St. Thomas, USVI

In February, we visited St. Thomas for a Kingdom Hall open house and dedication. It was the first time we got to meet the members of our remote team in person!

The Powells, from New York, waited for our arrival at the airport.

An island of mountains

First day of the open house. The community was warmly welcomed, and local government officials had received personal invitations. 

Karyn & Mel, who live in Texas

And the last of our teammates, Gwen and Bob Peterson from California

The dedication

I loved this interview! Since the project began just before Covid started, construction had to be paused but the site was in need of security during the entire pandemic. These two enjoyed having overnight shifts with their parents. They did their job diligently, with their little flashlights, but also looked forward to the special hot dogs they had on security weekends.

This interview was also heartwarming. As always, lots of behind-the-scenes work was going on to support the construction. These three sisters were among the many that cooked, housed volunteers and did necessary cleanup at the site.

 

Locals Jim and Rosie

I got to work all weekend with super sweet Loemi from Puerto Rico

Kaori, my island bestie

We were so happy to hug and share meals with the friends we've gotten to know so well on Zoom 

We had a couple of days to enjoy the beauty and culture of St. Thomas and neighboring St. John

Addi's dinner one evening

Snorkeling with the Bruchhausers

Arel and Tanisha, from one of the three congregations on St. Thomas 

It was like a tiny taste of paradise!