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On Sabbath, April 11, 2026, the Scarborough Seventh-day Adventist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Christopher Johnson, hosted a sacred and memorable ordination service, setting apart five individuals to serve as Elders within the local congregation. Those ordained were:

• Peter Blake
• Deon Brown-Burton
•  Marvin Richards
• Andrea Riley-Steele
• Jean-Mark Wright

The message for the occasion was delivered by Assistant Pastor Kyemar McCollin, who spoke on the theme, “Shepherds of God’s Flock.” His sermon offered both encouragement and solemn responsibility, reminding the ordinands and the congregation that true shepherds are called to care deeply for God’s people. He emphasised that eldership is not merely a title, but a life of service demonstrated through consistent, practical acts of love and leadership.

Pastor McCollin outlined three key principles essential for effective spiritual leadership:

1. A shepherd is committed to Christ.
   “Before we are able to lead others to Christ, we ourselves must first be drawn to Him.” This call underscored the importance of a personal, authentic relationship with Christ as the foundation of all ministry.
2. A shepherd must have the right spirit.
   Elders are to embody humility, patience, and compassion, reflecting the character of Christ in their interactions with others.
3. A shepherd is an example.
   “You may not always preach a sermon, but you are the sermon.” This powerful reminder highlighted that a life of integrity and faithfulness often speaks louder than words.

He concluded with a compelling affirmation: “When we have strong elders, our church will be strong and faithful for Jesus.”

Following the message, Pastor Christopher Johnson led the ordination ceremony, a solemn and prayerful moment in which the candidates were officially set apart for service. The ordinands also received words of charge and encouragement from First Elder Gareth Johns and Second Elder Robert English, who challenged them to remain steadfast in their calling.

The service included the symbolic pinning of the elders, representing their commitment to spiritual leadership and service. Consecration prayers were offered by both pastors, invoking God’s guidance, wisdom, and strength upon each newly ordained Elder.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and tokens of appreciation by Warren-Lee Herdsman, warmly welcoming Scarborough’s newest ordained Elders into their expanded roles of ministry and leadership.

The service was a powerful testament to God’s ongoing work within His church, marking not just an appointment to office, but a renewed commitment to serve, lead, and shepherd God’s flock with faithfulness and grace.

Warren-Lee Herdsman
Clerk, Scarborough Seventh-day Adventist Church