Washington Gardens Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrates 60 years of dynamic existence

THE WASHINGTON Gardens Seventh-day Adventist Church, situated at 41 Headley Avenue, Kingston 20, is a vibrant and flourishing church with over 1,800 members. She is well known for her musical tradition, excellent services, evangelistic outreach and dynamic leadership.

The church is the product of two Sabbath school companies established during the mid-1950s. One group met on the rear porch of Sister Florence McNeil’s residence in Maverley. It was led by Brother C. Hamilton who was assisted by Brothers C. Johnson and S. Tucker. The other group met on the premises of a day school on Seaward Drive. This was conducted by Sisters D. Foster and C. Campbell. This Sabbath school was established by Brothers Clifford Williams, E. Francis and W. Watson. Brother Sam Campbell, an elder of the Gretna Green SDA Church (now Hagley Park SDA), on the recommendation of his pastor, went there to further lead and develop the group.

The church has been a centripetal force within the community and, by extension, the country. Situated in a community with social and economic challenges, the Washington Gardens Seventhday Adventist Church has stood as a beacon of hope and has demonstrated over the 60 years how much it cares. This is seen through its social intervention programmes in education, health, and housing. Education Interventions include an Internet café and homework centre, public education forums, and back-to-school initiatives for all school-age students. Health programmes include conducting regular clinics and home visits for seniors. Building homes and providing financial assistance to youth in small business ventures are both parts of the intervention programme of the church. This church has truly lived up to its mantra, ‘A Place to call Home’.

GREATEST ARTISANS

For over 60 years, the church has shared the pride of producing some of the greatest artisans, professionals, evangelists, and pastors who have made significant contribution to the work of God across countries, continents and climes.

Remember, moments of celebration should be moments of rededication – let us use this opportunity to rededicate our lives for service to Christ. Join us as we celebrate with joy, adoration and praise to God, this 60th anniversary of His church here at Washington Gardens.

Together we can say, ‘To God be the glory, great things He hath done. Growing stronger, reaching higher’.

Former Minister of Education Ronald Thwaites cutting the ribbon. Looking on are Dr Donna Brown, education director (EJC), and church pastor Dr Meric Walker.

Pensioners from the Western District were treated to a day filled with gifts, entertainment, pep talks, refreshments, and more. In return, they shared some of their experience with all in attendance.

The Gemini Pathfinders reciting their pledge.

Pastor Carl Brooks and head deaconess Jasmine Simms of the Washington Gardens SDA Church congratulate the eldest pensioner, Nurse Chance, 95, on being awarded a rocking chair at Western District Post Office pensioners’ treat hosted by the church recently.

Community health outreach programme – an initiative of the WGSDA Church in collaboration with the National Health Fund.