There are moments in history when the past and the future meet, when memory gives way to mission and faith steps confidently into what God is about to do next. That moment unfolded on Saturday, January 31, 2026, as the Seventh-day Adventist church Central Jamaica Conference (CJC) officially launched its 65th Anniversary celebrations at the Spanish Town Seventh-day Adventist Church, under the theme “Grace. Growth. Gratitude.”
Honouring the Past, Unveiling the Future
One of the most poignant moments of the day came during the “Connect and Share” segment. As instrumental music filled the sanctuary, the historical presentation “Lest We Forget” transitioned seamlessly into the 65th Anniversary logo reveal, captioned “The Threshold of Promise.”
Retired Pastor Errol Holmes (R) stands beaming with a Pathfinder at the newly unveiled 65th Anniversary logo at the Launch of the 65th Anniversary of the Central Jamaica Conference at the Seventh-day Adventist Church Spanish Town, on Sabbath, January 31, 2026. :: Photo credit: Garry Witter, Field & Production Manager, CJC
In a powerful symbolic act, the logo was unveiled jointly by a youth and an elderly member, visually affirming the partnership between generations, where the faith, sacrifice, and obedience of yesterday meet the energy, innovation, and promise of tomorrow.
The visual storytelling reinforced the message that the Central Jamaica Conference stands at a sacred threshold—grounded in its past, yet boldly stepping forward in faith.
A Year of Celebration, Service, and Mission
Following on the heels of this was “The Anniversary in Perspective,” segment led by Pastor Nevail Barrett, President, CJC. President Barrett outlined the calendar of activities for the 65th Anniversary year, including spiritual initiatives, evangelism projects, recognition events, and community outreach. He encouraged members and partners to remain engaged throughout the year.
Pastor Nevail Barrett (President, CJC) presented "The Anniversary in Perspective" to the attendees of the Launch of the 65th Anniversary of the Central Jamaica Conference at the Seventh-day Adventist Church Spanish Town, on Sabbath, January 31, 2026 :: Photo credit: Garry Witter, Field & Studio Production Manager, CJC
“This anniversary is not just about celebration,” he said. “It is about recommitment—to mission, to service, and to God’s calling on this Conference.”
Anchored in the call to trust fully in Jesus, the Divine Service centred on the sermon “Walk by Grace, Walk by Faith. The service was marked by reverent worship, heartfelt prayers, and musical ministry that deepened the spirit of consecration.
Pastor Everett Brown (President, JAMU) delivering the divine service message to the congregation at the Launch of the 65th Anniversary of the Central Jamaica Conference at the Seventh-day Adventist Church Spanish Town, on Sabbath, January 31, 2026 :: Photo credit: Garry Witter, Field & Studio Production Manager, CJC
Pastor Everett E. Brown, President of the Jamaica Union Conference, delivered the message and reminded worshippers that the Conference’s growth over 65 years has been sustained not by human strength, but by divine leading.
“Grace is what brought us this far, and faith is what will take us forward,” Pastor Brown emphasised. “When we trust Jesus completely, the mission will always move forward.”
Ministry in Motion: Reflecting on Impact
In the afternoon “Explore and Learn” session, President Nevail Barrett led the Talk Priorities segments, focusing on the Evangelism, Education, and Publishing Ministries of the church. The panel comprised current and past workers of CJC, and the discussion highlighted how these ministries have shaped the Conference’s identity and impact across decades, winning souls, nurturing minds, and spreading the gospel through literature.
Pastor Nevail Barrett (L) leading the panel discussion for "Talk Priorities" at the Launch of the 65th Anniversary of the Central Jamaica Conference at the Seventh-day Adventist Church Spanish Town, on Sabbath, January 31, 2026. Members of the panel include: (L-R) Elder Cleston Hamilton, Dr A. George McCallum (Director, Stewardship & Trust Services and Ministerial Secretary, CJC), Mrs Rox-Anne McKoy-Chambers (Director, Women & Education, CJC), and Elder Peter Williams (Principal, Willowdene Group of Schools). :: Photo credit: Garry Witter, Field & Studio Production Manager, CJC
“These ministries are not just departments; they are the engines of mission,” President Barrett noted. “They tell the story of how God has used ordinary people to do extraordinary work.”
Youth in Action, Mission in Motion
Elder Ken "Uncle Ken" Wright (L) engages young Pathfinders and takes a stroll down memory lane at the Launch of the 65th Anniversary of the Central Jamaica Conference at the Seventh-day Adventist Church Spanish Town, on Sabbath, January 31, 2026 :: Photo credit: Garry Witter, Field & Studio Production Manager, CJC
The day concluded with a vibrant Youth-in-Action Adventist Youth Programme, facilitated by Pastor Dwayne Scott, Director of Youth, Children and Adolescents Ministries. Youth-led worship, creative expression, and reflection underscored the vital role of young people in carrying the mission forward.
From early morning worship to evening fellowship, the day was intentionally designed to honour legacy while unveiling vision, reminding members that the story of the Conference is still being written.
As the Central Jamaica Conference steps into its 65th year, the launch programme made one truth unmistakably clear: standing at the Threshold of Promise, this is a people walking by grace, moving by faith, and advancing confidently into God’s future.
Members are invited to stay informed and participate by visiting www.cjc65.org for updates, pictorial highlights and upcoming event details.
To view the pictorial highlights, click here