Queen Elizabeth II recently appointed Dr. Patrick Linton Allen as the new governor general of Jamaica. Dr. Allen is the president for the Adventist Church's West Indies Union.
Now if you're thinking that a governor general governs generals, let me explain: A governor general is appointed by the Queen of England to be her official representative in Jamaica. So whoever holds this non-political job represents the Queen on ceremonial occasions and is allowed to "appoint and oversee officers of civil service." Dr. Allen's new job starts February 26, 2009.
Here are some excerpts* from the article on Adventist News Network:
(Elizabeth Lechleitner/ANN) - "Patrick Linton Allen, 58, current president of the Adventist Church's West Indies Union, will replace Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall, who requested resignation last year due to health reasons, Prime Minister Bruce Golding told members of Jamaica's House of Representatives.
Appointed by Elizabeth II, Allen will serve as the queen's direct representative in Jamaica on ceremonial occasions, such as the opening of parliament and the presentation of state honors, according to the Jamaica Information Service. While the role is non-political, Jamaica's constitution does allow the governor-general to appoint and oversee officers of civil service.
Allen said his Adventist faith would "undergird" his new role. "Any decisions I make will be cast in justice, equity and compassion," he said.
Allen brings a strong educational background to the position. After attending Moneague Teachers College in Jamaica, Allen later earned three degrees -- including a doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision -- from Adventist-owned Andrews University in Berrien Spring, Michigan.
Allen has served in many posts within and outside the Adventist Church, including president of the Central Jamaican Conference, director of Education and Family Life at the West Indies Union Conference and district pastor, overseeing more than 20 churches and companies.
Allen also serves on a number of national and international boards and committees, including the Executive Committee of the Adventist world church and the Police Civilian Oversight Authority, which serves to assure that the police force functions within the law and citizens' rights are maintained. Allen also acts as Justice of the Peace for the Parish of Manchester, Jamaica. In 2006, the government of Jamaica conferred on Allen the honor of Commander of the Order of Distinction for outstanding service to his country."
Click here to read the full article.
*Legal notice: Adventist News Network freely permits the reproduction in full or in part of its articles providing that credit is given. More info.
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