Jamaica and the Cayman Islands
The Rev. Henroy Samuels baptizes an adult in the Caribbean Sea.
Former mission volunteer Vicki Smith writes about pastors in the United Church of Jamaica and Cayman Islands, who are lovingly referred to as “Rev.” Most serve one church, but if they serve more than one there is no pay increase. Rev. Henroy Samuels serves three churches and also works in the United States. He is the pastor of Immanuel United Church in Tower Isle, Boscobel United in Boscobel, and once a month he serves an isolated church that exists solely because he will come to preach.
What is more, the Rev. has made more than one trip to New Orleans to aid in disaster relief for a church greatly affected by Hurricane Katrina. He also is the chaplain at Iona Preparatory School and Iona High School in Tower Isle.
Through it all he remains a humble servant, never taking credit for his hard work and diligence. Rev.’s dedication and compassion make him beloved by many. During Easter in 2007, a couple returned to Jamaica so that Rev. Samuels could baptize them in their beloved Caribbean. It was a beautiful event blessed by a white dove flying overhead just as Rev. Samuels raised the wife from the baptismal waters.
Partners/Ministries
Uniting Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (UCJCI): Rev. Colin Cowan, general secretary, Mrs. Rose Wedderburn, deputy general secretary
United Theological College of the West Indies: Rev. Dr. Howard Gregory, president
Presbytery Partnerships
Presbytery of St. Augustine with the Jamaica Ecumenical Mutual Mission (JEMM); Presbytery of Baltimore with the UCJCI
PC(USA) General Assembly Staff
Felisa Rozier, BOP
Hy Rudin, BOP
Timothy Ruff, GAMC
Heavenly Father, whose servants are many, help us appreciate the sacrifices and unselfishness of our pastors and leaders. May we hold them in our hearts and lift them in our prayers as they model for us service and love in the best and worst of circumstances. Guide us as we work to bring your people together as one. Amen.
Ps. 51, 148 Ps. 142, 65
2 Kings 23:36–24:17
1 Cor. 12:12–26; Matt. 9:27–34
|
