For the past fourteen years, Oakwood College has annually held its Miss Oakwood Pageant. The Miss Oakwood Pageant focuses on achievement through intelligence, talent, and community involvement. Oakwood sets aside one day a year to showcase the talent, unique abilities, and exceptional qualities of its female students to the community. This year the pageant was graced with one of our own, Sasha Crockwell of Southampton Church. After four months of preparation, Sasha and five others were well prepared to share their talents with the community. On January 29, 2006, the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama was filled to its capacity with supporters of the six ladies in the pageant entitled ‘Daughters of the King.’ The room was filled with excitement and awe as the evening progressed. The young women were able to paint vivid pictures of their personalities and characters via monologues, various talents ranging from singing to steel drum playing, and evening gowns. Every young woman put her best foot forward, making the judging process a tedious one. At the end of the night, Crystal S. Forde, a native of Trinidad and resident of New York, walked away as Miss Oakwood 2006. Sasha was blessed and very honored to be dubbed Miss Congeniality 2006. The night was a success and each of Sasha’s supporters was extremely proud to be connected to her that night. Every one in the audience can attest to the fact that Sasha’s was a job well done, and talk can still be heard on Oakwood’s campus about Sasha’s awesome performance that left the audience speechless. Even the judges were deeply moved by her performance for the night. After the show one judge pulled Sasha aside and told her, “You did an excellent job. Your presence was wonderful and your song really touched me. The only problem I had with you was the noise in my ears.” The audience reaction showed that Sasha is much loved on Oakwood’s campus.  About the pageant Sasha says: “It was a wonderful experience, one that I will never forget. All the hard work, late nights, and sacrificed week days and weekends was well worth it. I made new friends and gained a lot of information that will help me to be a better woman and daughter of the King. Most importantly, I learned that I can do anything I put my mind to if I keep God as my number one priority and if I purge myself of the spirit of fear that God did not intend for me.” Even though Sasha was not crowned Miss Oakwood she walked away smiling and extremely proud to have been a part of the wonderful experience.
 

Children’s Worship
The children’s scripture reading was done by Azhante Hill and was taken from Isaiah 49:16. 

The children’s story was done by Bro. Richard Smith.   He told a story about a 9 year old boy who had friends that were 7 and 8 years old.  They went to their school picnic.  The teacher told them that they could do anything except pick apples from the tree over the other side of the fence.

During the morning the students had a good time. They ate their lunches and the teachers asked the students to take a rest period.  The 9 year old boy asked two of his friends to sneak out and pick some apples.  They left and no one even missed them.  They were happy and thought, great; no one saw us or even missed us!

The next day at school, the teacher called the three boys to the office and they were excited wondering what she could possibly want.  But to their surprise, their teacher put on a video tape!  The three boys saw themselves picking apples.  They felt sorry for their poor behaviour and their teacher explained to them that when we think that know one sees us, God does.  The boys asked their teacher, the principal and God to forgive them.

Later on during chapel, the principal showed the entire school the video tape of the school picnic.  The boys were very nervous and thought that surely they would be embarrassed when it came to the part of them picking the apples.  However, when it came to the part where the boys were picking the apples, the screen went blank.  The boys had asked for forgiveness and it was wiped clean.  That’s how it is with God, when we ask for forgiveness; God wipes it clean as if we never had sinned.

A beautiful prayer was given at the conclusion of the children’s story by 9 year old Austin Boynton.  He had asked God to help the children to be obedient, to be with the families who had lost loved ones during hurricane Katrina and to be with the family members of Rosa Parks!!  AMEN.

Sermon Notes

Speaker ? Pastor Jason McCracken

Topic ? “The Master of Disaster, but help is on the way”

Scripture ? Matthew 24:1-8

Pastor McCracken began with a story of an atheist who was walking through the woods.  He was admiring nature when suddenly a grizzly bear started to chase him!  He was so scared and he started to run and cry.  He tripped and the grizzly bear was standing over him and was about to attack.  At that point, the atheist cried out “oh my God” ? the grizzly suddenly froze as a light appeared in the woods and God spoke to the atheist and asked him if he believed in God.  The atheist replied “after telling so many people that there is no God, I don’t want to be a hypocrite, but he asked God to do him a favour and make the bear a Christian.  The bear knelt down and prayed to God and thanked Him for the meal he was about to receive.

There are atheists denying God’s existence even though there are so many signs that indicate He does exist.

Jesus predicted in Matthew 24 that many would come in His name saying they are the Christ. 

Only 25% of the population on this planet are considered Christians and Catholic.

75% of the population on this planet are comprised of people who are not Christians.
Some are New Age Movement people who are colts, and believe that they are Jesus.

Revelation 16: 14 ? For they are the Spirits of devils, working miracles which go forth to the kings of the earth and of the world to gather them to the battle of the great day of God Almighty.

Matthew 24:6-8 ? and you will hear of wars and rumours of wars.  See that you are not troubled for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

Verse 7: - for nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines, pestilences, and earth quakes in various places.

Verse 8: - all these are the beginning of sorrows.
 

There are 5 categories of hurricanes:
Category 1 ? winds of 80 ? 153
Category 2 ? winds of 154 ? 177
Category 3 ? winds of 178 ? 209
Category 4 ? winds of 210 ? 250
Category 5 ? 250 and greater (catastrophic)

In the last century, there have only been two major hurricanes
In 2005, there have been 3 major hurricanes!

Testimonies to Gospel Workers ? page 444, 2nd paragraph ? Ellen G. White speaks of hurricanes.

Matthew 24:27 ? for as the lightening cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the son of man be (KJV)

Hope is on the way. The Hope of the ages ? is JESUS my Lord.

Help, Help, Help
Hope, Hope, Hope
Is on the Way!

more photos 

Rockaway Seventh-day Adventist Church, in celebration of their Community Guest Day, held a special A.Y. program at the Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church which began at 4:00 p.m. The purpose of the A.Y. program was to meet top scientist Ben Roy.

Ben Roy is the former director of News Channel 9 Science Theatre in Chattanooga, TN.  He has the ability to captivate, motivate and inspire students and teachers to be turned-on to science while providing authentic instruction based on science phenomena.  Ben’s spectacular demonstrations of physical and chemical science all have spiritual applications and point to a creator God.

He has been a classroom teacher for grades 1-8 for 28 years.  Ben teaches science methods for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.  He is an adjunct professor at Southern Adventist University and a Teacher Resource Agent for the American Astronomical Society.  He was voted Teacher of the Year for Gordon County Schools, and is the director of a mobile science program called the Science Zone.  He holds a current SDA teaching certificate as well as state certification for both TN and GA.

Ben has produced 75 science lessons (Learning Time) for 3ABN’s Kids Time program.

The A.Y. program opened with a lively song service which was lead out by the Assistant Pastor of Mt. Zion ? Pastor Yvonne Thompson. She also offered the opening prayer. 

And now the moment everyone has waited for, the introduction of Top Scientist Ben Roy!  Ben provided 10 simple experiments (to him) but exceptional experiments for the children in one hour.  Children please don’t try these at home.

1. Ben blew up a green balloon, then poured liquid ice on it.  The balloon went as flat as a pancake.  Next he held it up and what do you know, the balloon was re-inflated. 

2. Ben held up two balls, one he bounced and the other he placed in liquid ice.  He asked for a volunteer (Michael Byron Jr.) to throw the ball which was taken out of the liquid ice against the wall.  It shattered into several pieces.

3. Another volunteer ? Asha Wilson, held a wheel which was spinning and Ben asked him to let it go.  Of course the wheel fell to the ground.  Next Ben spun the wheel and placed a tie on it, the wheel continued to spin around on its own, without falling to the ground.

4. Ben held up an apple which he cut in half, and displayed a star inside of the apple.  Each _ represents hemispheres.  Ben cut each half in half again (4 quarters) which represents the water on planet earth.  1 quarter = the land on earth, cut that _ again = 1/8 which = the populated area on earth.  1/8 was then cut into 4 pieces = 1 32nd ? three 32nd’s = the land where we can’t grow food.  1/8 = where we can grow food, we need to take care of it so it won’t disappear through erosion etc.  In a few years, earth’s population will double which means we need to produce more food.  That’s why we should take care of our earth.

5. Another volunteer Kianya Lightbourne was asked if she had washed her hands, and she said she had.  Ben said let’s see if her hands are sticky.  He placed a tennis ball on top of her hand and one underneath her hand.  They stayed on her hands (because of magnet inside the tennis balls).  When Ben removed the top tennis ball, the one underneath her hand fell to the floor.

Ben asked the adults if they would like to get out of debt.  If you really want to get out of debt, take out your credit cards and rub the tennis balls over them !

6. 7 volunteers were given Frisbees.  Each was asked to spin the Frisbee on their index fingers.  Next they were asked to spin the Frisbees on the floor and turn them over.  Once this was done, the volunteers discovered that they could spin the Frisbee right up from the floor to a standing position.  Ben told them that it all has to do with the timing; you need to wiggle your finger at the right time.

7. Ben asked how many people would like to have snow in Bermuda for Thanksgiving.  He said that he had brought some snow seeds with him and all he had to do was add water!  Well, he added water to his snow seeds and it began to snow in Bermuda…..

8. Ben said he was going to launch a rocket.  He took a can of Pringles potato chips, removed the lid and label, (should be a fresh can ? unopened) and poured the chips on the table.  He removed the lid which was covering the can, and cut a 2-3 centimetre hole in the lid, placed the lid back on the can, turned the can over, took a pair of scissors and punched a hole in the bottom of the can.  Ben placed the top over the hole (which he said had to be done so the rocket fuel won’t come out).  Next he placed nitrogen gas inside of a balloon and placed the balloon at the hole which he had cut in the lid to fill up the pringle can.  Next Ben took the lid off, struck a match, and the rocket was fully launched immediately!  As a matter of fact, Ben said we should count backwards from ten.  He only counted ten before the rocket was launched.

9. Dr. Larry Franklin volunteed to assist Ben in this next experiment.  Ben took a light bulb with two wires hanging off and plugged the wires into an outlet and the bulb came on.  Next Ben took a cup of water (which he admitted water and electricity don’t mix well) and plugged the bulb in while it was placed in water.  The bulb didn’t come on.  Next Ben added salt into the water, stirred the water, then the bulb was placed back into the water, and it came on!  Ben reminded the children to stay away from electricity if their hands and feet are wet.

10. In the final experiment, Ben asked anyone who was present and didn’t like loud noises, or had a child which may be afraid of loud noises to leave at this point, as his final experiment would be a big explosion.  Ben took helium, (which he said was the 2nd lightest gas) and filled a balloon with the helium.  He tied the balloon off, covered the balloon with liquid ice, (which he said slowed the molecules down) which also made the balloon shrink.  Ben placed the balloon on the table and watched it re-inflate and rise to the ceiling.

Next Ben filled a second balloon with oxygen (oxygen is heavier then helium), took a rod which had duck tape at the end, inserted a match at the end of the rod and placed it by the balloon which exploded with a LOUD bang.

With everyone thrilled by the experiments they had just seen, Stan Jones opened the floor for questions. 

Elder Dave Pearman offered a vote of thanks to Ben Roy and light refreshments were served.

The Children’s Story was done by Bro. Hillary Williams via a pre recording.  He told a story of a blind fisherman by the name of Henry Hawker.  At the age of 9, Hillary went fishing with Mr. Hawker and George Pitcher; they left from Sinky Bay in Southampton.  After a full day of fishing, they returned with their catch which was placed in a wooden wheel burrow. 

Hillary had to go around the Sinky Bay neighbourhood blowing a conch shell and pushing a squeaky wheel burrow to assist the blind merchant.  He hated doing this chore; however his mother made him work with Mr. Hawker. Hillary felt he was being rubbed of the opportunity of playing with his friends; and without pay! Hillary remembered that squeaky wheel burrow which seemed to be jeering him and sounded as if it was saying “somebody sees, somebody sees” and he felt like saying shut up you stupid wheel burrow.

When the fish were all sold and the wheel burrow was empty, the squeaky wheel burrow seemed to be saying “I told you so, I told you so.” 

Hillary felt that maybe God was using this experience to prepare him for his ministry today as an adult.  He said that he has had the opportunity to minister to 14 blind people and one has actually gotten baptized! 

Now, today Hillary still hears in his mind “somebody sees, somebody sees, and “I told you so, I told you so.”  He wonders if this voice could be his guardian angel. 

 He ended his story be telling the children to remember to do good deeds and obey the voice of God. Of course, Hillary admitted that wheel burrows can’t talk, but God can, through that still small voice.

--

Sermon Notes
Speaker ? Pastor Donnieval Walker
Topic ? “Left Behind”

Pastor Walker started off by asking for a show of hands of those who would like to be left behind in that great event.  He said that he would like to be left behind, and we would understand why later.

Matthew 24 (entire chapter) which you can read on you own later, however, I will begin at verse 3 ? “and as He sat upon the mount of Lives, the disciples came unto Him privately, saying: tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the age?” Verse 4 ? and Jesus answered and said to them: “take heed that no one deceives you.”

If I had to dub this age anything, it would be dubbed “the age of deception.”

The movie’ “Left Behind” is so popular and it details how the world will come to an end.  This shows a rapture.

The rapture is actually a 7 year period where the masses believe that Christ will secretly rapture and take some people away.

Matthew 24:40-42 ? based on these verses, it shows two groups of people; the faithful and the unfaithful.  The faithful will be taken away, then a 7 year period will follow which will give the unfaithful an opportunity to be saved during the next secret rapture.

This 7 year period is spoken of in Daniel chapter 9.

Around the reformation period, there was a movement called Protestantism.  The Roman Church became corrupted and some cried out against this corruption.  Around the 1500’s some Protestants studied scripture and saw a line with the scripture about the Antichrist.

If anybody tells you of any secret coming of Jesus, don’t believe it.

I don’t wan to be taken, but rather left behind, in the contexts of (Matthew 24:26-27).

Left ? are those left on earth

Taken ? are those destroyed by death

I pray that we will settle everything with God.

The Rapture theory is a dangerous one, because it suggests that you will get another chance to be saved.  However, when the trumpet sounds and the son of men returns to earth, every eye shall see Him.  May we be amongst those left on the earth.

Sabbath, October 22, was Youth Explosion at Southampton Church and the young people led out for the entire day beginning with Sabbath School and ending with A.Y.  Tamika Mallory was the facilitator for the Adult Sabbath School lesson, which was conducted as a joint lesson study.

Other areas which the youth assisted in were the Easy Worship Services, operated by Erin Lovell and Tierney Gibbons and the musicians were Jay Steede on drums and Steven Manders on the keyboard.

The Praise Team consisted of 7 young people, namely Detroy Bean Jr., Delmont Williams, Amber Smith, Vernesha Simmons, Delray Knight, Nadiyah Brown and Kylah Allers shown in the photo from left to right.  The songs which they led out in were “Praise Him, Hallelujah; Salvation and Glory, By and By and Oh Lord, how Excellent.”

The Love Offering and Call to Worship was given by Elder Leon James and Bro. Gerald Simons was the chorister. (Only areas led out by adults).

The Invocation was given by Cole Simmons, welcome by Davika Hill, the opening hymn “When we all get to Heaven” was announced by Lavitta Johnston and the Intercessory Prayer was offered by Tamika Mallory.  Truly an army of youth rightly trained to help finish the work which God has given His church.  Elder Michael Ray reminded us that the church was started by young people.  Let’s continue to pray for, encourage and support our youth, who are the church of today and tomorrow.

Special Music was rendered by Sis. Vernesha Simmons, she sang “Let us worship Christ.”

The mornings Tithe and free will Offering, was collected for the Conference Development, and was called for by Detroy Bean Jr.  The congregation sang “Just when I need Him” during the lifting of the tithe and Offering.

The children’s scripture reading was done by 4 year old Zakira White.  She read from Psalms 9:1.  This was Zakira very first time participating in our church service!

The children’s story was done by Sean Crockwell.  Sean told a story of a farmer who owned a few horses and one horse was blind.  The farmer thought of getting rid of the blind horse but then got an idea to attach a bell to another horse.  This enabled the blind horse to find his way around by following the sound of the bell attached to the other horse.  Sean said how this story reminds us a bit of Jesus, who does not get rid of us because we have flaws.

Scripture reading was read by Brittany Easton and was taken from 1 Samuel 16:7.

Vernesha Simmons introduced our two youth speakers who were Jasmine Wilson and Cole Simmons.

Jasmine is in the 9th grade at Bermuda Institute, plays the violin, does sign language and liturgical dance.  She is grateful to her parents, family members and friends who supported her today and to Pastor Walker who stepped aside to allow the youth to speak.

Cole Simmons is in the 11th grade at Bermuda Institute and has served in various areas of the student body including Class Pastor, and working with the Student Association (S.A.) team.  Cole is also grateful to his parents, Aunt Theresa and Uncle Chris, as well as other family members and friends who have encouraged and supported him.

The Theme for youth day is “Things aren’t always as they appear” which was the sermon topic of both Jasmine and Cole.

Vernesha Simmons and Amber Smith rendered the song of meditation which was “Jesus Bright as the Morning Star.”

Jasmine began her sermon by asking “how do you buy a book, do you look at the cover first and then buy the book?”  Have you chosen a book because the cover was attractive and the contents were very good?  Also the reverse could have been true.  You may have chosen a book and the cover was not attractive, but the contents were very good.  “Things aren’t always as they appear.”

Jasmine presented two skits to make a point that “Things aren’t always as they appear.” She asked a group of teenage young ladies to approach a nice looking young man.  He ended up being abusive to them.

She also asked a group of teenage gentlemen to approach a young lady who was stressed out and looked as if she could use their assistance.  Instead she asked them if they knew where she could find a beauty salon as she needed to have her nails fixed!  She was into herself.

Jasmine shared how she went to visit a friend of hers at the hospital, who had met into an accident on a bike.  When she went into his room, she saw two other young men, who both came from different backgrounds and gangs.  The young men found it very difficult and uncomfortable being in the same room, but at the end of the day, they discovered that they all needed to depend on each other to get around the room and up until this day, they are still very good friends.  “Things aren’t always as they appear.”

Matthew 11:5 ? “the blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.” (KJV).

Jasmine ended with a song from a CD which she asked everyone to mediate on the words of the song, “Once I was a caterpillar, now I’m a butterfly.”  The song was about how one becomes a new creature.  She challenged everyone not to judge others by their outer appearance as only Jesus truly knows our hearts and He should be the only one to judge us.

Cole began his sermon with a story of a girl who was seen by one of her friends walking on a street known for its drug activity and prostution..  Tina went to school and told the others how she had seen Tiffany walking in a bad area.  Tiffany accidentally dropped her bag on the floor one day at school and a lot of Christian tapes fell out.  Tina asked Tiffany why she had so many Christian tapes in her bag and Tiffany told her how she was giving them out to the drug dealers and how much they appreciated the tapes.  Tina felt bad.  “Things aren’t always as they appear.”

Cole challenged the members to participate (and not to fall asleep) by asking them to volunteer to read his selected scripture texts.

Cole told how Lot chose a beautiful place to live, Sodom and Gomorrah, but “things aren’t always what they appear.”

Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, but in the end they needed him.

The passages of scripture which Cole selected for volunteers to read were: Matthew 24: verses 1, 6, 7, 12 and 29.

Cole concluded by talking about the droughts in Sudan, the increase of prostutes in Asia, Hurricanes Charlie, Katrina, Rita and Wilma, September 11, terror attack, gay priest preaching in churches, the Tsunami, and how European countries are trying to unite.  Cole said “saints, if anything is apparent, it is that Jesus is coming soon.

The closing song “Come we that Love the Lord” was announced by Priya Ratteray and the benediction was offered by Nadiyah Brown.

ADVENTIST YOUTH (A.Y.)
The A.Y. program began at 5:45 p.m. with song service by Vernesha Simmons and Amber Smith.
The M.C. for the evening was Vernesha Simmons.

There were three Piano Selections

Michelle Cann  ?“Yes Jesus loves me,”
Danzelle Wright ? “As the deer” while Vernesha sang along.
Steven Manders ? “Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, and Tis the blessed hour of prayer”

Jasmine Wilson performed a liturgical dance and sign language.

By special request, Vernesha and Amber were asked to sing “Jesus, Bright as the Morning Star” again.

A special offering was lifted during the A.Y. program to assist the young people who will be traveling to Atlanta, Georgia next year for the Youth Congress which is held once every four years.

Let’s support our Young People as they go abroad next year to represent, firstly Christ, their families and the Bermuda Conference of Seventh day Adventist.

Ministry in Music
Bro. Kevin Shirley sang “In Christ alone, I place my trust.”

Welcome 
The welcome was given by Elder Lester Clarke.

Greetings and Remarks
Pastor Donnieval Walker invited members to support and attend the “Forever Married” seminar to be held at the Grotto Bay Beach Hotel on November 19th & 20th.  Presenters will be Elder Detroy and Sis. Saadia Bean.

As today is Youth day, it was quite appropriate for Pastor Walker to extend the right hand of fellowship to our two newest young people who were recently baptized and are now members of Southampton Church.  Bro. Dominique Hill and Sis. Alishia Raynor were welcomed into our church membership by the Elders, Church Clerk and Pastor Walker.

The opening hymn “My hope is built on nothing less” was announced by Bro. Vershon Simmons, Intercessory Prayer was offered by Sis. Priya Ratteray, the Children’s Scripture reading was done by Sis. Gabrielle DeShields and the Responsive Scripture reading, taken from Luke 15:17-20, was done by Sis. Camily Lovell.

The mornings Tithe and free will Offering, was collected for the Church Budget, and was called for by Bro. Joseph Ratteray.

Children’s Story
The children’s story was given by Sis. Juanita Swan.  She told the children that they were about to go on a journey to Africa.  The story was about two best friends, Hasan and Baurock.  Their parents had asked the boys to do their chores first before leaving the village to play.  Hasan encouraged Baurock to go for a walk first and do their chores later.

They walked through the woods, down to a river and saw a nice mango tree!  They ate some mangos and when they were climbing down the tree, they heard a snake which was slivering through the water towards them.  The boys climbed back up in the tree to escape the snake.  They began to fuss and blame each other for disobeying their parents.

Finally they came up with a plan; Baurock should make a run and cross the river while Hasan stayed up in the tree.  When Baurock crossed the river, he ended up in quick sand. However, he managed to hold onto a tree branch and pulled himself out.  Next, he threw his shirt into the river which distracted the snake.  When the snake swam for the shirt, Hasan got out of the tree and escaped also.

Since this was Baurock’s only shirt, they could not hide what they had done from their parents and had to confess and admit why they had not completed their chores.  Boys and girls, “be sure your sins will find you out.”

The introduction of speaker was done by Bro. Joseph Ratteray and the song of meditation by Bro. Kevin Shirley which was entitled “Broken and spilled out and used up for Thee.”

Our Youth Speaker was ? Bro. Eric Bean and his sermon was entitled “No Place Like Home.”

Sermon Notes
Bro. Eric commenced by sharing a personal experience.  “When I was about 14, I was in a gombey troupe.  We were going on a trip to New York.  After we arrived in New York, we drove past one hotel, a second hotel; a third and I knew something was wrong.

We unloaded our drums and headed to the place where we were to stay for two weeks.  There was no welcome party, but instead we were greeted with a gentleman holding a whip in one hand and a gun in the other hand.  He told us if we acted up, he would use the whip and if that didn’t work, he would use the gun!

We realized that we were staying in the projects of New York.  After only 2 days, most of the gombey troupe members had returned to Bermuda.  They didn’t stay the entire 2 weeks because they said “there is no place like home.”  This is my sermon topic for today “No place like home.”

Luke 15:17-20

Today I will be speaking about the Prodigal Son.

Let’s bring it home.  Let’s say that before the Prodigal Son went off to college, he went to  Swinging Doors, Malabar and other places like strip clubs and bars to have a good time.  He was enjoying himself so much that he choose not to go to Oakwood College but to have a good time with his friends.  They stayed with him as long as he had money. 

He traveled to a far country until he ran out of money.  Then he came to himself, which means that what he was doing was out of character for him.  Now he was living with the pigs.  If he stayed there long enough, he would act like the pigs and eat what the pigs ate.

The Bible said he came to himself and thought about the times when he use to go to church and decided he needed to return home.  He decided to rise and go back to his father’s house.

Luke 15:21 ? “I have sinned against heaven and against Thee and I’m therefore, no longer worthy to be called your son.”

First he had to admit that he had done wrong and asked for forgiveness.  As adults, we need to forgive young people when they make mistakes.  As youth, we need to stop blaming adults and instead do a self reflection. Maybe it’s your friends that are blocking your blessing or preventing your from serving God.

The Prodigal son’s older brother didn’t want to welcome his brother home.  That’s how it is sometimes in the church, people in the church don’t want those who have sinned to come back home or back into the church.  But we need to ask ourselves, are we here for them our Christ?

You have a better place to go (Heaven) you don’t have to dine with swine.

There’s no place like home, there’s no place like the heavenly kingdom.

The closing hymn was “In the sweet by and by” and was announced by Vershon Simmons and the benediction was offered by Elder Lester Clarke.

Photos

Today was a very special Sabbath for our Sanctuary choir members, for not only did they render special music during the divine hour, but they also made their first public appearance in their brand new robes which are royal blue with gold sashes and collars!

Under the direction of Bro. Gerald Simons, the Sanctuary choir members opened with a medley of songs “I love you Lord,” Lo He comes,” and “Under His wings.”

Pastor Walker commented on how smart the choir members looked dressed in their new robes and asked the 27 members of the choir to stand as he offered a prayer of blessing on their choir robes.  He prayed that the Lord would touch their garments as well as their hearts as they minister through music.

The second song that the Sanctuary choir sang was entitled “Saviour Amen.”  The lead was done by a trio from the Sanctuary choir, which consisted of Sis. Mayville Wilson, Sis. Barbara Scott and Sis Juanita Crockwell.

The song of meditation was “Search me Lord.” The lead was also done by a trio from the Sanctuary choir, which consisted of Sis. Shirle Crockwell, Sis. Barbara Scott and Sis. Juanita Crockwell.  Bro. Gerald Simons sang the solo parts.

Congratulations

Congratulations were extended to the following people:-

Bro. Raymond and Sis. Lorraine Simons on their 41st wedding anniversary, which they are celebrating today, August 27th, as well as their son Owen Simons who celebrates his birthday today.  Bro. and Sis. Simons placed flowers in the sanctuary in celebration of their double celebrations.

Bro. Reginald and Sis. Alice Paynter on their 35th wedding anniversary which they also celebrate today.  To God be the Glory.

Church Organization

With the year quickly coming to an end, our church clerk, Sis. Laverne Simmons along with Pastor Donnieval Walker read out the board members recommendation for the selection process of the steering committee.  The steering committee will select a nominating committee who in turn will select new officers for the upcoming year.

Children’s Worship

The children’s scripture reading was given by Bro. Donnieval Walker Jr. and was taken from Proverbs 3:5-6.

The children’s story was done by Bro. Cole Simmons and was entitled “Talents given by Jesus.”  Cole’s passage of scripture was taken from Matthew 25:14-15.

Cole said that God gives some people more talents then He gives to others, but we must work with whatever God has given to us and not keep them to ourselves.  He asked a few of the children what their talents were.  He shared with the children that the more we share our talents, the more they will multiply.

Cole concluded by saying that we should use our talents for God and not just because we feel that we will loose them if we don’t use them.

Sermon Notes

Speaker ? Pastor Donnieval Walker

Topic: - “No Name”

Pastor Walker said that he arrived at today’s topic when he happened to over hear a conversation which went as follows:-

Person # 1  - the church is becoming more and more generic and maybe they should consider dropping their name.

Person # 2 ? what will you call the church?

Person # 1 ? “no name”

We as a church, base our beliefs upon the word of God.  What’s in a name?

Yahweh seeks to preserve His name.

Israel preserved the name of God.

There is something important about the preservation of the name of God.

The 3rd commandment reminds us that we should not take the name of the Lord in vain.

When men look at us and we are living contrary to God, that is taking the name of the Lord in vain.

Parents should establish with their children how their family name should be upheld and how they should behave.

One’s name bespeaks their character.

In Bible times, your name was your identity.

- Who you are
- What your God was like and 
- How you was expected to behave

Names were not always given at birth, but sometimes after the child had formed their character.  Therefore, when God calls you by name, your character has already been formed.

Sometimes names were changed as character changed, Jacob to Israel etc.

Names are important to God.  He has given us names so we can carry out His character.

The name Adventist speaks to character.
Acts 4:12 (New International Version)
New International Version (NIV) 
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."
 

Recently, my husband and I had the opportunity to worship with our brothers and sisters in Tanzania, East Africa.  The two congregations that we visited differed in style but not in their purpose. The first congregation met at the site of the headquarters for the Tanzania Union where it served as a beacon of light to the area by offering dental and health services, housing the administrative offices, and hosting the Sabbath services. Its members were active in organized committees and groups, and we enjoyed the service, part of which was given in English and Swahili. I especially enjoyed the service, as it was Women's Ministries Day.

When offered the chance to visit our host's home church, we quickly accepted and were taken to a Swahili-speaking church in the middle of a residential area. The members have been struggling for over 10 years to complete the building of their church which presently stood with partially completed walls, a bare, dirt floor, and unfinished lower rooms.  The divine worship service was filled to capacity with many people lingering on the outskirts of the building listening to the sermon which was projected by loud speaker. Because I could not understand the evangelist's words, my host frequently translated the story of the prodigal son into English for me. However, I could feel the sincerity and fervor of the evangelist's message as he made the alter call and many people responded. I had the same experience when the choir sang to conclude the service, one song about our commission to tell the world about the salvation that Jesus offers and the other a victorious chorus about reaching heaven. The exact words were not necessary; the message was evident.

Some might be tempted to pity the members who worshipped in the church without walls, but I consider them to be divinely blessed. God has placed their church in the midst of those who need to hear His message while providing a way for that same message to travel through the roads and byways of the area. Who knows how many people have already been led to Jesus and will be led to Him by the message and song of the church members before they even crossed the threshold of this humble church? The members are holding to the hope of raising millions of shillings needed to complete their church-a formidable task for any congregation. Whenever enough funds are available, they purchase the materials they need, meet on site to labor together and finish the day's work by fellowshipping over a meal. As a visitor who has worshipped in churches that these brothers and sisters would consider elaborate, I pondered on God's timing.   Ten years is a long time to wait to finish a church. Perhaps, in this instance, it is the process that is more valuable than the finished structure.

For photos of our experience at both churches, please see the Photo Gallery.

Sat 30th Jul 2005: Sabbath 30Jul05 (Unga Ltd SDA - Tanzania) 
Sat 30th Jul 2005: Sabbath 30Jul05 (Ngiri SDA - Tanzania) 

Sis Verlinda (Darrell) Rolle was born and raised in Bermuda and  the Southampton church.

Velinda and Eddie Rolle Share Christ in Andros
Andros Christian Academy

They live on the largest island in the Bahamas, Andros. Eddie Rolle, music teacher at the Central Andros High School, and Velinda, director of Andros Christian Academy, established the Academy in 2002. Eddie and Velinda, along with their two sons are faithful, vibrant Adventists in Andros. After giving birth to two sons, the Rolles wanted to provide for them the best in Christian education. It was their desire to provide home school education. After much prayer and thought, Velinda decided to stay at home to teach their two children. The boys enjoyed it. Their development was fast and often proved to be ahead of many in their age group. Deep in the hearts of the Rolles was the thought that one day they would provide a home school program to include other students. However, by the time their sons were seven and ten years old, they were begging their parents for more interaction with other children and the honor of wearing school uniforms.
They wanted to go to a regular school, although they were excited about being taught at home. Eddie and Velinda presented this matter to God in prayer. What should they do? Little did they know that their prayers would be answered with a simple phone call.  One day, just after praying, the phone rang. When they answered, the person on the other end of the line said, "I have a pre-school that will be  closing, and I would like for you to take it over." Velinda jumped high within her heart. That was an answer to prayer. The phone call came in August of 2002.
Two weeks later, the Andros Christian Academy began. Their two sons were happy. They now had friends to play with. The school began with the Rolles' two boys and twelve other students. They were now excited about wearing the school's uniform. Today, their Academy has 21 students. Their sons are the oldest in the school. The curriculum of the school is based on the same home-school curriculum the Rolles have been using with their sons, the Alpha Omega Academy Home School Curriculum. The students learn at their own pace and receive stimulating, interactive teaching. From their trained and committed teacher, Velinda Rolle.

Camp RRICH
For the past three years, Eddie and Velinda have been conducting a summer day camp called Camp RRICH (Camp Respect Responsibility Industry Caring and Health). Each summer about twenty children participate. The camp involves nature study, hikes, field trips and lots of interaction among the students. Everyday they visit a body of water, caves, or go boating and canoeing . It is an outdoor,  fun time,  adventure. The camp is held at the Forfar Field Station, a complete international research center. The operators allow the Rolles to use all the facilities.  Velinda and Eddie Rolle are active not only in their community, but they are also very active in the Lowe Sound Adventist Church. Eddie is the musician and Velinda is the choir director and  the Children's Ministries Director. They are a vital force in the church and community. We thank God for the dedication of Eddie and Velinda and request that you pray for them and their ministry in Andros.

April 23 was Disabilities Sabbath at Southampton.  The speaker was Bro. Albert Hollis.  Bro. Hollis is hearing impaired and was introduced by Sis. Sherma Clarke.  His sermon was entitled “Who are you listening to?”

Special Music was given by Erin Lovell on the flute.  She played “How Great Thou Art.”

The children’s scripture was read by Christia Wright and was taken from Matthew 24:42-44.  Her dad, Chris Wright, did the children’s story, which was entitled “Prepare.”  Chris asked the children “if I were to ask how many of you are prepared right now to go to the airport for a 2 week trip or for a camping trip to Darrell’s Island, how many of you would be prepared right now?”  He also asked what does prepare mean and told the children to prepare means to get ready in advance for an upcoming event.  Chris reminded us that we should always be prepared and not be found getting ready.

Isaiah 30:21 - And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, this is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

Ellen White’s book, Early Writings ? Pg 63 - was used as a reference to the use of colors.

Albert said that some of us may have a disability, a “spiritual disability” whereby we listen to what we want to listen to.

Some church members don’t take out time nor have patience with me they just walk right by and don’t even say “Happy Sabbath.”  He said “my ears may be cosmetic, just like decorations, because they don’t work, but I can hear God’s still small voice inside of me, so I can hear!”

Romans 12:2 ? And be not conformed to this world: but by ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Bro. Hollis referred to the story of Paul and how the demons said “Paul we know, but who are you?” He ended by asking, “who are you listening to?”

Bro. Cole Simmons gave the children’s story, which was entitled “Temptations.”  Cole shared with the children how he gave in to temptation and kept his Sabbath School offering to buy lunch at school.  His teacher thought this was strange as Cole never purchased his lunch at school, and the teacher called Cole’s Uncle to inquire whether he had given Cole lunch money.
Cole was caught in the act and decided he will never keep his offering again.

Adventist Television Presentation
A brief LCD Presentation on the launching and introduction of Adventist Television (ATV) was presented in all 10 churches today.  Pastor Kelby McCottry and Sis. Crystal Smith of the Midland Heights Church hosted the presentation.   ATV can be viewed on Digital Cable, Channel 80.

Sermon Notes
Pastor Walker’s sermon was entitled “Is it Brass, or is it Gold?”
- Scripture Text - 2 Cor. 12:9-16.
- Shiskak King of Egypt went to Jerusalem and stole all of the gold.
- King Rehoboam replaced the shields of gold with shields of brass. 2 Cor. 12:1
- When members become caught up with their spiritual positions/offices, we take our eyes off God.  We have lost our golden shields and contact with God.
- Our first love was when we came to God, experienced baptism then after a while we may have wanted a divorce.  That’s when we have strayed away from God, or lost the gold.
- Have you lost your golden shield?  Jesus is waiting to give it back to you again; all you need to do is surrender.

Proud parents Bro. Kirk and Chanda Johnston brought Baby Moses out to church for the first time as is their custom, on he Sabbath day.  Moses came to church not in a basket but his pumpkin seat dressed in baby yellow.  He learned very early not to cry as he was being watched, not by his sister Miriam but by his mom and he did not even cry once during the entire service.

Baby Moses was born on Sunday, February 27th at 10:19 a.m.  He weighed in at 8 pounds, 9 1/2 ounces and was 20 1/2  inches long.

Southampton church members all welcome baby Moses to our church family. 

The theme for Easter Sabbath was “The Passion.” and the service was done as an enactment. 

Backdrops and props were prepared and set up by the Creative Ministry Department on the rostrum. All chairs were removed from the platform, which was set up to depict the tomb of Christ.

The Creative Ministry team members are Angela DeRosa-Rubaine, Walter Harris, Gail Parker and Patti-Ann Hill.

The participants were dressed in Middle Eastern/Arabic attire.  Their outfits were provided by Sis. Patrice Fortes Smith and Sis. Grace Williams. 

To begin our service Bro. Ralph Richardson blew his trumpet (trumpet fanfare) from the balcony.  Disciple Bro. Eric Bean did the call to worship in military style “Here ye……I call all worshippers to behold the scenes around the cross.”

The Sanctuary choir rejoiced in song by singing “The angel rolled the stone away.”

Disciple Clevon Cunningham, dressed as John offered the opening prayer, followed by the story of John.

Sis. Sydonne Walker ? who played the role of Mary, the Mother of Jesus came to the cross and announced “He lives” which was our opening hymn.

Disciple Lester Clarke who played the role of Peter, entered from the rear of the church and welcomed everyone to the service.  He told us that he was Peter and he loved to talk, thereby telling us about his life story.

Elder Anthony Easton entered as Caiaphas the high priest .

Scripture reading was displayed on the Easy Worship screen and was taken from Isaiah 53:3-12.

Special music was rendered by the Ensemble choir under the direction of Lloyd Matthews.  They sang “My Jesus I Love Thee.”

Tithes and Offering was called for by Disciple Howard Crockwell ? who played the role of Matthew the Tax Collector. 

Following the lifting of the tithes and offering, the Ensemble sang “When I survey the Wondrous Cross.”

Sis. Matie Crockwell played the role of Mary Magdalene.  She carried an alabaster box and had an array of fine Egyptian Oils.  She slowly walked to the cross while Desirae Simons sang “Alabaster Box.”

Elder William Tull ? who played the role of Judas said “we should crucify Jesus as he is guilty.”    Elder Leon James ? who played the role of Pontiffs Pilate came out wiping his hands with a napkin and said “I’ll have nothing to do with this man, he is innocent….”
Elder Wayne Williams ? played the role of the Centurion around the cross.

The meditation song was rendered by the Sanctuary Choir “Jesus purchased my salvation.”

Pastor Donnieval Walker’s sermon was entitled “What Happened on the Cross?”

While Pastor Walker was talking about Jesus and what He has done for us, he said we all should have a testimony and a story to tell about how the cross has changed our lives.   At this point, one of our newly baptized members, Bro. Wendell Dill said that he has a story to tell, and he shared with the church how he used to drink and get high but now he gets high on Jesus.  He said that he is in the church to stay this time by God’s grace.

Closing prayer was given by Pastor Walker, followed by the combined choirs of the Ensemble, the Sanctuary choir and the congregation singing ? a medley ‘ “He Lives” while the members were ushered out of church.

While some reflected on the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the members of Southampton church met at 6:30 p.m. to celebrate the Ordinance of Humility in the form of a live skit “The Last Supper.”

Bro. Sherman Swan led out in a lively and thought provoking song service with testimonies between songs.  Sis. Patrice Smith read the history of the songs which were sang during song service.

Following song service, we separated for the washing of feet.  Members broke off into groups of two and began with prayer. Two passages taken from the Desire of Ages was handed out, to be discussed in each group.  The passages to be discussed are as follows:-

“As they come to this ordinance, the children of God should bring to remembrance the words of the Lord of life and glory: “Know ye what I have done to you?” DA p650.

The ordinance preceding the Lord’s Supper is to clear away these misunderstandings, to bring man out of his selfishness, down from his stilts of self-exaltation, to the humility of heart that will lead him to serve his brother.  DA p 650.

After the group discussion, we had closing prayer and met back upstairs in the sanctuary to partake of the bread and wine.

The Deacons and Deaconesses entered from the rear of the church dressed in Biblical attire (as the Arabs and Moslems dress today). 

The platform was very well decorated by the Creative Ministries department which consisted of a long table covered with a white tablecloth, 12 white cushion stools, backdrops and props depicting the upper room.  Pastor Walker played the role of Jesus and approached Peter ? Elder Lester Clarke, to wash his feet.  When Peter refused, Jesus told him that he will have no part of him.  Peter said, “wash me Lord, all of me…”  Jesus then washed all 12 of the disciples feet. 

The entire church participated in the receiving, drinking and eating of the bread and wine.  The Deacons began from  the rear of the church and ushered the member’s row by row to the front of the church where the Elders served them.

The closing hymn was “Power in the Blood.”

The benediction was offered by Elder Howard Crockwell.

Sabbath March 19th, was Children’s church.  The children led out in the entire church service.  The cover of the church bulletin was a collage of faces of the children from Southampton church, courtesy of photographer Bro. Ricardo Clarke!

The Theme for the Children’s church was “Is there a Power Shortage in the House?” and the front of the church was creatively reconstructed in the form of a Trolley Cart. The children’s story was entitled “The Trolley Cart” and was done by approximately 20 children who all boarded the trolley cart which did not move in spite of the fact that the passengers had all paid their fares! They came up with various reasons as to why they felt the trolley cart was not moving and even fired the conductor!
One passenger said they were not connected to the power source and started reading passages of scripture.  Several of the passengers disembarked at this point as they felt the passengers who agreed with  the scripture reading were to fanatical.
Other passengers quickly replaced the passengers who disembarked.  They realized they were not connected to the source.  Once they realized this, the trolley cart began to move.The children turned to face the congregation and asked “Southampton are you connected to the power?”

Sermonettes were given by Donnieval Walker Jr. and DeJaun Tull.  Both Sermonettes were entitled “Is There a Power Shortage in the House?”

Donnieval Walker Jr. said that “Jesus is the source of power and we must be connected to Him, with out Him, we have no power.   In Jesus we live and move and have our being. A healthy church connected to Christ has no excuse for being disconnected to the source. Many of us used to do things for Jesus when we were first baptized, now we don’t.  It’s because we have been disconnected from the source which is Jesus.

Pastor DeJuan Tull presented an analogy whereby he used a blender and asked his wife, LaToya, to make him a smoothie.  She put grapes, pineapples, strawberries, mangos, tangerine and gingerbeer in the blender.  However, try as she may, the blender would not work.  She said she would have to purchase a new blender.  It was the children who pointed out to DeJaun Tull that the blender was not plugged in, which he was aware of and emphasized that our lives also  are like the blender, useless unless we are plugged into the source which is Jesus Christ.

John 15:5 ? “Abide in me and I in you….I am the vine, ye are the branches:  he that Abideth in me….

Bro. Tull ? also presented us with a challenge.  He challenged the parents to have daily worship with their children and see what a difference we will notice.  He told the parents to be careful what we as parents do, because we are examples to our children.  If the parents stay connected to Jesus, the children will also.

March 5th, concluded the 7 weeks for the Revelation Seminar and today 13 smiling faces, who were candidates during last week’s baptism, joined in our Sabbath Services.  Pastor Walker welcomed and extended the right hand of fellowship to our newest church members; 10 were newly baptized members.   To receive them into our church family,  the congregation sang “What a Fellowship.” 

The Ministry in Music was rendered by The Sanctuary Choir.  They sang “I was there when the Spirit came,” accompanied by Sis. Edith Vanlowe on the Piano.  Their song of meditation was “Lord Jesus How Long.” Other special music was rendered by Harmony, a group which consists of 5 female teenagers.  They sang “I feel like going Home.”

Sermon Notes
Pastor Donnieval Walker’s sermon was entitled “Commendation for a Con Man.”
- How can you commend a con man?
- There are over 200 verses about prayer in the bible but only 500 verses talk about possessions in the bible.
- Everything we hold in our hands, belongs to God even our children which are a heritage of God.
- 1 Cor. 6:20 “What, know ye not that ye are not your own, for ye are brought with a price:”…
- We do not even belong to ourselves.
- God is owner, we are Stewards.
- Our greatest investment is Jesus who gives us eternal life.
- Luke 16:1 ? tells about a steward who was careless with his master’s processions.  He wasted his master’s goods.
- Jesus  is concerned about our investments of our time, talents and money.  We need to respect the master and what he places in our care.
- The main thing is the Steward’s relationship with the master.
- All we have can be used either as a tool or an idol.  Let’s invest for eternity.

To culminate Black History month, an A.Y. program was presented under the direction of Sis. Patrice Fortes-Smith entitled “Negro Spirituals, Gospels, Hymns and African Instruments.” This celebration was held on Saturday, February 26, 2005 at the Southampton Church at 4:00 p.m.

The program was dedicated to the Memory of Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson who was responsible for the origin of Black History Month.  Dr. Woodson said “If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.”

African instruments and artifacts were put out on display as part of the Educational Black History Celebration.  A large mud cloth backdrop with African Instruments displayed, was placed in the choir loft to add to the ambience.

This program was a program with a difference, as it was geared to give a history and education on Negro Spirituals.   Historical readings were given before most of the songs were rendered. There was a total of 180 participants.  Five choirs,  2 quartets, a quintet and various solo participants performed.

The participants included The inspirational Choir, Voices of Triumph, Southampton Sanctuary Choir, Southampton Children’s Choir and the Warrenaires.  Heaven’s Own Quartet, The Harmony Four Quartet and Harmony a female Quintette.

Soloist were Gerald Simons, Albert Carter, Jackie Wilson, Kevin Santucci, Cameleisha Tucker and Edrene Malcom..

Some of the instruments played were drums, flute, piano, trumpet, harmonica, saw, piano and a Piano accordion.

The program opened with 16 slaves walking in from the back of the sanctuary to the CD of Aretha Franklin “What a friend we have in Jesus, and they were all in chains.  Chains around their ankles and in their hands.  Once they entered the sanctuary, they sat on the floor while Sis. Joycie Faison and Sis. Patrice Fortes Smith signed. The slaves rose to their feet when the Late Mahalia Jackson’s CD was played “Roll Jordan Roll” while they rolled and were being beaten by slave driver, Bro. Michael Bryon.  The final song was from the CD of Shirley Caesar “Steal Away” and the slaves did just that.  Bro. Anthony Caisey played the drums which sounded a signal for them to steal away.  Their slave driver had fallen asleep and one by one they stole away.

Opening Prayer was given by Pastor Donnieval Walker, Cheryl Kerr was the MC. , Michael Taylor played the flute, Winslow Pearman played the saxophone, Ellington Anderson and Cole Simmons rendered a poem, Deon Flash played two Negro Spirituals on the piano, Kathleen Ford played the Harmonica, Dilton Lightbourne played the saw and Tom Bean played the Piano Accordion.

Two standing ovations were received.  The Children’s Choir sang Kumbaya which was well received as three of the boys played congo drums, a small group signed and Denzel Wright played on the organ.  Stephan Smith brought down the house when he played “Oh when  the Saints” on his trumpet.

The vesper thought was given by Pastor Dwayne Wilson, and he gave us food for thought as he talked about accomplishments and strides which we have made and encouraged us to reach towards one more accomplishment to make Heaven our home. 

Historical readings were given by Carolyn Webbe, Arthur Raynor, Chanelle Flash, Coleen Birkette, Cheryl Kerr, Deborah Seymour, Gaynell Hayward, Elaine Fernandad, Kevin Santucci, Joanne James-Rego, Lorna-Jeanne Bulford and Sonia Stevens.

The offering lifted for the evening was given to Operation ReachBack, a registered charity which assist with feeding programs, and caring for less fortunate children both in Bermuda and Uganda.  A cheque for $500.00 was presented to Sis. Betsy Dunn, by Sis. Patrice Fortes Smith on Sunday, March 6, 2005 during the Operation ReachBack Inc.’s Debutantes Extravaganza for Charity which was held at the Bermuda Institute Auditorium. 

The program ended with the Inspirational choir singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

I believe a good time was had by all as we all gave A Salute to Black History Month!

Immediately following the celebration, An African Dine Around Reception was held downstairs in the Fellowship, where African dishes were served and people were encouraged to dine around Africa by visiting different tables to obtain their meal.

A registration table was provided for those interested in signing up for an African Travel Special to be held during Black History Month 2006.  This tour will be to Kenya and Tanzania.  For further information contact Patrice Fortes Smith at (441) 232-375.

HOTEP! 

Deon Flash in concert, rendered piano selections during A.Y. at the Southampton S.D.A. Church.  Between his renditions, poems were read by Davika Hill, Cole Simmons, Tiffany-Latoya Smith and Magic Boyles.

Deon Flash is a Jamaican-born Canadian citizen residing in Somerset, Bermuda.  He began studying and playing the piano at the age of seven and gave his first performance at the age of 12 at this local church.  Since then Deon has performed as a soloist and accompanist at several venues in concerts across North America including, Winnipeg, Musicfest Canada, Courtney, British Colombia Music Festival, Pickering Rotary Music Festival in Pickering, Ontario, Philadelphia, the International School of Performing Arts in Doylestown, Pennsylvania as well as City Hall in Bermuda and various churches across the island.

For the past year Deon has been the official accompanist for the Bermuda Philharmonic Society.  Deon is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano Performance and an ARCT Associates Degree from the Royal Conservatory of Music also in Toronto.

If you missed this concert, you surely missed a blessing and a musical treat.

On Saturday, February 12th, the first Sabbath Revelation Seminar was held at Southampton church during Sabbath School.  Elder Michael Ray, facilitator, led out and at the conclusion of the seminar, a joint lesson study was conducted by Pastor Donnieval Walker.  The meetings are generally held on Sunday, Tuesday and Friday evenings.  The attendance has been really great; with an average of 120 persons in attendance each Evening.   A register is maintained each evening, and the records indicated that the lowest nightly attendance was 97.  To God be the Glory.

A cake was made in honor of the Sabbath (God’s special day) with a picture of Jesus keeping the Sabbath holy,  scanned on the cake.

Other Sabbath Fabruary 12 activities:
Mission Project
Sis. Yulise Benjamin made a presentation of $1,000.00 to Sis. Matie Crockwell, which will assist Sis. Crockwell in her missionary projects.  Sis. Crockwell is involved in a medical missionary project that she participates in, on an annual basis. 

Welcome Home
Elder Howard Crockwell welcomed Sis. Gayle Taylor home.  Gail assisted with the music during the Divine hour by playing the Organ.

During our Fellowship and Praise, the Inspirational Choir sang "We are Climbing" which was a refreshing musical treat. Other songs rendered were "Hallelujah, Lord you deserve my forever praise" and "This little light of mine." 

Elder Michael Ray, (Facilitator for the Revelation Seminar) brought greetings and extended a welcome to our visitors.  He gave an updated report on the attendance of the Revelation Seminar.  On the opening evening 160 people were in attendance, an average of 120 people have been attending each evening, with approximately 60 visitors enrolled.  Pastor Walker and Elder Ray asked for the continued support and prayers of the members during the next 4 weeks of the Seminar.

The Children's scripture reading was done by Kiante' Lightbourne and was taken from Matthew 28: 16-20.  The Children's story was given by Kelee' Darrell entitled "Who am I?"  She was referring to Habits.  Kelee' shared with the children some bad and good habits and stated that an English poet once said "we first make our habits, then our habits make us."  She encouraged the children to practice good habits as our character is the only thing we will take to heaven.

The song of meditation was entitled "God's still moving" and was rendered by the Inspirational Choir.

Pastor Donnieval Walker's sermon was entitled "Over-Priced Fast Food."  Pastor Walker spoke about Jacob and Esau and how Esau had been ripped off.  He gave up his birthright for a pot of pottage (red beans).

Sermon Notes
- What value have you place on the birthright God has given you?
- Approximately 20 years later Esau realized the price of his bad decision, but it was too late.
- Make up your mind, do you want your birthright or appetite, soup of salvation.
- What is the Christian's birthright?  See Eph. 1:16, Gal. 3:29, John 1:12 and 1 John 3:2-3.
- Not all the pots of pottage that Satan offers to us, is worth one ounce of our birthright.
- Mark 8:36 - For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul." (KJV)
- Jesus Christ is our birthright, hold on to your birthright.

Chris Wright is the Interim Head for the Audio Visual Department for 2005.  He has been assisting in the sound room each evening during the Revelation Seminar and continues to operate during Sabbath School, Divine hour and for Prayer Meeting. Other members of the team include Lionel Raynor and Wayne Watson.

Bro. Randall Bassett, Stewardship leader for Southampton made an appeal  to the members for a College Student, who is a member of Southampton and needs assistance with the school fees.  As God’s stewards, anyone willing to assist, can see any member of the stewardship department.

Special music was done by the Sanctuary Choir entitled “Be strong in the Lord.”  During the Intercessory Prayer, they prayerfully sang “Nearer my God to Thee.”

Shirl Crockwell rendered a solo “His strength is perfect.”

The children’s scripture reading was given by Zaire Morris and was taken from Psalms 6: verses 1 & 10.  The Children’s story was done by Camily Lovell, Doneva Walker and Chelsea Crockwell and was entitled “Three children.”

Our guest Stewardship speaker was Pastor Kelby McCottry, who preached an interesting sermon entitled “Bad Condition but Same Position.”

Pastor McCottry said “one must be totally committed to be a steward of God.  There were 3 points to being totally committed.

1. You can’t escape the bad times in your life.
2. Bad conditions are only temporary
3. Despite your bad conditions,  you can still be faithful to God.

Pastor McCottry spoke about King David and how he called Mephibosheth (the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul) out of hiding in Lodebar (which means nothing) into Royalty.
King David specifically called Mephibosheth by name, which indicated that he knew him. 

The scripture passages were  II Samuel  9:3-7 and 1 Cor. 4.2.

We were reminded that God also called us out of our bad conditions, and called us by name to join Him into Royalty as faithful Stewards.

On Saturday, January 29, 2005, Pastor Walker presented Certificates of Participation to members who completed the Leadership Workshop.  The certificate read “this certificate is awarded to (member) in recognition of participation in the Christian Leadership Workshop conducted by Dr. Clinton A. Valley on Sunday, January 16, 2005 at the Hamilton Seventh-day Adventist Church.  The certificates were signed by Dr. Jeffrey O. Brown,  President of the Bermuda Conference of Seventh-day Adventist.

Pictured from left to right in the rear row  are  Eric Bean, Delano Bulford, Pastor Donnieval Walker, Bruce Dummett and Roxanne Eve.

Left to right in the front row is Bob Smith, Patrice Smith, Lorna-Jeanne Bulford, Pat Dunlop, Alice Paynter and June Brangman.

Flowers were placed in the sanctuary on Sabbath, January 29, 2005 in memory of Randolph and Jeffrey Outerbridge, by their mother Sis. Verona Outerbridge. 

Randolph, Jeffrey and their friend George Minks was lost at sea, 12 years ago, on January 26, 1993. 

Sis. Verona Outerbridge is the Bible worker for Southampton church.

Seen in photo are Randolph and Jeffrey Outerbridge, lovingly remembered by their mother, entire Crockwell family and friends.

The long awaited new equipment for the Easy Worship Team has finally arrived enabling the team members to effectively assist with the worship service.

Hymnbooks may soon become obsolete, although members are encouraged to continue to walk with your bibles.  Words of the hymns, scripture texts, names of participants and highlighted points from the sermon are displayed on the screen, during the service. 

The Easy Worship team consists of Shirl Crockwell, Robert Dummett, Alvin Goulbourne, Tammy Hendrickson, Dana Lovell, Erin Lovell, Elena Raynor, and Norma Smith.

The words of the song, “so easy, so easy, so easy to love” can now be paraphrased to “so easy, so easy, so easy to worship.”

The equipment was dedicated to God’s service on Saturday, January 22, 2005.

The Educational spotlight entitled "Let Christian Education Speak" was given by Bermuda Institute teacher, Ms. Coleen Birkette. Cole Simmons and Queena Francis, students from Bermuda Institute, gave their personal testimonies, on how Christian Education has been beneficial to them.

Special music was given by Bro. Michael Taylor on the flute accompanied by Sis. Constance Smith on the Piano “It is well with my soul”.

Greetings were give by Dr. and Mrs. Ian de Alwis-Chand.  Dr. Alwis-Chand is the Clinical Director of Family Life at Loma Linda.  They will be presenting a “parenting Strategies for Life’s Success” Special Workshop to be held at the Bermuda Institute Auditorium this afternoon, January 22, from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. and tomorrow afternoon.

The sermon was given by Pastor Donnieval Walker and was entitled “Classroom without Walls.”  This was a very fitting topic as the theme for the day was “Education Sabbath”

Pastor Walker said that to survive in the 21st century, Knowledge is non-negotiable.

Proverbs 2:6  God giveth wisdom; out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 1:7  the fear of the Lord is the beginning of Knowledge but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

The internet has been dubbed by some as the classroom without walls, no boundaries.  Students can participate in that classroom from anywhere in the world.

Hosea 4:6 “God’s people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…”

Give Christian Education a chance and prove the word of God.

Saturday, January 15, 2005 was set aside as  Restore Sabbath.  Elder Paul Richardson, of Upper Columbia Conference, in Spokane, Washington, joined us and lead out in a joint Sabbath School class.  He ended with a slide presentation which was a personal testimony of a young lady who had become pregnant with her boyfriend's baby while still legally married.  She said her name had been removed from her home church membership list, but she was accepted in another Adventist church family circle. She was later divorce and married the father of our daughter.  She shared how she had to go through a painful experience just to end right back where she had started out, in the Adventist church.

Members from our sister churches joined us during the divine hour, which was geared for Restoration. 

Sis. Christia Wright read the children's scripture, Cole Simmons gave the children's story which was entitled "acceptance" and shared with the children how they should accept people regardless of how they looked or dressed.  Our responsive reading was given by Elder Bruce Dummett, and Pastor Walker introduced our guest speaker and his wife.

The meditation song was rendered by Bro. Kevin Shirley "When God's people Pray."  Elder Paul Richardson shared with us the story on the Prodigal Son.  We were blessed and challenged to work to restore people, when they make mistakes.

Following last Sabbath's theme of Family Communion, and in keeping with the Family theme, the second Sabbath of the year was designated Youth Sabbath.

Our 1st Youth Sabbath for 2005 was presented under the direction of our new youth leader for 2005, Sis. Sonia Stevens.

We had a lively praise team consisting of Conrad Roach, Steve Easton, Dwight Warren, Desirae Simons, Sonia Holder, Amanda Bean and Shevy Easton (from left to right). Their first song was "Lord I lift your name on High," accompanied by Bro. Conrade Roach on his trumpet.

The youth spotlight was given by Bro. Delante Landy, special music by Sis. Erin Lovell on the Flute - "Rejoice ye pure in heart", children's scripture reading was given by Bro. Michael Byron, Jr., special music by Conrad Roach - "Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus" and the responsive scripture reading by Bro. Vershon Simmons.

Our song of meditation was rendered by the praise team "Give us this day" followed by our speaker for the hour, Bro. Dejuan Tull.  His sermon was entitled "Who is in your house?"

The youth are off to a good start, please continue to keep them in your prayers.

The first day of 2005 encouraged us to change the outline of our regular Sabbath Service, and hold a special Communion Service.  What was so different about this, one may ask?  Well, families joined together to celebrate the Ordinance of Humility.  We separated at 10:30 a.m. to join up with our families. 

Each family was given an outline to follow for the family communion service.  We had opening prayer, opening song - "There is a Fountain", scripture reading which came from John 13:1-8, and a family member was selected to read a passage from the Desire of Ages, p. 650.   Next we participated in the Ordinance of Humility.  Children and parents washed each others feet, some for the first time, and husbands and wives also washed each others feet.   Extended family members also participated.  Testimonies were shared in family circles and following this, everyone joined in one big church family circle to hold hands and offer closing prayer.

We met back in the main sanctuary for the Sermon and to partake of the bread and wine. 

Pastor Walker's sermon was entitled "Extreme Makeover."  A very disruptive visitor walked into the service, gave his name, sat at the piano and requested that we sing his mother's favourite hymn, "Bringing in the Sheaves."  Pastor Walker invited the visitor onto the rostrum and unveiled our own member, Bro. Arthur Raynor.  This was part of the "Extreme Makeover."  Each member had the opportunity to examine themselves as to how they may have judged the visitor, prior to knowing he was one of our members.

At the conclusion of the service, the head of each family was given a Relationship Covenant which stated "by the grace of God I am committed to a makeover in this Relationship, in 2005."  The head of each family was asked to sign and date their Relationship Covenant scroll, which had the text of Philippians 4:13 at the bottom.

The closing hymn was "Blessed Assurance Jesus is mine."  What a good way to begin the New Year, completely washed, free of sins and with the Blessed Assurance that Jesus is ours!

On Monday, December 27, 2004 the atmosphere was full of anticipation and excitement as Hamilton church stepped up to the challenge of Southampton church; the current champions of the Boxing Day 2003 Football match.

The football match was held at the Spice Valley Middle School field at 11:00 a.m. commencing with the Juniors (16 and under) match.  Hamilton won the Juniors match against Southampton.  The score was Hamilton 2, Southampton 1.

However, the main match for the Seniors was won, again, by Southampton.  The score was Southampton 4 and Hamilton 2.

Hamilton not taking to kindly to their loss, suggested that Southampton won because they had Karl Lightbourne playing for them.  For the record, Karl only played the first half of the game.  Carl is the National Football Coach for Bermuda and a former English professional football player.  His early days were spent in Sabbath school at Southampton church.

One of the Hamilton church team players was a true die-hard fan and even put his jersey on his dog showing his loyal support for their team!

Here is a brief history on the game.  The annual friendly football match between Southampton and Hamilton began in 1980 and is always held on Boxing Day.  The game is played in good Christian fun but each team looks forward to winning the game.

Both teams are permitted to invite guest players from the other 8 sister churches to join their team.  Mandell Hill was a regular player for Southampton for over 20 years.  After his untimely death, Dwayne and Wayne Caines along with Michael Ray paid a visit to Bobbie-Lou Hill (wife of Mandell Hill) and Mandell's family members, requesting permission to rename the match the Mandell Hill Memorial Game.  The first match was played in Mandell's memory on Boxing Day of 2003.  Southampton Church won the game and has held the trophy for the past two years.

The Junior football team commences play and periodically a ladies net ball game is played prior to the Senior football match.  The ladies net ball team is also Southampton vs. Hamilton.

Pastor Donnieval Walker (Pastor of Southampton Church) and Chris Wright (team captain) both graciously accepted the Mandell Hill Memorial Trophy on behalf of the members of Southampton church!

The gift that no one expected, wanted or needed was given to Bermuda on Christmas evening, Saturday evening, December 25, 2004; in that of an inferno.  Chief Fire Officer, Vincent Hollinsid , said "the fire was first reported around 7 p.m. on Christmas day at the Tynes Bay Treatment Facility where a pile of rubbish some 100 feet in length and 50 feet high and wide ignited." 

The highest point of the fire was said to be 80 feet high and a crew of sixty-five fire fighters, all wearing breathing apparatus and nine fire vehicles battled for almost three days to get the fire under control.  The plumes of smoke forced North Shore residents to flee their homes.

Mr. Hollinsid said “this was the worst fire the Island has seen in 20 years as well as the worse they have ever had to deal with in Bermuda because we couldn't get to the site without some difficulty and because it was impossible to have a break.  The biggest problem posed was the fact that the when the firemen arrived on the scene, it was low tide and they couldn't pump water from the sea due to lack of suction, but eventually got a break.  He said the situation could have been worse had the site been far from water.”

Mr. Hollinsid in an interview with Tricia Walters (of the Royal Gazette) said he was thankful to all his staff who came in to help when they were off duty and said he realized it was difficult to leave their families on Christmas.  "But they did an excellent job getting that fire under control and I'd like to thank each and every one of them for that sacrifice."

It was in this spirit of thankfulness that Mrs. Kathleen Ford, a member of the Southampton Church Community Services feeding program went to the site to bring a full Christmas meal, which she prepared from her home, to the firemen on Boxing day after they had worked non stop for 15 hours.

The meal consisted of peas and rice, macaroni and cheese, carrots, green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, farine pie with and without chicken, turkey and vegetarian sliced turkey, vegetarian chili, dinner rolls, water, sodas, Welch’s grape cider, juices, marble cake, plain cake and Christmas candy.

The firemen were so dedicated to their jobs that they ate in shifts while others were on duty.  They were very grateful and expressed their profound gratitude.  Mrs. Ford received a letter of appreciation from Chief Fire Officer, Vincent Hollinsid.

Truly, "it is more blessed to give then to receive."

On Christmas Sabbath, December 25th, Southampton church members and visiting friends were in for a special worship treat, a trio of flutes!   Three flutists participated in our musical.  Angela Brangman played "Praise that Name", while Mike Taylor assisted on his flute during our lively singsperation which was v