Jamaican’s in South Florida celebrate Emancipation and Independence in praise and worship

MIAMI – The Rev. Dr. Merrick ‘Al’ Miller, Pastor of the Fellowship Tabernacle in Kingston, on Sunday (Aug. 2) called on Jamaicans in the Diaspora to become actively engaged in transforming a new Jamaica, if they believed in Jamaica. “If you believe in Jamaica, give yourself to the process of building in Jamaica and help the nation pull through to her capability,” he added. “Belief demands action,” he continued.

He was speaking to nearly 1,300 Jamaicans attending the annual Ecumenical service celebrating the nation’s 47th anniversary of Independence at the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

Using the theme of Independence “I Believe in Jamaica” Rev. Miller who was guest preacher at the church service, said that the success of nation-building, would depend on both Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora indicating that as Jamaicans we were responsible for fixing the problems that we created.

Making biblical reference to the story of Joseph, the prodigal son, Rev. Miller told the large congregation that the Diaspora was positioned for a purpose, to save lives in times of hardship, famine, and great crisis of our people. “We cannot build a new Jamaica nor fulfill the dreams of our founding fathers without the Diaspora,” he said.

Describing Jamaica as a nation with a divine destiny, Pastor Miller said that our faith and belief are characteristic of our resilience and ability for greatness, indicating its evidence by our forefathers when they composed the National Anthem, as he recited the prayerful theme of the verses.

A large section of the congregation of Jamaicans and friends of the Diaspora sharing a medley of gospel songs in a recital by the 100-voice South Florida Caribbean Chorale.
Rev. Miller reminded his audience of the strength of Jamaica as a small nation, standing to its challenges. Speaking of the accomplishments of Jamaicans worldwide, he urged nationals to continue striving for greatness wherever they resided in their respective roles as ambassadors.

In a call for unity, Rev. Miller also urged his congregation of Jamaican nationals and friends of the Diaspora to come together to help heal the nation. He warned that they do not become discouraged and not yield to the negatives.

In an effort to increase productivity, he reiterated that as a nation, we must break the cycles of poverty, crime and violence, indiscipline and corruption in our society as well as correct the low conditions of health and education, at the same time strengthening the family unit.

Endorsing the Prime Minister’s call for change and national transformation, Dr. Miller spoke briefly of the recently launched National Transformation Program (NTP) for “a fresh start”. He was appointed National Director for the national initiative in which the church, state and civil society would be working together for national transformation, a process of positive renewal for the Jamaican people, by the Jamaican people.

Recognizing the importance of the Diaspora to restoration and transformation, he spoke of the patriotic fervor of Jamaicans abroad in assistance programs stating that “it is important that you understand your role and play your part in the process of nation-building” as we help the nation to pull through.

Even though he expressed appreciation for their ongoing commitment and dedication through philanthropy, Dr. Miller reminded nationals that while they were pursuing their personal development in their adopted homelands abroad, it was important they remain resourceful to the development of the Jamaican economy.

Jamaica’s Consul General Sandra Grant Griffiths said that the large turnout of nationals and outpouring of spirit at the Ecumenical Service was a testimony for love of country and a celebration of culture and heritage of our island home.

Calling for renewed faith in Jamaica, the Consul General said that nationals at home and in the Diaspora must unite in confidence as we continue to achieve with the strength and maturity of a great nation.

According to the Consul General, “a sense of self, and a blessed and unique ingenuity of spirit and deeds have been traditional hallmarks of our people,” adding that Jamaicans have been beacons of achievements in the many fields they have dared to conquer, as they contribute positively to world society, individually and collectively.

She encouraged Jamaicans and friends of the Diaspora to participate in the planned itinerary of activities celebrating the nation’s 47th anniversary of Independence throughout the local communities.

Jamaica’s Diaspora Advisory Board representative for the Southern USA, Mr. Marlon Hill also echoed sentiments of our accomplishments as a nation.

As he encouraged participation of the Diaspora in nation building and local communities, he briefly outlined upcoming events namely the Future Leaders Conference now taking place in Kingston, the USA Regional Diaspora Conference to be held in Fort Lauderdale in October, followed by the fourth biennial National Diaspora Conference scheduled for June next year.

A moment of silence was observed in honor of the passing of Lady Gladys Bustamante, widow of Jamaica’s first Prime Minister and National Hero, Sir Alexander Bustamante. Rev. Felecia O’Neal and Rev. Horace Ward extended special prayers, traditionally, for the United States of America and Jamaica, respectively.

Mayor of Lauderdale Lakes and Jamaican national, Hon. Barrington Russell, Sr. (left) signing the condolence book as he paid respects to the late Lady Gladys Bustamante who passed away on July 25. Looking on are staff of the Consulate, far right Ms. Melicia Alwood and (center) Ms. Yvonne Shelley.
Officiating Minister was Pastor Rev. Donald Lawrence, Pastor of the Parkway Baptist Church in North Miami.

The tightly packed and entertaining program featured several recitals and performances from the Sierra Norwood Church Children’s Choir, the Jamaica Folk Revue and the 100-voice strong Caribbean Chorale of several church choirs in South Florida and directed by Steve Higgins, formerly of the Jamaica Folk Singers.

Consul, Ms. Desreine Taylor, read the Prime Minister’s message of Independence. In his message, the Hon. Bruce Golding urged Jamaicans to recommit themselves to fulfilling the dream and hopes of Independence, reminding that “we can overcome,” despite the setbacks and harshness of the times.

He also praised Jamaicans in the Diaspora for their continued commitment to the island’s economic development while enhancing the development of the communities in which they reside.

Lessons were read by Miss Jamaica Florida Ambassador, Miss Tracey Miller and youth ambassador of the South Florida arm of the Jamaica Diaspora, Miss Kellian McDonald.

Dignitaries participating in the Ecumenical service included officials representing the Consular Corp in South Florida, public officials in the tri-county region as well as Ambassador Dudley Thompson, former Jamaican diplomat and government official.

The offering of collection was designated for HIV/AIDS charities in Jamaica and the United States.

Following the service of thanksgiving, a condolence book was opened to the public. Jamaican national and Fort Lauderdale resident, Ms. Una Dawson, waited in line to pay respects to a Jamaican icon. “She was a great lady always looking out for us – a supporter of women’s rights” as she spoke passionately of the loss of a Jamaican stalwart of women’s and workers’ rights.

A community reception and fellowship hosted by the staff of the Consulate immediately followed the service.