George Henry, Gleaner Writer

Centenarian Rebecca Witter is presented with her Christmas gift by pastor for the Assemblies of God Church in Junction, St. Elizabeth, Reverend Vernon Kinkead. - Photo by George Henry

MALVERN, St. Elizabeth:

It would not have been Christmas without even one gift this year for 102-year-old Rebecca Witter of Junction in St. Elizabeth. The centenarian was presented with a special gift basket recently by members of the Assemblies of God Church in that community, during a short ceremony at her home.

The small-framed Mrs. Witter, despite being well advanced in age, accepted her basket of goodies from pastor for the church, Reverend Vernon Kinkead, who was the brainchild behind the gesture.

Mrs. Witter, who celebrated her birthday on October 9, told The Gleaner she was most happy to receive the gift basket and was all smiles when she was handed her Christmas present by the pastor in front of her daughter, Loris Witter.

Very thankful

"I am very thankful to Reverend Kinkead and the members of the Assemblies of God Church in Junction for the gift they have brought here for me. I am not used to getting gifts from persons outside at this time of the year; and I am sure that I will have a merry Christmas with this one which I have been given," said a happy Mrs. Witter, who was born in 1905.

She praised Reverend Kinkead and the members of his church for the gift; saying she hoped God would bless them all as they continue to do His will until He returns for His people.

Reverend Kinkead said that, when he and the members of his congregation learnt that Mrs. Witter had reached 102 years old - a milestone which not many persons in that part of St. Elizabeth have been blessed to achieve, it was seen fit to bring her Christmas cheer at this time of the year, and to wish her a belated happy birthday.

"It is just nice to make the presentation to Mrs. Witter who is still strong and charming despite her age. Look at her at her age with all her faculties intact. This is a gesture to make her happy for the Christmas and to show that she is appreciated and well loved by us," said Reverend Kinkead.