Earl Richards (second left) introduces his daughter, Suzzette, to (from centre) Aulous Madden, Sir Howard Cooke and R. Danny Williams as Hands Across Jamaica honoured its pioneers at the Hilton Kingston hotel last Wednesday. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

Businessman Richard Chen (left) chats with another honouree, Dr. Alfred Sangster.Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

Bishop Herro Blair chats with Her Excellency Rheima Holding-Hall (left) and Yvonne Coke, director of Hands Across Jamaica for Righteousness, at the group's pioneer awards reception. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

It's been almost 13 years since a group of Jamaicans came up with a formula to heal our nation.

Hands Across Jamaica For Righteousness (remember the theme song with those children?) was and still is a beacon of the hope that exists for Jamaica. Five of the pioneers of hands were honoured for their contribution last Wednesday night at the Hilton Kingston hotel.

Hands' patron former Governor-General Sir Howard Cooke, Bishop Herro Blair, Custos of St. Andrew Bishop Carmen Stewart, insurance mogul R. Danny Williams and Dr. Alfred Sangster were all key figures in the implementation of this effort. Banker Michael Lee Chin was also given a special award for his contribution.

Audrey Dobney (right) has the attention of (from left) Bishop Herro Blair, Patricia Grant and Alma Blair. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Staff Photographer

At times, the event seemed more like a church service with the group Spirit of Elegance and pianist Huntley Brown among those bringing the praise, thanking God for His blessings and for our home Jamaica.