Jamaicans Worship at Independence Service

MIAMI — Hundreds of Jamaican nationals and friends filled the pews of the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale on Sunday, August 7, as they worshipped at an Ecumenical Service, in celebration of the country's 49th anniversary of Independence.

The annual event, which was organised by staff of the Consulate General of Jamaica in Miami, was also attended by members of the Diplomatic Corps as well as public and civic officials across South Florida.

Focusing on the Independence theme: ‘The journey continues’, Senior Pastor of the Power of Faith Ministries in Portmore, St. Catherine, Bishop Dr. Delford Davis, said that Jamaica’s historical journey  has been filled with triumphs and tragedies as well as friends and foes.

He challenged the congregation to be steadfast with God, as “He has been good to us and He guides the way that we ought to go”.

Describing nationals at home and abroad as a resilient people of purpose and promise, great potential and inestimable possibilities, Bishop Davis encouraged them to be hopeful and supportive of “the vision of our leaders as we continue to build our homeland”.

Bishop Davis said that Jamaicans continue to distinguish themselves worldwide through their contributions and achievements, because of their strength, determination, creativity, confidence and positive impact as trendsetters. 

Special Guest, Minister of Education, Hon. Andrew Holness, praised Jamaicans abroad for their contributions and achievements in building the Diasporic communities. 

He called on nationals to assist in finding solutions to improve the Jamaican education system, adding that “we can build a proud nation free of crime and violence, if we can provide a seat in classrooms for every child”.

The Minister also read the Independence message from the Prime Minister, Hon. Bruce Golding.

Meanwhile, Consul General, Sandra Grant Griffiths, praised Jamaicans for their support and commitment to nation building at home and in their respective Diasporic communities.

The Consul General called on all Jamaicans in the Diaspora to prepare for the commemoration of next year’s golden jubilee celebration of Independence, heralding another significant milestone in the nation’s history.

“It will be a time of celebration during 2012, at home and throughout the Diaspora,” she added.

The service included recitals by the South Florida Caribbean Chorale, a 100-voice group of choristers from South Florida communities, led by choir director, Steve Higgins.

Proceeds from the service will benefit educational programmes, such as the Portsmouth Primary School Feeding Programme in Portmore, Food for the Poor and the Coalition of Jamaican Alumni Associations (CJAA) in South Florida.

By CHERYL WYNTER, JIS Reporter