Webster Memorial United Church of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands (UCJCI) affirmed and thanked first responders to the COVID-19 pandemic in a special service on 19 July, where Prime Minister the Most Hon. Andrew Holness and Leader of the Opposition Dr Peter Phillips delivered messages of appreciation.

Among medical personnel who turned up included pharmacists, lab technicians, ambulance drivers, porters, doctors and nurses, as well as sanitation workers, the police and security agents, many of whom were in uniform. Lauded as “Healers of the Nation”, Rev Astor Carlyle, Minister of the Charge, paid tribute to their “indomitable, courageous and compassionate spirit” in rendering their services. In his sermon themed “Jesus, Healer of Broken Bodies” and based on Mark 2:1-12, Rev Carlyle likened their country Jamaica to the paralysed man, and their nation’s frontline workers to the man’s companions bridging vital resources to save the nation. He also challenged the congregation to the compassionate cooperation and companionship that had been exhibited, to “honourably serve with ears attentive to the cries of their sisters and brothers”, and for their actions to speak louder than their words to care for persons.