Editor: LEONARD A. JOHNSON

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THE LOGOS

A Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventist Weekly Publication Volume 6, Number 44, November 3, 2001


The Triple ‘C’ Family Plan Can Bring Untold Blessings

T his afternoon at 4 o' clock at the Hillview SDA Church there will be presented a revolutionary program for empowering the local church member. This program will be presented by Pastor Ronnie Henry, Stewardship Director, West Indies Union.

OBJECTIVES 1.           To foster and encourage a greater sense of unity and well-being within the church family.

2.  To model the Early Church, just after Pentecost, as a community befitting our highest emulation.

3.  To provide practical answers to three fundamental questions that we must face in the family of believers, namely:

a.  What happens when a member dies?

b.  What happens when a member is jobless?

c.  What happens when a member has a need?

     TRIPLE ‘C’: Concern -- Solicitous Regard; Affect

     Care -- Serious Attention; Affection

     Comfort -- Relief in Affliction; Consolation

 INTRODUCTION The Seventh-day Adventist Church in West Indies Union, through the Capital Development Fund, and the Bahamas Conference, through the United Development Fund, have successfully met the building needs of our churches and institutions. We are grateful to the pioneers and developers of this great venture.

   With the increasing social and economic problems facing our nations and ultimately the members of the Seventh-day Adventist church, the time has come for urgent attention to be given to a plan that addresses in a sustained way the needs of our members. This demands our united effort.

      The Biblical basis for this Plan is found in the Book of Acts, chapter 2:44-46 and 4:32, 34-35. Clearly enunciated in the foregoing verses is the spirit of unselfishness that pervaded the early church. Is it possible that we who face the twenty-first century can be so characterized? With over 200,000 SDA's in West Indies Union and 11,000 plus in the Bahamas Conference, why should any member go to bed hungry? When a sister or brother dies, can we through our numbers make it economically less stressful for the bereaved?

    The Good master was right when He said, "BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW THAT YE ARE MY DISCIPLES, IF YE HAVE LOVE ONE TO ANOTHER." John 13:35.

This we believe will be best demonstrated when we share a genuine CONCERN for our people; when that concern drives us to offer loving CARE; and ultimately our brethren will experience the warm COMFORT of the saints.

THE PROPOSAL 1. FAMILY COMFORT PLAN - Answering the question, "What happens when a member dies?"

It is therefore proposed that a Family Comfort Plan be established in West Indies Union and the Bahamas Conference with guidelines to be explained this afternoon.

2. FAMILY CONCERN PLAN - Answering the question, "What happens when a member is jobless?"

   The reality of economic hardship and suffering is very evident among many of our members. For many, this is due to lost opportunity for employment occasioned by layoffs, requirement to work on the Sabbath, and a generally depressed economy. For others, it is the lack of the ability to find the funding to finance projects that would provide self-employment.

   The indicators are that things will not get better but worse. Things are fast closing in on our church and the time is coming when we won't be able to buy or sell. Now, more than ever before, we must unite in helping one another. In all this however, it must be remembered that "it is better to teach a man to fish than to give him a fish".

     The Family Concern Plan proposes a uniting of our financial and human resources to create economic opportunities. This Plan, too, will be explained at the joint service this afternoon.

  3. FAMILY CARE PLAN -- Answering the question, "What happens when a member has a need?" Continued on p. 2

BSDAEA Prayer Breakfast

     Pastor K. D. Albury, president of the Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, will be the guest speaker at the Bahamas SDA Educators Association’s Prayer Breakfast tomorrow morning Sunday, November 4, 2001, at 8:00 o’clock at the Philadelphia Church Fellowship Hall. All educators who are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church are invited to attend.

The Principles of Readiness - Education Emphasis

      The Bahamas Seventh-day Adventist Educators Association enjoyed a spirit-filled worship service a the Philadelphia SDA Church, on Sabbath, October 20, 2001. This gracious opportunity was experienced because we gladly accepted the cordial invitation of Sister Annette Dorsette, Education Director, on the occasion of their “EDUCATION DAY’.

     The congregational hymn, choir renditions, prayers and scripture, blended with the innovative children’s story, presented by Sis. Lena Monroe, created a tremendous setting for a beautiful church experience.

      Dr. John Carey, advisor for the Educators Association, accepted the awesome and sacred challenge to be a spokesman for God. The subject of his sermon was THE PRINCIPLES OF READINESS. The well-crafted sermon identified four basic concepts that influence readiness at all levels of the educational system, both in the private and public sectors. These principles are MOTIVATION, MATURATION, EXPERIENCE AND ENVIRONMENT. Biblical references were made to Abraham, Isaac, Job and Jesus. All showed readiness for their missions, and irrespective of the confrontations and obstacles, they endured, in order to ensure that their purposes were accomplished. The fortitude of the faith of these and other biblical stalwarts spangle the plan of salvation with hope, courage and assurance.

     Educators were called upon to accept and demonstrate the readiness principles in the environment of teaching and learning. It is important to ensure that children ware ready for the instructions imparted. Understand the needs of each child and teach with that awareness. For as seeds and plants grow best in the appropriate soil, so should strategies that are taught provide the soil for academic excellence.

     With tones of appeal, the congregation was led to see the importance and urgency of being ready for the soon return of Jesus. Heaven is a real place for a ready people. “Be ye also ready, for such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh.” - Pansy Hamilton-Brown, President

 

     Present Truth Gospel Crusade begin its 4th week at the New providence Church with Evangelist T. Basil Sturrup tomorrow at 7:15 p.m. All are invited!

Omega Youth Weekend-Northern Region

     Youth minister pastor Eric D. Clarke, the Youth Director of the Bahamas Conference, is kept flying high physically and spiritually as he had to return to the island of Grand Bahama for another important engagement - Investiture service).

     The young people had another opportunity to exalt the name of Jesus through the many activities during the Omega Weekend. The session, which began on Friday evening, October 12, 2001, at the Freeport Church, paved the way for a wonderful Sabbath celebration.

     On Sabbath morning Miss Vinzanna Patrick and her team led out in a wonderful Sabbath School session. A lively song service complemented by “Story Time” by Sister Clara Lowe and her team from the Shiloh Church, prepared our hearts for the “Divine Hour.”

     In his sermon, Pastor Clarke stated that “Youth” was a very personal period which young people should try to enjoy and not try to get old to soon. They should use their talent for the Lord and ask Him to get rid of sin in their lives although He is aware of the problem of “Peer Pressure” which increases with every generation.

     Sharing Jesus through evangelism which was the theme for the weekend helps the church to grow. It is indispensable to the church because many churches See page 2

Omega Youth Weekend-Northern Region

Continued from p.1

open their doors but soon run out of “Gas” because they lack the zeal for evangelism. He quoted from the servant of the Lord, Ellen G. White who stated that if rightly trained, young people can do great things for the Lord. After stressing that there will be no starless crowns and a little child shall lead them, He made a call of commitment to the Lord.

     On Sabbath afternoon the youth were on parade as they marched to their places and demonstrated various skills as “True Pathfinders.” Another special session ended with a grand social on Saturday night and a gospel concert by the Eight Mile Rock Pathfinders Club which featured local talents and out of town guests Ms. Allison Mason, Mr. Charles Zonicle and Mr. Charles D. Hugabrooks.

 

The Triple ‘C’ Family Plan

Continued from p. 1

     It is hoped that Grand Bahama will continue to be a beacon in this part of the vineyard. - Evelyn Lopez, Communication Secretary

The indications are that there are those within our ranks who are victims of hunger and deprivation. Many are unable to meet the high medical costs associated with serious illness. Still there are those who have pressing housing needs that need urgent attention. Education is getting out of the reach of many because of the high rising costs. These and other factors make it a priority for us to establish a Family Care Plan.

     CONCLUSION The acceptance and implementation of the Triple "C" Family Plan in West Indies Union will bring untold blessings to the church family and to the spread of the gospel. Here are some of the highlights:a. It will mean financial empowerment of our members.

b.  It will provide a greater sense of belonging and well-being for our members.

c.  It will increase the potential for tithes and offerings.

d.  It will ease the pressure on the local church budget and allow the church to finance its outreach programs better.

e.  It will make Stewardship education more meaningful.

f.   It will provide a ready pool of prospects for our evangelistic units.

g.  It will give the church new impetus for the reclamation of missing and delinquent members.

h.  It could provide the catalyst for an unprecedented revival among Seventh-day Adventists.

     It is the love of Jesus in the heart that will truly unite us as a family of believers. The times demand that we be possessed with the unselfish spirit of the early church. To each of us the challenge comes, "If you are willing, God is able". Let us pray for the mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Not only is God able, but He is willing to give us that blessing above all other blessings, NOW.

"WE ARE A FAMILY-TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE IT" - M. A. Smith, Director

 

SDA Educators Association Heritage Trip

     The Bahamas SDA Educators Association is in the process of organizing an educational trip to Battle Creek, Michigan, for the Easter vacation of 2002. This will be an SDA Heritage experience of a life-time. All are invited to travel with the association for this amazing and spiritual delight. All Masterguides are especially invited. Follow the Logos for further insights. -Pansy Hamilton-Brown

Centreville’s Everlasting Gospel Crusade

    Centreville’s “Everlasting Gospel Crusade For Christ ” has begun. It commenced October 21 and concludes on November 3, 2001. The Evangelist is Dr. Michael D. Toote. Meetings are held nightly except on Thursday and Sabbath. All are invited to come and be blessed.

Youth Ministries

       Exhibition Results

     Yes, another Youth Expo is over and we would like again to extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all persons who contributed, participated and supported the program.

     Congratulations to all churhes that participated. Placement of churches is as follows: 1st Johnson Park (152 points); 2nd Hillview (114 points); 3rd Grant’s Town (105); 4th Francophone (101); 5th Centreville (69); and 6th New Englerston (01 point)

**Start trying on the tux and fitting those shoes because The Youth Awards Banquet is coming, December 20th, 2001. Stay tuned for more details.

**Young people are especially invited to attend “Youth Forum” at the Grant’s Town Church on Friday nights from 7 to 8:30.

**The Masterguides’ Club monthly meeting will be held on Sunday, November 4 at 4:00 p.m. at the Hillview Church.

Veteran Masterguide Pastor Hugh A. Roach, Ph.D., will be the speaker. Election for the various sub-committees will be held. Persons who are running for office must be financial. All members and other veteran Masterguides are asked to attend. **December 1, 2001, will be the grand investiture of Masterguides, Pathfinders and Adventurers for the Southwest Federation. The investure will take place at the Berea S.D.A. Church during the divine service. That afternoon, there will be a grand display and presentation by the illustrious Pathfinder Band and the newly invested persons. You are all invited to this day of celebration.

SDA Burial Society to Meet

 The regular meeting of the SDA Burial Society will be held Monday, November 5, at 7 p.m. at the Grant’s Town Church. Four death have been report. Memberships are available for persons interested.

S.A.F.E. Seminar

     The next Sexual Abstinence Seminar is coming up on the weekend of December 8, 2001. Parents and youth leaders, be sure that your youth participate as we seek to impart godly values to participants. Adventist Tourism Ministry

    We are in need of Adventists who are able to share their homes and time with visiting Adventists coming from America or Europe. Adventists are e-mailing Bahamas Internet Ministries from around the world indicating that they would like to experience an Adventist Bahamian vacation. If you are willing to provide bed and breakfast (for a fee) and Adventist fellowship for our visiting brothers and sisters, then call Barrington Brennen at 361 6355. A couple will be visiting from Washington December 21 - 27, 2001, and are interested in such an experience.

Bahamas Conference to host Annual Bible Conference November 16 to 18, 2001

     This year will be a first for our annual Bible Conference as we welcome home Dr. Martin Hanna to be our guest speaker. Dr. Hanna is the son of retired pastor Royden Hanna and retired teacher Madeline Hanna.

     Seminar topics to be covered are: Master Plan Revealed: Cracking the Code, Master Minds Under Cover: Secret Agents in Action, Sword master: How to Handle a Two Edged Sword and Mastering Labour Pains: Knowing When To Push. All are encouraged to pray and plan to be a part of this journey into the Bible.

 

Focus On The Family

    Tune in every 2nd and 4th Sabbath morning to Family Focus with Pastor L. A. Johnson on ZNS 2 1240 at 6 o’clock.Children’s Ministries

      There will be a very important meeting for all Children’s Ministries Leaders on Sunday, November 4, at 5 p.m. at the Hillview Church.

Children’s Ministries Upcoming Events

November 10       Conference’s Children’s Bible Bowl.

December 1         Conference’s Children’s Day Musical

December 2         Conference’s Children’s Banquet.

December 8 to 9, 2001, West Indies Union Children’s Bible Bowl, Mandeville, Jamaica. -

                                                    R. Smith, CM Director                                    Congratulations

    Congratulations to Pastor and Mrs. Wilfred Adderley on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary.

Congratulations

    Happy birthday wishes are extended to Sis Floy Louise Wood Rollins on the occasion of her 95th birthday on October 25.

Bahamas Academy Secondary

PTA to Meet

    The Parent/Teacher Association of the Bahamas Academy Secondary school will hold its regular meeting on Monday, November 6, 2001, at 7 p.m. at the Gym. A guest presenter will speak on the topic “Recognizing Learning Difficulties in Children.” Parents and guardians are urged to attend and get the facts. - Lynn C. Smith, Vice-principal BAS

INGATHERING CONTINUES

 GO FOR THE GOAL!

Eleuthera SDA Association to Meet

     Members of the Eleuthera SDA Association are reminded of their appointment tomorrow, Sunday, November 4, at 5 p.m. at the home of Mrs. Cutel Symmonett.

Centreville Says Thank You

      The Centreville Pathfinder Club say special thanks to all who attended and supported their Pathfinder Day and Investiture Service. A big “Thank You” goes to Brothers Rohan Creighton, Barry Saunders, Ray Jennings, Louis Cleare, Lester Stuart and Kirk Price and the Pathfinder Band. God Bless!

Sun Sets today at 5:29 p.m.

Sun Sets next Sabbath at 5:24 p.m.

 

Download The Logos at   www.bahamasconference.org