Savannah United and Robert Young Memorial Churches said an official farewell to Reverend Donovan and Mrs. Denise Myers after 14 years of service.  Although they are not leaving the Cayman Islands, they have been called to serve at John Gray Memorial Church in West Bay.  The Service of Appreciation gave the congregations a chance to say goodbye and also to officially release Rev. Donovan to allow him to take up his new ministry in West Bay.

The evening included  presentations by the sanctuary choir, the children and youth choir, and instrumentals which included violin, tuba, drums and pianos.

Rev. Rohan Forrester was the liturgist and Rev Dr. Derik Davidson delivered the sermon “The Joy of Unselfish Service”.

Tributes were made to Rev. & Mrs. Myers by The United Church Council, The George Town Charge, Robert Young Memorial Church, the children and youth of Savannah United Church – a canvas of thumb prints from all the youth that have been impacted by the care and teachings of Rev. Donovan and Ms. Denise over the years – and The Women’s Fellowship of Savannah.  An engraved vase filled with word flowers from the congregation of Savannah was also given to them.

Reflections from Mr. Charles Watler, delivered by his daughter Judith were a journey through the years of how the Myers family contributed to the Church. “Mr. Charlie” was off island and unable to attend. Rev. Donovan and Ms. Denise each took the opportunity to thank the congregations and encourage them to move forward.

A highlight of the evening was a dance from the youth in our Dance Ministry. A pictorial presentation of events at Savannah over the last 14 years brought lots of memories and laughter.  Rev. Donovan’s ministry started just before Hurricane Ivan and the manse, which they had just moved into, had 4 feet of water in it.

The service came to a conclusion with the Official Act of Releasing Rev. Donovan from the Savannah charge.  After a final hymn of appreciation and the benediction by Rev. Dr. Yvette Noble Bloomfield, RDGS of Cayman Islands United Church Council, everyone enjoyed fellowship in the hall with cake and ice cream.

Photos by: A.G. McGaw