Bethel Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church
29 James Avenue, Ocho Rios, St. Ann Saturday, September 15, 2018 11:00 a.m. Officiating Ministers Bishop O’Garth W. McKoy Bishop Arthur A. Thomas Bishop Dolbert A. Clarke Deacon Luthan Williams Organist Mr. Pitts Williams INTERMENT Walker’s Wood Cemetery
Thanksgiving Service MUSICAL PRELUDE
PRAISE AND WORSHIP OPENING REMARKS
Bishop O’Garth W. McKoy
OPENING HYMN Just Over In The Glory Land PRAYER Bishop S. Robert Stewart FIRST LESSON I Corinthians 15:50-58 Sis. Evan Thomas RENDITION Bethel Tabernacle Mass Choir SECOND LESSON Revelation 22:1-7 Bishop Lenville Nelson TRIBUTES United Pentecostal Church Of Jamaica Executive Presbyter (Region Four) CHORUS MEDLEY EULOGY Sis. Judy Hamilton (Grandniece) TRIBUTES Minister Paul Walters Bethel Tabernacle (Upc) Sis. Mavis Nelson Sis. Gweneth Gallimore Bro. Melovan Williams & Sis. Yvonne Lingo-Isaacs EULOGY Pastor Mercella Ward-Francis Lady Surrophine Clarke PRAYER FOR THE BEREAVED FAMILY
Bishop John E. Smith
RENDITION Bethel Tabernacle Mass Choir MESSAGE Bishop Arthur A. Thomas ALTAR CALL Bishop Dolbert A. Clarke RECESSIONAL HYMN In The Great Triumphant Morning
Hymn
Just Over in The Glory Land
1
I’ve a home prepared where the saints abide, Just over in the glory-land; And I long to be by my Savior’s side, Just over in the glory-land. Refrain: Just over in the glory-land, I’ll join the happy angel band, Just over in the glory-land; Just over in the glory-land, There with the mighty host I’ll stand, Just over in the glory-land.
2
I am on my way to those mansions fair, Just over in the glory-land; There to sing God’s praise and His glory share, Just over in the glory-land. [Refrain]
3
What a joyful thought that my Lord I’ll see, Just over in the glory-land; And with kindred saved, there forever be, Just over in the glory-land. [Refrain]
4
With the blood-washed throng I will shout and sing, Just over in the glory-land; Glad hosannas to Christ, the Lord and King, Just over in the glory-land. [Refrain]
FamilyReflections
Today we are here to celebrate the life of Lilitha Maud Titus, born on Wednesday, April 11, 1923 in the Town of Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, Jamaica to Irene Beckford and Mass Titus. Lilitha grew up with one older sister named Marjorie Victoria Titus. She was fondly known as Sis. Houslin, Sis or Auntie and although she didn’t have any children of her own, her significant influence on the lives of so many earned her the title ‘Mother Houslin’. To all who knew her she had grace, poise, class, intelligence, was kind, always helpful, a preacher of the Word and a valiant defender of the Faith. She truly was an amazing and captivating woman who was loved by many as can be seen by all the friends and family gathered here today. At the tender age of 5 and 7, Lilitha and Marjorie accompanied their Mother on a tiresome 3-day journey from Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland to Kingston, Jamaica in pursuit of a better life. This was an audacious move for Irene and her two precious girls, but nothing short of first class would do. So she hired a horse drawn carriage, (otherwise known as a Drey-cart) to transport her small family safely to their new home. Upon arrival in Kingston, Lilitha and her sister Marjorie, were enrolled in the well-known All Saints Elementary school where they settled down to study and gain a good education. It was also where Lilitha established quite the reputation for herself as the feisty one, often found scrapping and fiercely defending herself or her sister on a moment’s notice. As she grew, Lilitha proved to be a very bright girl who prided herself in speaking the Queen’s English perfectly. Upon graduation, she desperately wanted to pursue higher education however her humble means prevented her from doing so. Not allowing that to stop her, she quickly gained full time employment at Nuttall Memorial Hospital where she worked in the Laundry Department
which more than likely helped shape her fastidious ways later on in life. Shortly after starting at the hospital, she was invited to attend revival services at the Pentecostal Tabernacle on Wildman Street. She was so intrigued with the lively singing, dancing and testimonies, curiosity tugged at her heart a few weeks later and she returned to surrender her life to the Lord. She was immediately sold out to the Lord and was often heard quoting the scripture ‘I’d rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness!’ (Ps. 84:10) She soon enrolled in the Bible School and became rich in the Word. This preparation qualified her to become a Sunday School Teacher, Choir Member and Evangelist at Wildman Street. Early in her walk with the Lord, she learned to be faithful with her tithes and offerings. However, this commitment wasn’t as simple as it seemed as while she was working at the hospital her modest wage greatly restricted her ability to be consistently timely. That setback didn’t stop her, however. She kept accurate records and little by little over time, paid a bit extra until finally one Sunday she brought the final installment to her then pastor, Rev. Reynolds and dutifully confirmed to him that her debt was now paid in full. Praise the Lord Jesus! One fine day, a very serious young Minister finally caught her eye as he travelled back and forth from the young work he oversaw in Ocho Rios to attend Conventions in Kingston. At last, Lilitha was joined to her soul mate, the late Bishop Norman J. Houslin on August 23, 1953 in Kingston, Jamaica.
A Virtuous Woman Proverbs 31:10-31
[10] Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. [11] The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. [12] She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Their home was a home of peace as long as someone wasn’t being disciplined. If you had the privilege to live with them, stay for a week or pop by for a short visit, you would often hear Sis. Houslin affectionately referring to her Pastor and husband as Elder or Dear. Never a spat was heard, in their 53 years of marriage, as Auntie would model herself after Sarah, who called Abraham lord, referencing their love and devotion as the keys to a successful marriage. If she ever missed Elder, she could find him at the church, kneeling in prayer at the altar. This godly home was saturated in earnest prayer twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. Everyone, including the children, gathered for prayer along with herself and Bishop. Though informal, it had a dependable structure including singing, scripture reading and a timely exhortation, by herself or Bishop. Monday’s were designated Fast day and though she fasted, she would still awake early to prepare meals for her children. Fasting is something she believed in strongly and she did so often. Her sister would often chide her, over the years believing that she wouldn’t live to see old age as the fasting would surely kill her. Well, Auntie obviously knew best, as her 95 years eclipsed her sister’s 78 years by nearly 2 decades! Fasting was not only good for the soul, but good for the body as well.
Though she bore no children of her own, those of her household were her pride and joy! She took them everywhere with her, never leaving them out just because they were children. All were treated equally without fear or favour! Even their education was tightly managed, as if Auntie felt the School Mistress lacked quality, she would make the necessary enquiries and have them moved to a higher caliber school on a moment’s notice. Though loving, she was a disciplinarian! She believed that if you spared the rod, you would surely spoil the child. And no one liked spoiled children, least of all her! She would visit the local shoe maker, not only for shoes, but for custom-made straps, which mysteriously seemed to get a little bigger as the children grew. When she strapped you, she saw tears as a sign of penitence and would feel satisfied that the job was done and would stop. Some learned this well and would produce tears, almost on demand, to hasten their relief. There was one exception, however, which continues to cause her nephew, my father, to wince in pain at the thought of it. He was out playing ball with his friends after school one day, when he left the field quickly to join his older sister who was on her way to the church for rehearsal for the upcoming Christmas Program. Instead of heading inside to clean up, he thought it would be better to arrive on time. Well he was so covered in dirt, she didn’t even recognize him! When he finished his recital she grabbed him by the pant waist and dragged him a brisk 2 mile walk home where she strapped him almost without mercy. To this day he believes she heard the Lord say, ‘do to him whatever you will, only touch not his life’! [13] She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. [14] She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar. [15] She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
As a young bride, Sis. Houslin was an EXCELLENT cook and EXCEPTIONAL baker. No matter what the menu, she’d always turn out a delectable feast as she learned at a young age from her mother that you never know who’d be passing by at dinner time in need of a good cooked meal. Even Bishop McKoy fondly recounted how she once asked him if he would like a small bite before heading on his way. When she asked, almost coyly, he couldn’t refuse. Only, to realize on about the 3rd course that this would be a 5-course feast, beginning with the salad and ending with the dessert! This typified her hospitality and love for people and cooking. And there was no cake like Auntie’s Christmas cake! She mixed it by hand with the freshest of ingredients and then soaked it in ‘good wine’ to turn out a deliciously moist cake. We delighted in her kind generosity, as she would often find someone travelling abroad who would graciously transport a cake or two to her sister and family living in Canada. Manners were an important part of her teaching. She would teach that manners would take you places without farthing (or money)! Though she had no children of her own, those of her household learned early that only perfect manners would do. They were taught to be present when visitors arrived, to greet and entertain them, and only to excuse themselves once it became clear the adults were ready to talk.
[16] She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. [17] She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. [18] She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. [19] She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. [20] She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
Auntie was hard working and meticulously clean. Not a speck would pass her watchful eye. Help would come and help would go because no one could maintain the high standards she set. She was SO thorough she would insist that her pots were scoured to the point where they shined and dishes washed the evening before were re-washed the following morning before use! Even clothes were washed in 2 cycles: once by hand, and then by machine! It was a real achievement if you managed to pass one of her exacting tests which consisted of her donning a white glove and sweeping it along the furniture to see whether any dust remained on final inspection! And Auntie never discriminated. There were chores for everyone. Even the smallest was sent under that bed to wipe the corners clean. It did not matter that no one saw this ‘behind the scenes’ contribution. It was important to her, so it got done! [21] She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. [22] She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. She taught her girls to be proper ladies and to carry themselves with poise, as if in the presence of the Queen. Her dressing was impeccable and with highest of class and she taught her girls to do the same. She was often referred to as polished. Despite what she wore on the outside, she was clothed with humility and a servant’s heart on the inside. [23] Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. [24] She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. [25] Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. [26] She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
She was very motherly and all who spoke of her did so with admiration. If she wasn’t disciplining, she was gentle and affectionate, never hiding her abundant love. At Christmas time, she not only baked her delicious cakes, but she arranged with Bishop to take them all into Town to enjoy the festivities! She didn’t reserve her love for those of her household. Ne’re a young person would be turned away, who needed her guidance. No matter the time of day, nor how busy she may have been. She always made time to encourage and guide, always going above and beyond, expecting nothing in return. When her sister would
send barrels from abroad, she would open it with delight and then give half away to whomever was in need. Auntie also had a sense of humour and a quick wit. She once learned that one of the young sisters was set to marry a questionable young man. She quickly cracked, ‘Oh! She’s found herself a Doe-Doe man’! [27] She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. [28] Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
She never shied away from talking about the Lord and taught her children to trust in the Lord without waving. Her life was one filled with many examples from which one could reflect and on closer examination discover the virtuous woman of the scriptures. Her authenticity was undeniable. She was a Queen among us and we knew it not. Auntie, had fought a good fight, she had finished her course and she had kept the faith. Henceforth there’s a treasure laid up for her, a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge will give her on that day. Thank you Auntie, for the rich heritage you have left us. [29] Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. [30] Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. [31] Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
Tribute to
Lilitha Houslin
FIRST LADY
Greetings to the household of faith gathered to celebrate the life of a Matriarch, my Sister, my friend Lady Houslin. I give honor to the God of all ages, the lover and keeper of our souls. It is with extreme emotions that I pen this tribute, as I would much rather to be present for this great celebration of a life well lived. Unfortunately, my frail body and failing health could not handle the journey. Bishop and Sister Houslin go a very long way back with my husband and I, the late Bishop David Gallimore, starting out as best man in each other’s wedding. Sister Houslin and I grew together in faith and kingdom work, as we labored relentlessly for decades, prayed, laughed, cried and grew strong together in the faith. She unequivocally represented HOLINESS to the highest magnitude and made no excuses for her stance. She was a woman of virtue and unwavering sacredness. It was my greatest pleasure to tag team in ministry with her,as we supported our husbands in Kingdom work.Hers was the exemplary life our Ladies of Pentecost ought to emulate‌Holy, Proper, Modest, Genuine, Strong, Principled, Ethical, an Intense Prayer Warrior and Pentecostal Icon. Sis. Houslin has served long and hard. Our Father in heaven saw it fit to provide rest for His daughter. She has run this race well and beat me to the mark of our higher calling. My journey continues in patience, I will not stop until my change comes. We grieve, not as others do, because we know that Sister Houslin is absent from the painful mortal body, but we are assured that she is present with the Lord. Therefore my beloved, be comforted, let us encourage ourselves in the Lord, knowing that we all shall meet again. This is a hope that we cherish not in vain. I challenge us to pick up the baton she has handed off and stay committed to the battlefield. Go ahead Lady Houslin, claim your crown and greet our loved ones as you stomp through the New Jerusalem. My love and prayers remain with you all! Yours in Christ Gweneth Gallimore
MESSAGE FROM
Hon. Norma L. Walters
On behalf of the citizens of St. Ann I present this message of condolences to Pastor O’Garth W. McKoy, the Houslin family and the members of the Bethel Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church on the passing to Glory of Mrs. Lilitha Houslin, widow of founding Pastor and Bishop Norman J. Houslin. This church has devoted 67 years of Christian Ministry to bringing God’s word into our hearts and homes. A debt of gratitude is owed to this leader who worked spiritually and assiduously to transform the lives of many believers by bringing them into the faith to accept and acknowledge God’s presence in, and His will for their lives. William Aikman, compares his idea of a perfect family with the attainment of civilization and opined that “Civilization is realized and practiced at its highest and most completely where enlightened Christianity prevails; where woman is exalted to her true and lofty place as equal with man, where husband and wife are one in honour, influence and affection, and where children are a common bond of care and love.” Through her partnership with her late husband, the congregation has become richer by their exemplary family relationship. Indeed believers have been enabled to survive the changes and challenges over these many years, as together, they created a platform of God’s grace, a veritable conduit through which the church could speak out effectively against the evil in society. As a foundation member, she was instrumental in creating the cohesive entity, and, with her special gift, she strengthened the church and made it a powerful force in the community. In giving God thanks for her transformational guidance and leadership and the Ministry of the Word, let us be reminded of the words of Albert Pine, who said, “What we have done for ourselves alone, dies with us, what we have done for others and the world, remains immortal.” We pray God’s Richest Blessings on the family and the church, as you continue to adhere to his exhortation to “Be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” Let us use this solemn period of bereavement to put all our differences aside, and in drawing closer to the Lord, commit and recommit our lives to His Service. May her soul Rest in Peace. Hon. Norma L. Walters Custos Rotulorum St. Ann
CELEBRATING A NOTABLE, VIRTUOUS AND PRECIOUS MOTHER OF THE 21ST CENTURY
Lady Lilitha Houslin MAUD
Permit me to roll out the red carpet and usher you into the eulogy that showcases some of the greatest sentiments of a Godly woman, named Lilietha Maud Houslin, nee Titus. We recognize the fragrance of her life as her parents Mr. & Mrs. Titus, eyes glowed with excitement and glee at her arrival on April 11, 1923. Her miraculous conversion was divinely orchestrated by the Lord Jesus Christ. She served as a vibrant evangelist, and a dynamic, resilient, intuitive and faithful Christian young lady. Resultantly the tall, handsome young price, Norman James Emanuel Houslin, finishing Bible school and ready to embark on his soul-winning ministry, seeing traits such as hope, gracefulness, compassion and sincere Christ-like attributes took her hand in marriage on Sunday August 23, 1953 at 66-68 Wildman Street, the church of her Christian origin. Today we acknowledge the portraits of many remarkable women who bear some of her noble attributes, women that she mentored across the Diaspora of the world but some from particular assemblies that the late superintendent, Bishop Norman J. Houslin and her were instrumental in raising up as a people for the Lord; worship centres such as Benbow, Gayle, Port Antonio, Pimento Walk, Charles Town, Mango Valley, Retreat and Galina United Pentecostal Churches. The inspirational quality service to Bethel Tabernacle, 29 James Avenue, Ocho Rios cannot be all accounted for in this volume. The remarkable level of commitment to her husband as Prayer partner, motivator, worshipper, encourager, giver and trendsetter gave the link to two very special individuals’ relationship and displayed the capacity for true fidelity in the most profound way. Everyone remembers her “Yes dear, No dear, coming dear” as she lauds her husband. She constantly rehearsed that she wanted no help to care for her husband. She was not rude, but assured in her devoted service to her husband.
Prayer was her vital breath. She was always at prayer meetings, whether night prayer or early morning. She was so devoted to prayer that one minister recalls dinnertime at her home; she laid the table, called her guests, then they all knelt to pray at the dinner table. The blessing of the meal went on for a considerable length of time. Yes, she was unique in many ways. Her culinary skills were second to none. Her sumptuous presentations of meals was served course by course, appetizer, main course, desserts. Her delicious Christmas cakes would be delivered with a special slice wrapped and placed on top so that the recipient could have a taste before the Christmas day cutting of their cake. It was interesting to see her going to the farmer’s market on Fridays with her basket. She would sometimes visit the market at least twice in order to make her complete purchase. While she is made her rounds in the market the word would go around of her exact location in the market as everyone tried to dodge her. Sis is always doing personal evangelism in the market among other places. Even if you tried to get away from the marathon evangelism Sis would continue until she made her point. Of course, we cannot forget the loud Hallelujah shouts she would make in the market or on the street during her witnessing. On her return from the market, she would wash all the vegetables, fruits and even ground provisions before putting them into refrigerator or her ground provisions box; a very clean, detailed and deliberate housewife. The Ladies Auxiliary department of that era was properly equipped as she taught, demonstrated and delivered in various ways, the disciplines and principles necessary for outstanding womanhood. So meticulous was Sister Houslin that she would spend much time on teaching us how to approach the chair and how to sit conspicuously. She would have meetings with the cooks before any cooking operation can take place. The cooks would work long hours but Sis would ensure that the cooks were properly fed. She has set a precedence of excellent cooking which lingers to this very day in the ladies department. We recall her mastery as the Sunday school teacher. As teens our Sunday school class was on her verandah, a place we revered. Mysteriously, she saw when each student approached [even if he was not in the class] and knew whether or not we prayed as it was a requirement that we prayed on entering the class before she started the lesson. She demanded that we pray that “the Lord leads me right in this lesson,” she said this Sunday after Sunday. As she marked the attendance register she would sometimes say, “If I had children of my own, I would give all of them Bible names.” At Sunday school dismissal time, Bishop Houslin would leave his office and give Sister Houslin the signal, with her index finger pointing, she would respond “Coming dear!” then she would say to us “I must finish this interesting little part.” Out comes Bishop again, beckoning frantically. Sis Houslin “Oh yes dear, coming!” and while we are going to the tabernacle, she would be finishing her lesson as she files briskly behind us. She arranged children’s church every Sunday evening which was held in the Tabernacle, later relocated to the garage. To-to (square shaped) and red colored drinks were served free of cost to Sunday School students for lunch every Sunday. Sis made sure that the children were fed. She possessed the sound awareness of the spiritual, educational, social and physical needs of children and adults.
As Sunday School Director Sis planned a Sunday School programme that participants can never forget. Rehearsal lasted six (6) months with an extended list of items. Practices were so regular that on the BIG NIGHT of the programme the MC made his opening remark and did not take back the microphone until it was time for his closing remarks. Participants all knew which item was next because of the countless rehearsals. PRECISION was her thing! Performances had to be done accurately, proper pronunciation and articulation. Only then you would be ready for the platform. Mother Houslin did everything timely. When she saluted the Lord she would start by saying “Praise the Lord Jesus. Praise the all-powerful name of Jesus. Praise the sin-cleansing name of Jesus (that is her special line). Praise the Lord Jesus! This preceded every time she formerly greeted the assembly or testified. She was a true worshiper. Her songs and messages were mostly about heaven and the name of Jesus. Some of her favourite hymns included “How beautiful heaven must be!” “Oh that will be glory for me” and “Blessed be the name” One of her favourite expressions was the vigorously clapping of the hands to get our attention; young and old alike scampered at this sound. She might be calling to fix our hats, using a pin to make us proper, removing the little cloth band, opening our head ties to cover our heads properly or just to say, “You are following the Rastafarians you know”. She disapproved of the twisting of the hair [the Rastafarian culture was booming in the 70s- 80s]. Notwithstanding she was the greatest encourager of all times. She discouraged lurking around the church grounds by finding chores for the idle hands to do. Brethren would try not to go to the back of the church outside of service times, but preferred to stay in the front. If Sis got sight of you she had a dust rag or broom or rake to place in your idle hands. We were always reminded to accept the challenges so that we may feel the exhilaration of victory and that people catch our spirit just like how they catch our colds – by getting close to us. We could not deny her sayings of “Holiness is still in style, Heaven to go is not coco to eat, and Heaven is going to be a surprise.” She had a scriptural encouragement for everyone. Her presence commanded respect, her enthusiasm second to none. She would often tell us that the Lord would “Spew us out of His mouth” if we were lukewarm. The way she expressed the statement sent a drastic warning to us as youths as well as adults. She could hold a steady conversation. She talked about the Lord Jesus as is He was very present in person at every occasion. She loved the Lord and served Him with passion, care and duty. She was an eloquent witness to the Presence of the Lord. She never failed to commend where necessary. Her commendation was like receiving an award. As we remember and reflect we speak of her going back to study for her CXC passes at the Ocho Rios high school as she thought knowledge and skills were necessary to do the work of God efficiently. She majored at English Language wanting to dot every “i” and cross every “t” appropriately. The choristers of yesteryear remember how she labored as a choir director to get everything right and every word properly enunciated. The children’s choir in their white pleated dresses nonetheless. Sis Pearson was the organist and Brothers Brown and Steve Williams as musicians had their lesson in patience as she consistently
prompted to get every song right. She had a deep love for young Christian men who showed their diligence for the work of the Lord Jesus. One of such was the man of God O’Garth McKoy, who was raised up at Bethel and under their outstanding leadership has spiritually matriculated to being Pastor. Hence was called and was delivered the pasturing of Bethel Tabernacle. She subdued herself beautifully to his leadership. Here is a report in a nutshell that he recalls of her… Three of the most profound recollections I have about this phenomenal Woman of God are: 1. Evangelist Extraordinaire; Mother Houslin was primarily a Soul-Winner at heart, wherever, whoever, or whenever, she would seek an opportunity to tell someone about her Lord and savior. It would take her a very long time to reach the market or supermarket, and a very long time to return home; whether the person was a backslider, a sinner or even a Saint. Mother, would find the time to speak to you about your soul and the savior. 2. She was ‘Holiness’ personified. Absolutely everything about her portrayed holiness. She would find the most admirable methods to communicate anything about you that didn’t fall in line, spiritual or moral. 3. She had a very kind heart. You wouldn’t go by her at all, without being offered a little ‘pittance’ which would in reality be more than you could fathom most times. Today, the United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica extend our heartfelt congratulations to this woman of class and virtue that is depicted in Proverbs 31 for successful, Godly leadership as she represented a great era of Pentecostal history from the 1950s to 2018. She gave invaluable support to this noble organization and has ingrained her positive impacting lifestyle in the communities of Jamaica and beyond. Lilitha Houslin has been a general license minister for several decades, the wife of our first indigenous National Superintendent, Norman James Houslin, a trailblazer, spiritual educator, the epitome of the Christcentred lifestyle. We will remember her powerful contributions, her winsome smile and the faith she had in her Lord Jesus. The National Superintendent and Pastor of Bethel Tabernacle, Bishop O’Garth McKoy, the board of the United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica, the members of Bethel Tabernacle UPCJ, 29 James Avenue, Ocho Rios, other ministers of like precious faith, the Ocho Rios Community, family members, Bro & Sis Henry Hamilton (Bobby & Ivy), grand nieces Judy and Tracy Hamilton, Mr. & Mrs. Phillip Dawkins, Valerie Coke, Marjorie Wright, Mr. & Mrs. Paul Coke, great grand niece, Tiphileliah and Mrs. Beverly Madden (sister of Bro Hamilton) will forever remember her sterling contribution . Woman of God, in a little while…ta ta. Mercella Ward-Francis “Daisy” Former Sunday School Student
Mother Lilitha M. Houslin nee Titus
Tribute to
There are special people in our lives who never leave us…even after they are gone. Lilitha Maud Houslin; Mother Houslin, Lady Houslin was oftentimes referred to as Sis, was one of a kind (unique in all her ways) and we are here today to pay our tribute and respect to a loving, innovative, lively, intelligent, thoughtful, hardworking, angelic woman of God. Memories of her have been living on in the lives of those who came in contact with her or just simply heard about her. This silent giant came to us at Bethel Tab from Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street, Kingston after she caught the eyes of our precious Norman James Houslin in 1953 and gave her hand in marriage to him. As the wife of Bro. Houslin, Elder Houslin, Pastor Houslin or Superintendent of Jamaica Houslin, she served the United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica, Bethel Tabernacle, friends and visitors and enemies with dignity and style and became the envy of how to be a virtuous woman. She was filled with poise and was proud to be a child of God and to speak about her Lord. The way she attired herself spoke volumes as she had no desire to show cleavage or curves, her head was always fully covered and her clothing had the right sleeve length or dress length. She wore humility and simplicity well. Her motto was not only spoken but lived, “Holiness was still in style” As the wife of a Pastor, she stood with and by her husband unwaveringly with love and great respect and honoured him as Sarah did her husband Abraham. Mother Houslin served this Assembly in several capacities as • Ladies Auxiliary President (now Women’s Fellowship) • Sunday School teacher • First Choir director Sis. Houslin was the 2nd ordained Evangelist of this Assembly and she certainly lived up to being one. She had a heart of gold towards talking about her Lord. Whether you had the time to spare or not, you would be
in for a treat when you stop by the house as Mother wasted no time in asking about you and the family and then to talk about the goodness of her Lord and the importance of living for Him. As she stood to testify in church her sweet lips would echo the words “Praise the Lord Jesus,” caressing each word as they left her mouth. She let the congregation know that she’s thanking the Lord for saving her as she could have been a rastaman sweetheart (we often wondered why a rasta) or one of those persons eating out of the garbage bins Mother was a Dorcas, full of good works and alms. She was a perfectionist and full of hospitality. Whatever she did was done to perfection and due to this meal preparation would start from 9 am to be served at 6 pm. If she saw you on the church premises at a particular time, she would enquire if you’d broken your fast as yet or had anything to eat. Based on your response she would place the offer on the table and invite you into her home to sit around the table even if Bishop was having his meals; this was not a deterrent for her (one would feel so cute). She lived an exemplary life as a wife and housewife. Always working in and around the house, dusting, cleaning, washing, cooking, and baking, even with the help of employees around. Sis had to be there to ensure the correctness of their duties.Checking Bishop’s clothing ensuring no extra seams and no wrinkles quoting the scripture as she spoke. A perfect example to sisters getting married. • • • • • •
We would be encouraged when courting not to visit each other’s home without having a chaperone. Back in the days she would tell the sisters to cover up themselves properly as the men’s eyes are fast, and at the youth camps the sisters were told to cover up, cover up it’s a burning shame. When a female visited and sat on the verandah, if your skirt was too short, Sis would go inside and get something to cover the sister’s knees. What do you know about the clap? Sis would stand on the verandah and wanting to get your attention, she would start to clap. There were times when one would hear the clap and run away. Sis loved to write her little notes and send out when she observed particular happenings. Whether it was to let you know that you and your to-be are not to sit together as you are not yet married, or to let you know that your sleeves were too short and suggested what could be done to add to the length, all while wearing her sweet smile and the list would go on. Pins, pins, pins, oh mother would sweetly tell you that your outfit is looking nice but the cut is too low and would offer you a pin to pin it up. Not to mention the head coverings, Sis was also a stickler to this and no sister was to enter the tabernacle without her head being covered even if you were there to clean the house of the Lord.
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If anyone tried to give Sis any news/gossip, she would quote the scripture about tale-bearing She was never afraid to scold you when you are wrong even if you tried to make an excuse. You’ll still get a polished reprimand.
As a Sunday school teacher, Sis taught the Intermediate class on her verandah. It must be keenly noted that after Sunday school devotion inside the tabernacle, one could not avoid another devotion before her class started. Sis took great pride and time in preparing her lessons and thus did not entertain questions most times as she wished to finish teaching her lesson for that day as she had to impart the word of God. Nevertheless her classes were never boring as they were filled with etiquette lessons and soul stirring words. Mother Houslin was our 1st choir director and it’s recalled that back in the days she would practice with one Ms. Anderson and then come to church practice, sometimes mixing up the songs; however she took the corrections gracefully. The songs were sung timely from the choir books. The Ladies Auxiliary department was blessed to have a President who herself loved to cook and bake and led by example. Sis ensured that she met with the cooks before any cooking engagement and took lovely care of the ladies themselves. Now we know as to this very day why Bethel has been blessed with tasty meals. Mother believed in prayer and was a praying woman and believed that this was the key to success. Thus for Ladies Sundays, careful selection was done from middle aged to the elderly to participate in the services with the appropriate songs and not to mention the attire of the ladies “you can imagine” How can this tribute be finished without mentioning that there are numerous ladies who have been affected by Mother’s lady-like ways and in spite of many who did not approve of her stern ways in uprightness, it is ever echoed that they have learned to appreciate what she stood for. Many sisters cried but she would go back to them and let them know that she only wanted them to make it to heaven. Mother Lilitha Houslin has molded the lives of many great leaders and wives of leaders. Countless households have been touched because of this gentle soul. Bethel has been known to produce lovely wives and one of the reasons was, the ladies sat at the feet of Lady Houslin – a mother.
At The Graveside
COMMITTAL SERVICE Hymns: When the Roll is called up yonder When They Ring Those Golden Bells
Songs: In the sweet by and by Across the bridge I know where I am going Won’t it be a time Some day By and by when the morning comes
Pall Bearers Church to Hearse
Brother Henry Hamilton Bishop Lenville Nelson Minister Dennis Taylor Pastor Maurice Bramwell Mr. Anthony Coke Pastor Marlon Williams
Hearse to Grave
Pastor Joseph Lewis Pastor Hughvince Treasure Pastor Christopher Murray Bishop Dolbert Clarke Bishop Arthur Thomas Bishop O’Garth McKoy
Acknowledgments
Our family would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who came to celebrate the life of Sis Houslin. We are humbled and comforted by your love and devotion to her throughout the years. All of your prayers, kind gestures, visits and caregiving helped us tremendously along the way. This is not a good bye, it is a farewell for now as we know we will see her again soon. A special mention to the following individuals who did so much to ensure the comfort of Sis. Houslin throughout the years: Caregivers who provided 24 hour care Mrs. Annette Smith and Mrs. Marvel Forbes (12 years) Miss Stacey Dyer and Mrs. Havis Cole-Irons (6 years and 2 years, respectively) Bethal Tabernacle Church Bishop and Sis. O’Garth McKoy for their unfailing love, support and commitment Bethal Tabernacle Church Board who prayed with her every Sunday morning Sis. Yvonne Isaacs and Bro. Reeves Sis. Nicole Brown and Myrtle Reader Sis. Dolett Norman The Entire Church Family Pentecostal Tabernacle, North Miami Pastor S. Robert Stewart and Staff
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