.jpg)
Earlier this month I traveled to Highgate, Jamaica, to participate in the annual sessions of Jamaica Yearly Meeting. From the beginning, I was blessed by the warmth, hospitality, and gracious welcome extended by Friends.
The opening sessions brought Friends from across the island together in worship and fellowship. It was encouraging to witness the faithfulness of local Meetings as they entered into the business and worship of the body.
On the second day, the Yearly Meeting received reports from Friends institutions, committees, and local Meetings. Each Monthly Meeting gave a careful accounting of its life and struggles, and the larger body listened with attentiveness and compassion. The reports made clear that there are deep challenges facing Jamaica Yearly Meeting—concerns about sustainability, leadership, and resources. Yet, even in the midst of these difficulties, Friends showed a willingness to stand with one another, seeking ways to be faithful in the face of hardship. The day ended with a lighthearted fundraiser that brought laughter and joy, easing some of the heaviness of the earlier conversations.
The sessions concluded with worship around the theme “Revive Us to Serve.” In many ways, this theme captured both the hope and the need of Jamaica Yearly Meeting: a prayer that God’s Spirit would bring renewal, strength, and courage for the work ahead. I am especially grateful to Clerk David Abrikian for his invitation and kind hospitality throughout my stay.
As I reflect on my time with Jamaica Yearly Meeting, I am grateful for the bonds of fellowship that tie us together across our global family of Friends. At the same time, I am mindful of the burdens carried by Friends in Jamaica. I invite you to join me in praying for their Meetings and leaders—that they may indeed be revived to serve with resilience, hope, and renewed strength.
— Kelly Kellum
General Secretary,
Friends United Meeting
