As a child, Laurel enjoyed the blessings of parental prayers and guidance. Therefore, she experienced a happy childhood, established upon ethical and moral foundation. Laurel is the fifth child to her parents, born in Jamaica in the parish of St James. At the age of twelve she accepted the Lord as her Saviour and was baptised and received into fellow at NTCG Garlands, at the age of fourteen.
Teenage Years, Marriage, Family & Migration:
As a teenager she was very conscientious of taught ethical and moral principles, in her daily life. At eighteen years old she graduated from a residential school with the female student of the year award. Simultaneously she was the recipient of the Member of Parliament award. In that same year she received a trophy, as runner up champion in track and field. Laurel was oftentimes described as The Queen’ of long-distance races. In her exhaustion she maintained an endurance that went beyond human expectation. (This mentality enhanced her stability and stickability to overcome life’s boisterous waves). At the age of nineteen Laurel was recommended to serve as secretary/treasurer in her local church. She served in that capacity for twenty years and served also in various otherministries. At twenty-one, Laurel fell in love with the love of her life – Linton Woodstock. Two years later the union produced one son – Logan. Logan later blessed them with three grandsons. Laurel immigrated to England in March 1999 to pursue an illustrious and reputable career. Six months later her husband and son joined her.
Education & Work Experiences:
Laurel- a Registered Specialist Nurse, graduated from Wolverhampton and Birmingham City University respectively, with Post Graduate Certificates in Public Health, Bachelor of Science in Nursing Studies and Diploma of Higher Education in Nursing. She worked for two years as a link lecturer for Birmingham City University, before assuming pastoral role. Over a six years period, Laurel studied at the European Theological Seminary and gained a master’s degree in ministry & theological education and a Bachelor of Divinity with honours. Laurel worked across 4 NHS Trusts for over 20 years and accumulated vast experience as Advanced Theatre Practitioner and an Ecumenical Chaplain. Over the years she had led various teams and supported management by coaching junior staff in studies, assisting with interviews, contributing to reviews mentoring, assessing and even supporting nurses for revalidation. As an Ecumenical Chaplain, Laurel widened her scope of practice delivering Pastoral, Spiritual and Religious care within NHS settings. She is currently serving the church nationally, as Health, Wellbeing and Pastoral Care Coordinator at NTCG Leadership Training Centre.
Community Engagement & Creating Legacy:
Laurel has not only embraced individuals within the church setting and extended open arms to the communities in which she served. As a community pastor, her achievement as lead for Bilston District, Safety and Well-Being Team (especially during the heart of the Covid-19 pandemic) has enabled the team she lead to focus on an holistic health model- That aims to educate, reassure and promote healthy lifestyle, alongside various health and safety professionals. Laurel offers support for the masses throughout various avenues. As her passion continues to deepen, she became the founder of BREAD for Life- Community Health Project. She is now focusing on leaving legacies by discovering and developing talent, coaching, mentoring and documenting learning opportunities. One of her goals is to invest in new and emerging leaders from all walks of life.
Focus Scripture: So, teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom (Psalm 90:12 KJV)
Motto: The privilege of opportunity is for the service of other