Jamaican Independence Anniversary Church Service rescheduled for Queens

The Consulate General of Jamaica in New York said on Saturday that the Jamaica Independence Church Service, originally scheduled for August 11, has been rescheduled for Sunday, August 25, at 4:00 p.m., at the New Jerusalem Worship Center, 122-05 Smith St., Jamaica, Queens.

“This annual service is a significant event on the calendar of the Jamaican Diaspora, providing an opportunity for the community to come together in faith and unity to celebrate our nation’s independence,” said Chris Benjamin, community relations officer, adding that “staff is working assiduously to ensure that the service not only offers spiritual blessings but also upholds the high standards that our community has come to expect.” 

After the service, Benjamin said attendees are “warmly invited to a reception following the event, where we will continue the celebration of our heritage and shared values. 

“Furthermore, the Consulate General will commence discussions with our communities outside of New York to explore how we can facilitate the hosting of similar services in your neighborhood,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring that all members of our Diaspora have the opportunity to participate in these important celebrations. 

“The Consulate General appreciates the understanding and continued support of the Diaspora community and looks forward to welcoming all to what promises to be a meaningful and uplifting occasion,” Benjamin added.

In her Independence Anniversary message, Consul General Alsion Wilson said: As we stand on the cusp of another remarkable milestone in our nation’s history, celebrating Jamaica’s 62nd year of independence, we are reminded that independence is not merely a moment in time but an ever-evolving process. 

“This process is continuously reinterpreted and redefined by each successive generation,” she said. “The vision and resilience of our forebears laid the bedrock upon which our nation stands, guiding us toward progress and prosperity. 

“Today, we are charged with the profound responsibility of building upon this foundation and setting the stage for future generations,” Wilson added. “As we navigate this journey, I encourage each of you to reflect deeply and consider, ‘What do I want to be remembered for?’”

She said Jamaica’s journey as a nation has been “significantly enriched by the Jamaican Diaspora, whose tenacity of spirit and remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on the global stage. 

“From the pioneering leadership of Marcus Garvey, who sowed the seeds of Jamaica’s global influence, to the unparalleled contributions of icons such as Bob Marley, Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Jamaicans have risen to prominence in every corner of the world,” the Consul General said. “Their stories are a testament to our enduring spirit and the powerful impact of our culture, values and identity.” 

In every sphere of life—academia, politics, business and beyond—she said first, second, and third-generation Jamaicans continue to make their mark, “often citing their Jamaican heritage as the cornerstone of their success.”

She said their achievements are “a direct result of the sacrifices made by their fore-parents, who left our beautiful island in search of better opportunities. 

“Today, their success stories are a testament to the strength of our community and the enduring power of our cultural heritage,” Wilson said. “As a community, we must support their endeavors, encouraging them to view Jamaica not only as a place of respite and recreation but as a land ripe for investment and even a return to live. 

“Let us not allow our land to remain idle but to thrive with purpose and potential,” she urged. 

But as nationals celebrate their 62nd anniversary, Wilson said they must also acknowledge the challenges they have faced, particularly the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl. 

“Many of our fellow Jamaicans are still grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster,” she said. “It is incumbent upon us to extend a helping hand, especially to families with children preparing to return to school in September. 

“Our commitment to caring for one another must remain unwavering, ensuring that those affected receive the support they need to rebuild their lives,” she added. “In the spirit of ‘One Love,’ let us rekindle our sense of community by reaching out to our brothers and sisters.”

The Consul General said Jamaicans are often affectionately referred to as “faas,” or nosy, but added that “this characteristic stems from a place of deep care and concern for one another. 

“Take the time to check in on your family, friends and schoolmates who you may not have seen in a while,” she further urged. “It is this sense of interconnectedness that defines us as a people and strengthens our community bonds.”