Christmas treat strengthens church, community bond
Published:Monday | December 16, 2024 | 12:06 AMTiffany Pryce/Gleaner Writer
Although youth director for the Victory Covenant Ministries and Lisa Johnson-Clayton, member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), knew her 12-year wedding anniversary was the next day, it was all hands on deck for the annual Christmas treat that catered to children in the community of Patrick Gardens on Saturday.
The event, a staple in the church calendar, brought smiles, laughter, and a sense of togetherness to the children and their families.
“What keeps me going is just to see the smiles and the laughter on each child’s face and to know that everyone is happy,” Johnson-Clayton shared.
She emphasised the broader goal of the initiative, noting that “after these treats, some children start coming to church as a result. This is a goal of our youth department”.
Her husband, Dwayne Clayton, stood firmly in her corner, ensuring the event’s success.
“Basically, I’m just there to support her through this event because it is an annual tradition for the Victory Covenant Ministry. I handle things like setting up the tents, ensuring the music is ready, and making sure the kitchen is prepared,” he explained. “This initiative is exceptional and very important to the community. It’s about bringing the youths back to a level of stability, because some of them are disengaged, making them included and setting them on a Christian foundation.”
The day was bustling with activity. From the snow cone machine operated by Vance Lue to the ‘bounce house’ monitored by Shelly-Ann Brown McFarlane, the event was a hive of fun and care.
Lue, a father of four, highlighted the joy he felt seeing the children’s excitement.
“They rush for the popcorn and snow cones. It’s always a joy to see them come out and take part,” he said, urging others to engage in similar initiatives.
“People need to try to do things like this more often because not all parents can provide for their children.”
McFarlane echoed similar sentiments, describing her role in ensuring safety in the bounce house.
“I monitor them to make sure everyone, from babies to big kids, has fun without mishaps,” she said.
For her, every child at the event felt like her own.
“The importance of this treat is that it brings the entire community together. It also draws the parents to church, strengthening the church family.”
In the kitchen, Sylvia Brown took charge as the head chef, preparing a hearty spread of rice and peas, fried chicken, curry goat, and a variety of vegetables.
“Cooking for so many children isn’t hard for me,” she said with a smile. “Some of these kids might not be able to eat certain meals at home, so it’s fulfilling to know they’re getting a good meal here today.”
Johnson-Clayton also highlighted the importance of the community’s trust in the church.
“We’ve established ourselves as a support system for these children. If their biological parents aren’t around, we step in as guardians to them. Events like this renew that trust and show that we’re still here to appreciate them,” she explained, expressing gratitude to Bishop Anthony Carl Martin, the church community, and sponsors including Member of Parliament Duane Smith; Sanmerna; D&C Snows Wholesale; Kiss Bakery; and Solar Essence.
For the children, the day was pure joy – gifts, a chance to indulge in popcorn, snow cones, and a lovingly prepared meal while feeling the warmth of a community that cares. Johnson-Clayton has expressed her commitment to making a difference from different angles, as a police officer, a family woman and a church youth director. Her efforts demonstrating that with love, unity, and a shared sense of purpose, a community can thrive together.
“It takes a village,” she affirmed, “and we’re happy to be that village for these kids.”