Mission and Strategic Context
The Mission of the Caribbean Union Conference is “to prepare the people of the region for the glorious second advent of Jesus through the proclamation of the everlasting gospel and to make loving, obedient disciples of Jesus Christ, who, having experienced His transforming grace, will go forth under the power of the Holy Spirit to share joyfully with others the good news of salvation.”
To fulfil the Mission of CARU, the strategic initiatives of Personal and Spiritual Growth and Maturity, Enhancement of Education, Health and Family Life, and Evangelism and Community Outreach were implemented across the three ministries – Women, Children and Adolescents, and Possibility Ministries.
Children are a precious gift from God and the future of both the Church and society. Nurturing their spiritual growth while ensuring their safety and wellbeing remains a sacred responsibility entrusted to us. During the quinquennium, our ministry has intentionally implemented a range of activities and initiatives designed to nurture, protect, and strengthen the spiritual development of children within our church and community. The purpose of CAM is to nurture children into a loving, serving relationship with Jesus by inviting every child in the world to know Jesus Christ and accept Him as his/her personal friend and Savior.
Through leadership training, child protection initiatives and engaging spiritual activities, we have sought to create environments where children can grow in their knowledge of God, develop strong values, and feel safe, valued and supported. These efforts have also equipped leaders, volunteers and families with the tools needed to guide children in their faith journey while promoting their holistic well-being.
As we review these accomplishments, we give thanks to God for the dedication of our leaders, teachers, parents and supporters who continue to invest their time, talents and treasure in shaping the lives of our children. As we share these highlights, the passage in 3 John 1:4 expresses the sentiments of our hearts: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
We extend our sincere appreciation to our Children’s Ministries workers for the important role they play, and the many sacrifices made as we seek to nurture and empower our children for God’s mission.
“There never was a time when more workers were needed than at the present. There are brethren and sisters throughout all our ranks who should discipline themselves to engage in this work; in all our churches something should be done to spread the truth…” (Review and Herald, April 1, 1880). These compelling words from the Spirit of Prophecy provided the impetus for many ministry initiatives throughout the years. A quotation from the book Evangelism, p 471, emphasizes this need and makes a specific call. Ellen White noted that “The refining, softening influence of Christian women is needed in the great work of preaching the truth.”
The Women’s Ministries Department was established in response to this call for women to be “instruments of righteousness, rendering holy service.” This Department is committed to encouraging, challenging, nurturing and equipping Seventh-day Adventist women as they do their part in sharing the gospel.
During the quinquennium, we focused on advancing four strategic priorities through targeted activities designed to deepen faith, strengthen personal discipleship and equip members for effective service. The initiatives implemented during this period addressed spiritual formation, leadership renewal, compassion in action and the discovery and use of spiritual gifts. In addition to the three strategic initiatives, the fourth priority is Financial Viability and Stewardship.
In conclusion, the activities of the Women’s Ministries Department during this period, reflect a deliberate and faithful response to the strategic priorities of the Caribbean Union. These initiatives have nurtured and empowered our women and strengthened their capacity to do their part in advancing the Mission. While meaningful progress has been made, the work ahead calls for continued commitment, prayerful discernment and the ongoing support of leadership and laity. We are admonished in 1 Corinthians 15:58 to be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord.
Creating a truly inclusive church community is both a calling and a commitment. Adventist Possibility Ministries seeks to give our congregations an opportunity to inspire, equip and mobilize those who have a disability, suffered a loss, or are caregivers, so they may serve God and their community. This mission is encapsulated in its purpose statement that “All are gifted, needed and treasured.” Our activities during this quinquennium focused on awareness, acceptance and empowerment.
The activities highlighted for this reporting period reflect a growing commitment to compassion, accessibility and belonging. Together, these efforts move us closer to our vision of a church community where inclusion is not simply an initiative, but a way of life.
Our sincere appreciation and gratitude are extended to all our leaders and volunteers in our congregations across our territory for their unwavering commitment to serving in these ministries. Your efforts do not go unnoticed. Each act of kindness, every hour of service and every prayer offered contributes to the growth and strength of our mission. May you be continually encouraged and blessed as you serve.
Children and Adolescents Ministries
Strategic Initiative: Personal and Spiritual Growth and Maturity
The Children and Adolescents Ministries Department remains committed to nurturing the faith of our children and helping them develop a meaningful relationship with Jesus. Recognizing that spiritual formation begins early, the department implemented several initiatives designed to build character, deepen biblical understanding, and equip leaders to guide children on their faith journey.
Values for Eternity Happy Hour for Children
This virtual program was an adaptation of the “Talking Backpack” initiative. This twelve-week series aimed at instilling godly character and values in children. The series was conducted in April 202. Through engaging devotions, interactive activities, and age-appropriate discussions, children were encouraged to learn biblical principles such as kindness, honesty, gratitude and faith. Each Conference and Mission was given the opportunity to host one of the sessions. The program provided a joyful and safe environment where children could grow spiritually while connecting with one another.
Spiritual Olympics
Our children also participated in a spiritual Olympics series initiated by the Inter-American Division. The ten-month program emphasized the virtues of Faith, Hope and Love through monthly challenges. The activities encouraged personal devotion, family time, witnessing to friends and community service.
Holy Spirit Emphasis Week
Special material was prepared for the children for this annual emphasis week, observed in January. Both virtual and in-person sessions were organized by the churches across the Union. The focus was to help children understand who the Holy Spirit is and how He works in their lives. Through devotions, storytelling, music and creative activities, children learned about the guidance, comfort and strength the Holy Spirit provides. The sessions helped make this aspect of our faith more relatable and meaningful for young hearts and minds.
Training for Leaders and Volunteers
To strengthen ministry to children, several training sessions were organized. One very significant session was a special needs workshop for Sabbath School and VBS teachers. The participants were introduced to simple tools and approaches that can help them to adapt teaching methods and material to create an inclusive Sabbath School environment. Emphasis was placed on creating welcoming environments to ensure that children with special needs feel loved and learn to build a personal relationship with Jesus in their own way. The Alive in Jesus Sabbath School training was also successfully completed in every field in 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. This new Sabbath School curriculum is designed to nurture the spiritual lives of children from birth to eighteen years and develop a culture of disciple making.
These initiatives reflect the department’s commitment to laying a strong spiritual foundation for our children. By nurturing Godly values, teaching the work of the Holy Spirit, and equipping leaders, we continue to guide children toward personal faith and spiritual maturity.
Strategic Initiative: Enhancement of Education, Health and Family Life
This department remains committed to strengthening the well-being of children and families through initiatives that promote education, personal development, and healthy relationships. During the reporting period, several meaningful activities were implemented to support this strategic initiative.
“Grounded” Teen Program
One of the key activities was an empowerment series for teens entitled “Grounded” held from August 22-28, 2021 and April and May 2023. These programs were designed to equip young people with practical knowledge and skills for everyday life. The series included sessions on life skills development, helping teens build confidence in areas such as decision making, coping skills and exam preparation. Another important component of the series focused on recognizing the warning signs of abusive or unhealthy relationships, providing young people with the tools to identify harmful behaviors, value themselves and seek help when needed. These sessions encouraged open discussion and reinforced the importance of respect, safety and healthy boundaries.
Animated Safety Videos for Children
Additionally, we supported the development of animated safety videos for children. These child-friendly videos “I am Special” and “Protect Yourself” were created in 2023 to communicate important safety messages in a clear, engaging way.
Child Protection Training
An annual Child Protection training was conducted for leaders and volunteers who work with children in the church. The weekend program organized in the month of January was well supported. The purpose of the training was to strengthen awareness, knowledge and practical skills necessary to safeguard children and create a safe, nurturing environment for their spiritual and personal development.
The sessions brought together Sabbath School teachers, youth leaders, ministry volunteers and other individuals who interact regularly with children in church programs. The training emphasized the church’s responsibility to protect children from abuse, neglect and exploitation while ensuring that all ministries involving children operate in a safe and respectful manner.
The training also focused on practical safeguarding measures. Participants were guided through key principles of child protection, including understanding the different forms of abuse. The facilitators also highlighted common warning signs that may indicate a child is experiencing harm. Leaders and volunteers were encouraged to remain attentive and compassionate so that they can respond appropriately if concerns arise.
Another important aspect of safeguarding was the introduction and reinforcement of child protection policies and procedures within the church. On June 4, 2025, the Executive Committee voted the ‘Establishment of a Child Protection Committee in each Conference or Mission.’ The training represents an important step in strengthening the church’s commitment to safeguarding its children. By equipping leaders and volunteers with the necessary knowledge and guidelines, the church continues to uphold its responsibility to protect, nurture and value every child entrusted to its care.
These initiatives collectively contribute to the holistic development of our children and adolescents by promoting knowledge, emotional well-being, and safe social environments. By investing in education and family life skills in collaboration with the Family Life Department, we continue to foster environments where children and youth can thrive in safety and faith.
Strategic Initiative: Evangelism and Community Outreach
This strategic initiative focused on equipping our children for effective witness and giving them the opportunity to respond compassionately to the needs of others. During the reporting period, several activities were implemented.
Virtual Young Preachers Workshop
This program was designed to build the confidence of our children and provide child-friendly techniques for public evangelism. The participants were trained in effective speaking techniques, message preparation and audience engagement. Child-friendly sermons were also provided for our budding preachers throughout the quinquennium.
Toy and Clothing Drive for Children – St. Vincent Volcano Shelter
Toys, activity books and essential items were collected by children across the Union in 2021 and sent to the children who were displaced. This Mission project provided practical support and comfort to the recipients and allowed the children who participated to experience the joy of compassionate service.
Vacation Bible School
During the reporting period, intentional efforts were made to strengthen the impact of Vacation Bible School as a key outreach and discipleship opportunity for children. Several strategic actions were implemented to support local churches and leaders in delivering more effective and inclusive programs.
Provision of Free Program Kits
Recognizing that limited resources can hinder participation, free VBS program kits were provided to participating churches. These kits included curriculum material and resources designed to make planning and implementation easier for volunteers and leaders. By removing financial barriers to accessing quality materials, more congregations were encouraged to host VBS programs and engage children in meaningful, spiritual learning experiences.
Additional Funding Support
To further enhance the reach and quality of VBS programs, provisions were made for additional funding by including it in the Evangelism budget of Conferences, Missions and local churches. The recommendation was approved by the Executive Committee conducted from November 4-5, 2024. This support helped churches cover essential expenses such as supplies, meals, decorations and outreach materials. This funding assistance enabled congregations to increase their participation in this engaging evangelistic experience.
Guidance for Inclusive Programming
Special emphasis was placed on promoting inclusive programming so that children of varying abilities and backgrounds could fully participate. Leaders were provided with practical tips and guidance on creating welcoming environments, and adapting activities, and ensuring that children with special needs could engage meaningfully in the program. This approach reinforced the value of every child and encouraged churches to intentionally design VBS experiences that are accessible, supportive and engaging for all.
Through these initiatives, we sought to expand outreach, combine proclamation with practical ministry and train our children for service to God and man.
These five years have been about building a foundation that lasts. By prioritizing spiritual depth, safety, empowerment, and service, we are ensuring that every child knows their value in Christ. We are grateful to the volunteers, parents, and church members who have supported these initiatives. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to our goal: nurturing the faith of every child, ensuring they are rooted, grounded, and ready to serve. Thank you for your prayers and support.
Strategic Initiative: Personal and Spiritual Growth and Maturity
Our department remains committed to nurturing the personal and spiritual growth of persons with disabilities, affirming their God-given worth, gifts and calling within the body of Christ.
Consecration Service
A special consecration service was held on Zoom on April 21, 2023. This service focused on prayer, dedication and spiritual renewal, emphasizing that every person is called to grow in faith, purpose and service, regardless of ability or lack. Pastor Larry Evans, Dr. Samuel Telemaque, and Dr. Kern Tobias shared words of encouragement with the participants. More than two hundred leaders, caregivers, and persons with disabilities were logged on to this inspiring service.
Possibility Ministry Day
This annual emphasis day scheduled for the third Sabbath in April was observed by many of our churches. It was organized with the deliberate focus on potential and contribution rather than limitations. The event celebrated the talents and resilience of persons with disabilities and encouraged greater inclusion, accessibility, and participation in all areas of church life.
Emphasis Day for Spousal Loss
Recognizing the unique emotional and spiritual challenges faced by persons who have experienced spousal loss, a special emphasis day was observed on May 30, 2024. Dr. Edward Clarke prepared seminar material for use in our churches as we seek to create safe compassionate spaces for grief and healing.
Strategic Initiative: Enhancement of Education, Health and Family Life
Guided by the strategic focus on education, health and family life, our department implemented several initiatives aimed at improving communication access, strengthening family support systems and promoting greater disability awareness in the congregation.
During May and June of 2024 and 2025, our department facilitated two virtual sign language training classes as well as a workshop on church-specific signs. More than one thousand persons participated over the two-year period and fifty persons pursued certification through the program. These virtual sessions were designed to enhance communication access for persons who are hearing and also those who are deaf or hard of hearing, and begin to prepare interpreters for our congregations.
The classes targeted children, caregivers, volunteers, leaders and interested persons, equipping them with foundational skills for meaningful engagement within families, congregations and the community.
Chosen and Loved Symposium
The church for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing was invited to conduct a virtual sensitization and training session for interested persons. This symposium captioned “The Gospel for All” was held on March 3, 2024.
Autism Parenting Seminar
A series of Autism parenting seminars was conducted to support parents and caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. The first session, “Parenting Children with Autism”, was held on April 3, 2025, with follow-up sessions continuing in the first quarter of 2026. The facilitator was Ganelle Ramkissoon, a special education instructor. These seminars addressed topics such as understanding autism, effective parenting strategies, emotional resilience, and advocacy.
Participants reported increased confidence in their ability to parent their child, improved coping skills, and a deeper appreciation for their autistic children and the endless possibilities that lie before them.
Awareness Day Flyers and Videos for Social Media
In observance of designated global disability awareness days, we developed and distributed informational flyers and short videos across social media platforms. These resources highlighted the abilities, contribution and potential of persons with disabilities, increased sensitization and awareness in our churches and communities, and challenged stigma and misconceptions.
Adoption of Communication Policy
A disability communication policy was developed and approved by the Executive Committee on June 4, 2025. This policy aims to ensure that information, programs and services within our churches are accessible to persons with disabilities through appropriate formats, and language and communication supports. The adoption of this policy represents a significant step toward sustainable inclusion.
It was developed to enhance awareness and inclusion for persons with disabilities and reduce communication barriers. Members were encouraged to demonstrate greater understanding and take the necessary steps to ensure program accessibility.
Training Retreat
To strengthen the capacity of our leaders to effectively plan for their departments in their respective fields, we provided practical learning opportunities during a leadership training retreat conducted in Barbados from July 10 to15, 2024. As part of the training, the leaders engaged in meaningful dialogue with persons with disabilities who provided valuable information and insights that have helped to guide ministry initiatives for inclusivity.
Additionally, as part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive community, leaders participated in the sign language evangelistic campaign, “Signs of God’s Love”, conducted by the Church of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Barbados.
A fun day was also organized with team-building and experiential learning activities, during which the directors played golf alongside persons with disabilities, and participated in a domino match with persons who are blind.
These initiatives fostered greater awareness among our leaders, equipped them with practical skills, and renewed their commitment to creating churches where everyone feels valued, included and empowered to serve.
Future efforts should focus on:
Strategic Initiative: Evangelism and Community Outreach
Recognizing that many Deaf individuals face communication barriers that limit their knowledge and understanding of the gospel, we sought to support programs that are already serving their community. One of the major actions undertaken was providing financial support for an evangelistic campaign done in sign language. Additionally, programs and resources were provided to give guidance on how to share the gospel with persons who are differently able.
During this quinquennium, we have demonstrated that when we remove barriers, we open doors for the Holy Spirit to work in incredible ways. We are grateful to the leaders, caregivers, and individuals who have championed this cause. As we look ahead, we remain committed to our vision: a church that is not just accessible, but fully inclusive. Thank you for your support as we continue to make “possibility” a reality for every child of God.
Strategic Initiative: Personal and Spiritual Growth and Maturity
This strategic focus seeks to nurture the holistic development of individuals by strengthening their relationship with God. This strategy aims to cultivate Christ-like values. It also emphasizes personal development – supporting mental and emotional wellness and the discovery and use of spiritual gifts.
Chosen and Loved Online Certification – Spiritual Health
The book Mind Character and Personality vol.1 was used to provide structured training aimed at cultivating Christ-like compassion and practical expressions of kindness. This virtual program sponsored by the Inter-American Division, was conducted in February 2021. The one hundred and five participants from our territory were equipped with Spirit of Prophecy as well as biblical foundations and practical tools to serve individuals and communities with empathy, integrity and consistency.
The outcomes and impact expected were increased awareness of character formation as a spiritual discipline, empowered participants to model kindness in ministry and daily life, and an opportunity for witness to non-Christian women.
Women’s Day of Prayer
The annual International Women’s Day of Prayer, observed in March, created a sacred space for spiritual renewal, corporate worship, intercession, and prayer fellowship. This program was presented as prayer conferences, prayer breakfasts, church services and home gatherings. The majority of our churches across the Union were actively engaged. This emphasis day encouraged unity, surrender, and dependence on God through prayer.
The outcomes and impact expected were strengthened spiritual bonds among women, deeper personal prayer lives, and fostering emotional and spiritual healing.
Spiritual Gifts Seminar
This annual initiative was conducted virtually from January 26-27, 2023 and February 9-10, 2024. The facilitator, Pastor Roosevelt Haynes, shared valuable self-assessment tools with the participants. This seminar was designed to help participants identify, understand and responsibly use their spiritual gifts for the edification of the church and ministry initiatives.
The outcomes and impact expected were: increased understanding of spiritual gifts, improved confidence in serving according to gifting, and better alignment of individuals to appropriate ministry roles.
Recommendations included providing follow-up sessions or mentoring to reinforce learning and application, and increased participation by promoting activities across ministries and age groups.
Women’s Retreat
A Women’s Retreat under the Theme “Treasured” was convened in Cancun Mexico from August 15-19, 2025. Recognizing the increasing spiritual, mental and emotional demands faced by women, the program was intentionally designed to foster healing, restoration and fellowship. The inspiring devotional messages by Dr. Anita Sydney, the biblically based mental wellness tools from Dr. Sandra Reid-Bernard, the expert advice on domestic violence from Dr. Edith Fraser, and guidance on how to minister to women from Dinorah Rivera and Beverly Braithwaite-Chan fulfilled those objectives. Thirty-one women were honored for their unwavering dedication, faithful service and exceptional leadership. One hundred and ninety-five persons from across the Union were in attendance at this transformative event.
The outcomes and impact included attendees reporting feeling satisfied, spiritually refreshed and emotionally encouraged; the fostering of a greater sense of unity and strengthened bonds; and several women indicating a renewed sense of commitment to advocacy for victims of domestic violence.
Collectively, these Ministry activities significantly contributed to the strategic goal of nurturing personal and spiritual growth and maturity. Our members demonstrated increased spiritual awareness, deeper engagement in mission, and a stronger readiness to serve with purpose.
Strategic Initiative: Enhancement of Education, Health and Family Life
These initiatives were designed to strengthen families, equip leaders and promote holistic wellbeing within the congregation and wider community.
Domestic Violence Support Training – October 3-November 7, 2021
Our department facilitated a virtual six-week training program for Women’s Ministries leaders and Coordinators focused on domestic violence. The program addressed:
This initiative equipped women to respond knowledgeably and compassionately, strengthening the church’s capacity to provide safe support and guidance to affected families. Dr. Mable Dunbar, President of Women’s Healing and Empowerment Network (WHEN) was the facilitator. Sixty persons completed the training.
Parenting Series: Raising Children Right – May 28, June 4, 2023
A parenting series titled “Raising Children Right” was conducted to support parents and caregivers in fulfilling their God-given responsibility to nurture children. This engaging Zoom program was facilitated by Beverly Braithwaite-Chan. More than two hundred persons from across the region participated.
Key areas included:
Outcomes and Impact
Women’s Health Symposium – May 26, 2024
This health symposium was hosted by a panel of health professionals including Dr. Avonelle Henry, OBGYN, and Dr. Sandra Banjoko, Marriage and Family Therapist. The primary focus of the symposium was menopause; an often under-discussed yet significant aspect of women’s health. The forum addressed issues of:
This initiative equipped the three hundred attendees with accurate information, tools for practicing self-care, and a platform for engaging in supportive conversations around women’s health.
Outcomes and Impact
Conjointly, these activities contributed to:
These initiatives contributed meaningfully to the church’s strategic objectives. The following recommendations were gathered from the participants.
I sincerely believe that together we can build on these successes and further strengthen families and communities.
Strategic Initiative: Financial Viability and Stewardship
The objective for the initiative in this category was to strengthen financial viability and promote good stewardship by equipping women with certified, marketable skills that enhance employability, income generation and sustainable livelihoods.
Ministry Activity
RENEW – certified skills training program – (Retool, Equip, Nurture and Empower Women)
This initiative was made possible through partnership with GAMMA Learning Institute. It focused on practical, in-demand skills that enable participants to secure employment, develop entrepreneurial ventures, and contribute meaningfully to their households, church and wider community.
Courses Offered:
Outcomes and Impact
Recommendations
One hundred and fifty-three persons graduated. Many of the graduates used their certificates to obtain jobs. Evidently, trained individuals are better positioned to contribute financially and professionally to the mission of the church.
Strategic Initiative: Evangelism and Community Outreach
This department is committed to preparing our women to do their part to fulfil the Gospel Commission. During this reporting period there was a strong emphasis on building cultural awareness and equipping members to share their faith effectively in diverse contexts. Our women were encouraged to meet people where they are and demonstrate the love of Christ through word and action.
Ministry Activities
Outcomes and Impact of Training
Challenges
Recommendations
This five-year term has been a journey of spiritual enrichment, practical empowerment, and faithful service. As we celebrate these achievements, we look forward to the future with the same commitment: to empower every woman to use her gifts for the kingdom of God. Thank you for your support, your leadership, and your prayers.
