‘Reaching the lost at all costs’

The Bible Truth Ministry International Church, based in Olympic Gardens, Kingston, hosted its annual Family Fun Day last week, uniting church members and residents from neighbouring communities for a day of fellowship, relaxation, and ministry.

Held at a different location each year, the event provides an opportunity for families to bond and unwind after months of hard work. This year’s gathering took place at Emancipation Park in New Kingston, where a peaceful atmosphere prevailed as children played together and adults engaged in friendly conversation and leisure activities, including board games and dominoes.

Ava Williams-Nunez, a pastor and the event’s organiser, emphasised the importance of setting aside time for fellowship.

“We believe that after you have worked, there ought to be a day where we come together as a family. Everyone brings something, and we share,” she said, referring to the assortment of games, toys, and food contributed by attendees.

The church, known for its passionate praise and worship, has kept this tradition alive for over 20 years, visiting various locations such as parks, beaches, and rivers across different parishes. On one occasion, the church opted to hold the event on Labour Day instead of its usual Ash Wednesday gathering.

However, while the event is typically a joyful occasion, one tragedy continues to weigh on the hearts of church members.

“There was a year that was tragic. Somebody died,” Nunez recalled solemnly.

DROWNING INCIDENT

The incident occurred during a youth workday trip in Riversdale when a young man, despite being warned, ventured off alone to swim. Witnesses recalled seeing him preparing to jump into the water and urging him to turn back, but he proceeded to another spot. Tragically, he drowned despite rescue efforts.

“The following year, we didn’t do anything because it was too painful, but we were encouraged to rise from the ashes and decided to continue,” Nunez said.

Despite past grief, the church remains committed to its mission: “Reaching the lost at all costs”. These events are not only for fellowship but also serve as an outreach opportunity, inspiring passersby to join the ministry.

Speaking with The Gleaner, church members highlighted their extensive community outreach programmes, which include a daily feeding initiative, an annual senior citizens’ treat, and a banquet for children, called ‘Bringing Back the Love’, held in May for Child Month. The church also organises Mother’s Day and Father’s Day give-aways and back-to-school drives.

Bible Truth Ministry International has been an active force in the Olympic Gardens community for decades, offering both spiritual and social support.

“As a pastor, I’ve realised that ministry often means taking someone into your home. You may encounter a woman escaping domestic violence, but how do you rescue her if she has nowhere to go?” Nunez reflected.

A dedicated foster parent for 25 years, Nunez initially took in children informally before officially fostering for the past decade. She credits her calling to her name, Ava, which she says means “mother of all nations”.

She sees this as a divine mission to care not only for her two biological children, but also for many others in need. Over the years, she has fostered 25 children, the oldest now 44 and the youngest currently 11.

Bible Truth Ministry International operates three branches: its headquarters on Olympic Way, the Unity Branch in Waterhouse, and another location on Ebony Road in Olympic Gardens – all serving communities in need of spiritual and social intervention.

mickalia.kington@gleanerjm.com