The Carmen Lois Stewart (CLS) Foundation marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of the former Custos of St Andrew with a smorgasbord gala at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple on Windward Road in east Kingston on Saturday.

Stewart, who created history in 1992 when she was appointed the first female custos in Jamaica, would have turned 100 on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

A fundraising event, the smorgasbord gala was among a number of activities held by the CLS Foundation to mark her centenary

“The mission of the CLS Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for the people of East Kingston by providing opportunities that positively impact their growth and development, while serving the diverse and evolving needs of the community,” said son Stephen Stewart, who is president of the foundation.

President of the Carmen Lois Stewart Foundation, Stephen Stewart (right), accepts a cheque for $200,000 from Bishop Robert Stewart of Pentecostal Gospel Temple.

Stewart explained that funds raised from the gala will provide educational assistance for students to include scholarships and other forms of contributions through activities such as back-to-school and health fairs.

“The gala is specifically being held at this time in recognition of the centennial year of Bishop, Dr Carmen Lois Stewart (1924-2024) as we continue her legacy of excellence in service to God and man through community upliftment and development,” he added.

Saturday’s gala was a replica of a smorgasbord event that was undertaken by Bishop Stewart in the late 1970s, featuring various Jamaican and international cuisines.

Stephen Stewart noted that “the event was well attended and the food was delicious”.

The audience enjoyed the various items of entertainment including skits giving insight to the personality of the late Bishop. There was also a fashion show highlighting her impeccable fashion style; it featured some of the dresses, hats, and outfits that she was known for.

Dr Carmen Stewart

Renowned broadcaster, Fae Ellington, who was the master of ceremonies, kept the audience alive and attentive throughout the course of the night.

The audience also feasted musically with performances by Dennis Rushton and friends.

Stewart created more history in 1996 when she became the first female deputy governor-general.

She was the pastor of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple where she did duties for 44 years. She also worked as the director of health education in the Ministry of Health.

Bishop Stewart died on International Women’s Day on March 8, 2020 at age 95.