2025: A Year of Festivities

A half-century of faith and service: tribute to Reverend Edvert Joseph in New York— Spring Valley, New York – The year 2025 will remain etched in the memory of the Haitian community of Spring Valley, marking a historic event: the 50 years of ministry of Reverend Pastor Edvert Joseph, an emblematic figure in the ecclesiastical and educational spheres. To honor this half-century of pastoral, spiritual, and community service, a series of commemorative activities has been organized throughout the year, culminating in three days of exceptional festivities from August 29 to 31, 2025. An opening imbued with faith and gratitude The celebrations began on Friday, August 29, with a thanksgiving service held at the premises of the First Christian Church of Timothy in Spring Valley. Led by Sister Francette Obel Noel, this solemn evening resonated with inspiring praises, performed by a praise team composed of Sister Marie France A. Pierre, Sister Martine C. Narcisse, Sister Betsy Winnie J. Toon, Sister Chantal Obel, Sister Edvica J. Morbeth, and Sister Benita Jacques. Dr. Joël Lorquet also participated in the evening, providing dynamic entertainment and musical performances appreciated by the audience. Filled with emotion, this first evening allowed the faithful, friends, and relatives to bear witness to the greatness of Reverend Joseph's pastoral journey. Several speakers highlighted his role as a mentor, teacher, and spiritual coach, recalling his profound influence on the lives of many families and young leaders. A prestigious gala in tribute to an exceptional journey The following day, Saturday, August 30, 2025, a recognition gala was held at the prestigious Terrace on the Hudson in Haverstraw, New York. In an elegant setting and a celebratory atmosphere, a large audience gathered to honor Reverend Joseph. Co-hosted by Dr. Joël Lorquet and Pastor Karl Castel, the evening featured a high-quality program and great artistic performances. Artists Marcel Victor, his wife Guerda B. Victor, and Guirmy Jean Baptiste moved the audience with their musical performances. A documentary tracing Reverend Joseph's 50 years of ministry was also screened, recalling his pastoral achievements, his educational work, and his commitment to the Haitian diaspora community. Innovation was also present with the broadcast of a song produced by Pastor Karl Castel, created with the support of artificial intelligence tools. During this tribute evening, several distinctions were awarded to Reverend Joseph by Rockland County, former mayor Noramie Jasmin, French Speaking Baptist Church, Guirmy Jean Baptiste, and his family. Spiritual closing at the Tabernacle of Grace The festivities concluded on Sunday, August 31, 2025, with a thanksgiving service at the Tabernacle of Grace, the church led by Reverend Edvert Joseph. This final gathering brought together guests from the first two days once again to fervently celebrate the work accomplished over the past five decades. A memorable celebration These three days of activities were a great success, bringing together friends, faithful, local authorities, and religious community figures around a single message: celebrating a ministry marked by faith, discipline, vision, and service to others. Special thanks were extended to all organizers, participants, artists, and institutions who contributed to this memorable celebration. The numerous testimonials gathered and the projected highlights bore witness to the lasting impact of Reverend Edvert Joseph in the community. Joël Lorquet, Ph.D.