Another Day of Decision

Today is another day of decision. Evangelists M. A. Smith, E. D. Clarke, E. St. Fleur, B. Sturup and P. A. Scavella will once again extend the opportunity to one and all to become personally acquainted with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Only God knows the far-reaching effect that saved lives will have upon our society. If for no other reason, all members ought to rejoice in this fact, given the deteriorating conditions of our nation. Consequently, another call is made enjoining us to give full support to persons contemplating that major step today. Such a decision could make all the difference for some wife, husband, mother, father, brother, sister, friend and/or neighbor.

Further, one might little imagine the full joy and appreciation that will be expressed by persons we would have encouraged along life's path. Additionally, contemplate the words "You helped me to make that decision back in the Bahamas on Sabbath, April 8, 2000 --thanks a million". On the other hand, what if you dreamed that we were in heaven and there was someone who remarked "if only you had encouraged me, I would have made it." Certainly, that would be disconcerting. Thank God that it is only imagination; we can make a difference today. Be positive and if you have to stand outside today, pray and talk crusade. Administration

FROM COMO TO HAWKINS

(The Role of Laymen in the History of Adventism in the Bahamas)

On Monday, April 10, Dr. Wendell McMillan, former Treasurer of Bahamas Conference and Trust Director of West Indies Union, will return home to launch officially his first book, "From Como to Hawkins," at Government House.

In this volume he attempted to capture some of the experiences of lay pioneers during the early days when the Seventh-day Adventist Church was introduced in the Bahamas. On each Family Island where the good news of salvation was proclaimed and a church organized, no resident pastor was stationed, so many of the lay brethren were the shepherds. These lay brethren were not trained in theology or homiletics, but were filled and led by the Holy Spirit. Although scattered, these church congregations remained together and believed the same doctrine. It is amazing.

In the early 20^th century, Adventists were not popular. I can remember when some of our neighbours jeered us, calling us "those Seven-days," says Dr. McMillan. Jobs were scarce because the major ones required employees to work on Saturday. But these dedicated brethren did not allow any obstacle to deter their faith and zeal. To walk to church on Saturday took courage. But many did it. To refuse to eat hog meat, conch and crawfish, one was considered to be a religious fanatic, but our pioneers refused. To begin sunset worship on Friday evening at the set of sun, singing and reading the Scriptures while others worked and played, took courage, but our pioneers did it. To send your child to the unpopular church school took faith, but our pioneers persisted, says Dr. McMillan.

Dr. McMillan says he wishes that his book will serve as a constant reminder of the journey trod by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Bahamas. May it also serve as a motivator for those who desire to serve he says.

Check your local bookstores for your copy of "From Como to Hawkins." -Mary-Ellen Knott

JOYANNE FERGUSON MAKES BAHAMAS ACADEMY SHINE AGAIN

The National spelling Bee competition, which was held on Sunday, March 26, in the Seabreeze Ballroom of Super Clubs Breezes for fifteen (15) rounds of fierce competition saw Joyanne Ferguson competing to the ninth (9^th Round before being eliminated.

For weeks Joyanne and coach Mrs. Stephanie Johnson worked persistently in preparation for the competition. At the preliminary competition which was held at St. John's College, 27 students representing fifteen independent schools in New Providence participated. At this level Joyanne placed second after enduring 21 rounds of stiff competition, not missing one word in those rounds.

Joyanne is highly commended by all at the Academy for the outstanding performance which she turned in. The Academy is doubly proud as Joyanne's success comes on the heel of the success earned by our own senior student, Robert Roper, who won a poetry competition held at Government House on Wednesday, March 22. -Celeste Creighton

HEALTH MINISTRIES DEPARTMENT AND BETTER LIVING HEALTH CENTER

Presents Healthy Living 2000 April 16 to 24 with Dr. Zeno Charles-Marcel from Lifestyle of America who will conduct a workshop on "How to Reverse and Prevent Diabetes Through a Healthy Lifestyle." Join the cooking seminar with Mrs. Joy Peterson, M.P.H., R.D., LD. Meetings will be held nightly at the New Providence Church.

In addition, the week will culminate in grand style with a Health Float, Poster Contest, Pathfinder March and Health Fair on Easter Monday, April 24^th, at R. M. Bailey Park. To sign up for the cooking seminar, call Idamae Hanna or Alvira Thompson at #323-5473.

** There will be a very important meeting for all Health and Temperance, and Pathfinder Directors at the New Providence Church on Sunday, April 9^th , at 10 a.m. to finalize plans for Healthy Living 2000.

YOU CAN LEARN, TOO

One optimistic educator once said that, given time and effort, anyone can learn anything. At the Bahamas Academy Continuing Education Division, we do not claim to be able to teach you anything, but if you have the desire and are willing to devote the time, you can learn something that will enhance your future. The programme at BACE is designed to assist working adults improve their academic level and acquire certain practical skills. Don't exclude yourself because of your age. Check out the offering at BACE, and enroll in a course that will help you achieve your educational or professional goal. For information, call #393-9362

Expressions of Gratitude

Elder Ed Knowles and family express thanks and appreciation to Pastor M. A. Smith and the Hillview Church family and others who officiated during their time of bereavement on the tragic death of his son. Your presence and support were indeed most comforting to us. May God continue to bless all. Ed. Knowles

BAHAMAS ACADEMY ELEMENTARY

BAE school is accepting applications for three (3) upper elementary classroom teachers, one (1) lower-level elementary teacher, one (1) P. E. teacher, and one (1) computer teacher for the year 2000-2001.

Applications are available at the school between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Mondays to Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Fridays.

**Registration for entrance into Bahamas Academy Elementary is ongoing daily for K-2 to Grades 6

**Entrance examination for grades 1 through 6 will be held at the Elementary School on April 20^th from 9:00 a.m. to noon.

CHURCH DEDICATION!

The Cockburn Town SDA Church in San Salvador will be dedicated on Easter Sunday, April 23, 2000. Persons interested in traveling to San Salvador on Good Friday and returning on Easter Monday may call Pastor or Sis. J. Duncombe at #361-8683 or 322-5510.

BAHAMAS ACADEMY SECONDARY

The following positions are available for September, 2000, at the High School division of the Bahamas Academy. Applications may be obtained from the school and must be submitted by March 31, 2000.

2 English Language & Literature Teachers

1 Physical Education Teacher

1 Religious Knowledge Teacher

1 Secretary

1 Janitress

1 Cook/Cafe Worker

Applicants for teaching positions must be teacher-certified and able to teach students in grades 7 through 12.

GRAND BAHAMA ACADEMY

GBA school needs the following personnel for the 2000 - 2001 school year:

1 Secretary/Accountant

1 Early Childhood Teacher

2 Primary Teachers

Please contact in Nassau Dr. John Carey at #324-0470 and in Freeport Mr. H. Hanna, principal, at #373-4794.

BAHAMAS CONFERENCE WEEKEND

Alumni, parents and guardians are invited to attend Bahamas Conference weekend at Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Jamaica, April 28 to 30, 2000. Interested persons may contact Ms. W. Flowers at #361-8683 to register.

YOUTH TIDBITS

A special meeting for all Adventist Youth Leaders, Pathfinder Directors, and Federation Officers will be held on Sunday, April 9^nd, at 9 a.m. at the Hillview Church. Please be on time.

**.Schedule of youth activities April to August, 2000:

April 16 - 23 Youth Congress

May 1 - 7 Advanced Youth Training - Pastor Errol Thomas visits.

May 7 - National Youth March

May 26 - 28 Singles Ministries Seminar, South Ocean

LONG BAY SCHOOL

The following positions are available for the school year beginning September, 2000.

1 Computer Teacher

1 Home Economics Teacher

1 Math/Physics Teacher

1 Physical Education Teacher

2 Primary Teachers

Applicants should submit resumes to Long Bay School, P.O. BOX AB-20377, Marsh Harbour, Abaco, or Phone #367-2377

LAY ACTIVITIES & SABBATH SCHOOL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

April 2-29: Lay Evangelism Training - "Operation Caleb"

May 21 June 18: Lay Evangelistic Crusades

May 3-6: Community Services Forum 2000 (Grand Bahama)

May 19: Ingathering photos should be submitted to the Welfare Department.

BC CALENDAR OF EVENT

FOR APRIL 2000

15 YOUTH EMPHASIS

15 LITERATURE EVANGELISM RALLY DAY

19-21 3ABN TAPING/

INTERVIEW

16-23 YOUTH CAMPOREE

19-22 COMMUNITY SERVICES FORUM

24-29 CHRISTIAN ED. WEEK

28-30 BAHAMIAN NCU WEEKEND

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

VBS application forms are available from the Conference office and at the ABC. Completed forms should be return to the Adventist Book Center before the end of April, 2000.

Sun sets today at 7:30 p.m. Sun sets next Sabbath at 7:32 p.m

Download The Logos at

www.tagnet.org/wiunion.bahamas

PRAY WHOLEHEARTEDLY