Journal

Welcome to the Christos Ministries project journal. Here you will receive the latest new about current projects, as well as updates and stories about past projects.

By Thomas Minieri December 8, 2025
Tucked away in a community once plagued by violence and crime, Glendevon Primary & Infant School in St. James, Jamaica, is quietly rewriting its narrative. Amid challenging social circumstances, the school’s recent academic and community-driven successes signal not only resilience — but a powerful model for what education can achieve even “against the odds.” A Sweep in Maths: Demonstrating Academic Transformation In September 2025, Glendevon Primary made headlines after dominating the Inter‑Ministerial School Support Strategy (ISSS) Mathematics Competition. The school clinched both regional and national titles, sweeping awards across lower primary (grades 1–3) and upper primary (grades 4–6). By the end of the competition, they walked away with six trophies and a suite of math-related gadgets. During a proud ceremony, Principal Audrey Lee‑Peynado highlighted one striking detail: of the eight students who competed, six were boys. This underscores a growing — and commendable — engagement with mathematics among boys at the school. Many are part of the school’s “Maths Club,” and their performance suggests they’re not just participating — they’re excelling. One of the former participants also secured a government scholarship and now studies at Herbert Morrison Technical High School, thanks to an outstanding performance on the Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exam. The mathematics competition itself is part of a broader effort for schools within the “Zones of Special Operations” (ZOSO), an initiative aimed at helping communities recover from social ills — such as violence — by leveraging education and youth engagement. Glendevon Primary sits in Region Four, one of the ZOSO zones. The Role of ISSS: More Than a Competition — Community Rebuild in Action Glendevon Primary’s success didn’t emerge in a vacuum; much of it stems from its involvement with ISSS, a program that began supporting the school in 2021 under the government’s broader Citizen Security Plan. The strategy includes a broad array of supports: literacy training for teachers, restorative-justice programs, psychosocial support for students and parents, and guidance through violence-prevention workshops. The school benefits not only academically, but holistically. Through behavioral programmes, youth at risk are identified and offered structured, positive outlets: for instance, girls trained in taekwondo, boys in football camps, and support for students’ physical health, like mass eye-tests — part of a joint effort with the Canadian government. Lee-Peynado described the school’s philosophy as a “triangle” — underscoring that real transformation requires the combined efforts of the school, parents, and the wider community. It’s an inclusive model, working to rebuild not just academic proficiency, but social trust, discipline, and community cohesion. From Struggle to Success: Rising Academic Performance Prior to its involvement with ISSS, Glendevon Primary struggled academically. Their performance on the PEP exam hovered below the national average — with only around 59% of students meeting the expected standard. Since those early years, however, the school has made marked progress. For the past two years, it has consistently surpassed the national average of 70%. This shift speaks volumes — not just about curriculum or instruction, but about a broader transformation in school culture, community involvement, and student confidence. Parents, too, are responding. School governance and student success have become points of pride. According to the principal, parents now come in more often, follow up on their children’s progress, and — crucially — feel a sense of ownership. The community “buzzes with joy,” she said. Why the Story of Glendevon Matters Glendevon Primary's journey holds broader significance beyond its own gates: Education as a lever for social change — Through ISSS, Glendevon demonstrates how focused educational support can build resilience even in communities long affected by violence and poverty. Holistic support beyond academics — The mix of restorative justice, wellness programs, sporting and extracurricular opportunities, community engagement, and parental empowerment shows success isn’t just about test scores. Inclusive growth and equity — That the school saw increased engagement from boys — traditionally harder to retain in academic interventions — underlines the importance of designing programs with equity in mind. The power of partnerships — No single actor — not the school, not the government — can drive progress alone. Glendevon’s story shows what’s possible when school, community, parents, and broader initiatives align around a shared vision. Looking Ahead: A Model Worth Replicating As the school continues to ride this momentum, Principal Lee-Peynado is optimistic. With the support of ISSS and buy-in from parents and community members, she envisions even stronger performance in years to come. The motto, “Achieving Excellence Together,” isn’t just a slogan — it’s a blueprint. For policymakers, educators, and community leaders across Jamaica — especially in communities under ZOSO — Glendevon’s model offers a promising road map. Investing not just in teaching, but in the broader ecosystem around students: their families, their mental health, their extracurricular opportunities, and their sense of belonging — that’s how to turn “underprivileged” into “undefeated.” At a time when many schools struggle with limited resources and social instability, Glendevon Primary shines as proof that with support, structure, and community partnership, transformation is possible SOURCE: Jamaica Observer
By Mervyn Levy November 18, 2025
When Hurricane Melissa roared across the Caribbean in October 2025, Jamaica faced one of the most devastating storms in its modern history. It wasn’t just another hurricane. It wasn’t a routine seasonal storm. Melissa was a Category 5 monster—unpredictable, violent, and relentless. Entire communities braced for impact, but no one could have anticipated just how deeply the storm would cut into the heart of the island. Today, Christos Ministries is launching one of its most important fundraising efforts yet: a campaign dedicated to rebuilding homes, schools, and lives across Jamaica. But to understand why this mission matters so much, and why the need is so urgent, it’s important to understand what really happened during those long, terrifying hours of Hurricane Melissa. The Storm That Changed Everything Hurricane Melissa formed quickly—too quickly. Meteorologists watching satellite models saw what they believed would be a strong tropical storm suddenly strengthen into a Category 4 overnight and then explode into a Category 5 before it made landfall. Warm waters fed the system like fuel on a fire. By the time it reached Jamaica’s southern coast, wind speeds exceeded 160 mph. Residents described the first hit as a roar—like a jet engine pressed against their windows. Sheet metal tore from rooftops and snapped through the air like paper. Power grids failed one after another as lightning cracked across the sky. Floodwaters rushed in from every direction, swallowing roads, homes, and farmland. Communities that had weathered storms for generations said they’d never seen anything like Melissa. Homes Flattened in Minutes Entire blocks of modest family homes were reduced to splintered lumber. Cinderblock houses that once stood solid and proud were left roofless, their walls buckled or blown apart. In some neighborhoods, families returned to find nothing but the spot where their foundation once stood. Tens of thousands were displaced overnight. Schools and Clinics Destroyed The destruction went far beyond private homes. Many of Jamaica’s already stretched-thin community institutions took a direct hit. Schools like Leeds Primary—one of the island’s vital education centers—were left unrecognizable. Classrooms flooded. Roofs ripped open. Books, desks, and supplies destroyed. Children suddenly had no safe place to learn, and parents had nowhere to send them. Clinics also suffered tremendous damage, leaving communities without accessible medical care during the most vulnerable time. Staff worked tirelessly to care for the injured in makeshift tents, hallways, and borrowed community spaces. Roads Washed Out, Towns Cut Off As the storm stalled over the island, relentless rain triggered flash flooding and mudslides. Major roadways were sliced in half, bridges collapsed, and rural villages found themselves completely cut off. Days passed before some areas received their first outside assistance. This isolation deepened the need. Families couldn’t access supplies. Emergency workers couldn’t reach people in critical condition. And the emotional burden grew heavier with every hour of uncertainty. The Aftermath: A Nation United in Resilience Despite the destruction, one thing became unmistakably clear in the days after the storm: Jamaica’s spirit endured. Neighbors worked shoulder to shoulder to clear debris. Families took in other families. Churches opened their doors to everyone—no questions asked. Children helped distribute bottled water and food. Strangers became helpers. Helpers became heroes. But even with this incredible resilience, the road to rebuilding is far beyond what local communities can carry alone. Many homes require complete reconstruction. Schools need structural repair or full replacement. Thousands still lack reliable shelter, electricity, and clean water. That is where Christos Ministries is stepping in. Christos Ministries: Rebuilding Stronger, Together Christos Ministries has long been committed to helping vulnerable communities around the world—but the devastation in Jamaica demands a response of great urgency, compassion, and scale. Our mission is simple: restore hope by rebuilding what was lost. With your support, we are focusing on three essential initiatives: 1. Rebuilding Homes for Displaced Families Thousands of families have nowhere to live. Many are staying in overcrowded shelters or with relatives who don’t have the space or resources to support them long-term. Your donations will help provide: Roofing materials Lumber and concrete Rebuilding tools Skilled construction teams Emergency shelter kits Each home rebuilt is more than a structure—it’s stability, safety, and dignity restored. 2. Restoring Schools, Clinics, and Community Hubs A community cannot move forward without places to learn, heal, and gather. Christos Ministries is committed to restoring: Primary school classrooms Administrative offices Libraries Community medical clinics Multi-purpose buildings used for childcare, meetings, and support programs This campaign is especially focused on restoring and rebuilding schools like Leeds Primary—a backbone of the community and a lifeline for families. 3. Supplying Critical Materials for Daily Survival Clean water. Food. Baby supplies. Medicine. Generators. For many families, these aren’t just helpful—they are essential. Christos Ministries works with trusted partners on the ground to ensure resources reach the communities most in need, especially those still isolated or far from major cities. Why Your Support Matters Right Now Rebuilding after a storm like Hurricane Melissa won’t happen in a week or a month. It will take sustained effort, compassion, and resources. But every single donation—whether large or small—creates real impact. $25 can provide clean water for a family. $50 can supply school materials for a child. $100 can help repair a damaged home. $500 can support the rebuilding of a classroom. $1,000 can contribute to structural repairs for a community center or clinic. When we rebuild a home, we rebuild a family’s future. When we restore a school, we restore a child’s dreams. When we strengthen a community, we strengthen hope. Your generosity is not just charity—it’s partnership. It’s compassion in action. It’s choosing to stand with Jamaica when the road ahead feels overwhelming. Together, We Can Rebuild What Was Lost The people of Jamaica are strong, resilient, and determined. But they cannot rebuild alone—and they shouldn’t have to. Christos Ministries invites you to join us in restoring homes, schools, and stability to families devastated by Hurricane Melissa. This is our chance to bring light into a dark moment. A chance to stand with our brothers and sisters. A chance to help an entire nation rise again. Click to donate and bring hope to Jamaica today.
By Mervyn Levy November 3, 2025
When the sun rose over the hills of St. Elizabeth, Jamaica on March 10, 2025, the small community of Leeds awoke to heartbreak. Smoke still drifted from the blackened remains of their beloved Leeds Primary & Infant School — a century-old cornerstone of the community that had stood for generations as a place of learning, laughter, and hope. The fire had started late the previous night, tearing through several critical sections of the school: the principal’s office, staff room, library, and a classroom . By morning, little was left but ash, twisted metal, and memories. Teachers wept as they sifted through the debris. Children stood silently, clutching their books and uniforms, trying to make sense of what had happened to their second home. The estimated loss — over J$50 million (approximately US $320,000) — is devastating for this rural parish. Leeds Primary & Infant School isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of opportunity in a community where education represents the only bridge to a brighter future. “Everything is gone.” Those were the haunting words of Principal Sharon Bennett , speaking to local reporters the morning after the fire. Decades of progress, supplies, and hard-earned improvements — gone overnight. Yet amid the ashes, something powerful began to stir. The people of Leeds refused to lose hope. Parents volunteered to clean the grounds. Teachers began holding lessons under trees and in borrowed community spaces. And soon, word spread beyond Jamaica — reaching the hearts of compassionate believers around the world. A Call to Rebuild Christos Ministries International (CMI) , a nonprofit organization dedicated to building and restoring educational facilities for children in under-resourced communities, answered that call. For years, Christos Ministries has been committed to helping children access safe, quality education — from constructing new classrooms to equipping schools with essential resources and technology. Their mission is simple yet profound: to transform communities through Christ-centered education and compassionate action. Now, they are launching one of their most urgent initiatives yet — a $300,000 fundraising campaign to rebuild and fully restore Leeds Primary & Infant School . A School at the Heart of the Community Leeds Primary & Infant isn’t a large institution. It serves fewer than 200 students, yet its influence radiates across generations. For families in this rural part of St. Elizabeth, the school is the heartbeat of the village. It’s where parents once sat on those same benches decades ago. It’s where grandparents come to watch concerts, graduations, and community meetings. It’s the first place every child in Leeds learns to read, to dream, and to believe that a better life is possible. When the fire struck, it didn’t just destroy classrooms — it interrupted the rhythm of the community’s daily life. Students preparing for their Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exams were displaced. Teachers lost years of instructional materials and resources. And yet, the spirit of resilience that defines Jamaica refused to be extinguished. With support from the Jamaican Ministry of Education , temporary classrooms have been set up, and some areas of the school have been cleaned and cleared. But full restoration — rebuilding the classrooms, installing new furniture and equipment, and creating a safe, modern learning environment — will take far more resources than the local community can provide on its own. Christos Ministries Steps In Christos Ministries is no stranger to rebuilding what’s been lost. Founded on the belief that “every child deserves the right to learn in safety and dignity,” the organization has been instrumental in constructing and restoring schools across the Caribbean and beyond. Their approach is holistic. Christos Ministries doesn’t just build walls — they build futures. Each project includes not only physical reconstruction, but also the provision of furniture, educational materials, and teacher support. For the Leeds project, the plan includes: Rebuilding the destroyed classrooms, library, and administrative offices Installing updated electrical and fire safety systems Providing new furniture, technology, and learning resources Creating a safe playground and outdoor learning area for students Establishing a “Hope Fund” for ongoing maintenance and teacher development The goal is not simply to replace what was lost — but to make it better than before. The $300,000 Vision Raising $300,000 will make it possible to restore the Leeds Primary & Infant School to full operation and expand its capacity for future generations. $100,000 will go toward construction and materials $75,000 toward furnishings and educational equipment $50,000 toward fire safety, wiring, and structural upgrades $50,000 for technology and learning tools $25,000 for teacher support, training, and ongoing maintenance Every dollar raised will directly contribute to rebuilding the heart of this community. Why This Matters For many of the children at Leeds Primary & Infant, education is not just about reading and writing — it’s about survival and opportunity. In rural Jamaica, access to quality education can determine whether a child escapes the cycle of poverty or remains trapped within it. As Christos Ministries Founder [Insert Leader’s Name] put it: “When a school burns, a community’s light goes out. But when we rebuild, that light shines brighter than ever — because now, the world knows they are not alone.” Through this campaign, Christos Ministries invites donors, churches, and partners around the globe to be part of that light. How You Can Help Rebuilding a school is more than a construction project — it’s an act of faith and love. Christos Ministries is calling on individuals, families, and businesses to join the effort in one of three ways: Donate: Every contribution, large or small, brings the project closer to completion. Sponsor a Classroom: Major donors can dedicate a classroom, library section, or playground area in honor of a loved one or organization. Share the Story: Awareness is power. Spreading the word about Leeds Primary & Infant helps inspire others to act. Donations can be made securely at www.christos-ministries.org
By Mervyn Levy September 3, 2025
Dear Christos Ministries Supporters, Your unwavering support has enabled Christos Ministries to complete our eighth school project in Jamaica. As a supporter of Christos Ministries, you are more than a contributor. You are a partner in providing educational opportunities for under-served communities. The St. Robert Bellarmine Preparatory School was founded in 1962. The school serves approximately 12 communities surrounding the Chapelton area with an enrollment of more than 200 students. The high academic performance of its students, along with the school’s vibrant extracurricular program and dedicated staff, have resulted in a long student waiting list. The completed project provided the school with a new school building complete with 4 classrooms, bathroom facilities for the students and faculty, kitchen, playground, rainwater harvesting and storage system, and exterior fencing. The new building addresses classroom overcrowding and provides an exceptional learning environment for the 3-6 year old students.
By Thomas Minieri June 3, 2025
In the lush hills and vibrant towns of Jamaica, where reggae rhythms echo through the streets and the island sun casts its golden glow, there exists a quieter, more urgent reality: thousands of children are growing up without access to a stable education. In too many communities, children walk miles to reach overcrowded, under-resourced classrooms. Others are left behind altogether—trapped not by a lack of potential, but by a lack of opportunity. For these children, the most powerful gift anyone can offer isn’t just food or clothing. It’s not even temporary shelter or healthcare, though those needs matter. The most powerful, transformative gift is education. Here are five reasons why education is the most lasting, life-changing gift you can give—especially in places like Jamaica—and how your support can spark a ripple effect that lasts for generations. 1. Education Breaks the Cycle of Poverty Poverty isn’t just a lack of money—it’s a system of limitations. It limits what children believe is possible for their future. It limits their access to jobs, resources, and dignity. But education flips the script. A quality education equips a child with more than just literacy and math. It gives them the tools to think critically, dream boldly, and pursue a future beyond their current circumstances. According to UNESCO, each additional year of schooling can increase a person’s income by up to 10%. That impact is multiplied in communities where opportunities are scarce. In rural and impoverished Jamaican communities, education is the most realistic and effective long-term solution to poverty. When a child gains access to a proper school, they gain a foundation—one that empowers them to lift not just themselves, but their families, out of generational poverty. 2. It Protects Vulnerable Children When children aren’t in school, they are more vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and unsafe environments. In some areas of Jamaica, where tourism flourishes but economic inequality persists, many children fall prey to trafficking, child labor, or early pregnancy—all of which derail their future before it even begins. Education acts as a shield. A school is more than a building—it’s a safe haven. A place where children are supervised, mentored, and taught to believe in their self-worth. Schools become a second home, filled with role models, structure, and hope. By supporting the construction of safe, local schools in Jamaica, you are helping protect children from the dangers of the street—and replacing those dangers with dignity, structure, and opportunity. 3. It Empowers Girls and Strengthens Communities In many underdeveloped areas, including rural parts of Jamaica, girls face unique challenges in accessing education. Cultural expectations, domestic duties, and poverty often keep them at home. Yet when girls are educated, everything changes. Educated girls are: Less likely to marry young More likely to earn an income More likely to invest in their families’ health and education When girls go to school, entire communities thrive. Educated women become community leaders, advocates, and stabilizers. They start businesses, raise healthier children, and influence generations. A gift to education is a gift to gender equity—and it’s one of the smartest investments you can make if you want to transform a region from the inside out. 4. It Builds Peace and Reduces Crime In areas of high unemployment and poverty, crime rates naturally rise. Young people without access to education are statistically more likely to engage in gangs or criminal behavior—not out of desire, but out of survival. In contrast, education instills values like cooperation, responsibility, and hope. It provides a roadmap out of desperation. Studies from the World Bank show a direct correlation between education access and reduced violence. In Jamaica, where communities are often plagued by unemployment and instability, a new school doesn’t just help students—it stabilizes neighborhoods. It signals to everyone that change is possible. That a better future is being built, brick by brick. 5. It Leaves a Legacy That Outlives You The most powerful gifts are the ones that keep giving—long after we’re gone. Education is one of those gifts. When you give toward building a school in Jamaica, you’re not just helping a child today. You’re shaping the trajectory of their entire life. You’re helping them learn to read, write, think, solve problems, and one day—teach others. You’re sowing seeds of hope that may grow into businesses, churches, clinics, or nonprofits. Your gift creates ripple effects that will still be felt decades from now. Every classroom is a launchpad. Every student, a future leader. Every donation, a legacy. 🎓 The Mission of Christos Ministries At Christos Ministries, we are on a mission to change the story for children in underdeveloped countries—starting with Jamaica. We raise funds to construct educational facilities in communities where children need them most. But we don’t stop at buildings. We also provide ongoing financial support to ensure those facilities thrive long-term. Our goal is simple: every child deserves a future worth dreaming about. And we believe the best way to unlock that future is through access to safe, consistent, Christ-centered education. 🙌 How You Can Help The need is urgent. Right now, there are children in Jamaica who want to learn but have no school to attend. They are bright, curious, full of potential—but waiting. You can be the answer to their prayer. 👉 Your donation today will help us build the next school. It will provide desks, supplies, teachers, and the foundation for a future that doesn’t yet exist. We invite you to give generously—because the most powerful gift you can give isn’t just a donation. It’s a doorway to a new life. 🟡 Donate Now – Give the Gift of Education Together, let’s build something that will stand the test of time.
By Thomas Minieri May 1, 2025
Imagine a classroom where 50 students crowd into a space designed for 25. Imagine being eager to learn, but your school lacks basic supplies—no textbooks, working restrooms, or access to the internet. This is the reality for many students in Jamaica. According to UNICEF, nearly 40% of Jamaican students struggle with literacy by Grade 4. Despite efforts to improve, Jamaica's education system continues to fall short. But why? What are the root causes—and more importantly, what can be done? If you have ever traveled to rural parts of Jamaica or spoken with families from under-resourced communities, you have likely heard their frustrations. The schools are understaffed, teachers are overworked, and infrastructure is crumbling. Many children walk miles to school only to find locked classrooms due to teacher absenteeism or no meals to keep them focused throughout the day. Parents want better. They want their children to have the opportunity to dream beyond survival—to become doctors, engineers, educators, and leaders. But the odds are stacked against them. Here are some challenges: Lack of Resources: Many schools in Jamaica have outdated or nonexistent materials. Internet access is scarce, and computer labs are often wishful thinking. Underpaid and Overburdened Teachers: Educators are expected to perform miracles on shoestring budgets, often without professional development or support. Infrastructure Decay: Leaking roofs, unsafe classrooms, and inadequate sanitation create an environment not conducive to learning. Poverty: Many children come to school hungry or are kept at home to work and help support their families. Dropout Rates: Without motivation, mentorship, or basic support systems, many students fall through the cracks. These are not just numbers or statistics. These are children—future leaders—being denied the opportunity to thrive. At Christos Ministries, we believe education is not a luxury but a right. We are tackling these systemic issues by going straight to the heart of the problem. Here is how we are creating real change: Building and Renovating Schools: We fund the construction of safe, modern classrooms in under-resourced communities. Clean, equipped, and structurally sound schools lay the foundation for learning. Providing Educational Resources: From textbooks and uniforms to internet access and learning devices, we supply what students and teachers need to succeed. Scholarships and Mentorship: We offer scholarships for promising students and mentorship opportunities to encourage long-term success and motivation. We are not interested in quick fixes. Christos Ministries is committed to long-term solutions to empower entire communities for generations. Now, imagine a different Jamaica. A young girl walks confidently into her bright, clean classroom. She has her own books. She has had breakfast, thanks to the school’s nutrition program. Her teacher greets her with energy and purpose, supported by training and fair compensation. She logs onto a tablet, ready to engage with the world beyond her community. She feels safe and valued. She feels inspired. Now, multiply that story by hundreds. Thousands. This is what Christos Ministries is working toward—a Jamaica where every child can break cycles of poverty through education, where classrooms are not holding cells but launching pads for dreams. We believe that education is the most powerful tool for transforming a nation. However, we cannot accomplish this alone. Whether you are an individual with a heart for service, a donor seeking impact, or a church looking to support international missions—you can be the difference.  Together, we can rebuild hope—one classroom at a time.
By Thomas Minieri April 2, 2025
Every great mission begins with a vision—a calling to serve, uplift, and transform lives. For Christos Ministries, that vision was deeply rooted in faith and driven by compassion. From humble beginnings to a global reach, we have remained steadfast in our mission to honor Jesus Christ and reflect His unconditional love through spiritual, physical, and financial support. Christos is a non-profit, faith-based organization founded by the late Rev. Dr. Monica McKenzie, and it is dedicated to transforming lives. Incorporated in Georgia on June 1, 1999, this organization emerged from a small group of lifelong friends who felt a calling to facilitate the work of the “Kingdom of God.” Their mission was simple yet profound: to pool their resources, expand their sphere of influence, and positively impact the lives of those in need. One of the defining characteristics of Christos is our belief in collective giving. True impact occurs when people unite to share their resources and work toward a common goal. By mobilizing individuals, churches, and organizations, we have achieved far more than any single person could accomplish alone. Christos Ministries has provided spiritual encouragement, financial assistance, and essential resources to countless individuals and families. Whether through providing food, clothing, or shelter to those in crisis or funding life-changing educational initiatives, this organization has remained faithful to its calling. Education is one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and transforming communities. Recognizing this, we prioritize the construction of educational facilities for children in underdeveloped regions. By ensuring that children have access to quality education, we are not only changing individual lives, but shaping the future of entire communities. Through strategic partnerships and generous donors, Christos Ministries has successfully built schools, provided scholarships, and supplied educational materials to children who would otherwise lack these opportunities. These efforts are a direct reflection of the ministry’s core belief that every child, regardless of their background, deserves a chance to learn, grow, and fulfill their God-given potential. At the core of Christos Ministries’ success is our dedicated team and volunteers. We continue to thrive thanks to the selfless efforts of those who believe in our mission. Volunteers play an instrumental role in executing programs, organizing fundraising efforts, and directly serving those in need. While our impact has been profound, our journey is far from over. As the organization continues to grow, we remain committed to expanding our reach, strengthening our programs, and finding new ways to serve. The vision that Rev. Dr. Monica McKenzie ignited in 1999 continues to burn brightly, inspiring new generations to step forward in faith and make a difference. Looking ahead, Christos Ministries aims to establish even more educational facilities, enhance community outreach efforts, and forge new partnerships that will enable us to bring hope and healing to more lives. Through prayer, dedication, and the support of our community, we will continue to be a beacon of light in a world that so desperately needs it. The work of Christos Ministries is made possible through the generosity and commitment of individuals who believe in its mission. Whether through financial donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every contribution makes a difference. If you feel called to be a part of this incredible journey, there are many ways to get involved. Please contact us to see how you can lend your time, talents, and resources. Together, we can turn vision into reality and continue to bring God’s love to those who need it most.
By Thomas Minieri March 18, 2025
Did you know that 1 in 4 Jamaican children live under the poverty line? Or that 30% of children never attend secondary school due to financial struggles? These numbers represent real families—parents forced to choose between feeding their children or paying for school supplies, and kids dropping out because they lack transportation. Entire communities are stuck in a cycle of poverty that seems impossible to escape. Education is supposed to be a pathway to a better life. Still, for many Jamaican children, that path is filled with roadblocks. Without access to proper schooling, they face limited job opportunities, lower incomes, and a future that looks much like the generations before them—a vicious cycle of poverty. Imagine a young boy named David. His mother, a hardworking woman, sells fruits in the market to provide for their family. She dreams of a better life for her son, one where he is not forced to struggle financially. But, without money for school fees, David’s education is inconsistent. Sometimes, he misses weeks because they do not have reliable transportation and cannot afford books. Eventually, he falls too far behind and drops out altogether. Now, as a teenager, David searches for work to help his family but has no diploma. The only jobs available are low-paying and unstable. He wants more for his future, but every door seems closed. The cycle continues—just as his mother struggled, so will he. This is the reality for thousands of families in Jamaica. Education is the missing key, but too many children are locked out of opportunities. Families want a future where their children can: Find stable jobs with livable wages Break free from the struggles they grew up with Build a better life for themselves and their communities At Christos Ministries, we believe no child should be denied an education because of poverty. That’s why we work to build schools, provide financial support, and offer educational resources to children in underdeveloped areas in Jamaica. Here’s how we help break the cycle of poverty: School Construction: We build and expand schools in communities where education access is limited. Educational Resources: We provide books, technology, and classroom materials so students have what they need to learn. Financial Assistance: We help cover school fees, uniforms, and transportation costs, removing barriers that keep kids from attending school. Every dollar donated goes directly toward creating a future where children like David don’t have to choose between survival and education. Now, imagine a different reality. David is no longer forced to stay home because he can’t afford school. Instead, he walks proudly into a newly built classroom, books in hand, eager to learn. His mother no longer worries about whether he will have a future—she sees it unfolding in front of her. Years later, David has a diploma in hand. He lands a stable job, earns a good salary, and helps lift his family out of poverty. His younger siblings follow in his footsteps because education is no longer out of reach. The solution to poverty is not complex—it’s education. By partnering with Christos Ministries, you can actively contribute to making a positive change. Here’s how you can help today: Donate – Your contribution helps build schools and fund education for needy children. Spread the Word – Share our mission and help us reach more people who can make a difference. Education transforms lives. Let’s make sure no child in Jamaica, or any other underdeveloped country, is left behind. Join us today and be the change they need.
February 11, 2024
Since our last update, we at Christos Ministries Incorporated, have been busy and have wonderful news to share. Your generous support is impacting the lives of many children, teachers, and administrators in Jamaica. We witnessed the impact firsthand on our recent trip to inaugurate two completed Basic Schools. Past President Thora Levy, current President Mervyn Levy, and Board Member Wendy Levy represented Christos Ministries Incorporated at the inauguration of Hart Hill Basic School in Portland and Glendevon Primary School’s Infant Department in Montego Bay. ​The principal of Hart Hill Basic School, Jen-Marie Pryce, said that Hart Hill Basic School is now the envy of other schools. She added that the community is also proud to have such a nice school. “There aren’t words to describe our gratitude,” Jen-Marie said. “When we were praying and hoping, we did not expect such a big gift. When we started out at first, we were looking to repair the old structure, but the investigators explained, which we knew, that the building was irreparable. We needed a new building and so, the process started. And today, we have this building. There were times when we lost hope, but if it was not (for) Christos Ministries, we would not have this building and our students would not be as comfortable as they are today. This, for us, is like coming from a little hut into a mansion.” The Hart Hill School serves 60 children.
February 11, 2024
The Principal of the Glendevon Primary and Infant School, Audrey Lee-Peynado, spoke about the impact education has on their community: “One of the best ways that we can contribute to nation-building is through education. We are so thankful that our supporters share the same sentiments and decided to share their kindness with us.” Audrey thanks you for your support, saying, “You have given us a lovely state-of-the-art building with classrooms, a computer lab, a kitchen and dining area, a principal's office, a sick bay, restrooms for both students and staff, a shower area for the students as well as a beautiful play area. We welcome this venture greatly.”  Donya Allen-Thompson, the infant coordinator at Glendevon Primary, also sends her praises to you for your selfless initiative. Donya explained the impact you have made on the community, saying, “We cater to students from low to medium-income families. For these parents, having a school like this makes them super excited and very thankful.” The Glendevon Infant Department serves 50 children.