The Central Jamaica Conference (CJC), in collaboration with the Willowdene Group of Schools and Campbell’s Castle All Age School, hosted the inaugural Teachers’ Prayer and Retreat under the theme “Repositioned for M.O.R.E.” The event, which also celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Willowdene Group of Schools, was designed to inspire, empower, and spiritually rejuvenate educators while emphasizing the ministry inherent in their daily work.
The two-day event welcomed 60 staff and teachers from the Willowdene Group and Campbell’s Castle schools on the first day and 83 on the second. The retreat combined spiritual enrichment, professional development, and relaxation to foster a renewed sense of purpose among educators.
Day One – Prayer and Empowerment Sessions
The first day of the retreat took place at the Willowdene Group of Schools, where participants engaged in powerful prayer sessions and educational workshops. Pastor Duwaine Scott, the school chaplain, hosted the programme, creating an atmosphere of spiritual reflection and encouragement.
Key presentations included Pastor Henry’s “Repositioning Our Educational Philosophy: The Adventist Perspective,” who encouraged teachers to view their profession as a divine calling.
He shared, “As educators, you are not just shaping minds—you are shaping lives. Every lesson, every interaction, is ministry. Reposition yourselves for more than success in the classroom; position yourselves for eternal impact.”
Dr. Lorraine Vernal presented “Recognizing, Preventing, and Overcoming Burnout: Equipping Educators for Sustainable Service.” She highlighted the importance of self-care and resilience.
“To serve others effectively, we must first replenish our own spiritual and emotional reserves. Burnout is not a badge of honor—it is a signal to pause, reflect, and restore. Take care of yourselves, so you can continue to care for your students with passion and purpose,” said Vernal.
Dr Lorraine Vernal, Director of Women's Ministries at the Jamaica Union Conference, addresses the teachers at the Teachers' Prayer Session and Retreat :: Photo credit: CJC Communication
CJC President Nevail Barrett delivered greetings, affirming the teachers’ dedication.
“Your commitment to molding the next generation is both noble and sacred. We recognize your sacrifices and encourage you to continue serving with faith, purpose, and passion. You are truly the backbone of our educational institutions,” said Barrett.
Pastor Nevail Barrett, President of the Central Jamaica Conference, addresses attendees at the Teachers' Prayer Session and Retreat :: Photo credit: CJC Communication
Attendees were visibly moved by the emphasis on prayer, reflection, and recognition of educators as vital instruments of positive change.
Day Two – Retreat and Relaxation
The second day took place at Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica, Ocho Rios St. Ann, providing teachers with opportunities for fun, relaxation, and team-building. The retreat offered a rare chance for educators to unwind, explore the surroundings, and connect with colleagues outside of the classroom environment.
Rox-Anne McKoy Chambers, Director of Education and Women’s Ministries, emphasized the importance of this intentional effort for both rest and spiritual renewal in sustaining educators, noting that their work equips students not only for success in this life but for greater service in the life to come.
“We believe that one of the greatest assets of our educational institutions is our dedicated educators—teachers in the classroom, support staff, and administrators. They serve with great sacrifice,” she continued “The gratitude expressed by our teachers was remarkable, reflected in the joy and smiles on their faces. We are encouraged and empowered to continue the sacred work of preparing students not only for success in this life, but also for greater service in the life to come,” Chambers said.
She also expressed gratitude to the organizers, sponsors, and schools that partnered to make the retreat possible, including the CJC Education Department, Willowdene Group of Schools, Campbell’s Castle Preparatory School, and the CJC Parish Development Action Committee.
Teachers expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful planning and stress-free environment. Karen Allen of Willowdene Group of Schools noted, “It was a memorable retreat and very considerate of the conference and the school to take the teachers into a stress-free environment. We could relax, interact freely, and even see those usually considered strict, letting down their hair. We wish it could be a yearly event.”
Meanwhile, Nickola Pitter from Campbell’s Castle added, “I was overjoyed and amazed. We were able to bond with the teachers from Willowdene, who were warm and welcoming. The food was delicious, and the room was comfortable.”
The retreat set a benchmark for future events, highlighting the value of supporting educators through spiritual, professional, and personal renewal. The CJC education department hopes that this initiative will continue, fostering a culture of empowerment, encouragement, and prayer for teachers across the region.