New Testament Assembly Hope Bay

In due time, the Lord began adding to the church, with the first baptism being held for seven converts. Soon after, there were three weddings and a second baptism for twelve converts.

It was not only the adults who were instructed in the Word, but Evangelist Steele was instrumental in starting an Infant School, which catered to the needs of the children in the community. The school, originally known as “Sister Steele School”, has remained in operation over the years, and having undergone changes, is now known as Hope Bay Basic School.

After a few years in the old shop, the church was informed of a piece of land for sale which was suitable for the church. Their interest sparked opposition, since a church was not welcomed there. Despite this opposition, it was God’s divine plan that the church would receive assistance from two members of the community and as a result they were able to purchase the land on which the church now stands.

God proved himself as their Jehovah Jireh, as He provided material, as well as builders and in 1961 the new building was started. This was taken to a point where it could be used for the first convention in June 1962. At the end of eight days of convention fourteen converts were baptized, among them was Sister Pearl McKenzie, now Jones, who is the current Pastor.

Having proven herself to be an outstanding leader, and displaying the qualities of a good shepherd, Evangelist Brown was ordained as the first Pastor of Hope Bay New Testament Assembly in 1963. She performed this task to the best of her ability until 1989, when as a result of ill-health, Evangelist Pearl Jones was appointed as her successor.

In 1995 a new chapter for the church began with the first phase of expansion of the church building under the leadership of Pastor Jones. These were challenging years, but as before, God had the right persons lined up for the church. After approximately eight years of construction, the building was completed, and was officially opened in 2005.

Pastor Jones, who was later ordained as the first female Bishop of the New Testament Assembly Jamaica, has continued the mission of the pioneers with the assurance that God has great plans for the church, which continues to thrive, under her leadership.