Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Online Logos October 4 - 2003
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A Sabbath To Remember
Sabbath, September 27, 2003, will long be remembered for its unbelievable heat and humidity. But, it will also be kept in mind as the first Sabbath celebration at the "Let God Speak Bible Campaign" at the Queen Elizabeth Sports Center in Nassau, Bahamas. More so it will be memorialized as a day when hundreds of persons stood in response to the appeal to accept Jesus and be baptized. It was so gratifying to see young ones, teenagers, young adults, middle aged and seniors standing for Christ. Only those of us who were present could appreciate the joy experienced as sons, daughters, parents, siblings, grand parents, aunts, uncles, friends and others embraced God's truth regarding the Sabbath, His law and above all His salvation. It was obvious that the discomfort or the thought of the heat gave way to the joy felt by those responding to Jesus.
Given the aforementioned, one can only imagine what today, Sabbath, October 4, will be like when we see the fulfilling of those pledges. Husbands, wives, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents, friends and others will rejoice as never before. I was privileged to get a fore taste of this joy on Monday past while visiting a couple. The husband became emotional in response to his wife's decision to join him in Sabbath observance even against opposition. I dare say that today will be a day forever etched in our minds. Not even eternity will erase it!
May I add that last Sabbath will also be remembered for the remarkable manner that members and concerned individuals contributed to the work of God namely the crusade, the setting up of new churches and the Early Learning Center. We collected forty-five thousand dollars ($45,000), and yet I know that not all members gave for whatever reason. It could be that some of you got paid afterwards, while others were not aware. However, it is not too late, as we believe that we can realize $100,000 with the full support of all. Today, you are encouraged to turn in your contribution - just mark on your envelope "special offering." Together, we can do the unthinkable!
Reluctantly, I end my note with a caution against the spirit of negativism. In a crusade of this magnitude, we can expect opposition from without as this thrust exposes the works of the enemy however, it is disturbing when persons supposedly within the body speak or display negativism. Therefore, I implore you, my brothers and sisters to pray as never before; and let us allow the Holy Spirit to control us as never before. One negative word spoken, one negative attitude displayed is all the devil needs to thwart a crucial decision. Instead let us be positive and encourage a soul standing between this life and eternity. Can you imagine in heaven being tapped on the shoulder and greeted with the words "It was you who encouraged me at a critical point on Sabbath, October 4, 2003, at the 'Let God Speak Bible Campaign." Leonard A. Johnson, President

We Must Become Our Brothers’ Keepers! Once again the news of another boy gone missing confronts us. We in the Adventist community are incensed with these disappearances. Our hearts are saddened as we imagine the pain that Miss Shirlene Smith is experiencing over the apparent disappearance of her 14-year-old son, Desmond Rolle. We are also mindful of the pain the parents of the other missing boys must be experiencing. However, we must resist the temptation to join those who have resorted to blaming the mother, the police, the Bahamas Government, or anyone else. Speculating about who is to be blamed will not solve anything.

What can we do? We believe that the problem of the five missing boys ought to be a matter of concern for all persons. These disappearances underscore the need for a return to community-mindedness. It is hard to conceive that such happenings could take place unbeknown to anyone. It is plausible that someone saw something, but might be reluctant to speak up. We are talking about five separate disappearances! As parents and guardians, we must network. Understandably, it is difficult to expect some single parents to take their child/children to or pick them up from school daily. However, it is not unreasonable to expect them to seek assistance of other parents to ensure their child’s/children’s security. Even the idea of students traveling together in groups of five or more may serve as a deterrent to abductors. Additionally, we must educate and drill into our children certain basic information regarding security. Gone are the days of taking anything or anyone for granted.

It is our opinion that the police in Grand Bahama, under the able leadership of Assistant Commissioner Elliston Greenslade, are doing their best. It is incumbent upon us as citizens to assist the police by passing on any information, no matter how simple or non-essential it may seem, for that may be the very piece of information needed to solve the mystery. It is also necessary that the law enforcement agencies take into account whatever the citizenry shares.

We wish to applaud the efforts of the various branches of government, all church groups, and youth and community organizations. Certainly, this situation of our young boys being abducted or disappearing calls for a united approach in relating to these mysterious happenings; for only God knows whom the perpetrator/s will target next.

Finally, it is important that we never lose hope as the God we serve is a great God. We must remind ourselves that "nothing is too hard for God." Let’s continue to pray and search and search. -Communication Department

WI Union Associate Secretary Conducts Mini-seminar for Secretaries A two-day mini-seminar was held September 29 and 30, at the Conference Office for all secretaries (Academy and Office). Mrs. Doreen Daley-Grant, associate secretary to Dr. Wendell McMillan, Executive Secretary of West Indies Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, conducted the seminar. She shared from her vast knowledge about the operations and management of the Office of the Secretariat. Information and guidelines on relationships between the Conference and Union, policies and programs, record keeping and time management was given. She also conducted a seminar for Church Clerks Monday evening, September 29. The majority of the Clerks from the New Providence churches took advantage of the opportunity to sharpen their skills and gain new insights into the duties of a church clerk. At the end of the sessions, all attendees expressed their appreciation to Mrs. Grant for her timely reminders and know-hows.

Early Learning Center  The Early Learning Center - September 20, 2003The is a snapshot of Phase I of the New Early Learning Center. Since this photograph was taken, considerable work was done. The roof has been put on Phase II, the uncovered section of the building shown on the right in the picture. Work on the ceiling and partitions is well on the way, and the masons are putting the finish on the outside walls.

Yes, your assistance is still needed. Stop by the site on Sunday and/or during the other working days of the week, and offer your help. Also, if you have not made a financial contribution to this project, stop by the Conference Office and leave your donation with the Treasurer of the Conference. Join the VBA group in supporting the work of the Lord.

 

Pathfinder/Community Services and Health Ministries Exhibition  On Monday, October 13, 2003, beginning at 10:00 a.m., our annual Pathfinder/Community Services and Health Ministries departments will host their annual display at the R. M. Bailey playing field.

A large variety of vegetarian cuisine, native drinks and deserts, arts and craft, will be on display and available for sale from all 18 church booths. The day is set aside for family fun, so come, and enjoy the treats, Pathfinders and Health ministries drills and performances.

In preparation for this, a Pathfinder Council meeting will be held for all Pathfinder and Adventurers leaders on Sunday morning, October 5, at the Berea Church at 8:00 o’clock. The agenda will deal with plans for the October 13 exhibition. All persons concerned are requested to attend. - Pastor Andrew E. Burrows, Youth Director, BC

WI Union Personal Ministries Director to Visit  Pastor Basil Reid, Personal Ministries Director of West Indies Union, will be visiting the Bahamas during the month of October. A special joint service will be held on Monday, October 20th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hillview Church. All SDA members are asked to attend as some exciting information will be shared with the local field. - Pastor T. Basil Sturrup, PM Director

 

 

Women’s Ministries  The countdown is on for our Women’s retreat, titled "Ordinary women.  Extraordinary Grace," to be held at the South Ocean Resort. This week is the last chance to get your application in, space is limited, so act now. This retreat promises to be the cure for the modern day women spirit. Come and enjoy the fellowship. Dr. Janice Brown from Ethiopia will be our guest presenter. See you there! -M. Knowles, WM Director

Education Corner (This weekly column is sponsored by Bahamas Academy of S.D.A.)  Parenting in the 21st century is not an easy job. Young married couples need to talk seriously about their philosophy on raising children, and plan their families when they are financially and emotionally ready. The situations that parents have to deal with now-a-days call for adults who are themselves emotionally stable and willing to recognize that raising children takes time and nerves of steel. Parents today have to deal with situations that were unheard of even during our parents' time.

Parents of children raised in the 70s and 80s probably had to worry only about their daughters' skirts being too short (the mini), or their sons' hair being too high (the afro)! However, parents today have to worry about so much more--children being influenced by cable TV and music videos (lewd dressing and the use of profanity are on the increase), children and stress (yes, doctors are discovering that children are stressed out), children and depression (yes, more and more young children are committing suicide), drugs (children see nothing wrong with smoking marijuana), sex (children as young as 9 are engaging in it), disrespectful behaviour (children are bold enough to curse parents to their faces), and the list can go on and on.

What is a parent to do? What are Christian parents to do? Is it possible to raise good, Christian children in this society? Is it possible to raise children who will "honour father and mother" as the Bible commands? I firmly believe the answer to all the above questions is YES. However, I will be the first to admit it will not be easy. And the longer the world lasts, the more difficult it will become to raise moral, upright children. But I believe that the Bible provides the answers for many of life's problems, and we just have to take the time to study what the Bible and other Christian writers have to say about the subject of parenting.

Bahamas Academy would like to help you in this most important venture. We are planning a Parenting Seminar for all parents of children from 2 to 18 years of age. The topics are interesting and relevant; the presenters are knowledgeable and motivational; the venue is comfortable and cool. Mark this date on your calendar-NOVEMBER 6-8, 2003. Keep reading the Education Corner for more details. You will pinch yourself if you miss this seminar. Plan to attend and encourage other parents to attend. -Lynn C. Smith, Principal

 

Video Editing Seminar A Success  Twelve persons who attended the seminar on video camera techniques and video editing last week qualified for a Certificate of Participation. Mr. Everett Wiles, seminar instructor, commended the participants for their interest and eagerness to learn. The students praised the instructor for his patience and teaching skills. One student said that "the seminar should have been a little longer." All the participants agreed that they derived great benefits from what was presented. Indeed, the seminar was a success.

Bahamas Adventist Educators' Association All Adventist Educators are asked to plan to attend the following exciting upcoming events. You cannot afford to miss our:

  1. Relaxing Boat Cruise - October 26, 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. (tentative date)

  2. Scrumptious Luncheon - December 14

  3. Informative Seminar - February, 2004

  4. Inspirational Excursion to NCU - May, 2004  -Adventist Educators' Association

 

Adventist Services Industries Tickets are now available at the Conference Office for the ASI Testimonial banquet scheduled for November 29, 2003, at 4:30 p.m. Please contact Kimberly Bryan.

 

Health Ministries  The 3rd quarterly Be Healthy, Be Happy Fun Run will coincide with the "Let God Speak" crusade. Come and run/walk with the Evangelist on Sunday, October 12th at 5:30 a.m.

On Monday, October 13th You and Your Money will feature a team from the Health Ministries department. The topic will be "Smoking, Why Quit?" The 6th Annual Health Extravaganza will take place at the Marathon Mall on Thursday, October 16.

The 2nd Annual Health Training Workshop will be held November 9-13, 2003. Plan to attend and become a Certified Health Presenter

 

Feed my Children  Sis. Maureen Reid of the New Providence Church is offering two hot meals per week free with bath to the elderly and shut-in living in the Pinewood area. Please call Sis. Reid at 392-3087.

 

Youth Corner  Pathfinders’ Community Services Exhibition will be held on Monday, October 13th, at the R. M. Bailey Park.

Church League Volleyball begins on Saturday night, October 18, 2003.

 

Volunteers Needed!  Do you want to learn how to do chair massage and participate in the Health Extravaganza? Chair massage class will begin on Thursday, October 9th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Better Living Health Center. Need information? Call Ida at 323-5473.

Vegetarian Dishes – if you would like to participate, call Marlene at 364-0085 or Ida at 323-5473

 

Hurricane Shelters We are still in the hurricane season, so it is important for us to do what is necessary to protect life and property. In the event that your place of residence is destroyed or badly damaged during a storm, you should be aware that the following are on the official list of hurricane shelters for the Island of New Providence: Bahamas Academy, Hillview Church, Good News Church, Living Faith Church.

 

SDA Burial Society to Meet The SDA Burial Society meeting will be held on Monday, October 6, 2003, at the Grant’s Town Church Annex. Members can become financial. Persons interested in joining are especially invited. - H. Moncur

 

Watch Adventist Spotlight  Adventist Spotlight is on Cable channel 12 every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Invite somebody to watch with you!

Sun sets today at 6:58 p.m. Sun sets next Sabbath 6:50 at p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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