God-given Opportunities

ISSUE 6 7/2021 GOD-GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES

By Dr Russell Chatoor (Diocese of Jamaica)

Dr Russell Chatoor (third from left) with Bishop Howard Gregory (centre)

In Jamaica, which has a population of less than three million, 62% of the population identify as Protestant but only 4% identify as Anglican. In the Diocese of Jamaica, we have insufficient Bishops, Priests and Deacons, and a high attrition rate for both clergy and congregants. The need for the laity to take on greater responsibility and to become more involved in the Church has never been more urgent. Romans 12:4-6 reminds us: ‘In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others’. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. Using our varied gifts, our mission is to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world, taking our place in the life, worship and governance of the Church. The turning point in my faith was in 1981. In my final year of postgraduate studies in paediatrics, I became gravely ill with a severe haemorrhagic disorder. I was unconscious and unresponsive to all therapies for two weeks. In my unconscious state I said, ‘Lord, if you save me, I will serve you.’ I recovered and went on to become a paediatric cardiologist. With God’s guidance, I have helped establish cardiac surgical care in Jamaica for over 3,000 children with congenital heart disease. The main focus of my ministry is to guide patients, fellow doctors and healthcare workers to love and trust in the Lord. Patients and their families are more receptive to God’s love when they are speaking with someone they know and trust, and medical staff are a good example of this. As a Church Army Associate Evangelist, I have the privilege and responsibility of sharing God’s word and love with people in different settings and circumstances. I am also a member of the Brotherhood of St Andrew, which aims to bring men to Christ. In doing so, the Brotherhood seeks to care for the spiritual, mental and social welfare of its members. The Brotherhood’s three-fold pledge of Prayer, Study and Service are at the heart of our mission work. Another outreach project I am involved in is The Parenting Place in Kingston. This initiative focuses on providing educational resources, healthcare advice and parenting skills for new parents. I believe this programme helps people to experience God’s purpose and place in their lives. I offer my paediatric expertise as an advisor for this initiative. The work of the laity in the church’s ministry is vital to its effectiveness. We are all called to play our part, using the time, talents and opportunities given to us by God. ■