In an inspiring service at the Church of God (Holiness) on Sunday, March 1st, two Immigration Officers with a lengthy tenure were honoured with special tributes upon their retirement. They, Sandra Hodge and Kenneth Brooks, both served in the Department for 32 years.
The pair was accompanied by Chief Immigration Officer, Ms. Lauren Bryan; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Chanelle Petty Barrett; Ministerial Assistant in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Everlie Bradley, as well as a large contingent of immigration personnel.
At the beginning of the service, the officers were welcomed by Sister Cynthia Gumbs, wife of Pastor Philip Gumbs. She led a lively worship session which the officers relished.
In tribute to the retiring officers, a special song, “Oceans”, was sung by Sister Mary Hughes. Also singing in special recognition of the retirees’ service, was Officer Shanoi Ruan, a renowned artist whose talent is often in demand at such ceremonies. He led the song “Because He Lives” ably backed up by a team of fellow-officers.
Pastor Gumbs’ sermon alluded to the prayer of David in Psalm 61: “Hear my cry O Lord, attend unto my prayer”. The subject of “Meditation” was the focal point of the message. “To meditate,” he said, “is to focus one’s thoughts, to ponder and to think on. Meditation consists of reflective thinking or contemplation. Meditation is the act of calling something to mind for the purpose of consideration or reflection.”
He quoted Psalm 36:6, which says, “When I remember you on my bed, I meditate on you in the night watches.” He then referred to Psalm 77:11, where it states, “I shall remember the deeds of the Lord. Surely, I will remember your wonders of old.”
Providentially, Officer Sandra Gumbs and Kenneth Brooks have now reached the stage where they have the freedom to meditate on their many years of service and to reflect upon past memories of their work. Indeed, they now have a great opportunity to relax in contemplative repose and meditate upon the goodness and mercies of God.
At the end of the service, Pastor Gumbs invited both of them to meet him for prayer at the altar. He then sent them off to enjoy the rewarding years of their well-earned retirement.
– Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
