Pastor counsels disconnected youth

Hurricane Melissa didn't only rip apart rooftops and worship halls in Falmouth, Trelawny, it unplugged an entire generation from the digital world they depend on daily.

This has left young people anxious, disconnected, and, for the first time, turning to their church for emotional support as they face life without electricity, water or data. Pastor Stanley Levy of the Falmouth United Pentecostal Church said Melissa has shaken youth who grew up believing connectivity was permanent.

"I felt the need to counsel young people, especially those who have never experienced a hurricane of this nature," he told THE STAR. "Persons born after Hurricane Gilbert don't know what it is like to go a month without electricity or water or data connectivity. We have to offer special counselling for those persons who have lost their house and persons who simply don't know how to manage the sudden disconnection."

Levy said the congregation was meeting inside a temporary wooden structure before Melissa destroyed the entire hall used for worship.

"At this time, we are rebuilding. We have done quite a bit, and we are using a small section for worship now," he said.

"While rebuilding the church, we have to be helping to rebuild other homes too. Homes are displaced and churches are displaced, but the work still haffi continue," he added.

Inside the partially restored space, worship now takes place in shorter sessions without fans or running water. Levy said the lack of utilities has forced them to strip services down to the basics.

"We kind of have to make do with what we have. We do not have Sunday School the way we used to, which would've been a lot of children. And we can't stay long because the place gets hot."

Some members whose homes were damaged have had to move to other districts and now commute to worship in discomfort. But he opined that church gatherings cannot stop now.

"There is scriptural reference for us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves," he said. "When we get together, especially in times like these, we share and build up each other. Whether it be under a tree, under a tent, or in a little rebuilt corner, it is important that we continue."

He said the church is now waiting on zinc sheets to continue the reconstruction, with supplies running short. But Levy remains focused on support.

"The church is a source of socialisation and relief," he said. "People must not be discouraged because of their loss. One of the places where you'll get encouragement is within the church hall."