September 2026 marked the 98th anniversary of our Lowmans Hill branch in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). Brethren from the twelve churches in that region gathered to commemorate and celebrate God’s faithfulness to the work established nearly a century ago. The theme for the special meetings, held September 13-20, was “Put God in His Rightful Place” based on Deuteronomy 5:6-10.

Ed Habre, Director of Jamaica and SVG Work, along with his wife, Kim, joined the saints for the week-long event. While on the island, with John Jacobs of Lowmans Hill as their guide, they visited various church locations. These included Campden Park, Cedars, Dickson, Dorsetshire Hill, Gorse Estate, Greiggs, Lowmans Hill, Paul Over, Penniston, and Questelles. Distance and logistics prevented them from visiting the Bequia and Fancy locations.

Preceding the special meetings, a dinner was hosted for the visitors along with many ministers and their spouses by Martin LaBorde, the SVG District Superintendent, and his wife, Phyllis. Everyone enjoyed good fellowship and the delicious local dishes prepared by Sister Phyllis.

Sunday, September 13, was a day of celebration. It began with the morning worship service at Lowmans Hill. The congregational songs included a variety of old hymns mixed with contemporary choruses. The Scripture reading was from Psalm 8 and supported the theme for the morning message: “God Is Enough.” Taking his text from Colossians 2:10, Brother Martin, the pastor, reminded the congregation of the sufficiency of Christ to meet all their needs. He told them, “God cannot be your ‘plus one’; He must be the One in your life!”

In the afternoon, people representing most of the Island branch churches arrived for the 98th anniversary service. As they gathered, the congregation was led in songs of thanksgiving and praise. A musical interval followed as a guitar ensemble, accompanied by the keyboard, played “Shackled by a Heavy Burden” and “A Glorious Church.” Then the theme Scripture was read, and the theme song of “O Worship the King” was sung.

Following the choir song “Jesus, We Make Room,” various department leaders gave remarks, and representatives from branch churches shared greetings. Before the message, a soloist sang a stirring song entitled “The King of Who I am.” Then Brother Ed took the theme Scripture of Deuteronomy 5: 6-10 as his text. He reminded the congregation that like the children of Israel, all can experience a divine act of deliverance at salvation when the Lord brings them out from under the bondage of sin.

The Monday evening service was held at the Penniston church location. Those filling the sanctuary joyfully sang praises to God, and the time for testimonies was uplifting. For the last special, a soloist gave a beautiful rendition of “‘Til the Storm Passes By.” Then Brother Ed spoke from Matthew 6:9-13, highlighting that God’s Kingdom must be established in every heart. He closed by giving his personal testimony of how this happened in his own life at a young age.

On Tuesday, the Habres visited Christopher King in the home of his daughter, Elizabeth Medford, who pastors the church at Paul Over. Brother King recently retired after forty years as the district superintendent for the SVG work. Though it had been many years since his last visit to Portland, he immediately recognized Brother Ed and received the Habres with joy. He shared fond memories of the many faithful missionaries who visited SVG in years past. Also, he expressed love and support for the sound doctrine that he continues to cherish in his most senior years.

In the evening, a service was held at the Questelles location. Joyful singing and stirring testimonies were a blessing to all who attended. Sister Kim told of her conversion in her late teens as well as her appreciation for the many privileges she has had to serve the Lord through her lifetime. Another sister told of how thirty-three years ago, she was dying in the hospital with an advanced case of Lupus, but the Lord healed her completely. The sermon was taken from Romans 8:28-31 and reminded the congregation to put their trust in the Lord, who will fight their battles and give full victory.

The week of special meetings, highlighting the 98th anniversary at Lowmans Hill, was a testament to God’s faithfulness. May God continue to strengthen and bless the work in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.