Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre is in Trinidad and Tobago to attend the Funeral Mass for Archbishop Emeritus Robert Rivas, O.P., taking place today at St. Finbar’s Roman Catholic Church in Diego Martin.
For the Prime Minister, who described Archbishop Rivas as a friend, the occasion is also a personal farewell. His attendance honours that friendship and the Archbishop’s years of spiritual leadership and service to Saint Lucia and the wider Caribbean.
Archbishop Rivas passed away on September 27, 2026, at the age of 80. He served as Archbishop of Castries until his retirement in 2022. Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire of Castries is presiding over the Funeral Mass.
In his tribute following Archbishop Rivas’ passing, Prime Minister Pierre recognised the dedication, humility and compassion that marked his ministry, noting that his spiritual leadership touched countless lives and that his contribution to the Catholic Church and Saint Lucia would long be remembered.
The Government and people of Saint Lucia extend condolences to his family, the Dominican Order, and the clergy and faithful of the Archdiocese of Castries.
