Church uses former battleground to spread holiday cheer

On an open lot once known for loitering and criminal activities, the recently established Avondale Seventh-day Adventist Church catered to more than 30 children from the community, as well as neighbouring areas in Arnett Gardens in South St Andrew yesterday.

The church is located on Avondale Avenue that intersects with Collie Smith Drive has only been established for a few months, and worship takes place under a tent. But the congregation is looking to make a difference in the surrounding communities. One member of the church, Lloyd Cowan, told THE STAR that growing up, he was exposed to a great deal of violence and never thought his child would be able to play freely on this particular plot of land because of its infamous history.

"It almost seem impossible but thanks be to God ... we are grateful for it, we are feeling more relaxed and there is victory in the name of Jesus," the newly baptised member of the church said.

"For me it means so much to bring the kids to experience the festive season," Cowan said, adding that he felt peace watching his children play in the area.

"Normally, you probably have persons of the criminal elements want to use this place for bad things but now there is a tabernacle here ... good things is coming from the dust," Cowan said.

One of the organisers of the treat, Fiona Loney, told THE STAR that although the church is fairly new and lacks a physical building, it's necessary to show the children that they are special.

"We thought it would be prudent for us to come into this community and get the children involved so that they can realise that they are important to us as a church and also to the entire community," Loney said.

"We want the children to know they are important to the development of our society and more so God," Loney added.

At the treat, the church members also educated parents and children with various programmes, while counsellors helped parents and other community members with conflict resolution.