Jamaicans set to celebrate 45 years of Independence
JAB celebrates Jamaica’s Independence on August 6, 1962 with an annual cruise but every five years has an Independence banquet/ball. This year the Association decided to include a prayer breakfast.
The Independence ball is set for July 28 at the Fairmont Southampton Princess Hotel . . . more details to follow.
Tomorrow, JAB will host a prayer breakfast entitled “Jamaica For Jesus”. Members felt it was prudent to seek the blessings of God for their country as a result of the stride they have made over the years.
They also want to take this time in prayer to intercede on behalf of their country.
Ms Flynn Simons said: “We are calling all Jamaicans (spouses, children, grandchildren, siblings) and friends of Jamaica to join us in a time of fellowship and prayer.
“The New Testament scripture in 2 Corinthians 4 verses 8 and 9 states: ‘We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed: we are perplexed, but not in despair; prosecuted, but not forsaken, cast down, but not destroyed.’
“No matter what unpleasantries face us as a nation, Jamaica or Bermuda, we have hope. Our nations are built on God and in God we live, hope, trust and have our being.
“There is somebody bigger than you and me and He will not forsake us. If we humble ourselves (by calling upon Him), turn from our wicked ways (by repenting), He promises to heal our land.
“Nations all over the world recognise that our respective countries need healing and Jamaica is no exception.’
The event is open to all in an effort to promote unity and to share this momentous occasion.
Ms Flynn-Simons added: “Our prayer breakfast is open to everyone, including members of Government and the Opposition Party. We welcome all guest workers to come and pray for their nation.”
The preacher will be Pastor Lloyd Duncan of Greater Smith’s Hill New Testament Church of God.
“Although the emphasis will be on Jamaica, we are also mindful about our second home, Bermuda,” she said.
“We recognise that even by virtue of living here we need to also remember Bermuda in prayer. In so doing, we have invited Pastor Blanche Burchall of Glory Temple, Southside, St. David’s to intercede on behalf of Bermuda while Pastor Ranville Thomas of Revival Assembly will intercede on behalf of Jamaica.”
JAB hosts a picnic every year, usually coinciding with one of Jamaican Association’s Commercial Cricket League matches at Shelly Bay.
“It’s a way of saying thank-you to the community,” she said.
“Over the past two years JAB has had some 2,000 residents taking part in this community event. Well, on behalf of our various nations . . .consider this the ‘seeding’ of a national prayer breakfast.”
Ms Flynn-Simons added: “The Bible says those who have ears to hear let them hear what the Spirit is saying . . . come out and enjoy seeing old friends, make new friends (fellowship), enjoy Bermuda breakfast or Jamaica breakfast (or both) prepared by Wilks Catering Services and hear what the Spirit is saying (the word of God) for such a time as this!”
Remember that to properly cater for numbers, JAB requires tickets to be purchased in advance — $30 at In-Between Boutique and Jamaican Grill or by contacting the Marlene Flynn-Simons at 504-1045 /236-6792.
