“In reflecting on our journey since the devastating Hurricane Beryl in July 2024, I must say the Pedro Plains Cure has come a far way,” the Rector, Rev. Marjorie Downer, comments.
She continues, “Congregants and community members who were affected are less traumatized, although some are still grappling for funds to finish roof restoration, and there are few workmen available.”
Three of the six churches in the Pedro Plains Cure, along with the rectory, were damaged. To date, two of the churches and the rectory have been restored. Almost $8 million dollars was spent to repair the rectory and over $1 million for the two churches. The repairs were supported by the Anglican Insurance Fund and churches in the Cure which contributed almost $4 million towards the work on the rectory. Additional assistance came from the Diocesan Relief Fund, the Hope Centre of Jamaica, Kingston Deanery Mission Team, other churches and personal donations.
“I am blessed to have garnered PERSONAL support from individuals and church groups, including the Women in Ordained Ministry (WIOM), The Anglican Women’s Auxiliary from the Church of the Holy Spirit, in Portmore, and the Mothers’ Union from St. Mark’s, Brown’s Town, St. Ann,” Rev. Downer asserts.
She explains that the priority now is to raise $28 Million to repair St. Peter’s Church which lost its roof. The first initiative was a ‘pledge drive’ among the congregation. More than $2 million have already been pledged, and a second drive will be launched shortly.
In the meantime, Services are being held in the Church Hall which has become a storage area. There is no vestry and no office space, and Sunday School which was formerly held in the Hall, is now being done outdoors. At the same time, the facility, which was once a source of income, cannot be rented in its present condition.
“However, we are coping. Things could have been worse. Thanks be to God there is even a small increase in our numbers and our Bible Study and Prayer Meeting continue. Thanks to the various individuals, organisations and congregations who have assisted us. We crave any more help we can get,” Rev. Downer notes.
“It is my belief that we will rise above what Beryl has done to us to enjoy the peace, joy and fulfilment that await us,” she concludes.
Contributed by: Rev. Marjorie Downer Rector,
Pedro Plains Cure
St. Elizabeth
