Rich Authentic Worship (RAW 2021): A Major Success
Outreach is the main focus of Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church Young People and Children’s Division (COCOR YPD) in the Jamaica Conference of the Sixteenth District (Bishop Marvin C. Zanders II) under the leadership of pastor, Rev. Florance M. McElroy. Clothes drives, food drives, tutoring sessions, community feedings and performing arts pop up sessions; the work is all divine. The YPD continue making their mark, giving back to the community. They started the #spreadlove campaign in February 2020 in the middle of a pandemic. The crisis only made them more passionate about serving and giving. When asked why they focus mostly on outreach, “it’s just what we do and we love to help others”, Kayla Kate Morrison (COCOR YPD treasurer).
Introducing their new campaign tagline: #helpushelpthem, on Sunday, July 25, 2021, the COCOR YPD shared a unique and spirit filled worship event. The Rich Authentic Worship (RAW) ministered to persons on a global platform through Zoom, Facebook, and YouTube. The experience brought together the people of God. The aim was to spiritually enhance while inspiring persons to donate to financially assist community students going back to school. Rich Authentic Worship (RAW) allowed the world to see the youth of the AME church throughout the world lifting God, helping others, and praising together.
RAW 2021 was hosted by COCOR YPD’s Local Youth Director Mrs. Joan Phillips-Bennett and Local YPD president Mr. Ahejey Mattis, who both ministered in dance and music respectively. The worship service also included performances by Christ Our Redeemer AME Church Dance Ministry, Kori-Ann Hermitt, Jevaughny Hammond and Minister Godartiste. As the zoom room reached its capacity, supporters in the Facebook live chat poured out their appreciation for a well planned and executed event.
“This is only the tip of the iceberg” said Director Phillips-Bennett while hosting. “We believe in staying connected, not only because we are AME but because that’s what truly loving your brothers and sisters, is all about”, Britney Barnaby (Local Vice President & Outreach Coordinator). The COCOR YPD have proved that there is nothing impossible when God is put at the forefront and plans to continue doing virtual events to assist young persons in need. They are governed by Philippians 4:13; ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. The Chapel of Christ Our Redeemer YPDers are grateful for the support received from their Chapel family, community, donors, participants and online patrons.
