St. Mary’s Parish Church in The Valley was the venue for a special children’s service and gift presentation on Sunday afternoon, September 2.
The event, under the auspices of the church’s administration, was conducted by Ms. Khristie Webster, a member of the Anglican Church and a teacher at the Alwyn Allison Primary School. She was assisted by a number of young people who performed other roles during the service which began with some popular children’s choruses.
One of the participating youngsters was Michael Martin Jr., a student at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School who was among a number of top CSEC students who have been celebrated for their excellent performance in the 2018 external examinations. He obtained 9 ones and one two in his subjects.
Michael, whose father is Michael (Dumpa) Martin Sr. the school’s steel band instructor, delivered a sermon mainly directed at children. Stressing the need for the practice of Christian virtues, the secondary school student said: “God is working on each of us to create a unique jewel but we must allow Him to do so…From today onwards, as we attend school, let us by our actions represent God’s glory so that when situations arise we will not become hostile. Move away so that peace may abide.
“School is starting tomorrow, Monday, for all of us. It may be tough but never ever place praising the Lord at the bottom of your school list – and it should never be on your tomorrow’s list. My advice to you is: do not procrastinate. Work diligently and be serious about your education. I know sometimes schoolwork can be tedious, but work diligently and you will have a lot of time to relax afterwards. Do not waste time.”
The service was followed by the distribution of school supplies to a number of children particularly in the primary schools and the comprehensive school.
Bishop Errol Brooks, who delivered the benediction, told The Anguillian newspaper: “This is an annual event which we hold just before school begins. We are grateful to a number of persons who contributed books and pencils and other supplies that the children can use in school. We are happy to share these gifts with them on this joyous occasion. You can see on their faces how happy they are, and the parents are happy as well. The event is getting bigger every year and that is wonderful. We want to wish the children God’s blessing as they begin school and throughout the year.”
