UCJCI Update - Vol. 13 No. 39
calendar_month Oct 8, 2026
Date Issued - October 7, 2026
Here is a comprehensive summary of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (UCJCI) update:
Here is a comprehensive summary of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (UCJCI) update:
- Caregiver Recognition: East End United Church and the Alzheimer's and Dementia Association of the Cayman Islands (ADACI) hosted a "Praise in Purple" service on September 27, 2026, to honor family and professional caregivers, particularly those supporting individuals with dementia.
- Council for World Mission (CWM) Visit: Ridgemount United Church hosted a CWM delegation on September 20, 2026. CWM Moderator Dr. Natalie Lin emphasized global partnership, unity, and "The Onesimus Project," which focuses on reparatory justice and confronting racial inequality and modern slavery.
- CTLT 10th Anniversary: The Centre for Theological Leadership Training (CTLT) marked its 10th anniversary with a Thanksgiving Service at Elmslie Memorial United Church on September 27, 2026. Director Rev. Dr. P.J. Lawrence and speaker Rev. Mary Graham reflected on a decade of theological education and staying connected to Christ.
- Worship Themes & Lectionary: The focus for October 11, 2026, is "Loyal Leaders for a Godly Heritage" under the Heritage Month theme. Lectionary readings include Exodus 32:1–14, Psalm 106:1–6, 19–23, Philippians 4:1–9, and Matthew 22:1–14.
- Joys and Concerns: Prayers were requested for those affected by Hurricane Melissa and flash floods in Nepal, alongside members experiencing health challenges or bereavement. Birthdays for several church leaders between October 7 and 13 were also noted.
- Upcoming Events and Meetings:
- Rt. Rev. Dr. Collin Cowan invited members to an online meeting themed "Serving together, supporting each other" on October 14, 2026.
- Camp Ministry reunion is scheduled for October 24, 2026, at Little Rippon Nature Park.
- UCYAAM Conference & AGM will take place on November 7, 2026, at Andrew’s Memorial United Church.
- A Pink Praise Concert is set for October 31, 2026, at The Celebration Church, Portmore, to raise funds for a new mammography machine.
- Webster Memorial United Church Discipleship Institute is hosting teaching series, workshops, and vocal music sessions through October and December.
- Job Opportunity: The Synod Office in Kingston is seeking a Programme Assistant for the Human and Mission Resource Unit, with applications due by October 9, 2026.
- Hurricane Relief: UCJCI established relief accounts (JMD, USD, GBP) to support rebuilding efforts for sanctuaries and institutions damaged by Hurricane Melissa.