The Ebenezer Methodist Congregation hosted its annual ‘Back to School Service’ on Sunday 3rd September 2023, under the theme for this year, ‘Moulding Minds, Building Character.’ Now in its 13th year, the service is organised by the Mission and Evangelism Committee (M&E) of the Congregation in support of students from the church and the wider community and is open to adherents of all denominations and faiths. Some sixty students ranging from Preschool to Sixth Form turned out in their respective school uniforms to participate in the service. Several Parents and Teachers were also in attendance.
Chair of the M&E Committee, Bro Sanford Richardson offered the opening prayer, welcomed the attendees, and introduced the theme. The interactive service included the participation of a number of the students, including Ernest Brookes, a 4th Former at the ALHCS (Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School) who served as liturgist. Keyonce Reefe shared in song, while two more 4th Formers, J’ya Nichols and La’Ronique Hodge presented a dramatic reading entitled ‘A Big New School’, in anticipation of the move to the new ALHCS Campus. The Students, Parents and Teachers also read a number of scripture verses focusing on the theme.
This year’s keynote speaker, Dr Phyllis Fleming-Banks engaged the students in a highly interactive presentation on character building. Students identified actions that help to build character and those that negatively affect character and pledged to focus on the positive in the new school year.
Also participating in the service were Supernumerary Ministers, Rev. E. Dunstan Richardson, and Rev. Dr. H Clifton Niles, who offered blessings for the Students and Teachers. Circuit Minister, Rev. Wilmoth O. Hodge offered prayers for the Parents.
Musicians included 6th Former Jo’Quan Richardson on the drums, Bro Claudel Romney on the organ and Bro Sanford Richardson on the guitar. The M&E Chair also extended appreciation to all those who took part in the organisation and presentation of the service.
Following the service, the Students and Teachers were presented with gifts of school supplies, compliments of the congregation.
The evening ended with the rededication of the Ebenezer Preschool playground which was recently repaired by the Ebenezer Men’s Fellowship.
