Rasbert Turner, STAR Writer

Spanish Town clergyman Reverend Uriel Wood has been a servant of God since 1968 and has no intention of stopping any time soon, as its the godly thing to do.

The father of three, said he was born in Brighton district, St Elizabeth, and has been close to the church from a very tender age. However, his true calling came in 1967 after attending his mother's church.

I felt the power

"I visited Lincoln Avenue, Kingston and I felt the power of the Lord over me and then I got baptised following a crusade. I asked the Lord to give me the strength to be saved. That is where I started church full-time," Reverend Wood told THE STAR.

He said his association with Spanish Town started in 1968, when he was one of five members sent to establish the Bethlehem Evangelical Church of Christ along Brunswick Avenue in the old capital.

The clergyman said that church began with a tent crusade and now has more than 700 members and is growing. As a result of his good work and dedication, Wood said that he was ordained a pastor in 1970 and continues to lead that church.

He has been married for 39 years to Hyacinth Wynter-Wood, who he said formed part of the quintet that visited Spanish Town in 1968.

my rock

"She is my rock. It is she who strengthens me throughout the rough times and she continues to be very special to me. I thank God for giving me a partner that is compatible," Reverend Wood, who has officiated more than 1,267 weddings, told THE STAR.

Reverend Wood added that the church is far more than a congregation, as the extended family of the members have to be considered.

The church now operates a basic school and Reverend Wood said it caters to all children who come on-board.

"The church is also involved in several outreach programmes in communities around the area, and as such we think we are doing our best to help those we serve," said the reverend.

In parting, the man of the cloth told THE STAR that with all the work that one does, a healthy family life is crucial.