Aunty Inez spreading Christmas joy

At 66 years old, Inez Rowe embodies the spirit of Christmas with a radiant warmth that touches the lives of countless children. Despite not having children of her own, Rowe has made it her life's mission to ensure that every child she encounters feels loved and celebrated, especially during the festive season.

This commitment was on full display at the Victory Covenant Ministry's annual Christmas treat in Patrick City. As cheerful children ran to her, calling out "Aunty! Aunty!", Rowe responded with hugs, laughter, and brightly wrapped gifts, her joy lighting up the event.

For Rowe, being part of this event is a highlight of her year.

"I'm a member of Victory Covenant Ministry. So, every year I work with Sister Clayton to put on the children's treat because children are my first priority. I don't know if it's because I don't have any children, but I just love doing things for children. It's a pleasure to be doing this," she beamed.

This December holds special significance for Rowe. Not only does it mark her 12th year as a member of Victory Covenant Ministry in Kingston, but it is also her birth month.

"Next week Sunday [December 22], I will be 67 years old. And my mommy had 13 children. I am the only one who didn't get any. So, you know the connection with children and me is really special. My brothers and sisters here [at the church] are so awesome, their children are my children," she explained.

As she busied herself at the treat, Rowe reflected on the joy the event brings her. "It is exciting, picking out gifts; planning the whole event was a blessing. I feel awesome to know I am a part of making children happy," she said.

For Rowe, this joy is doubled by the way her church family, especially the children, celebrates her birthday. "When I come, and they know that it's my birthday, they will sing happy birthday songs and hug me."

Rowe's passion for giving back is rooted in her faith and a desire to set an example for the next generation. "I hope they will take an example from me to be kind, do good, and love God."

Despite her radiant positivity, Rowe admits that her journey hasn't been without moments of sadness. "Sometimes I cry and sometimes I'm sad because all my brothers and sisters have [children]. And sometimes when I sit down and [reflect] on days like Parents' Day, even though they include me as a parent, I feel sad because every mother wants a child for themselves. But they don't treat me different," she said.

Rowe's inability to have children was due to health challenges that began in her youth and persisted into adulthood. "It's not me [who chose not to have children]. It is sickness. You know, from when I was a child growing up, I passed through some terrible sickness. Even since COVID-19, I spent six weeks in the University Hospital [of the West Indies]. It took away my mobility, my speech, everything that is bad. But when you serve a purpose, God always delivers you. You know, purpose cannot die," she declared.

Though her husband was unable to attend the treat due to work, Rowe expressed gratitude for their 11 years of marriage, which they celebrated this November.

For Rowe, the Christmas season is a time to share love and showing that family extends beyond blood. As many of the children hugged her and called her "Aunty", it was evident that Rowe really nurtures and loves children.