Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack - Tribute to a woman who served God with Excellence

Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack - Tribute to a woman who served God with Excellence

By Michael Schurton and Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman

October 16, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. was a great mentor in our lives. Her selflessness and servant spirit was such an example to the entire Word Time Ministries family and also to our personal families.

She battled her illness with fortitude and determination. Dr. Hope always would maintain her deep Christian faith and would say during her illness "I am waiting on the Lord. Whatever He wills"

Through the conversations we shared, she was able to tell of the hope and joy she had through Jesus Christ. Her faith was strong in the power of the Lord. Not understanding at the time, we battled our inner thoughts of why "bad" things happen to good people. Dr. Hope was a good woman. Dr. Hope was a woman who devoted her entire life to serving God and others. Dr. Hope served God with zeal, passion and excellence.

Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack passed from this world and when to be with the Lord on the evening of Saturday, September 25, 2010. Although we don't fully understand God's plan, we were able to witness a person who was completely content with the life she was given.

In the final months of her life she always reminded us to pray and not just pray, but "pray a special prayer." We honoured her request and we prayed. Word Time Ministries of Jamaica had previously revived its International Intercessory Prayer Ministry, the Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration on August 14, 2010 as part of its prayer campaign for the complete healing of Dr. Hope. The Ministry also curtailed several of its outreach programmes and projects in order to allow Dr. Hope to recover during her time of sickness.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P became a member of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica since October 15, 2004. However, long before becoming a member Dr. Hope was special advisor to the President of the Ministry from 1998 and later special Advisor to the Chairman in 2004.

We recalled her words of commitment "anything for the glory of God and especially young people, I am ready to serve". She was more than ready to serve. She served with great commitment and passion. Dr. Hope was an indispensable part of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. Dr. Hope was the foundation of the Ministry and the matriarch.

Just writing about her now has brought back many memories we have shared with Dr. Hope. She was a wonderful example of a woman of God and an Elder's wife.

She had to be, at one and the same time, a perfect companion, an immaculate housekeeper, an ideal mother, an accomplished teacher, an infallible source of wisdom in matters religious, financial management social, domestic and even economic; a fountain of overflowing sympathy for those who come to her with real troubles.

She had to have poise, sweetness, composure and dignity, even in the midst of the most violent emotional storms that rage about her. And then, when day's work was done, she had to turn cheerleader and convince her Elder-husband that he was not a failure, that his burdens are not too heavy to bear, and that he really has one friend left in a materialistic and unthinking world. She was his greatest friend and he was hers.

Sunday was her big day. Sunday was the day for church and Dr. Hope loved the church. For then she rises with the dawn and feeds her dear husband, Elder McCormack, who, like many public characters, is under tension before facing the public. She must leave the house in first-class condition, and betake herself and the children to Sunday School ahead of time. In her books, to be late would be unforgivable, for the Elder's family and even more so, the McCormack's family must set an example.

She made a lot of preparation on Saturday nights to ensure she was ready for Church at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, a place of worship for Dr. Hope for 47 years.

She was a stalwart of PGT. From November 1963 she became a foundation member of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, having given her life to the Lord at the tender age of nine. She has remained dedicated to the work of the Lord and has laboured assiduously in several areas of service to the Lord and mankind, not only in her own church and has remained faithful by God’s help.

Dr. Hope was proud of her two daughters, Lisa-gaye Hope and Dionne-Sheree Alicia. She ensured that they also took their proper places in the church, community and the Ministry. Dr. Hope brought her entire family to Word Time Ministries. The ministry was now a place for families with the wonderful example of the McCormack family.

Dr. Hope ensured that both her daughters and grandchildren would represent the family well and make their father and grand father Elder Mac proud. Dr. Hope would remind them to meet her after Sunday school, to sit quietly and with proper respect while their father dispenses the Gospel. She also taught a Sunday school class, and must be prepared to do it equally well.

She would have a dinner prepared in advance, for there's no telling when a fellow minister, an old college mate, church member or neighbour would appear, and naturally be invited to stay for dinner.

Dr. Hope was by Elder Mac side every time the church doors open, whether it be prayer meeting, choir practice, committee meeting or other special events meeting, and she must be active in the missionary society. She may had stayed away from meetings of the Board of Management of the church, but she would devote those idle moments to phoning church members who were absent from services last Sunday.

She would call on the sick and afflicted, and give to the orphans, and many in the community who did not have food or clothing. Dr. Hope loved Elder Mac with passion. She was devoted to the ideals of his calling, and she loved people.

Dr. Hope McCormack and Elder Ascott McCormack had been married for 43 years and have two daughters Lisa-Gaye Hope and Dionne-Sheree Alicia and the grandparents of three, namely- Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith.

Dr. Hope McCormack, gone but not forgotten. She who has gone, so we but cherish her memory, abides with us, more potent, nay, more present than the living man. Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Jamaica's men's 4x100m mines Silver at Commonwealth Games

Jamaica's men's 4x100m mines Silver at Commonwealth Games


October 13, 2010

Jamaica's men's 4x100m mined a silver at Commonwealth Games  last night inside the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.


The Jamaican quartet of Lerone Clarke, the 100m champion; Lansford Spence; Rasheed Dwyer; and Remaldo Rose clocked 38.79 seconds to finish behind England, 38.74, and in front of India, 38.89.


While Jamaica failed to retain the relay title won in Melbourne, Australia, at the last Commonwealth Games - did manage to end the athletic involvement on a high, securing the island's seventh medal.

In fact, anchorman Rose must be kicking himself after giving up a five-metre lead, failing to hold off 100m silver medallist Mark Lewis-Francis, who finished in a rush to pip the former Camperdown sprinter, with little track to spare.

Clarke, the spokesman of sorts, though disappointed not to pick up his second gold medal of the games, expressed satisfaction with the outcome and believes everyone gave a great effort.


Very impressed

"I'm very impressed with the way that the team ran out here tonight. We could have won it and I wish we had. But such is life, we give thanks, nonetheless, and we are satisfied," said Clarke.

He added: "I believed we had won, I was celebrating from early on but we are happy nonetheless; it was a good effort from everyone."

Dwyer was quick over his leg and like Clarke, for the most part, is pleased with the way things turned out.
It was a good race overall, I think we did our best. I'm happy with our performance, even though we didn't win," said Dwyer.


Patched-up outfit
A patched-up women's 4x100m outfit were in contention for a medal, up until the point when the third and final exchange between Audria Segree and Dominique Blake, a 400m specialist who was asked to fill the spot due to the injury of Yanique Boothe, went terribly wrong.

In the end, the team finished fourth in 46.10 seconds, a time that would have given them second place at this year's Girls' Championships.

The makeshift team of hurdlers Andrea Bliss, Shanna Thomas, 200m specialists Segree and Blake must, however, be commended for their effort, as was pointed out by the latter.

"Well this is a very new team, we have all different kinds of people thrown into this race. As you know i'm a quarter-miler, I haven't done any speed work and I was called upon to represent, and I had no problems doing that for my country. We knew what we were going up against, but we just couldn't get the baton exchanges right," said Blake.

Jamaica also finished outside of the medals in the men's 4x400m final, as the team of Oral Thomas, Lansford Spence, Josef Robertson and Ricardo Cunningham were disqualified.

Former Morant Bay High school jumper, Wilber Walker, battled hard and posted a new personal best (16.85m) in the triple jump with his third effort, but nonetheless finished fifth behind Tosin Oke (Nigeria), 17.16m, Schlick Mamba (Cameroon), 17.14m, Renjith Maheswary, 17.07m. England's Nathan Douglas was fourth with 16.96m.

The other Jamaican in the event, Nicholas Thomas, could only manage 15.32m and finished in 10th spot.

"It was a very good competition and I really thank God for the personal best. I consider this a big achievement, considering that I'm coming off surgery," said Walker.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Rve. Dr. Hope J. McCormack - A life of service

REV DR HOPE J. McCORMACK - A life of service


Published: Monday, October 11, 2010 Jamaica Gleaner

"She always has a smile on her face. She is a bright person not just in terms of academics but in everything that she does. She is very swift on her feet and in her thinking and any subject she touches takes on a new life."

These are the words, the Rev Ascott McCormack, widower of the Rev. Dr Hope McCormack, used to describe her in an interview the couple did six years ago. These words have proven to be the epitome of Dr Hope's life.

Rev Dr Hope Juliet McCormack, who would have celebrated her 66th birthday on Tuesday, October 5, died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 25, in St Andrew, Jamaica after a period of illness.

She was born on October 5, 1944 in Kingston, Jamaica, the last child of the late Rev Llewellyn and Mary Simpson.

After completing her elementary and high school education, she enrolled at the University of the West Indies where she received a bachelor of science degree in economics. She continued and received a Master of Science degree in economics.

McCormack also held a doctorate in ministry. She was a chartered accountant, Fellow of Life Management Institute (FLMI), lecturer, and a trained counsellor.

'Dr Mack', as she was affectionately called, was a minister, deaconess, intercessor and teacher in the Jamaica Pentecostal Union (Apostolic) and in particular at her local church - Pentecostal Gospel Temple in east Kingston. She also held several positions in a number of organisations and made a valuable impact on a number of lives.

Her ministry commenced in 1960 at the age of 16 at the United Pentecostal Church - Wildman Street. She was ordained as a minister in 2000 and dedicated 47 years of service to the people of God.

In her local church, Dr McCormack was the director of Christian Growth Ministry - Sunday school, in which she taught for over 20 years. Other positions she held include, chairperson of the finance committee and financial advisor to the church board, director/advisor/member - ladies ministry, counselor and presenter - counselling ministry, coordinator/teacher - training department and church bible study, committee member - youth committee, member - church council, board member - Early Childhood Education School.

Her work included launching Sunday school programmes in Rae Town and Harbour View to address the issue of crime and violence in those communities with a view to capturing young minds before they are taken over by the evil forces. She was compiling several short inspirational readings and publishing a book based on her doctoral studies.

Dedicated service

At the national level, she served as director/management & finance committee and member of the National Religious Media Commission (NRMC), (LOVE FM), Member of the planning board of the National Prayer Breakfast Committee, director/treasurer of the Jamaica Pentecostal Union-JPU (A), deputy director of the Statistical Institute of Jamaica and member of the Small Business Association of Jamaica.


She was the chairperson of the Agency for the Selection & Support of Individuals Starting Trade (ASSIST); a member of the Urban churches for Urban Renewal Board, treasurer/member of the Wilbert Stewart Basic School Board, executive director of the Word Time Ministries of Jamaica and was also distinguished past president of the Norbrook Springs Club of Optimist International, Caribbean District. At the time of her passing she was the chairperson for Optimist International Oratorical Competition for the Caribbean District.

For her years of dedicated service in Christian ministry, in 2008 she was given a National Christian Lifetime Award at the inaugural ceremony held in Kingston in the latter part of that year. Additionally, as an entrepreneur, she incorporated her business, H&M Financial Consulting Services Ltd which realised significant success during its existence.

Excellence

In May 2008, in recognition of her work and her love for sports evangelism, the Word Time Ministries of Jamaica's Champion Boy Trophy and Scholarship was named in her honour. She was also awarded the Grace Lifetime Achievement Award in January 2009 by Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, for her consistency of purpose, quest for excellence, and inspirational leadership and for 48 years of distinguished services to the nation in the fields of religion, media, education and community development.

A strong, committed and exemplary woman, McCormack fought a good fight, finished her course and has transitioned from labour to reward.

The thanksgiving service celebrating her life and work will be held on Saturday, October 16, commencing at 10 a.m. at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2. Interment follows at Dovecot Memorial Park.

A strong, committed and exemplary woman, McCormack fought a good fight, finished her course and has transitioned from labour to reward.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Jamaica mines Gold and Silver at 2010 Commonwealth

Jamaica mines Gold and Silver at 2010 Commonwealth
Ocober 8, 2010

Lerone Clarke and Dorian Scott highlighted Day Four action for Jamaica at the 2010 Commonwealth Games here in Delhi, India - the pair winning gold and silver, respectively, at the JLN Stadium to open the country's account at the games.


The double swoop pushed Jamaica's overall Commonwealth Games haul to 109, with this being the 19th renewal of the multi-discipline championships.

In what can be best described as an up-and-down day for the Jamaicans, Clarke, who ran a leg in the 4x100m heats at last year's IAAF World Championships in Athletics for Jamaica's gold medal-winning team, powered to 10.12 seconds to claim his first major individual title.

Scott returned a similar result to the one he achieved four years ago at the last Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia, winning silver in the men's shot put with a best throw of 20.17m.

Jamaica's lone male 400m entrant, Oral Thompson, won his heat in 46.60 seconds and will feature in today's semi-finals at 7:35 a.m. Jamaica time.

Boxers impressive

Meanwhile, the boxers continue to impress with light welterweight Philip Bowes battering his Malaysian opponent Khir Akyazcan with a 5-1 decision at the Talkatora Stadium late in the evening session.

Squash player Bruce Burrowes had a particularly good day, winning all his matches in the consolation plate section. Burrowes edged St Vincent and the Grenadines' Othniel Bailey by three sets to two (6-11, 11-3, 9-11, 11-6, 11-3) in the quarter-finals of the consolation plate and will now play in today's semi-final before bettering Bailey's countryman James Bentick 3-0 (11-4, 11-5, 11-5) to secure a place in the final of the men's singles consolation plate. The match is scheduled to start at 2:30 a.m. today.

However, it wasn't all great news for the Jamaicans, as one of the country's brightest medal prospects, the Sunshine Girls, suffered a heavy 13-point loss to world champions Australia in their preliminary-round clash at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex, losing 60-47. The result means that they will most likely have to go through New Zealand if they are to get a chance of winning gold or silver.

A win would have paired the girls with an England team that they would have been far more confident of beating.

There was also bad news for Jamaica on the track, as Davita Prendergast and Dominique Blake both failed to get to the final of the women's 400m after finishing seventh and sixth, respectively. Prendergast posted 55.09 seconds while Blake, who got off to a good start, faded midway the race to register a time of 54.34 seconds.

Natalie Grant finished ninth in the women's hammer throw final but would have been pleased with her season-best throw of 60.26m.

Tanice Barnett, 4:48.59, was last in her 1500m heats, while Twishanna Williams ran a personal best 4:36.60 for ninth place in her heat. They both failed to progress.

At the Dr SPM Aquatics Complex, Alia Atkinson finished one second short of a qualifying spot to the finals of the women's 100m breaststroke after picking up a fifth-place finish in the semi-finals in 1:11.28; the eleventh-fastest time in qualifying. Atkinson had earlier secured her semi-final quali-fication with a 1:11.47 timing in her heat.

Alexia Royal-Eatmon finished in last place in the semi-finals of the 50m backstroke in 31.41 seconds.

Roxanne Schurton Capturing Memorable Memories

Roxanne Schurton Capturing Memorable Memories



By Michael Schurton and Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman


October 8, 2010

Roxanne Schurton is an extra ordinary young Jamaican entrepreneur who has been making waves behind the camera.

Her love for the camera started from birth. This fascination first started when she would love posing for the camera. Then later, Roxanne became fascinated with the lights, camera and action at the various photo studios she visited. The camera loved her and she proved to be a good model. Then later it would be Roxanne who would love the camera, this time, taking pictures of everything.

The former Westwood High and Ardenne High School student has forged ahead in a male dominated field. Her venture as a writer/photographer/videographer has been a natural journey. While attending Ardenne High School she started writing for the TEENage, published by the Jamaica Observer. As a child her visits to various media houses including Radio Waves, JBC Radio West, LOVE FM, and LOVE Television allowed Roxanne to develop a love for the media industry.

Roxanne holds a BSC in Computing and Information Technology at the University of Technology as she wanted to pursue a career in computer programming, however, she made a big change to a field which she really enjoys. After completing her university studies Roxanne along with her friend Michael McLeish started the company MPIXEL. MPIXEL has been steadily growing into a reputable company. MPIXEL provides photography, videography, graphic designing, ID design and printing and a wide range of other services.

The company has done work for several major corporate companies. These include Grace Kennedy & Company Limited, Wolmer’s Boy’s School, Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, Jamaica Cultural Development Commission, Main Event and by extension Digicel, Red Stripe, Smirnoff, Guinness etc. among a host of schools and gospel artists.

The multi-talented Schurton has been making a name for herself as a writer, photographer and videographer. Roxanne possesses the rear combination of beauty, brains and business acumen. Schurton noted that she has a natural love for taking pictures and find the entire process quite rewarding and fulfilling.

“I truly love taking pictures most of all and it’s great to be paid to do something you love”. But Roxanne admits is more than the limelight and photography, videography, graphic designing is extremely hard work. “It seems easy, but it is hard work” “This field requires long hours, a lot of preparation and post production work and it is a very expensive venture” the talented young Jamaican stated.

Roxanne however finds real satisfaction in capturing memories, and moments, - scenes that otherwise might have been forgotten or that you might never see again. She finds that both photography and videography are not only relevant in terms of publicity and news, but more importantly in recording pieces of history. “The images captured today for sheer interest will even be more valuable in years to come as we record history for others to enjoy” Schurton said.

While the young company has been enjoying relative success she also emphasized that there has been many obstacles to overcome along the way in establishing and maintaining the business. She said that there are several challenges that the company face from time to time, not just in the job as a photographer and videographer, but also in operating a successful business but Roxanne and her business partner Michael McLeish has been both persistent and determined to overcome the challenges and obstacles.

Roxanne Schurton and Michael McLeish have been creative and innovative in selecting locations and venue for photo shoots. She explained that in composing scenes for special shoots the theme or purpose of the shoot guides the choice of location and subjects. “Arranging a photo shoot demands more than a good eye for details. The uniqueness or aesthetic appeal of the setting is very important” she said.

Roxanne Schurton and Michael McLeish the proud owners and operators of MPIXEL also gives back despite their struggles to maintain financial viability. She has donated several hours in working for Word Time Ministries of Jamaica and other church organizations. Roxanne who was awarded by the Ministry for Volunteer of the Year 2003 still continues to play a vital role. She has won several other awards from the Ministry including: Best Effort Award, Courage Award at the Annual Sports Championships, Fund Raiser of the Year, and the 2009 Excellence Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Ministry.

Roxanne has grown up with a keen sense of community and the need to give back to society. She first started as a volunteer at age 12 with Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. She eagerly participated in visiting several children’s homes and hospitals. Her sense of compassion and concern for others lead her to find time to read for the children in hospitals and also to be a voice in the choir singing for patients at several. She was instrumental in starting a home work programme for the Ministry at the Jamaica Christian Boys Home.

Roxanne Schurton is the chief photographer and her business partner Michael McLeish, the chief videographer for Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. The Ministry events are never complete with the work of MPIXEL. Both recently were awarded for outstanding contribution to Word Time Ministries of Jamaica.

Roxanne flashed her signature smile when asked about her favourite subjects to capture. “Naturally people are my favourite subject. I think people bring photography alive with endless stories of who they are and what they are about. I also love to photograph nature and events.” I find that I look forward to capturing children and babies, and unique and interesting people.”

MPIXEL has also done work at the international showcase Reggae Sumfest. In 2007 the company was contracted to provide photos of the event. The assignment she noted was a total team work. She reported that the venture was both interesting and financially rewarding.

Roxanne’s impressive list of photo credits is rapidly climbing. Among her list of famous personalities she has captured on her camera include: Asafa Powell, Usain Bolt, Michael Frater, Shelly Ann Fraser, Judith Gayle-Dennis Rushton, Kimiela Candy Isaacs, Noreta Lewis, Terry Karelle Griffiths, Bruce Golding, Portia Simpson Miller, Barat Jagdeo, Babsy Grange, Nevil Bell, and Kay Osbourne to name a few.

Schurton’s list of famous personalities she would like to meet and photograph are: United States President, Barack Obama, international tele-evangelist T.D. Jakes, Morris Chestnut, Hale Berry, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Roxanne Schurton believes that her work must be autographed with the highest quality possible. She ensures quality is maintained with captivating locations, appealing visuals and exciting camera work. Quality and excellent customer service is the perpetual element in Schurton’s work.

Roxanne Schurton is on a mission to capture memorable memories with her captivating photography of people, places events. “It has been said that a picture is worth a million words, but a lot of times a picture expresses what words would not have otherwise expressed” Schurton says. From sports, culture, arts and entertainment to social and corporate events Roxanne Schurton has defied the odds and continue to capture wonderful memories.

Roxanne Schurton a talented and resilient young Jamaican woman has been making quite a name for herself behind the camera. She believes that with hard work determination and creativity she can one day be in the spotlight as a famous photographer. Roxanne Schurton is creatively turning ordinary moments into memorable memories.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Jamaican Lerone Clarke wins 100m in India

Jamaican Lerone Clarke wins 100m in India

NEW DELHI, India — Jamaica's Lerone Clarke won the marquee race today at the Commonwealth Games to remain the team to beat in the men's 100 meters.


Clarke was near the front of the pack from the start at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, and crossed the line first in 10.12 seconds. "We're going to do whatever it takes to win," Clarke said of his Jamaican team.

Clarke was the only man in the final to have run under 10 seconds in the past two years.

"I know I am fast, even if Usain Bolt is not here," Clarke said. "I am still here and I am part of the Jamaican team."

Mark Lewis-Francis of England was second in 10.20 and Aaron Armstrong of Trinidad and Tobago was third in 10.24.

"This is the Commonwealth Games, this is massive," said Lewis-Francis, who said he slipped at the start of the race. "If somebody had told me 18 months ago that I would win the silver in the Commonwealth Games, I would have said 'shut up'."

In the women's 100, Sally Pearson of Australia crossed first, finishing in 11.28 seconds.
Jamaica Ready for the Sprints

National 100m champion Oshane Bailey is a picture of confidence and feeling pretty good about his Commonwealth Games medal chances, after posting the fastest time going into today's semi-final at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.


Bailey, who went one-hundredth of a second outside of his personal best with a 10.12-second clocking in round two, will run in semi-final two (7:40 a.m Jamaica time) and already has one eye on the final later in the evening (9 a.m. Jamaica time).

"I feel pretty good. I told myself that I would just go out there and concentrate on executing my race and it paid off, so I'm happy," said Bailey, shortly after the race.

"I've been working on my start and it's certainly coming on now, even though I was a little nervous at the start because I was thinking too much about not false starting."

Bailey, who also won his earlier heat, in 10.36 seconds, is well aware that he is now a marked man, but is ready for his time to shine on the international level.

"I know that everyone will be coming after me due to what they have seen, but I'm ready," said Bailey.

Lerone Clarke, 10.19, is the second fastest going into the semi-finals, while Ramone McKenzie left it late, but still qualified after doing well to recover into third place in 10.40 after a terrible start.

"I'm having some issues with the start but those will be fixed by tomorrow. I think I have a pretty good chance and I'm just going to go back, rest up and come back to do my best," McKenzie said.

Females successful
Unfortunately, the females were not as successful, as only Yanique Boothe was able to advance to today's 100m semi-final, which will be contested at 7:20 a.m. Jamaica time.

Boothe, who clocked 11.97, finished as one of the fastest losers after crossing the line fourth in her heat.

Jamaica's only other competitor in the event, Shanna Thomas, 12.21, was seventh in her heat.

In throwing, Dorian Scott was impressive and looks in good shape ahead of the shot put final, which is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. today. He unloaded a 19.59-metre throw at the qualifying stage. Raymond Bryan, 16.31m, will also represent Jamaica in the finals.

Natalie Grant was in her season-best form, achieving her biggest distance this year, 60.18m, in the women's hammer throw qualification. She appears calm about her chances of a medal in today's final, which is set to begin at 7:14 a.m.

Davita Prendergast, 54.58, and Dominique Blake, 54.29, both advanced to tomorrow's (18:30) 400m semi-finals after finishing fourth and third in their heats, respectively.

In the pool, outstanding swimmer Alia Atkinson was fourth and as a result did not advance beyond the qualifying round of the women's 200m breaststroke. She clocked 2:34.32 seconds at the Dr SPM Swimming Stadium.

Victoria Ho finished way down the pool in heat two of the women's 800m freestyle, ending eighth in a time of 9:35.67 seconds and will now turn her attention to the 400m freestyle, which will be contested tomorrow.

Teammate Alexia Royal-Eatmon also failed to advance from the women's 100m butterfly field after finishing sixth in a time of 1:09.78 seconds. Royal-Eatmon is scheduled to contest the 50m backstroke today.

At the Talkatora Stadium, boxer Reece Shagourie fell to Zambia's Godfrey Mumba on points, while Jamaica's badminton team lost 5-0 to Sri Lanka in the mixed team event, which is being contested at the Siri Fort Sports Complex. Jamaica now lie at the bottom of their group after failing to win a game.

Jamaica strikes Gold in India

Jamaica strikes Gold in India

Jamaica grabbed it first gold medal and added a silver today at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi India.


Lerone Clarke continued his impressive form when he copped the 100m in a time of of 10.12 seconds. Mark Lewis-Francis of Great Britain was seconf and third went to Aaron Armstrong of Trinidad and Tobago.

Dorian Scott secured Jamaica's second medal when he won a silver in the men's shot put. His throw of 20.19m, in finals gave him the silver medal behind Canada's Dylan Armstrong whose throw of 21.02m gave him the gold medal as well the Games Record.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. Passes on peacefully

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. Passes on peacefully


By Michael Schurton and Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman

September 26, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P., Executive Director of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 25, 2010 in St. Andrew Jamaica after a period of illness. Dr. Hope was 66 years old.

The Word Time Ministries of Jamaica family is again deeply saddened to announce the death of its first Executive Director and Treasurer. She was a member of the Life Time Achievement Council of the Ministry.

In his reaction to the news, Chairman of the Ministry and close friend and associate Michael Schurton J.P. said that he was greatly saddened by the news of the of the beloved Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P passing.

“Truly this is another sad day in the life of the Ministry. It is with much sadness that I learnt of the passing of my mentor and friend Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P was a longtime friend and a faithful member of our ministry who worked assiduously for the ministry and the Pentecostal Gospel Temple Family of Churches. She has left an indelible mark with her work and dedication to Word Time Ministries of Jamaica.” Schurton said

Dr. Hope is survived by Chaplain of the Ministry Rev. Ascott Keith McCormack, partners for forty-three years, two children Lisa-Gaye Anderson and Dionne-Sheree Alicia Smith and grand children Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. was an exceptional God-fearing, God-conscious and God-propelled individual. Born on the 5th of October 1944 she realized that her goal in life was to be of service to others in what ever way she could. This drive led her to become involved in service organizations, associations and religious endeavours from lower school, through Secondary and into tertiary training. Such involvements have helped her to achieve the mentioned goals and have contributed to her desire to contribute.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, on January 31, 2009, awarded the fifth recipient of the Grace Life Time Achievement Award. She received the Life Time Achievement award for distinguished services to the nation for over 48 years, in the fields of Religion, Media, Education and Community Development.

Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack has demonstrated a deep sense of commitment to her country. She is a pioneer and trailblazer of the Christian Faith for forty-eight years of service. Dr. Hope was committed servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, who has been steadfast, persevering, sowing, toiling in the Ministry of the Gospel, giving, full of good works, bearing much fruit, as well as manifesting the wisdom and patience of God for others to see

From 1963 she became a foundation member of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, having given her life to the Lord at the tender age of nine. She has remained dedicated to the work of the Lord and has laboured assiduously in several areas of service to the Lord and mankind, not only in her own church and has remained faithful by God’s help.

In addition to the above mentioned religious and spiritual aspects of service to mankind she is also deeply involved in Word Time Ministries of Jamaica as the Chairperson of the Advisory Board and the Executive Director of that Organization, which has as its mission, the empowerment of youth through the Living Word. This entity caters specifically to the girls and boys at children homes, schools, churches and to the wider cadre of youths in communities.

On the secular scene she is integrally involved with the Optimist International movement and has contributed yeoman’s service to her club, The Norbrook Springs Club for which she was the president for the past two years consecutively leading that club to distinguish status in both years. Through this movement she continues to fulfill her purpose to be of help to others in particular the youth both nationally and internationally as the motto of Optimism International is “Friend of Youth”.

Dr. Hope was the Director of the Christian Growth Ministry at her church she is responsible for the development of the Sunday School Department and Children’s Ministry with age range from 3 - 22 years and extends teaching and care to adults in the Adult Bible Class. She has also launched two satellite Sunday schools in Rae Town and Harbour View.

A Chartered Accountant by Profession, she also holds a Masters Degree in Accounting & Finance from the University of the West Indies and a Bachelors Degree in Economics from that same Institution and is also a Fellow of the Life Management Institute (FLMI). She is a self-employed Management and Financial Consultant through her own company, H&M Management & Financial Consulting Services of which she has been Principal Consultant for the past eighteen years. Before starting her own company she worked at the level of top management with several government and non-government institutions / organizations as Director, Senior Director, Accountant, Financial Controller/Comptroller, Finance Director and Company Secretary. These organizations include Department of Statistics 1968-1973 and State Trade Corporation 1994-1997, as well as others in the fields of Insurance, Manufacturing and the Distributive Trade, within the private sector.

She has given outstanding services to schools including Wilbert Stewart Basic School, Charlton Preparatory School and was lecturer and administrator at Caribbean Institute of Economics & Management (CIEM). Dr. McCormack also lectured at the Management Institute for National Development (M.I.N.D.), Jamaica Institute of Management (JIM), IMP now University College of the Caribbean (UCC) and as guest lecturer at the UWI.

She served on several boards and committees both in the secular and Christian arenas with her most recent appointments being the Executive Director of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. She is board member of the Jamaica Pentecostal Union Apostolic (JPU(A)) - Treasurer, Director of Finance and Development and Chair of the Advisory Board of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, and member of the Board of the National Religious Media Corporation (NRMC) - LOVE FM for approximately five years.

The Word Time family is being asked to remember Rev. Ascott Keith McCormack, partners for forty-three years, two children Lisa-Gaye Anderson and Dionne-Sheree Alicia Smith and grand children Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith and the rest of the family as well as the members of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple family in your prayers during this hour of need.

The Thanksgiving Service celebrating the for the life of the late Dr. Hope “Sister Mack” will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2010 commencing at 10:00 am at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston, 2, Jamaica. Interment follows at Dovecot Memorial Park.

Jamaican Sprinters bow in 2010 Commonwealth Games

Jamaican Sprinters bow in 2010 Commonwealth Games


October 6, 2010
Jamaican trio Dorian Scott, Lerone Clarke and national 100m champion, Oshane Bailey, are expected to highlight Jamaica's forays onto the track, as athletics action at the 2010 Commonwealth Games gets under way today at the JN Stadium in Delhi, India.

With the country's more popular names all absent, many questions have been asked about the make-up of the team and its medal hopes. Many of those questions will be answered as the island's young team gets ready to leave a mark on the Indian capital.

Scott is no stranger to these Games and already has a medal to show after his effort at the 2006 edition in Melbourne, Australia, where he secured a silver medal.

The three-time Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games champion will look to continue his solid return from last year's surgery, when he lines up in the men's shot put event, which starts at 8:10 a.m. Jamaica time.

With a season's best distance of 20.55m Scott, a former Florida State University athlete, will enter the fray as one of the favourites for the gold medal, especially when considering the fact that the likes of Canada's Dylan Armstrong, who is the only Commonwealth athlete who has thrown further this season - with a 21.58m mark - is not present at the Games.

India's Sourabh Vij, who has thrown 20.65m, is, however, expected to pose a serious threat.

Jamaica's other entry in the shot put is Raymond Brown.

Meanwhile, Bailey has had a good year so far and is slowly showing that he can be a sprinting force in years to come. The 21-year-old announced his ambitions at the National Senior Champion-ships earlier this year, where he won the 100m in 10.14 seconds. There are not many here in Delhi who have gone faster this year.

Brightest prospect

The former Calabar schoolboy will line-up in heat four, in round one of the 100m, which starts at 7:10 a.m., after his former schoolmate, Ramone McKenzie, faces the starter in heat three.

Lerone Clarke, who has featured heavily on the European circuit this season and is the brightest prospect of the trio, will run in heat six.

Other Jamaicans down to compete at the JN Stadium are Yanique Boothe and Shanna Thomas in the women's 100m heats, which starts at 8 a.m.; Natalie Grant in the women's hammer throw at 8:50 a.m.; and the trio of Davita Prendergast, Dominique Blake and Nadia Cunningham in the women's 400m heats, which begin at 8:45 a.m.

In action yesterday, swimmer Alia Atkinson finished eighth in the final of the women's 50m breaststroke, at the Dr SPM Aquatics Complex, in a time of 32.48 seconds.

Leiston Pickett (Australia) won the gold medal in 30.84 seconds, while Leisel Jones, 31.10, also of Australia, took silver ahead of bronze medal winner, England's Kate Haywood, 31.17.

In the 100m backstroke event, Alexia Royal-Eatmon was seventh in 1:08.67 seconds, but her time was good enough for a reserve spot in the semi-finals.

The Sunshine Girls continued enhancing their medal aspirations, with a comfortable 71-48 win over Malawi, with Jhaniele Fowler, who started the game ahead of Romelda Aiken, leading the scoring at 85 per cent with 47 points from 55 attempts.

Jamaica's next game is against the mighty Australians, at 4:45 a.m.

Philip Bowes was too good for Indrajith Rajapaksha (Sri Lanka) in the boxing ring, while Jovan Young was also successful in his bout against Fairus Mohd from Malaysia, outscoring him 6-3 on the judges' scorecard.

In squash, Bruce Burrowes lost his second game, going down 3-1 to Michael Rucklinger of Papua New Guinea.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack, A stalwart of the Christian Faith

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack, A stalwart of the Christian Faith


By Michael Schurton and Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman


October 6, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack was a multi faceted individual who touched the lives of many. A Minister, Deaconess, Intercessor and Teacher in the Jamaica Pentecostal Union (Apostolic) and in particular at her local church, the Pentecostal Gospel Temple in Eastern Kingston.

Dr. Hope McCormack was also Executive Director of the non-profit youth ministry Word Time Ministries of Jamaica where she served with distinction.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack commenced ministry in the year 1960 at the age of 16 years in the United Pentecostal Church at Wildman Street and was ordained as a Minister in 2000, therefore giving 47 years of service to the people of God. Dr. Hope McCormack was a stalwart of the Christian faith and pursued her life’s course with passion and zeal.

Dr. Hope holds a Doctorate in Ministry, a Master of Science Degree in Economics and a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and is a Chartered Accountant, Fellow of Life Management Institute (FLMI), Lecturer and a trained Counselor.

At the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, Jamaica Dr. McCormack served as the Director of Christian Growth Ministry – Sunday

School in which has taught for over 20 years. Other positions held include, Chairperson of the Finance Committee and Financial Advisor to Church Board, Director/Advisor/Member – Ladies Ministry, Counselor and Presenter – Counseling Ministry, Co-ordinator/Teacher – Training Department and Church Bible Study, Committee Member, Youth Committee, Member – Church Council, Board Member

Early Childhood Education School. Her work include launching Sunday school programmes in Rae Town and Harbour View to address the issue of crime and violence in those communities and with a view to capturing young minds before they are taken over by the evil forces.

She played an integral role as the Executive Director of the non-profit youth ministry, Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P became a member of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica on October 15, 2004. However, long before becoming a member Dr. Hope was special advisor to the President of the Ministry from 1998 and later special Advisor to the Chairman in 2004.

She served Word Time Ministries of Jamaica with great commitment and passion. Dr. Hope was an indispensable part of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. Dr. Hope was the foundation of the Ministry and the matriarch.

Dr. Hope also held several positions with the ministry including Member, Board of Trustees, January 15, 2005, Vice Chairman, Board of Trustees, January 28, 2006, Chairman of the Board of Advisors, January 26, 2008, Director of Finance and Development, January 26, 2008, and Executive Director, January 31, 2009.

She has won several awards based on her outstanding work with Word Time Ministries of Jamaica. These include: The Grace Life Time Achievement Award. Dr. Hope was awarded the fifth recipient of the Grace Life Time Achievement Award. She received the Grace Life Time Achievement award for distinguished services to the nation for over 48 years, in the fields of Religion, Media, Education and Community Development. Others awards include: Annual excellence Awards for Director of Year, Fund Raiser of the Year, Long Service Award for Five Years, Outstanding Contribution to the Ministry and Most Outstanding Director, Sports Championships.

At the National level, she served as Director/Management & Finance Committee Member of the National Religious Media Commission (NRMC), Director/Treasurer of the Jamaica Pentecostal Union, Deputy Director of the Department of Statistics (STATIN) and Member of the Small Business Association of Jamaica.

She was the Chairperson of the Agency for the Selection & Support of Individuals Starting Trade (ASSIST); a Member of the Urban churches for Urban Renewal Board, Treasurer/Member of the Wilbert Stewart Basic School Board and President and distinguished Past President of Optimist International. Internationally, she is the Representative from the Caribbean District for Opportunity International.

She was married to the Rev. Ascot McCormack, Chaplin of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica with whom she has labored in God’s service and together. They have two children, Lisa-gaye and Dionne-Sheree.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P., Executive Director of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 25, 2010 in St. Andrew Jamaica after a period of illness. Dr. Hope was 66 years old. She was born on the 5th of October 1944.

The Thanksgiving Service celebrating the for the life of the late Dr. Hope “Sister Mack” will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2010 commencing at 10:00 am at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston, 2, Jamaica. Interment follows at Dovecot Memorial Park.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack to be laid to rest, October 16, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack to be laid to rest, October 16, 2010



By Michael Schurton and Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman


October 5, 2010

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P., former Executive Director and Treasurer of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica will be laid to rest on Saturday, October 16, 2010.

The Thanksgiving Service celebrating the for the life of the late Dr. Hope “Sister Mack” will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2010 commencing at 10:00 am at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston, 2, Jamaica. Interment follows at Dovecot Memorial Park.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 25, 2010 in St. Andrew, Jamaica after a period of illness. Dr. Hope would have celebrated her 66 birthday on Tuesday, October 5, 2010.

Hundreds of persons from all walks of life, including persons from the Jamaican Diaspora will be in attendance.

Heading the list of persons attending the Thanksgiving service is Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple Family of Churches, and former Custos of St. Andrew Bishop Dr. the Honourable Carmen Lois Stewart O.J., O.D., J.P. Bishop Stewart was pastor to the late Dr. Hope since November 1963. Bishop Stewart has also been a close friend of Dr. Hope since childhood. Bishop Carmen Stewart is also Patron of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica of which the late Dr. Hope was stalwart and Board member.

Other persons attending include: Senior Pastor of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, Rev. Robert Stewart J.P, Elder Fredrick Thompson, Dr. Paul Brown, Pastor Albert Bailey, Rev. Yvonne G. Dixon, Bishop Harold Dixon and Rev. Paul D. Gallimore.

Several organizations which the late Dr. Hope McCormack served will also be represented. These include: Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, Jamaica Pentecostal Union Apostolic (JPUA) National Religious Media Corporation (NRMC) - LOVE FM, and Optimist International.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P has been a member of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica since October 15, 2004. Dr. Hope McCormack was the ministry’s first Executive Director and was appointed to that position on January 31, 2009. Dr. Hope previously served as special advisor to the Chairman and Treasurer.

From November 1963 Dr. Hope McCormack became a foundation member of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple 111, Windward Road, Kingston 2, having given her life to the Lord at the tender age of nine. She has remained dedicated to the work of the Lord and has laboured assiduously in several areas of service to the Lord and mankind, not only in her own church and has remained faithful by God’s help. Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P. was an exceptional God-fearing, God-conscious and God-propelled individual. Born on the 5th of October 1944 she realized that her goal in life was to be of service to others in what ever way she could.

The Word Time family is being asked to remember Chaplain, Rev. Ascott Keith McCormack, partners for forty-three years, two children Lisa-Gaye Anderson and Dionne-Sheree Alicia Smith and grand children Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith and the rest of the family as well as the members of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple family in your prayers during this hour of need.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Rev. Hope McCormack J.P. lived a full life of service

Rev. Hope McCormack J.P. lived a full life of service


October 4, 2010


By Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman and Michael Schurton

Jamaican based humanitarian outreach ministry Word Time Ministries of Jamaica has lost its Executive Director, Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P to cancer.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P has been a member of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica since October 15, 2004.

Dr. Hope McCormack and Elder Ascott McCormack had been married for 43 years and have two daughters Lisa-Gaye Hope and Dionne-Sheree Alicia and the grandparents of three, namely- Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith.

Word Time Ministries of Jamaica had previously revived its International Intercessory Prayer Ministry, the Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration on August 14, 2010 as part of its prayer campaign for the complete healing of Dr. Hope. The Ministry also recently curtailed several of its outreach programmes and projects in order to allow Dr. Hope to recover during her time of sickness.

The youth ministry which was founded on the principles of intercessory prayer revived its international Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration, which is still been held each Saturday mornings from 9:00 am – 10:00 am.

The Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration which stated in November 2001, has as its objective to see God's hands performing divine interventions and miracles for people of faith needing Healing, Deliverance and Restoration. The Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration started out of a need to fortify members of Word Time Ministries, their families, friends and international partners and associates.

Dr. Hope McCormack was the ministry’s first Executive Director and was appointed to that position on January 31, 2009. Dr. Hope previously served as special advisor to the Chairman and Treasurer.

Dr. Hope also held several positions with the ministry including Member, Board of Trustees, January 15, 2005, Vice Chairman, Board of Trustees, January 28, 2006, Chairman of the Board of Advisors, January 26, 2008, Director of Finance and Development, January 26, 2008, and Executive Director, January 31, 2009. She was an invaluable member of the ministry’s Sports Foundation. In May 2008 in recognition of her work and her love for Sports Evangelism the Champion Boy Trophy and Scholarship was named in her honour.

On January 31, 2009 Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, upon the recommendation and approval of the Board of Directors, honoured the Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack as the fifth recipient of the Grace Life Time Achievement Award. The Ministry paid tribute to Dr. Hope McCormack for her consistency of purpose, quest for excellence, and inspirational leadership.

The Grace Life Time Achievement Award was presented to Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack for distinguished services to the nation for over 48 years, in the fields of Religion, Media, Education and Community Development.

The Grace Life Time Achievement Award is only presented in a significant year of the Ministry. Pass recipients include: Bishop Dr. the Honourable Carmen Lois Stewart O.J., O.D., J.P., Rev. Yvonne g. Dixon, Rev. Paul David Gallimore J.P, and international gospel artiste and founder of the Love Singers Mr. Samuel Wisdom.

Chairman Michael Schurton J.P. said that he was both shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Dr. Hope McCormack. “I feel a tremendous sense of personal loss and deep sorrow. Dr. Hope was more than a colleague in ministry. Dr. Hope was a like my second mother, a trusted friend and my mentor.”

Chairman Schurton also reflected that “Dr. Hope lived a life of outstanding service to the nation, church and the Ministry. She was purpose driven and had an inexhaustible drive to see change and the empowerment of young people”. He also stated that “This drive led her to become involved in service organizations, associations and religious endeavours from lower school, through Secondary and into tertiary training.

From 1963 she became a foundation member of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, having given her life to the Lord at the tender age of nine. She has remained dedicated to the work of the Lord and has laboured assiduously in several areas of service to the Lord and mankind, not only in her own church and has remained faithful by God’s help.

The Word Time family is being asked to remember Rev. Ascott Keith McCormack, partners for forty-three years, two children Lisa-Gaye Anderson and Dionne-Sheree Alicia Smith and grand children Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith and the rest of the family as well as the members of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple family in your prayers during this hour of need.

The life and work of Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack will be celebrated at a Thanksgiving Service tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 16, 2010 at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, Jamaica.
Respect and love: Ingredients for a good marriage,
Ascott and Hope McCormack - Leighton Williams, January 16, 2004

WHEN ASCOTT AND Hope McCormack met in college, they saw each other as just mere friends. But destiny had other ideas, and on September 9, 1967, they became man and wife.

"When we met, we were both at school at the time. For four years we were around each other as just friends as we went out in a group. Then we talked for two years and then we became engaged before we got married," said Mrs. Hope McCormack.

The McCormacks, who reside in St. Andrew, have been married for 36 years. They say it is this friendship along with prayer, respect and understanding each other that has kept their marriage together over the years.

"Respect is essential. You say to yourself here is someone who has made the difference in your life and is very important to you. So it brings out the love in you and since truth is essential, you try to respect the person regardless of what happens," said Mr. McCormack.

The couple says their marriage has weathered every possible storm over the 36 years. There has been economic problems coupled with being separated by distance. However, they say it is the distance that has affected them the most.

"Ascott used to work in the country and I remember I would look forward to seeing him every Friday evening. Then, when he was in Ocho Rios he used to come home on a Wednesday and leave the following morning. I think him being away could have been a blessing in disguise as seeing each other was like a renewal and it made us even closer," said Mrs. McCormack.

She adds; "He could have found someone else down there and this would have ended our marriage but he, like myself, took our vows seriously, that's why we have been married for so long," she said.

Mrs McCormack, who was the more talkative of the two, described her husband as a strict but hilarious person. She adds that he was unable to keep any form of malice as he was always willing to end any disagreement between them.

"My mother called him a statesman because he was so strict. However, he could always let his hair down. If you see him in a group he would be there giving jokes and having fun as everyone else," she said.

On the other hand, Mr. McCormack described his wife as a bright and hardworking individual.

"She always has a smile on her face. She is a bright person not just in terms of academics but in everything that she does. She is very swift on her feet and in her thinking and any subject she touches takes on a new life.

The couple who drew closer to each other every time they spoke in the interview say they are actively involved in their church. They sing together at church and both say they are family people.

The couple has two daughters and three grand children and says maturity has also helped in keeping their family together.

"Marriage is for mature and responsible people. There is a saying that says love is blind but marriage is the eye opener. Many people get married in the spirit of lust and afterwards have problems. There are people who want their marriage to work but don't work to make it succeed. Marriage is about giving and sometimes you have to give less than you take," said Mrs. McCormack.

Board Appoints Pastor as New President...Founding member takes on Mantle

Board Appoints Pastor as New President...Founding member takes on Mantle
Rev. Paul Gallimore now new president

January 31, 2009

By Trevesa DaSilva Ashman and Michael Schurton


Chairman of the Board of Directors of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, R. Michael Schurton J.P. is pleased to announce the appointment of Rev. Paul David Gallimore as the new National President effective January 31, 2009.

Rev. Paul Gallimore is a founding member of the 15 year old ministry, founded in 1994. He has been elevated to the presidency by full acclaim of the ministry, in which he has been a dedicated member since October 1994. He has served the organization with much zeal, dedication and commitment.

His work and association with the ministry has been long and varied. In April 1992, he served as a Consultant in the areas of ministry and administration to a team of young people who had a desire to establish a youth organization to minister to other young people in Western Jamaica. His work bore fruit as two years later the organization, Word Time Ministries of Jamaica was established of which he became a founding member on October 25, 1994. His unwavering commitment and dedication to the establishment, growth and development of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica has continued and he has since served in various capacities in the Ministry from a member to Chairman of the Boards of Trustees and Directors.

He was also appointed Vice President - Prayer & Evangelism, (December 9, 1994-1998), and has been the Director of Prayer and Evangelism until present; Chairman of the Board of Directors (May 15, 1995-2005), and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (December 10, 1996-2000). Rev. Gallimore has successfully led “Team Hope” to two of five consecutive victories in the Annual Sports Championships as Team Consultant. He has also served in a leadership role with the other Ministry’s Teams namely “Faith” and “Love”.

Since joining the Ministry he has consistently worked faithfully behind the scenes as a key intercessor and advisor and he now takes on a more public role as the new National President.

His favourite scripture text from Philippians 4:13 is, “I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me” and we know that he will be relying greatly on the help of the Lord to fulfill his role as the new President of the Ministry. Additionally we are assured that he will be endeavouring to exemplify the lives of his two favourite Bible Characters -the Apostle Paul and King David, as he performs his service to the Ministry.

Dedicated, faithful, trustworthy and a God fearing man, Rev. Paul Gallimore is one who cares deeply about the things of God. At the early age of nine years old, he surrendered his life by accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Saviour. On Tuesday, October 22, 1963, he was baptized by his father Bishop David Gallimore, as a public demonstration of his Christian faith.

Rev. Gallimore’s commitment to the work of the Ministry is without question and had remained faithful to the organization even during challenging times. He has participated in almost every aspect of the work of the Ministry. He has served as member of the Ministry’s Sports Foundation for the past eight years. He has won several awards at the ministry’s Annual Excellence Awards, including the ministry’s highest award, the Life Time Achievement Award on May 17, 2003 in recognition of his distinguished service to the nation for over 25 years, in the fields of Religion, Christian Education and Community Development. He has the distinction of receiving the Long Service Award for 5 years of service on February 26, 2000, Long Service Award for 10 years on October 2, 2005, and this year January 2009, the Long Service for 15 years of service. He has been inducted in both the Chairman’s and Patron’s Clubs.

President Paul Gallimore succeeds Immediate Past President Richard Lawrence whose term of office expired December 31, 2008. President Lawrence served two consecutive terms having being appointed January 26, 2005. The Ministry’s first National President was Michael Schurton who served five terms from 1994-2004 spanning over a decade. He retired from that position in 2004.

President Gallimore who is currently the Pastor for the Bible Way International Church, located in a small rural town of St. James, was recruited by Chairman, Michael Schurton and has taken on the mantle as president of the Ministry at a critical time in the life of the organization. The Board and the entire membership is earnestly praying that he will rise to the challenges of the office of President and continue to play an even greater role in making a difference with the living word.

Paul David Gallimore’s Timeline of Service to Word Time Ministries

April 1992 - Consultant and Advisor

October 25, 1994 - Founding member of the Ministry

December 9, 1994 - Vice President (Prayer and Evangelism)

December 10, 1996 - Chairman Board of Trustees

May 15, 1995 - Appointed Chairman of the Board and Director of Prayer

and Evangelism

December 3, 2008 - Nominated as National President by the Board

January 31, 2009 - Board appointed, by acclaim, as the third National President and installed at the 15th Annual General Meeting, Kingston, Jamaica.


National Presidents

Michael Schurton 1994- 2004


Richard Lawrence 2005- 2008


Paul Gallimore 2009-2010

Executive Director loses battle to illness, died peacefully

Executive Director loses battle to illness, died peacefully
Rev. Hope McCormack J.P. lived a life of service


October 4, 2010

By Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman and Michael Schurton

Jamaican based humanitarian outreach ministry Word Time Ministries of Jamaica has lost its Executive Director, Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P to cancer.

Rev. Dr. Hope Juliet McCormack J.P has been a member of Word Time Ministries of Jamaica since October 15, 2004.

Dr. Hope McCormack and Elder Ascott McCormack had been married for 43 years and have two daughters Lisa-Gaye Hope and Dionne-Sheree Alicia and the grandparents of three, namely- Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith.

Word Time Ministries of Jamaica had previously revived its International Intercessory Prayer Ministry, the Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration on August 14, 2010 as part of its prayer campaign for the complete healing of Dr. Hope. The Ministry also recently curtailed several of its outreach programmes and projects in order to allow Dr. Hope to recover during her time of sickness.

The youth ministry which was founded on the principles of intercessory prayer revived its international Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration, which is still been held each Saturday mornings from 9:00 am – 10:00 am.

The Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration which stated in November 2001, has as its objective to see God's hands performing divine interventions and miracles for people of faith needing Healing, Deliverance and Restoration. The Hour of Healing, Deliverance and Restoration started out of a need to fortify members of Word Time Ministries, their families, friends and international partners and associates.

Dr. Hope McCormack was the ministry’s first Executive Director and was appointed to that position on January 31, 2009. Dr. Hope previously served as special advisor to the Chairman and Treasurer.

Dr. Hope also held several positions with the ministry including Member, Board of Trustees, January 15, 2005, Vice Chairman, Board of Trustees, January 28, 2006, Chairman of the Board of Advisors, January 26, 2008, Director of Finance and Development, January 26, 2008, and Executive Director, January 31, 2009. She was an invaluable member of the ministry’s Sports Foundation. In May 2008 in recognition of her work and her love for Sports Evangelism the Champion Boy Trophy and Scholarship was named in her honour.

On January 31, 2009 Word Time Ministries of Jamaica, upon the recommendation and approval of the Board of Directors, honoured the Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack as the fifth recipient of the Grace Life Time Achievement Award. The Ministry paid tribute to Dr. Hope McCormack for her consistency of purpose, quest for excellence, and inspirational leadership.

The Grace Life Time Achievement Award was presented to Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack for distinguished services to the nation for over 48 years, in the fields of Religion, Media, Education and Community Development.

The Grace Life Time Achievement Award is only presented in a significant year of the Ministry. Pass recipients include: Bishop Dr. the Honourable Carmen Lois Stewart O.J., O.D., J.P., Rev. Yvonne g. Dixon, Rev. Paul David Gallimore J.P, and international gospel artiste and founder of the Love Singers Mr. Samuel Wisdom.

Chairman Michael Schurton J.P. said that he was both shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Dr. Hope McCormack. “I feel a tremendous sense of personal loss and deep sorrow. Dr. Hope was more than a colleague in ministry. Dr. Hope was a like my second mother, a trusted friend and my mentor.”

Chairman Schurton also reflected that “Dr. Hope lived a life of outstanding service to the nation, church and the Ministry. She was purpose driven and had an inexhaustible drive to see change and the empowerment of young people”. He also stated that “This drive led her to become involved in service organizations, associations and religious endeavours from lower school, through Secondary and into tertiary training.

From 1963 she became a foundation member of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, having given her life to the Lord at the tender age of nine. She has remained dedicated to the work of the Lord and has laboured assiduously in several areas of service to the Lord and mankind, not only in her own church and has remained faithful by God’s help.

The Word Time family is being asked to remember Rev. Ascott Keith McCormack, partners for forty-three years, two children Lisa-Gaye Anderson and Dionne-Sheree Alicia Smith and grand children Alex Anderson, Dominick and Deidre-Kay Smith and the rest of the family as well as the members of the Pentecostal Gospel Temple family in your prayers during this hour of need.

The life and work of Rev. Dr. Hope McCormack will be celebrated at a Thanksgiving Service tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 16, 2010 at the Pentecostal Gospel Temple, 111 Windward Road, Kingston 2, Jamaica.