23 Years of Determination: Bryan’s Mustard Seed Communities Success Story

From the moment you step onto Mustard Seed Communities’ Jamaica grounds, Bryan’s irresistible grin and can‑do spirit tell you you’ve arrived somewhere special.

Bryan, who MSC first met as a toddler, has grown into the heartbeat of Jacob’s Ladder. He’s an enthusiastic worker who greets every challenge with determination, greets every visitor like an old friend, and somehow still finds time to lend a steady hand wherever it’s needed most. Bryan’s isn’t just a success story; he’s living proof that perseverance, kindness, and unwavering faith can transform challenges into opportunities to build a vibrant community.

Setting out on the Journey

Bryan came to Mustard Seed Communities in 2002, arriving at Martha’s House at Jerusalem when he was just three years old. Early childhood education at Little Angels Learning Center set the stage for his steady progress, which continued at Crescent Primary School and later at YWCA Kingston for high school.

Navigating Challenges with Hope

During his second year of high school, Bryan developed symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. MSC’s clinical team stepped in with regular care and medication management, helping him stabilize and regain momentum in his studies and daily life.

Education that Matches his Work Ethic

After moving to Matthew 25:40, MSC’s home for teenage boys in Kingston, Bryan enrolled in Distinction College’s Housekeeping program. The curriculum covered:

• Maintaining safe working conditions
• Adopting safe procedures for self and others
• Organizing and carrying out cleaning activities efficiently
• Interacting professionally with customers

A Role Model of Service and Friend to All

Today, Bryan works at Jacob’s Ladder as a receptionist—a role that benefits from his natural friendliness and attention to detail.

Described by staff as “neat and tidy,” Bryan channels his housekeeping training into every task. What sets him apart, however, is the way he treats everyone he meets with genuine kindness, patience, and an easy smile. Newcomers feel immediately at home when they meet Bryan!

His routine extends well beyond Jacob’s Ladder’s front desk, too. Never without an adventure to complete, Bryan can be found completing tasks all across the campus.

Every morning, Bryan helps prepare the chapel for Mass. Next, he might head over to Ephesus Village, where he assists caregivers with their daily routines. Later, he will be ready to give a tour to a new mission team, an experience many volunteers love because of Bryan’s warmth and extensive knowledge of MSC’s mission and programs. Sometimes, Bryan will head over to Jacob’s Ladder’s mental health clinic to assist with medication distribution.

Looking Ahead to an Exciting Future

Bryan’s 23‑year journey at MSC illustrates the power of consistent support, uplifting education, and personal determination. From a three‑year‑old child arriving at Martha’s House to a trusted team member and friend at Jacob’s Ladder, he embodies MSC’s hopeful spirit. Bryan’s story shows us that when we turn challenges into opportunities for transformation, entire communities can thrive.