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Kingston Jamaica Mission Trip

I recently had the privilege of joining a remarkable 7-day mission trip to Kingston, Jamaica. Grateful for the invitation from Dean Rhoden, Sr., and the warm hospitality extended by the ‘Let’s Talk Under the Reggae Tree’ team, I immersed myself in this enriching cultural journey. Serving alongside compassionate individuals, we worked diligently to uplift the Kingston community through care, compassion, and meaningful action.

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Our service activities centered around the historic Hermitage/August Town area, where Dean’s roots run deep. As a local legend in scouting, Dean’s impact was evident everywhere we went. Former scouts, now adults, expressed their admiration and respect for him—a testament to his remarkable contributions. Another inspiring figure was Eric Rivas, a Gospel Hip Hop artist from Rochester, NY. His anointed music resonated in schools and during our worship service at the Hermitage Escarpment Rd New Testament Church of GOD. Watching him collaborate with local legends Bongo Herman and Sangie Davis left an indelible impression.

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Our mission extended to elite, inner-city, and intellectually disabled/autistic schools. Additionally, we participated in National Scouts Day. ‘Let’s Talk Under the Reggae Tree’ (LTUTRT), a virtual youth career mentoring program, pairs students with experienced mentors based on their career interests. Engaging with these polished and personable students, JMF proudly sponsored hands-on robotics and STEM activities, donated electronic tablets, and shared sweet treats—a universal delight for children. During the trip, I connected with 18-year-old Christopher Labban, an LTUTRT ambassador, and thanks to our JMF partners, we arranged to send him a new laptop to support his coding projects and educational endeavors.

Beyond service, I explored Jamaica’s beauty, visiting Dunn’s Falls and the Bob Marley Museum. Dining experiences at Gloria’s Seafood Restaurant and the 12-Tribe Meeting Place and Sanctuary enriched my journey. The sunset at Gloria’s in Port Royal remains etched in my memory. Inspired by the trip, I recreated ‘Jimbo’s Steam Fish’ at home and indulged in Caribbean cuisine at my favorite US-based island restaurant, Golden Crust.

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Transportation plays a crucial role in mission trips, and we were fortunate to have Officer Gary Rhoden, Dean and Paula Ebanks, and Leon ‘Shacky’ Shackleford—ensuring our well-being throughout the journey. Gratitude also extends to Marcia Anderson, a vital resource before, during and after the trip. LTUTRT is blessed to have this Angel on their senior leadership team.

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I am deeply thankful for the newfound friendships, as well as the spiritual and cultural growth that blossomed during this transformative trip. Witnessing the tangible impact of JMF’s investments filled me with excitement and renewed commitment to serving others. Indeed, all glory belongs to GOD!

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