Robert Rivas, the Trinidadian-born Roman Catholic bishop of Kingstown, died on September 27, 2026, at the age of 80. His passing was confirmed by church officials in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, where he served as bishop.
Born in La Pastora, Trinidad, on June 7, 1946, Rivas entered the Dominican Order after completing his studies in Trinidad and Tobago. He later studied theology in Rome at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas. His education in Italy shaped his approach to his work in the Caribbean.
Rivas served as archbishop of Castries in Saint Lucia from 2008 until 2022. During his tenure, he was known for his commitment to community outreach and interfaith dialogue. Church sources said he was respected for his humility and dedication.
He authored the book "How Beautiful the Valley," published in 2014. The work reflected his deep connection to his Caribbean roots and his faith. It was well received among local clergy and laypeople alike.
His death leaves a void in the Catholic communities of Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent. Church officials in Kingstown announced his passing but did not specify the cause. Rivas's health had been reported as stable in recent months.
Rivas's early years in Trinidad saw him joining the Dominican Order, where he spent several years in formation. His decision to study in Rome was driven by a desire to deepen his theological understanding and serve the church more effectively in the Caribbean.
He took on the role of bishop in Kingstown after a long career that included pastoral work in Trinidad and leadership positions in the church hierarchy. His leadership in Saint Lucia, beginning in 2008, was marked by efforts to strengthen church ties across the region.
The church in the Caribbean has not announced plans for his funeral, but local reports suggest a service will be held in Kingstown in the coming days. Rivas is survived by family members in Trinidad and his religious community.
The passing of Robert Rivas comes amid a period of transition for the church in the Caribbean. His influence on church affairs and regional interfaith relations will be remembered by many who worked closely with him.
His legacy includes not only his writings but also his role in fostering regional cooperation among Caribbean Catholic communities. His death at 80 closes a chapter in the church’s history in the region.
Sources close to the church indicated that Rivas remained active in pastoral work until recently. His contributions to theological discourse and community engagement left a lasting impact on the Caribbean church landscape.
According to Dead-People.