The time was 11:58 – two minutes before midnight, July 9, 1973, the Union Jack, which had flown over the Bahamas for 344 years, was ceremoniously lowered from the flagpole at Clifford Park. Moments later, July 10, the new black, aquamarine and gold flag of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas rose majestically to the top of that same masthead while some tens of thousands of fiercely proud Bahamians sang their equally new National Anthem (‘March On Bahamaland’). Tears flowed unashamed and hearts beat a little faster, and no one who was there, whether native or resident or visitor, could go unmoved." – Photographics Company Ltd.

I was there with my pregnant wife and two-year old son on my shoulder. What an exhilarating moment that was! Indeed, everyone on Clifford Park was caught up in the spirit of that historic occasion. And thirty years later, as we reflect on the significance of what took place then, the heart of every patriotic Bahamian still beats a little faster. We are proud to be Bahamians – a small group of ordinary people who have had the privilege to live in a relatively peaceful and prosperous land.

As we celebrate thirty years of independence from colonial rule, how much have we grown? Are we better off now than we were thirty years ago? It is obvious that the economic status of many of our people has improved, but how do we stand morally, socially and spiritually? I believe that it is important for us to ponder these questions as a people who claim to fear God. However, more importantly, those of us who are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Bahamas need to respond to these questions.

How do the ordinary Bahamians see the Adventist Church in the Bahamas today? Are we still regarded as a people who know the Bible? Do they see us as a caring people, concerned about their needs? Or do they perceive that we are only concerned about baptizing them? How is the church perceived in the work place? Remember that you are the church 24/7. Can your employer or fellow worker see Jesus in you? Have you claimed your freedom and independence from sin?

While the thoughts of freedom, democracy, and independence circulate in our minds, let us depend on God to make us model citizens of our Bahamaland and accept us as candidates for His kingdom. -Editor

An arrest has been made in what local police are calling an arson fire at the office of the Turks & Caicos Mission of Seventh-day Adventists on May 21. The flames burned most of the inside structure of the office and the adjacent home of the local church leader. No one was injured.

Pastor Peter Kerr, president of the church in the Turks and Caicos Islands, was attending executive meetings of the church’s Inter-American Division when the fire occurred. His wife was working at the church’s primary school at the time of the incident, and their two children were at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Jamaica.

The building, which houses the church president and his family, has only outer walls and a few kitchen appliances left, says Kerr. The mission office lost important documents such as church record books, titles and deeds of church properties, and school reports.

At the moment they are gathering more evidence on this case," says Kerr. He adds that some evidence shows that the blaze was deliberately set in the filing cabinets of the mission’s church office and the master bedroom in their home. "Fortunately, the service records of our workers are kept in the [regional office in Jamaica], nor was any cash kept there," he says.

In the meantime, "the administrative functions [of the mission] have shifted to the island of Providenciales, in a new office," explains Kerr. A 30-minute flight on a small plane takes Pastor Kerr to the temporary office every week, while initial stages have begun for reconstruction of the damaged building.

"As soon as we are able to complete the reconstruction, we will resume operations back on Grand Turk," says Kerr.

Although the incident has been devastating to church members, Kerr says "the spirit of the people has been very supportive and kind amidst this tragedy. They are determined that this shall not end the progress of the work. Currently, they are engaged in summer evangelism efforts.

Turks & Caicos, with a population of 21,000, are two island groups belonging to the British commonwealth in the North Atlantic Ocean. The Seventh-day Adventist Church has nearly 1,000 members worshiping in seven congregations, and operates two secondary schools and one primary school on the islands. -ANN

The Student Colporteurs are in the field. Please assist them in any way you can. In addition to our local students, there are six students from Northern Caribbean University: Desmond Sturrup, Valentino Campbell, Nordia Smythe, Khadia Clarke, Rohan Simpson and Fritz-Gerald Francois. Help our students to have a successful summer!

The first annual Religious Liberty mega rally will be held next Sabbath, July 19, 2003 at 5:45 p.m. at the Hillview Church. Princess Lawes, former MP in the Jamaican Parliament and current Religious Liberty Director of the Union will be in attendance. Dr. L.A. Johnson, Conference President, will deliver the keynote address and, thus, set the stage for the formation of the first ever National Religious Liberty Association in the Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Importantly, membership in the Religious Liberty Association is open to persons from all religious denominations in our nation. We believe that everyone, including people of other faiths, must be allowed to choose and practice his or her faith in an environment, which is free of force, fear or compulsion. In this way we reflect the character of our God who has created us all with the rights to and privileges of freedom of choice.

Moreover, a society without regard for religious liberty is one in which the spread of the Gospel is greatly diminished. Evangelism, the reason for our existence, presumes that people will be afforded the opportunity to take their stand for Christ through the proclamation of His Gospel by the church. In some places, such freedoms are restricted, and the ability of the church to fulfill her divine mandate is that much more limited.

Further, there is a need for us to properly understand our role in matters concerning Religious Liberty. First, the work of religious liberty brings us into contact with secular society and we are not to distance ourselves from those in authority. We are reminded that ‘the Lord still moves up the hearts of kings, presidents, prime ministers and leaders on behalf of His people and we are not to cut off any favors or help that God has moved men to give for the advancement of His cause’ Counsels on Stewardship, p. 183.

Secondly, Religious Liberty may be a dynamic tool for witnessing. In this regard our attitude or posture reflects that of a believer who seeks to win others to Christ rather than antagonize or fight. Our concern must be redemptive, not antagonistic. We must never become hostile and defensive or alienating of those who differ from us in their religious or world views.

Finally, Religious Liberty is tied to the inevitable fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Indeed, the time will come when civil powers will attempt to dictate conscience, to enforce religious obedience and to exercise authority over the very act of worship itself. Consequently, many believers will be tested as the Devil repeats the old strategy used on Christ in the New Testament to bow down and worship him (Matt. 4:8-10). Thankfully, in times like these, as in the case of our Lord, Jesus Christ, we too will be given grace to emerge as victors.

We appeal, therefore, to each church and member to be a part of next week’s historic Religious Liberty Rally as we respond to the call of God to sound the alarm and be watch men and women on the walls of Zion and throughout the Commonwealth of the Bahamas – Dr. M.D. Toote, Religious Liberty Director

2004 is designated the Year of Evangelism for our World Church. In order for us to reap the anticipated harvest, we must sow NOW. Therefore, all members are asked to get involved in this program by passing out tracks to a friend, coworker, family member or neighbours. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, let us join forces to reach more persons in the Bahamas for Christ.

Mid-July -Media (newspapers, TV and Radio) advertising begins.

July 26 - Evangelism commitment Sabbath

-Mega rally - first distribution of Bible lessons. Crusade teams’ meeting. Decide on days for prayer and fasting.

August 2 - Distribute crusade posters among churches.

August 10 - 24 - Youth revival

August 17 - 24 -Let God Speak pre-crusade revival (in co-operation with youth revival)

August 24 -31 -Crusade grounds preparation

August 30 - Prayer - 24-hour prayer circle

August 31 to September 12 - Pitching and preparing tent for opening night.

August 30 -Distribution of special invitations

Sabbath afternoon August 30 - Mega rally #2

August 31 -Arrival of evangelist

Sept. 6 -Distribution of flyers

-Mega rally #3 with evangelist

a) -Review all teams and crusade workers

b) -Present Master Prospect List and Bible Lesson Graduates names with addresses and phone numbers.

Sept. 6 - 12 Final check on all aspects of crusade to ensure readiness for 13^th.

Sept. 10 - All or part-night prayer meeting

Sept. 12 - Rehearsal for opening night

Sept. 13 - Opening night - 7:30

-Graduation for persons who took Bible lessons

Sept. 14 -Mass Pathfinder parade to crusade site (distribution of flyers)

Duration of crusade: September 13 to October 12 (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday).

A heartfelt thank you is extended to all Children's Ministries leaders for their assistance with Children's Church during our mid-year camp meeting. Because of your dedication and cooperation, the service went well, and the children enjoyed themselves as they learned about Christ. We also express special appreciation to the persons that participated; our speaker, Mr. Roderick Rolle; Mrs. Brenda Scott, Ms. Shelley Mackey, Ms. Dorothy Rolle, Mrs. Karen Moss, Ms. Carol Williams, Mr. Reginald Forbes, and Mr. Elgin Hepburn who efficiently coordinated various aspects of the service.

Finally, we are grateful to the members of the Philadelphia Church for hosting another Children's Ministries event. Once again, thank you to all and, let us prayerfully continue to minister to our children. -Cheryl Rolle, Children's Ministries Director

The theme of our fourth quarter’s upcoming Marriage Enrichment Seminar, October 31 to November 1, 2003, specifically for couples married less than 10 years, is "Keeping the fires of love for young couples.". Plan to be there. Seminar co-ordinators are Pastors Michael A. Smith and Barrington H. Brennen. More information coming soon.

The Basketball league continues tonight at the H. D. Colburn Gym. Tonight’s schedule is as follows: Bethany vs Breath of Life; Living Faith vs Centreville, Johnson Park vs Hillview; and Maranatha vs Philadelphia.

Continuing Education Credit is being sought with two institutions for those who attend. Confirmation will be forthcoming. The programme can accommodate only 150 persons, so register today.

Churches are asked to collect their copies of the first issue of Adventist Business News on Tuesday, July 15, after 1:00 p.m. for distribution on Wednesday nights. This newsletter is not to be distributed on Sabbaths. - Barrington H. Brennen, Departmental Director

The second big week of the 16^th Annual Jeff Rodgers Basketball Camp got off to a successful start. Official opening ceremony was held Monday, July 7 at the H. D. Colburn Gym.

‘Let God Speak’ Reaping Campaign

On September 13, 2003, at 7 p.m. the Bahamas Conference of SDA will embark on the largest citywide crusade in our history under the theme, "Let God Speak." Evangelist Guy Nembhard is requesting that all members pray for the upcoming meetings during our Wednesday’ prayer services and in our daily family and private devotions.

ASI (Adventists Laymen’s Services and Industries) is an organization for Adventist business leaders to hasten the Lord’s second coming through witnessing about Jesus in the business environment.

At its last meeting, Mr. Sidney Sylvester was elected second vice-president and Mrs. Kimberly Bryan secretary/treasurer

A very important ASI meeting will be held Tuesday, July 15, 2003 at 7 p.m. at the Conference Office. Plans for the upcoming ASI thanksgiving banquet, to be held November 29, 2003, will be discussed. ASI dues are now due

For information regarding an ASI Convention planed for Trinidad and Tobago August 15 to 22, 2004, please contact Dr. Alvira Higgs at 325-5866.

VBA request persons who are willing to volunteer their cooking skills to assist with providing lunches for the camp site, Ephesus and especially Bahamas Academy Project. Please contact. D. Ritchie at 341-0550 or W. Ash at 394-1063.

Camp Meeting 2003 continues at the Adelaide SDA Church under the Theme "Lord Send the Fire," as follow: Wednesday, July 9^th, Friday, 11^th and Sunday, 13^th, at 7:30 p.m. Sabbath, July 12^th special services will be held at 9:30 a.m. -Worship Service followed by fellowship meal; 3:30 Health Symposium and 6:15 p.m. Services will conclude with a concert.

The Living Faith Church will host a mega weekend at the church on Old Trail Road under the theme "Seven Steps to Revival In Your Life." Services will be held nightly from July 16 to 18 at 7:30. On Sabbath, July 19 at 11 a.m. Sabbath afternoon at 6:00 o’clock a mega concert. On Sunday the activities will conclude with a mega church picnic. Place and time to be announced.

Vacation Bible School will be held June 30 to July 11 at the Living Faith Church. Sessions run from 8:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. A fun-filled time is planned for our youngsters. Parents can register by calling 324-2721. -Dr. C. McPhee

The Sabbath School Extension Division of the Hillview Church cordially invite parents and guardians to register their children for Vacation Bible School beginning July 21 to August 1 at the church on Harrold Road. Sessions will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. A fun-filled time is promised for those in attendance. -M. Walker-Coordinator