MANDEVILLE, Manchester — After more than three decades of active service to the Bombay New Testament Church of God, Jasmine Williams, known to many as Sister Nance, was recently honoured by the institution.

An initiative of the Women's Ministries Department, the lively appreciative function was held at the church on the border of Central and North East Manchester.

Williams' Christian ministry, according to her citation, span roles such as Sunday school teacher in the junior and senior departments, Sunday school superintendent and women's ministries president for over 11 years.

Several speakers for the evening, including host Pastor Othniel Watson and former councillor Leroy Mitchell (JLP — Walderston Division), reiterated her exemplary qualities, which also served her well as a mother, wife and active community member.

One of the chairpersons for the event, Paulette Elliott, described her simply as "a wonderful woman of God".

Williams, whose association with the Bombay New Testament Church of God began in 1975, is credited with a number of achievements during her tenure as president of the women's group.

"You were able to form a vibrant visitation committee — visiting shut-ins, community persons, as well as those in hospitals. You were also instrumental in supervising several fasting services, Thursday house-to-house prayer meeting, Tuesday night ladies' band, tract distribution, taking care of church towels, ensuring the bibs were ready for communion as well as creating the church's cleaning groups," the citation read.

"You were known to be the spiritual mother for the community and nana for the pregnant women. You continue to enrich the adult and women's choir with your melodious voice. You aroused your spectators, silenced your critics, baffled your opponents, garnered the respect and admiration of your team players and wowed your supporters and admirers. You have contributed significantly to the kingdom building and have made your mark. Your presence has certainly been felt," it added.

As an extension of her work in the church, Williams is a part of Gospel Light, which is a group of persons from different churches who host a religious morning radio programme on Citizens' Band radio (CB radio).

Using her moniker, LW Lady, for the past 26 years she has been involved in "delivering the word of God, moderating the programme as well as making valuable comments to uplift fellow members and listening friends".

Williams is hailed by her church community as one of Jamaica's unsung heroes. As such, the appreciation function was slated to coincide with Heroes' Day last year, but was postponed due to her illness.

"I feel good to be honoured in this fashion," said Williams in her response. "I will continue to work for the Lord as long as He lend(s) me breath."

She shared the stage with her husband Lacelle Williams (Brother Mac), who described her as a tower of strength.