Bahamas
Conference Sponsors Religious Liberty Rally
Hundreds of interested members attended a Religious Liberty Rally sponsored
by The Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists on Saturday, July 19, 2003,
at 5:45 p.m., at the Hillview Church, on Harold Road. This rally was the
culminating activity of a weekend of Religious Liberty emphasis in the Bahamas
Conference. Probably the first of its kind in the Bahamas, the rally was planned
to sensitize the members and the nation to the importance of the freedom of
citizens to worship according to their religious beliefs.
Among the special guests was the Honourable Alfred Sears,
Minister of Education and Attorney General of the Bahamas. In his brief remarks,
he commended the Adventist Church for highlighting this topic at this time.
Also, he pointed out that the Constitution of the Bahamas guaranteed the freedom
of every citizen to practice his/her religion.
Dr. Leonard Johnson, President of the Bahamas Conference of
Seventh-day Adventists, applauded the Government of the Bahamas for allowing all
religious groups to practice their religion freely. He stated further "The
Seventh-day Adventist Church believes in the rights of all persons to worship
according to the dictates of their conscience. We do not believe that persons,
be they Adventists or otherwise, should be discriminated against or denied
promotion because of their form of worship."
Pastor Johnson informed the gathering "unfortunately,
not every person enjoys the freedoms that we enjoy in the Bahamas. Yet,
international instruments condemn discrimination against minorities, but
tragically, some nations have published lists of religious groups described as
potentially dangerous sects. Anti-sect commissions have been set up,
investigative personnel have been trained, and restrictive laws passed. Hundreds
of thousands of innocent believers are now under official suspicion and are
treated as second-class citizens. All this violates religious freedom, which is
the most basic and essential of the fundamental rights of humankind. Seventh-day
Adventists believe in obeying the laws of the land as long as they do not
conflict with the laws of God. However, we oppose any law, policy, or activity,
which discriminates against religious minorities.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church stands for religious
freedom for everyone, as well as for the separation of church and state.
Scripture teaches that the God who gave life also gave freedom of choice. God
only accepts homage that is freely given. Seventh-day Adventists further believe
that the law must be applied evenly and without capricious or impulsive favor.
We submit that no religious group should be judged because some adherents may
appear to be extremists. Religious freedom is limited when aggressive or violent
behavior violates the human rights of others."
Dr. Johnson also stated that "the launch of a
Religious Liberty Association in the Bahamas is not only necessary but timely as
our constitution is under review."
In her presentation, Princess Lawes, the Religious Liberty
and Public Affairs Director of West Indies Union Conference of Seventh-day
Adventists, gave a Biblical basis for the Seventh-day Adventists’ beliefs
regarding Religious Liberty. She emphasized that God created man with freedom of
choice; therefore everyone should be allowed to worship freely. Jesus, our
example, did not use force but love to influence others. Ms. Laws also stated
that since no government can come to power unless God allows it, we ought to
respect the Government of the day.
Dr. Michael Toote, Religious Liberty and Public Affairs
Director of Bahamas Conference, who planned and coordinated the weekend’s
activities, also outlined the steps that one should take if one’s freedom to
practice one’s religion was threatened.
VBA Update Last
Sunday, July 20, a large group of VBA supporters turned up at the Living Faith
site to assist in laying the foundation for the first phase of the Early
Learning Center. By the end of the day, the northwest wing had been blocked up
to floor level. We are pleased with what has been done thus far. To Bro. Ash and
his team and all those who helped in any way, the Conference administration says
thanks. Work continues on the building tomorrow. We are still working toward
finishing phase I by the first week in September; so we NEED ALL HANDS ON DECK.
Everyone who can, please come tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and help us take another
giant step forward at the ELC.
Pastor Andrew Burrows and everyone who assisted him at the
campsite last Sunday must be commended for the progress they have made on that
project.
The Ephesus and Lowe Sound projects are nearing their goals.
Check the notice in today’s Logos regarding the Ephesus move.
VBA Needs Your Support! Call
Bro. Ash at 394-1063 and find out how you can help.
NCU - Distance Learning: A Bold Initiative
In keeping with its mandate to provide quality Christian education to this
region, Northern Caribbean University has embarked on the bold initiative of
developing a Distance Learning Facility in the Bahamas and the other Caribbean
countries it serves.
This project is designed to facilitate the educational objectives of those
individuals who would like to further their education but are unable to because
of family or job commitment. By providing Internet based learning, NCU gives
individuals the opportunity to study for tertiary level degrees from the comfort
of their homes.
This project has two components - Distance Learning via the Internet and a
Video Conference Center that would enable local groups to meet concurrently with
other groups in their project or course area.
The initial offering of this Distance Learning facility would be the MA and
Ph.D. degrees in at least four Educational areas, including Leadership. Other
programs will be added as the program matures.
However, to make this project a reality in the Bahamas requires the
commitment of individuals who are strong advocates of Christian Education, not
only in voice but also in action. This project requires a reasonable financial
commitment from those who share the vision of a Christ centered education. All
may benefit.
We invite you to call and pledge your financial support for this venture as
we seek to bring Christian educational opportunities to those who otherwise
would not be able to receive them. Let’s make a selfless contribution to our
school! Contact - Barry Shane Saunders - 356-8367.
Come One, Come All Attend the CRUSADE RALLY today at 4:45
p.m. at Living Faith. Arrive to be revived.
Camp Bamivoca 2003 July 27th - Aug. 3
Adventurer/Pathfinder
Camp 2003 starts tomorrow. The camp
staff will be accepting the campers between the hours of 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. only.
All camp staff and counselors are asked to meet at the campsite tomorrow at 7:00
a.m.
Health Ministries The Health Ministries
Department says thanks to all person who made the second quarterly Fun Run for
2003 a success. All church Health Ministries coordinators are requested to meet
on Monday, July 28, at 7:00 p.m. at the Living Faith Church to further plan for
upcoming events.
Be healthy Be happy T-shirts are available at the office. "Exercising by
faith, walking with Jesus" is the message you will promote when you wear
one of these shirts.
Special Thanks The family of
the late Elder Burke Ellis Clarke of Devil’s Point, Cat Island, would like to
thank our President, Pastor L.A. Johnson and Pastor Jeremiah Duncombe and the
other ministers who assisted at the funeral service. A heartfelt thanks is also
conveyed to the Hillview Church Choir, Adventist Men and members of the Hillview
Church for their prayers during our time of bereavement. -The Clarke Family
Philadelphia
Rally & Concert The Philadelphia Church is having a Rally and
Children’s Concert tomorrow evening at 8 o’clock at the church in Elizabeth
Estates. You are invited to attend. Please bring an offering.
Mega Weekend at Living Faith
Living Faith Church completes its Mega Weekend activities with a Mega
Concert at the church today at 6:00 p.m. and a grand church family day at
Goodman’s Bay, tomorrow July 27. After an early morning walk at 6 o'clock, at
the same venue, the fun begins at 10:00 a.m. Lots of games and food (at a cost)
will be there.
Sow One Billion Two Thousand four 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 tracts to a friend, coworker, family
member or neighbors. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, let us join forces
to reach more persons in the Bahamas for Christ.
New Album to Be Launched Under the patronage
of President Leonard A. Johnson, Pastor Wilfred T. Adderley will launch his new
album at the Good News Church on Sunday, July 27, at 7:30 p.m. Offering lifted
will go toward the roof project of the church. CD’s and tapes will be on sale
Evangelistic Service from Grant’s Town Sunday
Night Evangelistic Service Radio Program will be aired from the Grant’s Town
church this weekend on ZNS 1540.
‘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.
Ephesus Is Moving Under
the motif "Higher Ground," the Ephesus Church plans to move to
Parkgate Road September 3-6, 2003. The activities for this MEGA WEEKEND will
include great preaching, fantastic fellowship, and Worship like no other time.
Plan to attend and bring a special love offering. Come and watch the miracle.
Women’s Retreat Applications are
available for the National Women’s Retreat Oct. 17-19 at South Ocean Resort,
Paradise Island. Please ask your Women’s Ministry Leader at your church for an
application. Our Guest speaker for the weekend is Mrs. Janice Brown. She is a
former speaker at Camp Kalaqua and is very high on the list of speakers for
retreats, conferences, seminars and workshops. Plan to be a part of this dynamic
and spirit filled weekend; one you will never ever forget. -Mrs. M. Knowles,
Departmental Director
Women’s Ministry Conference October 24-26,
2003, Women’s Ministry Conference will be in full gear. For further
information you may contact Mrs. Caroline McKenzie at 341-3766, or Mrs. Beverly
Hepburn at 636-2545.
Youth Corner August Monday annual family fun
day at the Sports Center.
Members of the Pathfinder Band will hold a car wash on August Monday at the
Sports Center. Proceeds in aid of Band uniforms.
The Church League Basketball Continues tonight at the H. D. Colburn Gym.
Tonight’s schedule is as follows:
Juniors: #2 Bahamas Academy v/s #3 Living Faith; #1
Centreville v/s #4 Centreville
Seniors:#2 Living Faith v/s #3 Johnson Park; #1
Centreville v/s #4 Bahamas Academy.
Playoffs will be played tonight at the school gym.
Championships will begin on Tuesday, July 29 and continue Thursday, July 31 and
Saturday, Aug. 2, 2003. All awards will be given out on Saturday, Aug. 2 after
the final game.
Persons interested in attending youth congresses abroad are
asked to register with the youth department during office hours. -A.
Burrows, Departmental Director
‘Committed
& Connected’ Youth Crusade Youth Crusade will be held August 10
to 24 at the Berea Church. Committed and Connected (committed to God, connected
to Man) is the theme for this year’s camp meeting.
August 3rd a Youth Service will be held at Berea.
Praise and Worship service will be held August 6 at 7:30 p.m.
at Berea.
Adventist Laypersons Services
Industries (ASI) All Adventist business-persons and self-employed
individuals are invited to become members of ASI. A very exciting prayer
breakfast is planned with you in mind for July 27 at 7:30 a.m. at the Conference
office. Members can become financial. Plans for the upcoming convention in
Trinidad will be discussed. Persons wishing to become members are encouraged to
attend. - A. Higgs, President
Vegetarian Cooking Class Vegetarian
Cooking Classes are beginning August 10, 2003. Interested persons, please
contact Marlene McKinney at 364-0085
ABC On The Move The ABNC
will be at the Bethany Church, Wulff Road, tonight, June 28, at set of sun for
your convenient shopping.
Visit us during regular store hours: Monday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00
p.m. Friday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Sabbath School supplies are
packed and ready for collection. -Kenny Deveaux, ABNC Manager
Adventist Business Newsletter Churches
are asked to collect their copies of the first issue of Adventist Business News
on Tuesdays after 1:00 p.m. for distribution on Wednesday nights. This
newsletter is not to be distributed on Sabbaths. - Barrington H. Brennen,
Departmental Director
Nadia will Be In Concert. Nadia will host a
gospel concert titled "God is Still Here With Me," August 3, 2003, at
7:00 p.m. at the Hillview Church. The entire SDA Community are invited to
support this effort to assist Nadia with educational expenses. Nadia can be
reached at #341-5566.
Important Meeting There will be a meeting
for all Community Services Leaders and Assistant Leaders on Sunday, August 3,
2003, at 8:00 a.m. at the Centreville Church. - Pastor T.B. Sturrup, Departmental
Director
Adventist Educators’ Prayer
Breakfast All Adventist Educators are invited to attend a special
back-to-school prayer breakfast on Sunday, August 31, at 8:30 a.m. at the
Philadelphia Church. Come and receive a special blessing as Dr. Leonard Johnson
presents the charge and empowers us to be effective witnesses in the classroom
this school year. We look forward to seeing you as we prepare to prayerfully
continue molding the minds of the children and youth of this our Bahamaland. - Adventist
Educators’ Association
Keeping the Fires of Love for Young Couples Seminar
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.
NCU Students’ Meeting All New and
returning students travelling to Northern Caribbean University on Sunday, August
17th are asked to attend a very important meeting at the Conference
office August 7th at 6:30 p.m. - Mr. C.M. Lewis, Treasurer
Vacation Leave Pastor Paul Scavella will be
on vacation Aug. 5th- 19th. He will be back in office on
Wednesday, Aug. 20th. You may contact Mrs. Joan Duncombe at the
Conference for any needed assistance.
Important Notice Please note that the
deadline for submitting articles and notices for publication in the weekly Logos
is Tuesday
Musician Needed Hillview is in need of a
musician (piano). Anyone interested can call Rowena Smith at 325-6885.
Bus Driver Needed. You may
contact at 361-8032.
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- Sun sets today at
8:02 p.m.
- Sun sets next Sabbath at 7:55 p.m.
