The Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY), through its Youth and Adolescents Policy Division (YAPD), partnered with the Adventist Youth Ministries in Jamaica to officially launch Youth Month on Tuesday, November 1, 2022.
The launch took place at the HEART College of Construction Services (HCCS), in Portmore, St. Catherine from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. “Reignited - Empowering Youth for Jamaica 60 and Beyond” was the overarching theme of the program.
The festivities of the day consisted of, a Youth Opportunities Village, a Peace Concert, and a Panel Discussion with the Minister of Education and Youth, The Honourable Fayval Williams, MP. who charged the youth to remain focused on goals amidst distractions.
JAMU Youth Director Pastor Dane Fletcher (center) along with CJC Master Guide Mrs. Julie Taylor (right) stands with a group of students from various schools in Kingston. :: Photo credit: Dwayne Scott
Jamaica Union Youth Director, Pastor Dane Fletcher, also participated in the presentations, informing persons about the Pathfinder program, and shared that he was grateful that the Jamaica Union Youth Ministries department was invited to participate in such a meaningful experience.
"As we begin Youth Month, it is refreshing to know that the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Information celebrates youth, with a view that Youth can provide a reignition of hope, and transformation. I am happy that Pastor Scott, Sis. Julie Taylor and a team from Central Jamaica Conference were able to have a Pathfinder booth at the launch of youth month,” said Pastor Fletcher.
According to Pastor Fletcher, “Youth have always played a significant role in the development, and transformation of the world, and the Jamaica Union Conference will continue to be intentional about passing on the keys of identity, mission, and leadership to our youth.”
Pastors Dane Fletcher (Youth Ministries Director, JAMU) and Dwayne Scott (Youth Ministries Director, CJC) at the pathfinder display booth. :: Photo credit: Dwayne Scott
Meanwhile, Pastor Dwayne Scott, Youth Ministries Director, CJC, expressed his delight for the opportunity to impart important life skills as taught by the Pathfinder program.
“Many were captivated by the uniforms, insignias, and demonstrations of honors such as Camping Skills, and Knots and they learned important life lessons that are very applicable to daily life,” said Pastor Scott.
A male student receives a pathfinder token from a CJC master guide, while other students look on during the booth display at the launch of youth month in Portmore St.Catherine. :: Photo credit: Dwayne Scott
He also shared that he is looking forward to more collaborations like these to teach Jamaica’s children about the spiritual, personal, and professional benefits of our Adventist-led programs, as we encourage our youth to change the world.
Other activities for Youth Month from the CJC Youth department will include:
• Jamaica Union Bible Conference & Bible Connection Final at St Ann's Bay church - Nov 4-5
• Youth Federations Coordinating the Week of Prayer on the CJC Prayer Platform - Nov 5-12
• Youth serving as conference administrators and directors for a day - Nov 16
• Inter-American Division Bible Connection Finals at West Jamaica Conference Center - Nov 19
• Conference-wide Youth Day - Nov 26