Golding

Yesterday the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation (KSAC), in a landmark ceremony, acknowledged over 18 churches for service rendered to the downtown Kingston community.

Prime Minister Bruce Golding commended the churches for their continued stalwart service and permanent residence in an area which, he claimed, many have abandoned.

"Churches have kept their doors open for so many, and have been an oasis in a desert, with a fountain of life and hope for a part of the city left for so long in despair," he said.

Religious and community service

The pre-Emancipation Day civic ceremony and ecumencial service, held at St Andrew's Scots Kirk United Church, downtown Kingston, awarded members in the community for their religious and community service, spanning over 100 years.

Mayor of Kingston, Desmond McKenzie, spoke highly of the members of the clergy who represented various denominations for their contribution to the capital city's architecture, social values and the rich history of Jamaica.

"Not only have these churches assisted in the development of our educational and skills training system," he said, "they have contributed significantly to providing jobs and economic support to families and communities."

The Jewish synagogue, one of the oldest in the Caribbean, will be recognised in a different ceremony for its contribution to Kingston.

Stalwart stance

Guest speaker, the Rev J Oliver Daley, implored the awardees to maintain their stalwart stance in the community. Despite attempts from "demonic forces" to threaten and test the various communities to place personal gain or profit over people, he urged church members to maintain their crucial role in society. He implored them to keep God first and pray for wisdom, insight, strength and knowledge.

Awardee and Rector Leon Golding of the Kingston Parish Church, which is over 300 years old, thanked the KSAC for the recognition bestowed on the honourees.

He said the Church may not be as influential now, as in previous years, but stressed that amid crime, violence and rising food costs, the Church still operates as a place of sanctuary and was integral to Kingston's history and restorative development.