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An
Adventist Youth Engages in Volunteer Project
Often when young people are
highlighted in the news media, they are presented in a negative context.
However, in the Adventist Church, there are young people who are engaged in
positive activities in their community.
The love and compassion of such a
young person was revealed when Natasha Rufin talked about her Volunteer
Project during the Youth Night of Convention 2006. The audience was impressed
with her dedication and commitment to helping persons inflicted with HIV/AIDS,
a group of people who are often shunned by the majority of young and old
persons. Here is Natasha's account of her involvement in a mission of mercy.
She called it her Volunteer Project.
In His word, Jesus says that He calls the young men/ women because they are
strong. He says that He knew us from before we were born; and He called us to
preach good tidings to the poor, to heal the broken hearted, proclaim liberty
to the captives and the opening of prisons to those that are bound. There are
so many persons out there that we as young persons can help. I am blessed with
the opportunity to once weekly help with this task as my volunteer project. It
started out with my just searching for a job. Then a fellow Adventist brother
asked me to volunteer once weekly with the Bahamas National HIV/AIDS
Center's weekly
clinic as a volunteer Creole- English Translator. I was, of course, afraid,
but after prayer and feeling that the Spirit was leading me, I agreed. My
first day was lovely; and I enjoyed helping the doctors and Nurses administer
to the Creole clients the care they needed for their bodies. I loved the
newer opportunities I had for witnessing for my Father and being able to help
care for those infected and affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Sure, I am
still sometimes afraid, but after putting my Father first in my day, He gives
me just enough strength to see them as Christ saw the multitudes. He was moved
with compassion for them. And as I continued weekly, the Lord blessed me, and
He allows His blessings to continue to rain upon me. I can truly say that He
has been working it out for me as I put Him first. There is so much that we as
a church, as young persons, as a family can do for those who are hurting,
especially persons living With HIV/AIDS. If you think that the Lord has
equipped you to help in this area, the AIDS Secretariat is always looking for
peer counselors, mentors, and donors. Continue to pray for me and with me that
I might be better equipped to serve in this area of ministry. - Dr. John
Carey, Editor
A Message from Family Ministries to all Sabbath School Teachers
This quarter's lesson, "Families in the Family of God," is most needed for
God's people today. Study well each week and keep your class focus on the
intent of the lesson. Ron Flower, the author of the lesson said "Our goal, if
nothing else, is through study of the Word to help homes and families be what
God would have them to be: more loving, more secure in Christ." Let this be
your focus in your class. Avoid arguing on the overly abused subject of "who
is head" but rather let your focus be on "companionship," "unity," "healing,"
and "genuine Christian love" in the family. We have too long argued over
leadership in marriage and have skipped around the true meaning of
companionship, thus resulting in too many unhappy wives and bossy husbands. No
one is to be the boss in marriage. It was never God's intent for this to
happen.
It is my opinion, God did not intend
for man to have authority over woman but authority with woman. Let
"co-leadership" and "companionship" be new terminologies in your family
vocabulary and the center of your Sabbath School discussion. It is my
observation that any man who vehemently insists that he has authority over his
wife does not truly have a happy, loving, vibrant marriage and family as God
intended. His goal, as should be his wife's, is to have "harmony" in marriage.
Ask you Sabbath School Class this question: How can we help men become
"servants" (along with their wives) and loving companions in marriage?
Remember, "men are to love their wives as Christ loves the church." This is
service in marriage. Barrington Brennen, Family Ministries Director (361 6355)
Convention in Long Island Sabbath, January 14, 2006 proved a historic
day in picturesque and pristine Long Island as the saints of God gathered at
Steven s S.D.A. Church to say thanks to God for taking them through 2005 and
to seek His blessings as they determine to do His will in 2006.
The Sabbath School s Superintendent was Sister Carla Rodgers. After a general
lesson study, the church got in gear for a time of praise and feast in the
Word of God. Prior to the message, Church Reports were given by Elders Watkins
and Lightbourne, leaders of Steven s and Millerton respectively. Pastor Pastor
Paul Scavella, God s Messenger, expounded the Word. God s people received it
with great interest and conviction. Pastor Scavella encouraged the saints to
be willing to take God at His word as we embark on the Journey of Hope . The
key text was taken from St. Luke 5:1-10.
After a spirit-filled connection
with Christ, it was time for food and fellowship. The Long Island church
members lived up to their names as they provided a long line of Bahamian
delights and delicacies that satisfied the visitors as well as the members.
Almost everyone remained for the
afternoon s programme. Sister Joan Scavella led out in the Tell the World
initiative for 2006-2010. She outlined the vision and provided some strategies
that the leaders and members can employ to get the message out to every corner
of Long Island.
Pastor Scavella, in his capacity of Health Ministries Director, took the
opportunity to make a presentation on the eight doctors of health, namely:
nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest, and trust in God.
His presentation was well received by all and resulted in a lively discussion
that proved insightful and helpful to all in attendance. It was impressive to
note how well the church members promoted the convention by the large number
of visitors in attendance.
On Sunday, January 15, 2006 the Uniformed Branch of Officers held their annual
Church service. This service was held at the Steven's S.D.A. Church.
Convention in Long Island
The Church was filled to capacity. Brother Warren Rodgers who serves as
officer in charge of the Clarence Town Police Station extended the invitation
on behalf of the his department for Pastor Paul Scavella to bring the Word
from the Lord. Sister Vernice Taylor served as moderator. The power
packed message was taken from Genesis 35:1-7. The officers were invited to
consider their vow to be honest and upright officers. They were admonished to
make a vow to the Lord as they make their vows to the nation.
They were encouraged to vow that
church and Jesus would become central in their lives, to accept the uniform of
Christ s righteousness which was more important than the government's uniform,
and that their ultimate Commander and Chief was waiting for them to report for
duty at the station of heaven.
Elder Dudley Lightbourne, from the
northern end of Long Island, indicated that plans are underway to break ground
for the new Millerton S.D.A. Church in February 2006. All Long Islanders are
requested to plan to attend this function and make donations to the Church s
Bus Project.
The fellowship was great! According
to reports, the island is still buzzing with the joy of the Lord and there has
been a number of requests for baptism. -We say to God be the glory!
Note of Gratitude The Administration of the Bahamas Conference of
Seventh-day Adventists registers its appreciation to Bro. Rudolph Young for
his magnumus decision to assist our Haitian brethren from the Bethel Church in
allowing them to us his property for the purpose of worship.
Some of you may be aware that the Bethel Church on Carmichael Road had a
deadline to vacate the premises. As such this created grave concerns for the
membership, pastor and Conference s administrators. However, with the new
arrangement with Bro. Young, both parties are relieved. A debt of gratitude is
owed to Bro. Young for his kindness. God bless you! -Administration
Youth Ministry Announcements There will be a pathfinder conclave
on this Sunday January 22, 2006 at 9:00 a.m. at the Living Faith Church. All
Pathfinder, Adventurer, Eager Beaver and Masterguide directors, deputy
directors, sponsors, counselors, instructors and all persons involved in
pathfinder/ adventurer ministry are asked to attend. Please bring your
material order and inventory. And please tell everyone about it!
Urgent and final call for all persons planning to attend the United Youth
Congress to be held in Atlanta from April 19-23rd, 2006. All persons are asked
to meet at the Living Faith Church at 8:00 a.m. on this Sunday, January 22nd.
Adventist Youth Leaders workshop
will be held on Sunday January 29th at 6 p.m. at the Berea SDA Church. This
workshop is planned for all A.Y. Leaders and persons working with the A.Y.
Department.
4. Masterguide classes continue this
Sunday 7:00 a.m. at Bahamas Academy. All masterguides in training,
masterguides doing refresher courses, and other persons interested in joining
the class of 2006 are asked to attend
Today is designated Health Ministries Day All Health Directors and
Health professionals are invited to a special Health Leaders meeting on
Sunday, January 22 at the Living Faith Church at 8 a.m. Plans for the year
2006 will be discussed. Please be reminded of the upcoming Health Week
and cooking class with Curtis and Paula Eakins Feb. 6 12. Large churches are
encouraged to have 20 persons registered; Medium size - 15; and smaller
churches - 10. Here is a wonderful opportunity for you to invite your Non-SDA
friends to participate in an entry event as we prepare for the upcoming Family
Life Crusade.
Back by Popular Demand!
12 Weeks to Wellness , NOW 8 Weeks to Wellness Don't get left out this
time. The 8 Weeks to Wellness program will begin on Monday February 20th at
5:30 pm. In order to be a part of the program you must register and have get
your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol screened. Screening dates are
as follows:
Sunday Feb 5th at 2-5 pm at New
Englerston SDA Church
Thursday Feb 16th 3-7 pm at New Englerston SDA Church
Thursday Feb 16th 3-7 pm at City Market Food Store Harbor Bay Shopping center
Registration fee this year is $25.00. We encourage Adventists to take
advantage of the first screening date February 5th this is before it goes to
the media and the public. Have a Healthy 2006. -Idamae Hanna, Coordinator
Family Enrichment Series Choir to Rehearse All persons wishing to be a
part of the Family Enrichment Crusade Choir are asked to meet at the Hillview
Church on Thursday, January 26, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. for the first choir
rehearsal. A special appeal is made to all Adventist Men to come and be a part
of this choir. - M. Knowles, Music Coordinator
Women s Ministries Leaders to Meet Women s Ministries Leaders serving
for 2006 are invited to meet with me on Tuesday, January 24, 2006, at 6:00
p.m. at the Conference Office, to discuss and plan activities for the year. -
M. Knowles, W. M. Director, BC
School of Evangelism The School of Evangelism Classes continues on
Sunday, January 22, 2006 at 6:00 p.m. Groups are reminded that some of their
assignments are now due. -Pastor Peter Joseph, Coordinator, Familsy Life
Crusade 2006
Eastern Standard Hours for Adventist Book & Nutrition Centre You
are invited to come by the ABNC for your Vegan foods, books and Bibles. New
store hours during Eastern Standard Time are: Monday to Thursday 8:00 a.m. to
5:30 p.m. Friday and Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
A variety of 2006 Devotional books are still available. -K. V. Deveaux, ABNC
Manager
NCU Offers Graduate Studies Northern Caribbean University (NCU) is
inviting persons interested in studying for a Master s and or the PhD in
Education to contact Mrs. Celestine Creighton at #393-3381. NCU is prepared to
accommodate a group of 15 persons with 2 sessions in Nassau and 1 in Jamaica.
A group of 25 persons will be able to complete the entire program in Nassau.
Trade Show 2006 The Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists seeks
to provide the opportunity for all Adventist Business Owners and Professionals
to showcase their business, products and services by hosting an annual Trade
Show. This year s show will be held February 5, 2006, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00
p.m. All participants are invited to stop by the Conference Office to sign up
(Mon. Fri., during office hours).
SDA Educators Association to Meet Tonight Regular meeting of
Seventh-day Adventist Educators Association will be held tonight, Saturday,
January 21, 2006 at Doctor's Hospital Conference Room at 7:00 p.m. Please make
a special effort to attend. -O. Ferril
Clean-up Day at Campsite All Pathfinders, Masterguides, PF Band
members, Listen-up members are asked to meet at the Campsite, Marshall Road,
on January 29, 2006, for a clean-up session from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. You
are asked to bring cleaning tools such as cutlass, lawn mower, rakes and
shovels. -Marilyn Bonamy
Law Enforcement/Civil Servants Church Service The annual Law
Enforcement/Civil Servants Church service will be held at the Grant s Town
Church on Sabbath, February 4th, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. All persons in the uniform
branchs and others are especially invited to attend this service. - Norman
Seymour
Note of Thanks Unity would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all those
persons who helped us prepare for our concert. Your prayers and support
enabled us to minister as we have never done before. A special thank you is
extended to our co-ordinator Sis. Allison Mason. We would like your continued
support and prayers as we embark on a new year of ministry. Thank you.
-Unity
Sun sets today at 5:44 p.m.
Sun sets next Sabbath at 5:50 p.m.
