More than forty teachers from the St. Lucia Mission of Seventh-day Adventist Schools converged at the exquisite, breathtaking ambiance of Zamaca in Micoud, caressed by the shimmering Atlantic moonlight.

The Teacher Appreciation Dinner, organized by the Education Department of the St. Lucia Mission of Seventh-day Adventists on February 16, 2014, was very well attended, thoroughly enjoyed by the participants and deeply appreciated by award recipients. It was an event well deserving of that group of committed, dedicated and hardworking employees – Teachers.

Special mention was made of those within our ranks who were unable to attend this historic occasion, including Mrs. Calista Fabien, Mrs. Vernella Patience-Joseph, and Mrs. Florence St. Juste. Their presence was missed.

The evening began with the prayer presented in song by Tae-Anya Preville. Mrs. Ann Marie Headley who chaired the proceeding, kept the ball rolling as the event unfolded.

The Education Department and teachers were gratified to have had the following distinguished guests grace us at this auspicious occasion: Administrative Personnel of the St. Lucia Mission – Pastor Johnson Frederick (President), Pastor Alexander Biscette (Executive Secretary) and Ms. Rose Mary Desir (Treasurer). Mr. Donavan René, the Education Director, beamed as he addressed the gathering. The Teacher Appreciation Dinner was long in coming but it had eventually come to fruition.

The highlight of the evening was the honoring of educators who have given at least twenty-five (25) years of service in the Education Ministry of the church. Recipients of honour were the Education Director Mr. Donavan René, Ms. Marie Charles and Mrs. Ingrid Daniel (Mon Repos SDA Combined School), Ms. Lelia Nelson (L’Abayee SDA Primary School), Mr. Daniel Lewis and Mrs. Florence St. Juste (St. Lucia SDA Academy). It is hoped that the younger teachers emulate their seniors and remain as tenacious.

A dinner could not be realized without the financial support of stakeholders. Special thanks go to the Caribbean Union Conference and the St Lucia Mission of Seventh-day Adventists for their financial support, the planners of the event – Mrs. Yolande Reynolds, Mrs. Ann Marie Headley and Mr. Donavan René, the staff of Zamaca and everyone else who contributed to the success of the event.

Teachers deserve the best. Their contribution to the church and to the nation is greatly appreciated. Hats off to them! May the Lord continue to bless their ministry.

Maranatha! (Jesus is coming again!)

Donavan M J. René

Education Director