Three Ministries, One Mission: Nurturing, Empowering and Including
Women’s, Children's, Adolescents’, and Possibility Ministries transformed lives through empowerment, protection, inclusion, and spiritual growth.
Reading time | 2 mins
Three Ministries, One Mission: Nurturing, Empowering and Including
MARACAS VALLEY, Trinidad — During the 2021–2025 quinquennium, the Caribbean Union’s Children and Adolescents’ Ministries, Women’s Ministries and Adventist Possibility Ministries strengthened individuals, families and congregations through spiritual development, leadership training, safeguarding, economic empowerment and inclusive outreach.
Presenting the report for all three ministries, Director Dr. Debra Henry highlighted initiatives designed to nurture children, equip women and ensure that persons of all abilities are valued and empowered to participate fully in the life and mission of the Church.
Children and Adolescents’ Ministries focused on developing spiritually grounded, resilient and mission-minded children. Programmes such as Values for Eternity Happy Hour, Spiritual Olympics and Holy Spirit Emphasis Week encouraged biblical values, personal devotion, family worship and community service. Alive in Jesus curriculum training and workshops also equipped Sabbath School and Vacation Bible School leaders to minister more effectively, including to children with special needs.
The “Grounded” teen empowerment series addressed decision-making, exam preparation, healthy relationships and other practical life skills, while animated safety videos taught children about personal safety in age-appropriate ways. Annual Child Protection Training prepared leaders and volunteers to recognize abuse, follow safeguarding practices and create safer ministry environments.
A significant achievement came in 2025 when the Caribbean Union Executive Committee approved the establishment of Child Protection Committees in every Conference and Mission. Henry emphasized that established protocols govern the selection of volunteers who work with children, helping to safeguard this vulnerable group.
Evangelism and community outreach were also strengthened. The Virtual Young Preachers Workshop trained children for public evangelism, while a Union-wide toy and clothing drive assisted children displaced by the volcanic eruption in St. Vincent. Vacation Bible School received additional support through free programme kits, increased funding for local churches and guidance for making activities accessible to children of all abilities.
Women’s Ministries similarly advanced a broad programme of spiritual renewal, leadership development, family support, health education, financial empowerment and evangelism. More than 100 women completed the Chosen and Loved Online Certification programme, while the annual Women’s Day of Prayer united congregations across the Union in worship and intercession. Spiritual Gifts seminars helped women identify and use their abilities in service to the Church and their communities.
The “Treasured” Women’s Retreat in Cancun brought together 195 women for spiritual renewal, mental wellness training and practical ministry development. Thirty-one women were recognized for outstanding service, and participants were encouraged to strengthen their advocacy for individuals affected by domestic violence.
Family life and holistic well-being remained important priorities. A six-week Domestic Violence Support Training programme equipped 60 leaders to respond compassionately to families experiencing abuse. More than 200 participants benefited from the Raising Children Right parenting series, while a Women’s Health Symposium attracted over 300 women and addressed menopause, emotional wellness and self-care.
Economic empowerment was advanced through RENEW—Retool, Equip, Nurture and Empower Women—a certified skills programme conducted in partnership with GAMMA Learning Institute. A total of 153 women graduated in areas including Graphic Design, Elderly Care, Web Development and Events Management. Many participants subsequently gained employment or developed new income-generating opportunities.
Women were also trained in cross-cultural ministry and evangelism, strengthening their confidence and ability to share the gospel across diverse communities.
Adventist Possibility Ministries complemented these efforts by promoting a Church in which every individual is valued, included and empowered to serve. A virtual consecration service brought together more than 200 leaders, caregivers and persons with disabilities, while the annual Possibility Ministries Day encouraged congregations to focus on individuals’ God-given gifts rather than their limitations. A special emphasis day for persons experiencing spousal loss also demonstrated the ministry’s commitment to compassionate and holistic care.
More than 1,000 participants completed virtual sign-language classes, with 50 pursuing certification to serve Deaf and hard-of-hearing members more effectively. Autism parenting seminars provided families with practical guidance, encouragement and advocacy support, while social media campaigns challenged misconceptions and highlighted the contributions of persons with disabilities.
Another landmark achievement was the adoption of a Disability Communication Policy in 2025. The policy established a framework for making Church programmes, communication and services more accessible and inclusive throughout the Caribbean Union.
Leadership training included a regional retreat that allowed directors to engage in practical experiences alongside persons with disabilities. The department also provided resources and financial assistance for sign-language evangelism, helping to ensure that the gospel is communicated in accessible ways.
Together, the accomplishments of the three ministries demonstrate a unified commitment to nurturing faith, protecting the vulnerable, strengthening families, developing leaders, and removing barriers to participation. Under Henry’s leadership, the departments have helped to build a Church in which children are protected and prepared for service, women are equipped to transform their communities, and every person is allowed to use their gifts in advancing God’s mission.