Sandena James
For more than a century, the Orange Park Baptist church has continued to give service, playing an integral role in its close-knit community, near Moneague, St Ann.
Church members and well-wishers gathered in celebration of its 125th anniversary in an evening service on Sunday, August 21 on the church grounds.
Among the distinguished guests who gathered to witness the significant event as well as give their commendations were: vice president of the Jamaica Baptist Union and pastor of the St Ann’s Bay Circuit of Baptist Churches, Reverend Karen Kirlew and moderator of the St Ann Baptist Association, Marlene Davidson. Representing St. Ann Custos Norma Walters was Justice of the Peace, Norman Lindo. Member of parliament for South East St Ann, Lisa Hanna, was represented by Lois Steer. Orange Park is the oldest of four churches in the Walkerswood Circuit of Baptist churches. The circuit secretary Liesle Stennet was in attendance as well as representative of the Orange Park community, Yvonne Gentle. The representative of the Orange Park Farmers’ League, Shirley Coke, during his few words of congratulations handed over a ceiling fan on behalf of the group.
The service was also blessed by a number of melodious selections done by the children’s, youth, and adult choirs.
The church is responsible for a number of well-known educational programmes and outreach activities, often occurring in the community including visits to the “shut-ins” and extra lesson classes, with homework and CSEC assistance provided. Community representative, Gentles made mention of the church being not only religiously involved in the community, having become stronghold for the many who have passed through the institution.
The sermon was given by guest preacher, Reverend Judith Johnson Grant, who was said to be “one whose ministry was formed and fashioned right in the midst of these same church walls”. Aided by the scripture, Hebrews 10, verses 32-39, she addressed the congregation regarding the history of the church from 1891 until today, drawing comparisons between then and now to show just how far they have come despite the obstacles, through Christ.
As stated by host pastor since 2013, Reverend Gary Johnson, after remaining a firm, religious institution for over a century, they are looking forward to many more glorious years ahead.
The church building is also currently expanding, and has been operating a basic school for over 60 years, as well as a recently established library for the community for over 10 years.
“We have come thus far by faith. The torch still continues to burn fuelled by the power of Jehovah God.”
