The Cayman Islands Conference of Seventh-day Adventists welcomed Nathaniel Powell as its newest ministerial intern Sept. 1, marking another milestone in the organisation’s commitment to developing local ministry leadership.
Powell, 23, began his internship at the Savannah Seventh-day Adventist Church under the supervision of Pastor France Chambers. The George Town native graduated in May from Andrews University with dual degrees in theology and digital communications.
Powell’s connection to Savannah runs deep – he was born in the church parsonage (apartment) 23 years ago when his father served his first pastoral assignment in the Cayman Islands. ‘I was born in that house here in Savannah. So today, I feel like I’m coming home,’ Powell said during the first section of his presentation to the church congregation.
“One of the goals of the Atlantic Caribbean Union is to populate our ministry within the Union, and by extension, the leadership of the Church within the Union, with good solid Adventist leaders. But more importantly, with native leaders,” said Pastor Ivor Harry, president of the Cayman Islands Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. “You can imagine the delight and joy we have when from right within our midst, a son or a daughter emerges, called by the Spirit of God and empowered with the Holy Spirit’s fire, to bring leadership to the ministry of God’s people.”
Harry said the conference leadership is proud to welcome Powell to full-time ministry ranks.
Pastor France Chambers, who for now will supervise Powell’s internship, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We welcome you to the Savannah Church. We are here to support you, to help build you up and expand the talent and gifts God has given you,” Chambers said. “One thing I have noticed so far is that Pastor Nathaniel is excited about ministry, and I am looking forward to partnering with you.”
The son of Pastor Al Powell, former Inter-American Division Youth Director, and Zoraida Powell, Nathaniel brings extensive experience in international evangelism and cross-cultural outreach. He is fluent in six languages, including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Haitian Creole and Italian.
Powell’s appointment continues the Conference’s tradition of nurturing young ministerial talent. In 2023, the organisation made history when it welcomed Pastor Roshé Riley as its first female ministerial intern. Riley, whose internship took her to the Ebenezer, George Town, and West Bay churches, has since left for educational pursuits and served as the first Caymanian female pastor in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
The Savannah church congregation formally welcomed Powell during a recent Sabbath service.
Cayman Islands | Written by: Devarro Whittaker, Editor: Devarro Whittaker
