Guy Hewitt, former ambassador to the United Kingdom for Barbados, ended his public service early to assume duties as the parish priest for St. James Episcopal Church in Hollywood, Florida.

Known for his dynamic preaching style, the London-born, Barbados-raised minister was welcomed by the Rt. Rev. Peter Eaton, Bishop of Southeast Florida, at an installation service on June 23, 2019. Bishop Peter, who shares British-Barbadian links, consider Hewitt to be a “valued addition to the Diocese and Caribbean diaspora in Florida.”

In 2018, Hewitt received international recognition and acclaim for his use of unconventional diplomatic tactics to bring the UK government to the negotiating table over the Windrush Scandal.

The scandal involved the wrongful destitution, detention, and deportation of long-term, Caribbean-born, residents in Britain.

The former ambassador’s engagement on the Windrush Scandal included collaboration with civil society, politicians, and the media, and also involved direct discussions with former British Prime Minister Theresa May and with Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in his former role as Foreign Secretary.

The first and youngest, London-born Ambassador, Hewitt’s public sector career included assignments with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Commonwealth of Nations, and the University of the West Indies.

Installation with Bishop Peter Eaton and Rev Dr Anthony Holder of Holy Sacrament Church, Pembroke Pines, and Assisting Priest Fr Mario Miranda.

Ambassador Hewitt trained for priesthood in London and, 15 years ago, was ordained in Barbados but never before held a full-time parish assignment. Fr. Guy considers his appointment to St James to be the ‘fulfillment’ of a “lifelong calling to serve God and His people.” He lists his priorities as “youth ministry, community mobilization, and social justice outreach to the needy and marginalized.”