The Jamaica Baptist Union (JBU) moved to block efforts by Tarrant Baptist Church, through its Pastor Apostle Jeffrey Shuttleworth, to secure the property at 51 Molynes Road, where the church has been located for more than 130 years.
The matter is currently before the court and is expected to be concluded later this year.
In the presence of the church’s 71 council members, Apostle Shuttleworth outlined to the general congregation efforts that were made to secure the unregistered property in the church’s name initially, but due to varying challenges, he was instructed and authorised by the council to do what was necessary to secure the 130-year-old church. He said he was constrained in his disclosures since the matter was before the court but expressed confidence that he will be vindicated.
“I would be an idiot to steal God’s property,” he said.
Members of the congregation who spoke to Freedom Come Rain, expressed their intention to continue supporting the senior pastor.
“It’s like a weight has been lifted off the church,” one member said.
The church council is to determine the way forward as an independent congregation.
