Awesome things about Jamaica you may or may not know: William Knibb Memorial Baptist Church

Jamaican Highlights- William Knibb Memorial Baptist Church

As you likely know, i've spent a good amount of time over the past 8 years serving in Jamaica. I typically spend a few months of the year on the island helping guide our ministry and leading short term mission teams. Jamaica is such a small country but is literally packed full of awesomeness. I am beginning a series of blog posts that will highlight some of my favorites of Jamaica. These will be communities, restaurants, beaches, churches, etc. I hope this gives you a further look into my heart for Jamaica and the uniqueness of the island.

William Knibb was an english missionary to Jamaica who is well known for his work of freeing African slaves. First working closely with Thomas Burchell and James Phillipo at a school mission in Kingston, Knibb moved around the island a few times before he landed in Falmouth in 1830. When he arrived, the church congregation numbered about 600. By the mid 1840's, Knibb's congregation at Falmouth grew to about 1,200 members, the large majority of them slaves. Knibb is credited with not only beginning many churches on the island, but also the establishment of over 15 schools. His work and ministry is highlighted by his heart for freedom, and the freedom that comes through the Christian faith. Knibb's most well known for his passion for defending the slaves and eventual role in the emancipation of slavery. It is said that in this chapel in Falmouth in 1838 Knibb gave his famous speech as slavery was finally abolished in the British empire and in Jamaica. "The hour is at hand. the monster is dying," he shared. And as the clock struck midnight he passionately yells, "The monster is dead, the negro is free!" The following day, a coffin containing a slave whip and chains was buried in the church yard, signifying the end of the slave era on the island.

Knibb is buried in the church yard at the William Knibb Baptist Church. The church these days is pastored by Rev. Devere Nugent, a young energetic pastor deeply entrenched in community development and social justice throughout the parish of Trelawny. Pastor Nugent pastors not only the William Knibb Baptist Church, but also four other churches in the parish. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, pastor Nugent is a great husband and father, is the chairman for many boards, and is a strong partner of Praying Pelican Missions.

The William Knibb Baptist Church is a sight to see. But it pales in comparison to spending time with the people of the church and learning the history behind Mr. William Knibb himself and his drive to free slaves and preach the gospel.

Below: The William Knibb Baptist Church chapel

Below: Rev. Devere Nugent spends time with one of our teams


Below: Rev. Devere Nugent shares with a PPM team, while a couple church brothers look on and share about the history and culture of the church and parish. This picture was taken on a harvest Sunday, I believe.