending low; But now all things are different, since Jesus took my load It’s alright now, I’m His I know. (Chorus) It’s alright now, for I am in my Saviour’s care It’s alright now; my Saviour hears and answers prayer He’ll walk with me, (He’ll walk beside me) Till I climb the heavenly stair, And everything (And everything is alright now) A’ down a lonely pathway, without a friend to guide, I walked in sin and sorrow all alone ‘Till Jesus came and found me, and drew me to His side; It’s alright now, for I’m His own. No more in sin I wander, no more in darkness roam The Lord has placed my feet on higher ground; Each day new heights I’m gaining, my soul is nearing home, It’s alright now, I’m heaven bound.
Seems that now I almost see all the sainted dead Raising for that jubilee, that is just ahead In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be All the living saints to fly to that jubilee When with all the heavenly host, we’ll begin to sing, Singing in the Holy Ghost how the heav’ns ring Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ thru ages long, Heaven’s jubilee.
A Tribute to My Husband To my loving husband George Edward Mortimer who has meant so much to me. The acronym GEM sufficiently describes the man I married for forty four (44) years. G is for a giant of a man who showed strength and leadership towards his colleagues. E is for an extraordinary husband and father to his children and siblings who he gave excellent advice. M is for meticulous in thought word and deed because George was thorough and he cared for others. This was my husband and this is how he lived. I will surely miss his presence but I know George is in a better place. I love you honey bun. Your Darling Wife Alvina
A Tribute to Dad The strongest person in my life is now gone. It seems like half of me is missing. Firm but loving that was his way with me. George was not a sometime father. He was always there for me. He was a provider, advisor, motivator, disciplinarian, confidant and later on in my life became my FRIEND. If anyone knew him they would say that he was a no nonsense man and a worker. As I watched my father throughout his career I know he loved being a police man and he loved the Royal Bahamas Police Force. This was his life, his ambition, being a servant of The Bahamas, putting service over self. Over my dad’s life journey he had many joys and pains. He would not let the pains wear him down though and always bounced back like a champion. When he found out that he had cancer specifically a brain tumor, he took it in stride. He knew for longevity of life he would have to go through a process to heal and get well. In the beginning he was strong and fit like Samson in the bible. After the two surgeries on the brain, I saw my father, my earthly God become frail, all mobility gone within 5 years. George was a man’s man. This was a hard hit on his ego to no longer be able to do anything for himself. This is where my mom stepped in. She was his strength, encourager, his care taker, his wife. This is what a woman in a marriage is supposed to do with their mate. Be there when the times get rough. My mom took care of my father in his sickness. She never left his side. She gave him a quality of life. George loved her even more because of this. There is no one who can ever replace you George Mortimer. I have been blessed to have you as a parent. I told you I loved you while you lived, on your sick bed and on your death bed. This is one of the hardest things I have had to face in my life, losing such an awesome person. I thank God you helped to build me strong. I know I will never see you again but you will forever live on in my heart. Your Loving Daughter Shatania
George E. Mortimer To a giant of a man, our family backbone. We thank you for supporting us, instilling values, and spending your quality time. You taught us the true definition of STRENGTH and how to overcome all obstacles in life depending on God. Although sickness came to breakdown your body it never broke your spirit. We will continue to carry on your legacy and cherish all of the memories forever in our hearts. We will miss your hugs and kisses but until we meet again in heaven we will always love you Papa…….Rest in Peace Our heavenly Angel…..We love you, We love you, We love you. From : Mario, Deshan, DeMari & DeMarj
A Tribute To George Edward Mortimer (1949 – 2018) By Necole Saunders, Priest’s Warden
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” – Anon George Mortimer was a founding member of All Saints Parish since 1976 and worked closely with all of the various clergy who served at the church. He was actively involved in the life of the parish from the beginning, having served on the Vestry, Building Committee, the Finance Committee, Synod Delegate, former ACM President and former Usher Board President having served for more than 8 years. In addition he had an active career with the Royal Bahamas Police Force from 1967 having served for 41 years until his retirement at the rank of Superintendent. As a parish we were able to tell George “thank you” for his labour of love did not go unnoticed. Too many times we wait until a friend has died to tell the world what a wonderful person they were. It is not how long we live on this earth that matters, but how we live and what we did during our sojourn that creates our legacy and sets us apart from everyone else. George never wavered in his commitment, he was reliable, devoted and faithful. His favorite scripture verse is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil.4:13). In 2004 he was honoured at the Gem Awards Luncheon, for his worthwhile contributions, dedication and impact on the ministries in the church. In June 2003, he was honored as the Father of the Year of the Parish and in April 2017 he was chosen as one of the forty founding members of the parish during the Church’s 40th Anniversary. He actively and consistently participated in mission and ministry giving of his time, his talent and his treasure. George was a faithful parishioner; if you did not see him at church, you knew that he had to be working, sick or travelling, because it was not like him to miss a church service. When his health began to fail him, it was challenging, however he still made the effort to attend church, always sitting in the back pew. He enjoyed the camaraderie during the peace, and at parish events, always inquiring about the family well-being. To the family: Alvina, his wife, his children: Mario, Anthen & Shatania, the grandchildren, I leave these words of encouragement for you “At times like these man is helpless… It is only God who can speak the words that calm the sea, still the wind and ease the pain… So lean on Him and you will never walk alone.” –HSR Also, remember that we, your church family are praying for you and are here to support you during your bereavement in the days ahead. To my dear friend and former Vestry member, I thank you for all your advice and direction, farewell. May your soul rest in perpetual peace and may the Great Lord keep you until such time that we shall meet again.
Reflecting On Our Friend It is a privilege to pay tribute to a giant of a man. George was remarkable in so many ways. He lived life to the fullest and touched so many people during his time with us. Reflecting on his life we see the many valued and meaningful roles that George played. First and foremost he was a family man. He loved his family unequivocally and selflessly. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was happiest when he was surrounded by his family, even during those inevitable tough times that life throws at you. His devotion to his family was the foundation of his actions – the anchor that defined and shaped his life. He gave counsel and emphatic ear, a shoulder to lean on – he was the man. Ready, steadfast, willing and good fun. He was a defiant champion of others. George lived a principled life, and underpinned by a strong sense of right and wrong. He would never step back from a challenge; to let something wrong stand unchallenged. George cared enough to act – to take a stand. As a veteran police officer he shared his expertise with all of his colleagues. He worked hard consistently and remained a student of policing even after his retirement. He loved the Royal Bahamas Police Force where he was a role model and an inspiration to so many. A look at the highlights in his policing career only serves to emphasize his contributions to the work place. Spirituality played a significant role in George’s life. His quiet faith guided his actions, words and deeds. George strove to be the family man, colleague, friend and companion to others. It is hard to say goodbye and we don’t want to but we remember that you touched so many peoples’ lives so positively. George you left the world a better place than when you found it and for that we will always be grateful. George we miss you – but we remember you fondly comrade – always! Friends: Joel – Elvis - Dwanye
A Tribute to A Legend, A Hero, A Father The book of Proverbs 20 verse 7 states, “A righteous man walks in his integrity. His children are blessed”. I, Anthen Puron Mortimer have been blessed these 44 years to have you as my father. From my eyes as a child rising from humble beginnings, you were militant, no non-sense, yet kind-hearted and easy going. Daddy you believed in me, protected me, disciplined me, strengthened me and most of all loved me unconditionally. As I write this tribute, I vividly recalled the Godly principals you instilled in me. I can hear your voice saying “Be Humble, Respectful and Honest”. “Always celebrate you mother, she is a great woman”. Daddy those words never left me and I promise you that I will continue to live out those values and Godly principals. As a Bahamian nation builder, you served your country with loyalty and pride. You were priest to your wife and children, a doting grandfather to your grand children an advisor and confidant to all you came in contact with. Daddy, you being a provider for our family, we never lacked for anything. You made it your business that we were well educated, giving us the opportunity to attend the best schools and colleges that you could have afforded. Daddy, as I am a husband and father now I stand on your shoulders and I adopt your standards as my benchmark to continue to be the best husband and father to my wife and family. The apostle Paul wrote, “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were to be dissolved we have a building of God not made with hands, eternal in the heavens”. September 23, 2018 is a day that I will never forget, one of the worst days of my life, you checked out of your earthly building that was furnished with sickness and pain. As I view your mortal remains in the hospital with tears blinding my eyes I realized you moved into your Heavenly mansion. To God Be the Glory! Daddy you were a beacon and a staple to this Mortimer family. Our home in Malcolm Allotment will never be the same again. As I try to fill the void of your death with fond memories, I do not say goodbye because you will continue to live in my heart. To My Daddy, my Hero and friend, I say see you later. Until we meet again, Rest in Peace Anthen P. Mortimer
“Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what lies within us while we live” – Norman Cousins Dear Brother, Just 10 weeks ago we bid an earthly farewell to Dad and now you. We are knocked down but not knocked out. As we say goodbye to your body, your spirit still lives within us. We accept that God’s plan and purpose for your life are fulfilled. We hold so many wonderful memories of you. Time truly flies, one minute you are on the Mail Boat leaving Long Island to join the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) and the next minute you are a policeman. You loved being an officer and you were devoted to the core, always wearing your uniform with indescribable pride. A God-fearing and family man, your wife and children were first foremost, even though with each promotion it took you away from some precious family time. Your usual greeting was always the question, “All is well?” no matter the individual. The young officers were like your children who you took pride in grooming. Professional decorum, appearance, punctuality, integrity and strong work ethics were the order of the day. You were methodical, friendly but firm, and admonished us to work hard for an honest day pay. You always encouraged us by saying, “Do your bit and do your best.” Mom and Dad were so proud of you and with each promotion you ensured that Dad was informed immediately. During your time at CID you and your team of officers made several business trips to Long Island where you all enjoyed Mom’s delectable meals and even stayed at our home sometimes. Thus, our family developed a special and perpetual bond and respect for our RBPF. In the police circles we were and still are identified and referred to as, Mortimer’s brother or George’s sister. Since your passing, so many police officers of all rank and file have showered us with love. Undoubtedly, they held you in high regard. While, for the most part you were soft spoken with a calm demeanor your short temper was exhibited when foolhardiness was displayed. You had zero tolerance for dishonesty. You believed in saving something for a rainy day. You were an old fashioned disciplinarian and we governed ourselves accordingly around you to avoid the inevitable lecture from you. You could not sing but you made a joyful noise. We can hear you now singing at your church, the chorus, “O Spread the Tidings Round, Wherever Man is found. The Comforter Has Come” and “Bind us Together With Love”…. carrying your own special tune. Over the past few years despite your medical challenges you had a positive outlook and became very talkative. You always enjoyed home visits and telephone conversations especially with your priests, police officers, family and friends. Your devoted wife Alvina had you “spoiled” as she cared for you daily honoring the marital vows, “…..until death us do part”. Thank you sister-in- law for caring so superbly for our brother. Beloved brother, your passing caused us to reflect on the fragility of life and our own mortality. Your passing has left emptiness, pain, loneliness and opened floodgates of tears, but we are so grateful for your life. Sleep on in perfect peace dear brother. Forever with the Lord. Until We Meet Again…. John, Annie, Vandolyn, Donald, Sandra, Michael, Willamae
Honorary Pall Bearers Mario Mortimer Anthen Mortimer John Mortimer Donald Mortimer Michael Mortimer Colin Mortimer Holland Dean Donald Robinson Reginald Minnis Garth McIntosh Kevin Russell