Mesoamerica Region - Jamaica

The work of the Church of the Nazarene first entered Jamaica over the airwaves. The radio program “Showers of Blessings” aired on the island for ten years before the first Nazarene missionaries arrived. When Ralph and Orpha Cook (parents of Nazarene missiologist Franklin Cook) came to open the work officially in 1966, they found that the name of the Church of the Nazarene was already familiar to many and was well respected. Local believers helped launch the first church with almost 50 members. 

During 2025, 204 people in Jamaica came to faith in Christ through the work of the Church of the Nazarene! Jamaica is now a sending nation. Carlos Gordon, a missionary from Jamaica, currently serves in South Africa. 

This information was taken in part from the Richmond Park Church of the Nazarene website.

A New Beginning

God is still calling and directing his servants. As they listen and respond, lives and communities are transformed.  

In Jamaica, God gave a vision to Reverend Rudolph Barriffe to go to the Myersville community. Recognizing the importance of seeking God's guidance, this Nazarene pastor committed to fasting and praying as he sought divine direction for these evangelistic efforts. After canvassing the entire West District, he assembled a dedicated church planting team, composed of passionate individuals committed to expanding God's kingdom. These pastors and lay people came from seven different Nazarene churches! 

  In 2024, the team embarked on their first outing to the community and visited approximately 19 homes. The outreach efforts continued throughout 2024, though they were temporarily halted by Hurricane Beryl. In the aftermath of the hurricane, the team returned to offer care packages to residents severely impacted by the storm. This ministry of compassion strengthened the relationships which began before the hurricane. 

In March 2025, they resumed regular visits, expanding outreach to additional sections of the community through evangelism. The positive response from residents motivated the team to establish weekly Bible studies, Sunday school, and evening services, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. In December 2025, the team held an open-air outreach meeting featuring an impactful and inspiring message.  

The new Church of the Nazarene planted in this area now has more than 25 people attending. Their goal is to build and expand the kingdom of God within their community. 

They humbly request your continued prayers and support as they adhere to the Great Commission outlined in Matthew 28:19-20 and to the mission of the Church of the Nazarene: Making Christlike disciples in the nations. 

Story by Denzel Osbourne of Jamaica and Danielle Gibson of Olivet Nazarene University