UCJCI Update - Vol. 13 No. 37

Date Issued - September 23, 2026

Overview: United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (UCJCI) Update

Publication Date: September 23, 2026 (Vol. 13, No. 37)
Synodical Theme: "Launch Out into the D.E.E.P" (Discipleship, Evangelism, Edification and Prophetic Ministry)

Key Leadership Appointments & Welcomes

Rev. Khereen Wilson-Bailey: Warmly welcomed by the Cayman Islands Regional Mission Council (CIRMC) as Minister of the Savannah-Bodden Town Charge and Chaplain of Cayman Prep and High School. Her induction service took place on September 20, 2026.
Mrs. Karen Francis: Appointed as Warden at the United Theological College of the West Indies (UTCWI) effective September 1, 2026, and as Deputy President of UTCWI for two years effective August 1, 2026.

Church News & Fellowship

WRMC Women's Fellowship: Visited Riverside United Church in Hanover on September 20, 2026, for their Harvest Service, led by Regional President Sister Gloria Tharkur. The message was delivered by Rev. Laddia Young under the theme "Faithful Stewards of God's Provision".
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: September is recognized to promote early detection and support those affected.

Worship Themes & Upcoming Events

Worship Theme (September 27, 2026): "Stewardship of Creation and Vocation: Lifelong Responsibility," focusing on humanity's caretaker role, managing the "Five T's" (Time, Talents, Treasure, Temple, Testimony), and viewing work as a divine partnership.
Induction Service: For Rev. Donald West to the Carron Hall Charge (North-Eastern Regional Mission Council), scheduled for September 27, 2026, at Carron Hall United Church, St. Mary.
Camp Reunion: UCJCI Camp Ministry reunion on October 24, 2026, at Little Rippon Nature Park, Mile Gully, Manchester.
Pink Praise Concert: An Evening of Worship for a Cause on October 31, 2026, at The Celebration Church, Portmore, to raise funds for a new mammography machine.
UCYAAM Conference & AGM: Scheduled for November 7, 2026, at St. Andrew's Memorial United Church under the theme "Rooted and Grounded, Going Deeper in Ministry".

Employment Opportunity

Programme Assistant (Human and Mission Resource Unit): The Synod Office in Kingston is seeking applicants with a Diploma in Business Administration (or related discipline), relevant CSEC subjects, and at least 3 years of experience. Applications are due by Friday, September 25, 2026.

Hurricane Melissa Relief & Prayer Requests

Relief Assistance: Donations are being accepted via National Commercial Bank (JMD and USD) and Barclays Bank (GBP) to rebuild damaged sanctuaries and support those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
Joys and Concerns for Prayer: Prayers are requested for the nation of Nepal (flash floods), individuals affected by Hurricane Melissa, bereaved families (including Rev. Gerald Emanuel and Pastors Wadwald and Susan Knight), and several ministers facing health challenges.