The Ebenezer Methodist Church, The Valley, was a buzz of excitement on Sunday 22nd July, as a large and enthusiastic congregation honoured seven Anguillian Methodist Supernumerary Ministers with a surprise, but deeply appreciated Singspiration tribute.
The honourees were Reverends John A. Gumbs, Franklin A. Roberts, Cecil O. A. Weekes, Joseph R. Lloyd, E. Dunstan Richardson products of the Ebenezer Congregation along with Rev. Dr. H. Clifton Niles and Rev. Dr. S. Wilfred Hodge of the Bethel Congregation, who between them have served the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas for a combined total 364 years.
The Singspiration entitled “In Appreciation” comprised some of the favourite hymns of the supernumeraries, as chosen by their spouses. A narration of the origin of each hymn was presented prior to the renditions by the Ebenezer Senior Choir, The Ebenezer Men’s Fellowship, The Bethel Senior Choir and the congregation.
A brief summary of the ministries of all the honourees preceded the presentation of Appreciation Plaques to the Ministers and special flower arrangements to their spouses. Rev. Gumbs and Rev. Roberts were honoured for over 60 years of service each, Rev. Weekes and Rev. Hodge for 50 plus years, Rev. Lloyd and Rev. Niles for 45 plus years, and Rev. Richardson for over 40 years of service.
Speaking on behalf of the honourees and their wives, Rev. Niles thanked the Ebenezer Congregation for its “thoughtfulness and creativity in remembering and celebrating their ministry in such a special way”.
The Tribute was organised by the Ebenezer Mission and Evangelism Committee, as part of the 182nd Anniversary Celebrations of the chapel. Dedicated on 25 July 1830, the Ebenezer Chapel is believed to be the oldest Methodist Chapel in theCaribbeanstill in use.
The final activity for this year’s anniversary celebrations will be a Panel Discussion on ‘The Ministry of the Church in Today’s Society’ on Wednesday, 25 July, at 7.00 pm.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
