The initial challenges could have easily discouraged Baptist missionaries from continuing with work in Annotto Bay. However, they persevered, and today the church celebrates 200 years of Christian Witness in the town of Annotto Bay, St Mary.

Those initial challenges included successive deaths of missionaries and the destruction of the chapel in the 1831-1832 insurrections. These challenges laid the foundation for the church, which today stands as an example of God’s faithfulness to His people, the church said in a media statement to commemorate the milestone.

According to the church, the members in 2023, like the members in 1823, are motivated to continue blazing the fire that was lit by the Spirit through the leadership of Rev Ebenezer Phillips (1823-24).

The anniversary theme alludes to those who contributed to the development of the church in her initial stage. ‘Celebrating the Past’ recognises the works of Moses Baker, Rev Philips, and many others.

‘Embracing the Future’ depicts total trust in God as He is sovereign, the news release said.

“The future progresses with Rev Travis Drummond blazing the torch lit by Rev Phillips as we are Celebrating the Past – Embracing the Future – 1823 and beyond.

“The 200th anniversary planning committee, chaired by Deacon Joy Davis and supervised by Rev Travis Drummond, has been working assiduously to create memorable experiences for this occasion.

“Please join us for the following exciting events scheduled for January 2023:

1)January 15

“The town of Annotto Bay will be transformed into a praise parade. At 3:30 pm a marching band, complimented by melodious singers, will provide reflective gospel music on the 2km parade. The atmosphere will be shifted to the sanctuary at 5:30 pm for the Evening of Praise, which will feature diverse talents.”

2)January 22

“The opening church service for the anniversary will be held next Sunday in the church sanctuary starting at 10:00 am. The preacher will be Rev Dr Glenroy Lalor, president of the Jamaica Baptist Union.

“The celebrations will continue for the entire year; please follow our social media pages for updates on the events.

“Please contact the following numbers for enquiries regarding the anniversary celebrations: 876-996-9648, 876-843-8970 and 876-842-6958,” the news release stated.