St. Paul, Newmarket was honoured to have a visit from the consul-general of Jamaica, Kurt Davis, on March 22. He spoke about the current conditions in hurricane-ravaged Jamaica and some of the early efforts to get immediate aid such as food, fresh water, medicine and basic shelter to the people who needed help after the storm. A lot of this early, rapid assistance came from churches.
His talk then focused on the rebuilding process, which will take several years. Most of the country’s public infrastructure and buildings were destroyed or severely damaged by Hurricane Melissa last October, as were many thousands of homes. Many church buildings on the island were damaged or destroyed. Mr. Davis concluded with his thanks for the relief efforts we have already undertaken. He appealed for our ongoing help and support in the months and years to come.
St. Paul’s has been raising funds for Jamaica relief since the day after the storm hit. Although the funds raised now exceed $7,000, we will continue fundraising and are hoping to take advantage of the Bishop’s Appeal for Jamaican Relief, which will match donations up to $50,000. The deadline for the appeal was April 17, but St. Paul’s is committed to raising funds for relief efforts well past that date!
The service was followed by a lovely luncheon where parishioners could meet and speak to Mr. Davis and his family.
Submitted by Phil and Dawn Claxton, members of the parish.
Daily prayers for spiritual renewal