By Gloria Goffe, Freelance WriterST. MARY High School in Highgate extended their outreach programme outside the school compound by having their first outdoor carol service on December 14 at the Cromwell Court Shopping Plaza in the town.
It was an incorporated effort with the police, in order to bridge the gap between students, the community and the police. The brainchild of members of staff, it turned out to be an enjoyable morning, heralding in the Christmas season with songs, poetry, and Bible readings.
Detective Corporal Donald English of Area 2 headquarters and a former member of the Constabulary Force Choir, thrilled the audience of mostly students with his rendition of "Wonderful", "Jesus Lord", and "Since I Met You Jesus". He accompanied himself on a guitar and received long and loud applause after each item.
Woman Constable Sharon Lawrence, also of Area 2, was named the song-bird of the morning, after the rendering of "Give Love on Christmas Day and "Oh Lamb of God". The students and teachers rendered songs, poetry and reading portions of scripture.
Board Chairman Dr. Maurice Guy brought greetings on behalf of the board and the school family. He said the moves augurs well for the school, whose aim was to involve and share with people of the community in collaboration with the police. The service was an addition to the outreach programme the school is involved in, on an annual basis, he told the small audience. Hot lunches are distributed to needy persons in the Highgate area, funded by donations from staff members, students and ancillary workers. Lunches are delivered to shut-ins and others attend at the school. This gesture is to serve others especially at this time of the year, he said.
Superintendent of Police in charge of St. Mary Samuel Campbell brought brief greetings, he congratulated the school for the idea of the Joint Effort. Commendations were also offered for the talents exposed at the service. The students are the future Jamaica, he said, and the school is on the right path by investing in them.
The Rev. Tyrone Wellington of the Independent Baptist Church in the town shared the morning's programme.
