The following is from the 2010 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, Presbyterian Church (USA):

“Many of us put a great emphasis on patriotism and loyalty to both God and our country. We often struggle to do justice to either.

Former PC(USA) mission co-worker Joyce Williams is the perfect example of someone who manages to do well at both. She both serves her church, Webster Memorial in Kingston, Jamaica, and works to develop and improve schools in her beloved Jamaica.

“Not only does Joyce gather financial donations, she recruits people from both the island and the United States to paint schools, build furniture, and do whatever it takes to further the education of mind and spirit in Jamaican students.

“Joyce Williams has vision, and she is the heartbeat of many things she has initiated. She has written job descriptions for posting on the PC(USA)web site, which led another mission worker to teach at Iona Preparatory School for two years. This in turn enabled the students to have instruction in music and art at no cost to the school.

 “Mrs. Williams is a fine example of Christian leadership and service. She is highly respected by church members, children, parents, and anyone else whose life she touches. Jamaica is truly blessed by her life example of what it means to serve God and God’s people.”

 Joyce Williams, who is one of Covenant’s mission partners, currently is recovering at home in Jamaica from a heart attack that she suffered in June. The episode caused her to postpone a visit to New Jersey and Covenant that she had planned for this summer. She intends to reschedule the trip when her health will permit.