HANOVER, Jamaica — The Lay Magistrates’ Association of Jamaica (LMAJ) celebrated 41 years of dedicated service to the nation’s legal system with a national church service held at the Lucea United Church in Hanover on Sunday.

Addressing a congregation of fellow Justices of the Peace (JPs), church members and community members, LMAJ President Paulette Kirkland, JP, emphasised that the organisation’s mission remains firmly rooted in the principle of “strengthening justice through service”.

Speaking under the theme “LMAJ at 41, Strengthening Justice through Service”, Kirkland drew parallels between the legal responsibilities of lay magistrates and spiritual leadership. She noted that the celebration comes just one week after the Easter season which carries deep significance.

“Lent is a season of reflection, sacrifice, humility, and renewal. It reminds us of Christ’s call to servant leadership — a leadership grounded not in power, but in love; not in status, but in sacrifice,” stated Kirkland.

Kirkland reminded the JPs in attendance that their role is more than a civic duty but a divine mandate.

“Justice is not merely a legal principle; it is a divine mandate. It is rooted in righteousness, guided by wisdom, and tempered with compassion in a world where injustice can weaken communities and erode trust, our service strengthens the very foundation of our society,” argued Kirkland.

Reflecting on the 41-year history of the association, Kirkland lauded the thousands of hours of voluntary service provided by JPs across Jamaica’s parish courts and communities.

She highlighted the essential qualities required for the role, citing Micah 6:8: “To do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God” as a mirror for their mission.

“To do justly: ensuring fairness without prejudice or partiality. To love mercy: recognising the humanity behind every case. To walk humbly: understanding that true authority comes from God,” explained Kirkland.

With the LMAJ now moving into its 42nd year, Kirkland called for a “recommitment” to the core values of integrity and impartiality, especially in a world where injustice can erode societal trust.

“Anniversaries are not only moments of celebration; they are moments of recommitment,” stated Kirkland.

Custos of Hanover, Lennox Anderson-Jackson, noted that for more than four decades, Justices of the Peace have stood as pillars within communities, often serving quietly, yet being impactful.

“You have been mediators, mentors, advocates and guardians of good order,” stated Anderson -Jackson, adding, “Your contribution to maintaining peace, resolving conflicts and upholding the rule of law cannot be overstated.”

The custos added that in a time when societies are challenged by issues of trust and equity, the JP’s role becomes even more critical.

“Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done,” he remarked.

The service comes at a time when the LMAJ has been navigating internal challenges regarding ethical standards and member conduct. While Reverend Glenroy Clarke, pastor of the host church and a past president of the LMAJ Hanover chapter, did not explicitly reference these issues, he stressed the importance of unity during his sermon.

Clarke argued that while conflict may exist, fragmentation is not an option for the association.

“Uncertainty may remain ahead of us but we are no longer divided as an association. We are stronger together to stand up to the test of times,” said Clarke.