The Ebenezer Methodist Chapel held its annual ‘Back to School Service’ on Sunday 4th September 2022. Organised by the Mission and Evangelism (M&E) Committee, the service includes the children of the Ebenezer Congregation, as well as students of all denominations and faiths from The Valley and its surrounds. Now in its twelfth year, the annual ceremony is one of the ways that the congregation demonstrates its care and support for the students and teachers in the community.
Liturgist for the service was Congregational Steward, Sister Eva Hodge, who welcomed the students ranging from preschool to sixth form level, teachers and parents to the service. She also thanked them for braving the inclement weather to participate in the service.
The feature address was delivered by Chairman of the Mission and Evangelism Committee, Brother Sanford Richardson, whose presentation consisted of a mnemonic on the word PRAISE: P: Play and Prayer, R: Respect and Review, A: Attitude and Aptitude, I: Inspiration and Interest, S: Sensitive and Self-assured, E: Excitement and Excellence. ‘When we praise God we acknowledge Him, we declare who God is and what He does. As you begin this school year, I want you to make this year a year of PRAISE,” Mr. Richardson told the children.
The programme also included two poems by students of the ALHCS. ‘Education Can Take You Places’ was presented by Kayla Heyliger and ‘Discoveries In Life’ was presented by Ernest Brooks.
Following a pledge by the students, Local Preachers, Sisters Merline Barrett and Janice Hodge, who are also members of the M&E Committee, offered up prayers for students, parents, and teachers. In his expressions of appreciation, Brother Richardson thanked all those who participated in the event, including musicians Kasim Thompson and Casey Richardson.
The service ended with the presentation of educational packages to all the students and teachers, by Committee Members Sister Heather Ritchie and Brother Kenn Banks.
– Press Release
