The Ebenezer Methodist Chapel once again staged its annual ‘Back to School Service’ on Sunday, 6 September 2020. The event was organised by the Mission and Evangelism Committee (M&E) of the Congregation, under the chairmanship of Bro Sanford Richardson.
Sister Carey Richardson, a member of the organising committee, welcomed the attendees. She said that this was the tenth year since the services began. They were conceived to first ask God’s blessing on the children and teachers as they begin the new school year, but also to show that the church cared.
This year the theme for the service was ‘Persevere: Success will Come.’ The speaker for the event was Mr Remieko Richards, a student on break from university studies in the UK, who made a presentation on the importance of Education to success. He explained that that in itself is not enough, in the present time, but must be accompanied by originality and creativity. Dr Deslyn Hughes shared some important tips with the students and parents on Keeping Safe during COVID-19.
The students once again were the presenters of key ministries. Leeford Gumbs served as liturgist while the opening prayer was offered by Iyesha Carty, both ALHCS students. The scripture was read by Kalifa Brooks, a student of the Orealia Kelly Primary School.
Over 50 students from The Valley and its environs were present. These included adherents of all denominations and faiths who are generally welcomed to the event. The students, ranging from preschool to sixth form level, were all smartly dressed in their respective uniforms. Parents and teachers were also in attendance.
There was a new and exciting feature to the event this year, with the sharing of inspirational quotations on perseverance and education by students and teachers. These were in keeping with the theme and were very well received by those in attendance.
Circuit Minister, the Rev E Dunstan Richardson, offered prayers for students, teachers and parents, and a moment of silence was observed for the Rev Dr Wycherley Gumbs who was originally planned to offer the prayer for the teachers.
Musicians for the service were Devaunie Richardson on the organ, Kamal Vanterpool on the trumpet, and Casey Richardson on the drums.
Words of appreciation were given by another organising committee member, Sis Merline Barrett. She closed her remarks by using one of the quotations presented earlier. ‘Students don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care’.
The event, which began with a short street procession by students accompanied by drummers from the Boys’ Brigade, ended with all students and teachers receiving educational items compliments of the congregation.
– Press Release
9th September 2020
