July 14, 2023 || St. Croix, US Virgin Islands | NCC Staff
The Philipsburg Seventh-day Adventist Community Services Department on St. Maarten embarked on a mission to empower community and church members, with essential skills that can be used as a hobby or even better, to support their families in these economically challenging times. What unfolded was an eight-week adult education program that transformed lives and fostered hope in the hearts of those who participated.
“We recognize the pressing need to address social issues affecting families,” said Jacqueline Barry, Community Services Director of the Philipsburg Adventist Church. “We firmly believe in empowering families. We sought to assist homes, especially those who are experiencing difficulties to become self-sufficient.” Barry reported that sixty-two individuals including sixteen non-members registered for the program.
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The program aimed to equip participants with a diverse range of soft skills that would not only provide them with employment opportunities but also instill a sense of pride and confidence. Basic skills training encompassed areas such as car oil change, basic sewing, massage therapy, computer skills, graphic design, cake decorating, and pastry making.
“Through this initiative, participants gained practical knowledge and expertise that would open doors to new possibilities and avenues for personal and professional growth,” stated Pastor of the church Pastor Vashni Cuvalay.
Community Services Director in the North Caribbean Conference Pastor Hesketh Matthew shared the conviction that God has blessed the Church with enormous skills and motivations. “It is my belief that sharing these blessings with others would contribute significantly to improving living standards and fostering community building. By investing in the education and empowerment of the community, we envisioned a brighter future not only for individuals but for the community and the church as a whole.”
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The graduation ceremony which culminated the activity was attended by the Minister of Education for the island of St. Maarten, Rodolphe E. Samuel who challenged participants to continue the journey, stating, “you are never too old to learn.”
Participants not only forged lasting friendships throughout their journey but invested in themselves and their abilities. Their newfound skills became instruments of change, not only for themselves but also for their families and communities. The wide display of cakes, clothing and pastries at the end of the eight-week program is testimony to the remarkable transformations that took place.
Sis Gloria Powell who taught the sewing class volunteered her services for the first time and indicated that the class has transformed her life and instilled in her the desire to continue the ministry.
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This initiative is part of a wholistic approach geared to minister to the community with the love of God. “A drive by soup delivery by the local community services department to addicts and homeless individuals is part of the plan to invest in the community,” said Jacky Barry, “That is having a positive impact on the community.”
The impact of this ministry reached far beyond the confines of St. Maarten, serving as a beacon of inspiration for other communities. It has motivated churches around the conference to replicate the program’s success and invest in their community.
Adventist Community Services is a humanitarian relief and individual and community development ministry involving social action ministries that’s important to the mission of the church because they reveal a belief that faithfulness to Jesus Christ includes compassion for the poor, the hurting, and the victims of injustice. The ministry demonstrates hope that will eventually make a practical contribution to church growth.