A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA Church Communication Department June 2012
Issue #10
Gregory Park Church ‘Armed’ and in Crusade Mode
Personal Ministries Leader, Clive Ebanks, presents Friday evening’s Message during the three night ‘Armed for the Conflict’ Revival Series
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he Gregory Park Church switched into crusade mode and ‘armed’ for a spiritual battle. From June 17-June 22, the Church experienced a three night Revival series, under the banner ‘Armed for the Conflict’ – as a precursor to the ‘Empowering the Family Bible Series.’ The Revival opened on Sunday night, June 17 with Elder Wayne Harrison delivering a message he captioned ‘Spiritual Warfare; Are you Prepared?’ Elder Harrison charged members regarding preparation for the great conflict between the powers of darkness and righteousness. He placed the congregation on alert in anticipation of the Crusade, that we are preparing to take back all that the devil has stolen from us. The young elder with the big passion for Christ encouraged the brethren to be ready to take back our joy, our families, our friends, and to impact and be witnesses to this community. He further charged the brethren to be revived, lively, alert and ready to take on the conquest, but most importantly to be armed with God’s weaponry. Elder Harrison spoke to six key areas of preparation for spiritual warfare citing texts from Isaiah 54:17 Ephesians 6:10-18 and II Timothy 2:3-4. The second night’s presentation was delivered by First Elder, Cavan Davis. The ex-
perienced elder who is no stranger to proclaiming the Word of the Lord, expounded on the topic “The battle is the Lord’s.” Elder Davis closed with the hymn Sound the Battle Cry, citing the words: Rouse, then, soldiers, rally round the banner, Ready, steady, pass the word along; Onward, forward, shout aloud, “Hosanna!” Christ is Captain of the mighty throng. This he proclaimed was our call to fight the battle against sin, with the Lord as our Leader and Protection. The third and final presentation was made by Personal Ministries Leader Clive Ebanks. Bro. Ebanks titled his message ‘Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty, Victory at last.’ Bro. Ebanks declared that “victory over sin and the world is only through our faith in God who is the same yesterday, today and forever.” He went on to say that victory of the saints was from the foundation of the world, sealed by Christ’s resurrection, it is just for us to claim it! During the month of June, the Church also stepped up its witnessing activities with the distribution of tracts, literature and church/crusade invitations in addition to a series of AY and Sunday night street meetings in the communities of Lesser Portmore, Watson Grove, Christian Gardens and Christian Pen. The ‘Armed for the Conflict’ series was a lead up to the highly anticipated ‘Empowering the Family Bible Series’ Church Crusade with Evangelist Hopeton Moving. The four week Crusade will run from July 1-July 28, at the Gregory Park SDA Church. Damian Wilson, Communication Director
During the month of June, the Church also stepped up its witnessing activities with the distribution of tracts, literature and church/crusade invitations in addition to a series of AY and Sunday night street meetings in the communities of Lesser Portmore, Watson Grove, Christian Gardens and Christian Pen
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This Issue
From the Pastor Adventist Resources The Light
Scenes from the Quarter
Adventist Medical School Opens in Nigeria
Prophecy Corner
Health as a Lifestyle
Sports and Christianity
Where are they Now? Publications
Father’s Day
Teach Weekend Singles’ Convention
Youth Retreat
Church Crusade
Calendar of Events
Quick fact about the Adventist Church There are some 270,000 Adventists worshipping at more than 650 churches in Jamaica. Church officials estimate that about one in every eleven people in Jamaica is an Adventist.
Source: Nigel Coke/ANN
Editorial
Michca-Mae Bonner
Tashawna Harrison
Committee
Marjorie Stone
Fiona Dyer Wilson
Wayne Harrison Damian Wilson
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Below are links to important information and resources related to the Seventh-day Adventist Church
O
Blondel CAMPBELL Pastor, Gregory Park Circuit of Churches
nce again, the members of the Gregory Park SDA Church have demonstrated that the Church is alive and vibrant as we ended the second quarter with a range of programs that have greatly motivated us in our walk with our Saviour. I must express commendation to every member, especially Department Leaders and Elders for their untiring work to ensure the success of the following programs: Women Ministry Day, Men’s Day, Deacons’ and Deaconesses’ Day, Teach Weekend and Couples’ morning out. The experiences of these special days were enriching and have left an indelible imprint in our memory. Matthew 24:14 reminds us: This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. It is with this in mind that we look ahead to our upcoming crusade, slated for July 1, 2012. Our Bible workers have been out in the field, every member has done their part to influence a soul for the kingdom. As such we are looking forward to a time of rejoicing as we bring in the sheaves of souls ready for the kingdom and the sowing of the gospel seed in the hearts of men, women, boys and girls. I encourage us all that in spite of the vicissitudes of this present life let us continue to be faithful stewards of the gospel and live a life of love that will lift up Jesus. God bless you.
▌The Single Adventist is the best free dating website created by Adventists - http://thesingleadventist.com/ ▌A new Seventh-day Adventist world church initiative titled “Revived by His Word,” aimed at strengthening the spiritual experience of each church member http://revivedbyhisword.org/ ▌Churchpond is a network and website which streams live and pre-recorded Seventh-day Adventist programming 24 hours a day, seven days a week http://churchpond.com/ ▌ enditnow is a global campaign to raise awareness and advocate for the end of violence against women and girls around the world - http://www.enditnow.org/ ▌The Official Website of the NCU Media Group which include NCU Radio and NCU TV http://ncumediagroup.com/
If you haven’t received last quarter’s issue of The Light via email, email us at the address below. If you are interested in submitting material to THE LIGHT for publication, you may see any member of the editorial committee or indicate via email. Please send your comments, opinions or feedback to:
communications.gpsda@gmail.com
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(left) Pastor Derrick Bignal offers the closing prayer on Education Day, April 28, 2012. Standing beside Pastor Bignal is his wife and Divine Hour speaker for Education Day, Yvonne Bignal. Sis Bignal is the Vice President for Student Relations at Northern Caribbean University. (right) Elder Janet Able-Simpson offers special prayer for students sitting external and final exams ◄Members of the AY Council along with some additional hands huddle together after their Labour Day project where they helped to paint the Christian Gardens Basic School on May 23, 2012 Dr. Newton Cleghorn, Dean of the School of Religion and Theology, Northern Caribbean University, delivers the divine hour message on Men’s Day, June 2, 2012 ▼
▲ Personal Ministries Leader Clive Ebanks offers a tract and invitation card to a resident of the Gregory Park Community during a walk through the area, Sabbath June 2, 2012.
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The Couples of Gregory Park Church enjoy an early morning outing at the Hope Gardens, with breakfast and games, May 27, 2012
(above)▲ Members of the Youth Choir sing the song of Meditation, “He Will Not Let you Fall” during the Armed for the Conflict Revival, Wednesday June 20, 2012 (top right) Elder Sharonmae Shirley, First Elder of Tredegar Park SDA is all smiles as she prepares to take the podium and deliver the Divine Hour Message on Women’s Day, June 9, 2012 (bottom right)► Sis Sophia Robinson and Sis Tarsha Blackwood-Davis participate in the footwashing ahead of the Communion Service, Sabbath June 16, 2012
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FATHER’S DAY is a day honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Many countries, including Jamaica, celebrated Father’s Day on June 17. In acknowledging and celebrating fathers, The Light asked some of the fathers at Gregory Park Church.
“WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A FATHER IN A CHRISTIAN HOME?”
Damion Brown with his little girl Alsunea Proud father Barrington Carter with son Myles
In a Christian household, the husband is the priest. He is supposed to lead the family in worship and obedience to God. He is the chief bread-winner/provider for the family. He is also the protector of the family and is to ensure that his family is secure.
Kerlew Francis with son Kamali and daughter Kaliyah As a Christian father, I must provide and live a Godly life so that my children can see Jesus in me and want to serve Him too.
The role of the father in a Christian home is to provide spiritual direction and leadership by instructing his family to obey the will of God and provide the living example which will make it easier for them to know and understand God.
Mboya Gordon with sons Daniel (left) and Michael (right)
The role of a father is to provide emotional, spiritual and financial leadership for the family and to be a good role model and true representative of Christ in the home.
The Davis’ - Urian, Jean-Mark, Zachary and father, Cavan Davis The husband and father in the home is the head and priest of the household. The wife looks to him for love and sympathy and for aid in the training of the children. Children look to their father for support and guidance.
Terence McLaughlin with his father Royston McLaughlin The Bible says 'the father is the head of the family' and as such he is expected to guide the family spiritually and socially. A father in a Christian home should also provide for the family and set a good example for his children
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he name Cleston Hamilton elicits warm smiles from many members of the Gregory Park SDA Church. He and his family served the Lord and the church so faithfully that members who knew them readily recall fond memories of their ministry and service to the church. The converse is also true; the name Gregory Park SDA elicits an equally warm response from Bro. Hamilton who fondly remembers July 13, 1980 as that memorable day when he became a baptized member of the Gregory Park Church. He and his family became such dedicated workers for God that there was hardly a member at that time who was not touched in one way or another by their influence. Some of the church offices Brother Hamilton held included First Elder on two separate occasions; Lay Activities leader now known as Personal Ministries Director; Family Life Director; Health and Temperance leader and Sabbath School teacher. He remembers well that while he was a Sabbath School teacher, Elder Cavan Davis, the current First Elder, first sat in his Sabbath School class. He is particularly pleased at how well Elder Davis has blossomed into a stalwart for the Lord. Brother Hamilton’s wife and daughters stood by him in ministry and are fondly remembered for their beautiful singing. Sister Hamilton and Sister
local church, Bro. Hamilton was a colporteur for over 25 years. In 2004 he was adjudged the champion colporteur for Central Jamaica Conference and West Indies Union! He was an electrician par excellence and is responsible for the electrical wiring of the current church building and the installation of the chandeliers which so beautifully grace the edifice. Brother Hamilton and his family relocated to Rosewell, Clarendon and he transferred his membership about 2001. In 2008 he migrated to the Cayman Islands where he is now a member of the Maranatha SDA Church and currently an Elder, Sabbath School Superintendent; Bible Instructor for Bible Class and Health Ministries director for two consecutive years. He also occasionally does Bible Work . Although Bro. Hamilton is in another part of the vineyard, he continues his work in service for the Lord. He admonishes us to, “keep up the good work. Continue to work for the Lord and do what you can to finish the work”. He sends special greetings to the Gregory Park Church family and still maintains Elder Cleston Hamilton contact where possible with some memFerguson were known for their awesome bers. duet and his daughters though very young at the time sang in a trio with Sis. Jeudeen Chambers. In addition to his work in the - Marjorie Stone
Publications
of the
Quarter
In keeping with family and child month this quarter, our recommendation for must read publications are as follows: Child Guidance covers the essentials of parenting, with chapters on specific building blocks of character, such as purity, cheerfulness, self-control, reverence, respect, honesty, cleanliness, and courtesy. It includes guidance on how to teach self-denial, how to mould the will, reinforce good habits, evoke penitence without resentment, and conduct effective family worships. Have you ever wondered how you can get insights on the secrets of good parenting? As a parent, you try to show your child so many things. But what will shape their characters most? What will they look back on most fondly when they grow up? What will count the most? What can you do that will really stick with your child? What My Parents Did Right by Mark Finley and Steven Mosley, answers these questions. Drawing from the testimonies of several young adults, the authors reveal time-tested methods for teaching children right from wrong, making children feel loved, transmitting a positive attitude about God and faith, and more.
Prophecy
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hy are Bible prophecies shrouded in symbols? In Luke 8:10 Jesus said, "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, ‘that seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not understand”. Many of the end time prophecies were given while the prophets were in a hostile foreign land. One reason God hid the prophecies in symbols was to protect the messages. Here we look at some of the symbols used and where they are found in the bible. This quarter, study these symbols and the reference to gain the keys to unlocking the prophecies, especially those in Daniel and Revelation. Next quarter we will use these symbols to unlock the prophecies recorded in the Book of Daniel.
Animals or parts thereof Horse
Strength and Power in Battle
Job 39:19, Psalms 147:10, Proverbs 21:31
Dragon
Satan or his agency
Isaiah 27:1;30:6, Psalm 74:13-14; Rev. 12:7-9; Ezekiel 29:3; Jeremiah 51:34
Beast
Kingdom / government / political power
Daniel 7:17, 23
Lamb
Jesus / sacrifice
John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:7
Lion
Jesus/Powerful King i.e. Babylon
Rev. 5:4-9, Jer. 50:43-44, Dan. 7:4,17,23
Bear
Destructive Power / Medo Persia
Proverbs 28:15, 2 Kings 2:23-24, Daniel 7:5
Leopard
Greece
Daniel 7:6
Serpent
Satan
Revelation 12:9; 20:2
Tongue
Language / Speech
Exodus 4:10
Wolf
Disguised Enemies that hunt in a time of darkness
Matthew 7:15
Dove
Holy Spirit
Mark 1:10
Ram
Medo Persia
Daniel 8:20
Goat
Greece
Daniel 8:21
Horn
King or kingdom
Daniel 7:24; 8:5, 21, 22; Zechariah 1:18, 19; Revelation 17:12
Wings
Speed / Protection / Deliverance
Deuteronomy 28:49, Matthew 23:37
People and body parts Woman, Pure
True Church
Jeremiah 6:2; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:23-27
Woman, Corrupt
Apostate church
Ezk. 16:15-58; 23:2-21; Hos. 2:5; 3:1; Rev. 14:4
Thief
Suddenness of Jesus' coming
1 Thessalonians 5:2-4; 2 Peter 3:10
Hand
Deeds / Works
Ecclesiastes 9:10, Isaiah 59:6
Forehead
Mind
Deuteronomy 6:6-8, Romans 7:25; Ezekiel 3:8, 9
Forehead
Your Walk / Direction
Genesis 19:2, Psalm 119:105
Eyes
Spiritual Discernment
Matthew 13:10-17, 1 John 2:11
Skin
Christ's righteousness
Exodus 12:5, 1 Peter 1:19, Isaiah 1:4-6
Harlot
Apostate church / religion
Isaiah 1:21-27; Jeremiah 3:1-3; 6-9
Heads
Major powers / rulers / governments
Revelation 17:3, 9, 10
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Adventist Medical School opens in Nigeria
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■ School named in honor of world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson
hen chancellor Gilbert Wari pronounced the words of inauguration on Friday, June 1, 2012, Babcock University [BU] in Nigeria became the fourth Seventh-day Adventist medical school worldwide, and the first on the African continent. Some 500 attendees witnessed the establishment of BU’s eighth academic unit, the school of medicine named in honor of world-renowned neurosurgeon Benjamin S. Carson, Sr. Representing the Adventist Church’s world president Ted N. C. Wilson and the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists were general vice president Benjamin Schoun, along with his counterpart Delbert Baker and world education director Lisa Beardsley-Hardy. Several members of BU’s governing council, including Chair and Prochancellor Oyeleke Owolabi, and Vice Chair Bassey Udoh, represented the West Central Africa Division, BU’s home division. Vice Chancellor Makinde introduced and welcomed George and Dorothy Bolleteri, President and CEO of Medical Bridges, a Houston, Texas, based organization that was responsible for assisting BU with obtaining 80 percent of the medical equipment available for the
school cine.
of
medi. Babcock University is a private Christian coeducational Nigerian university owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Nigeria. The university is located equidistant between Ibadan and Lagos. The university was established as the Adventist College of West Africa (ACWA) in 1959, initially with 7 students. In 1975, it changed its name to Adventist Seminary of West Africa (ASWA). The university was officially inaugurated on April 20, 1999.
LAEL CAESAR, Adventist Review
Prophecy Corner...continued from previous page Other Symbols Lamp
Word of God
Psalm 119:105
Oil
Holy Spirit
Zechariah 4:2-6; Revelation 4:5
Sword
Word of God
Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12
Bread
Word of God
John 6:35, 51, 52, 63
Angel
Messenger
Daniel 8:16; 9:21; Luke 1:19, 26; Hebrews 1:14
Babylon
Apostasy / confusion / rebellion
Gen. 10:8-10; 11:6-9; Rev. 18:2, 3; 17:1-5
Mark
Sign or seal of approval or disapproval
Ezekiel 9:4; Romans 4:11; Revelation 13:17; 14:9-11; 7:2, 3
Seal
Sign or mark of approval or disapproval
Romans 4:11; Revelation 7:2, 3
White Robes
Victory/righteousness
Revelation 19:8; 3:5; 7:14
Time
360 Day
Daniel 4:16, 23, 25, 32; 7:25; Daniel 11:13
Times
720 Days
Daniel 7:25, Revelation 12:6,14, 13:5
Day
Literal year
Ezekiel 4:6; Numbers 14:34
Trumpet
Loud warning of God's approach
Exodus 19:16-17, Joshua 6:4-5
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. - 2 Timothy 2:15 - Compiled by Elder Wayne Harrison
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Teach Weekend REVERENCE my Sanctuary
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he words ‘Reverence my Sanctuary’ is emblazoned over the altar of many Adventist Churches across the world including the Gregory Park SDA Church. It is a clear acknowledgement of the importance of reverence, to worship. The second in the quarterly ‘Teach Weekend’ series was held from May 18-20, 2012 – this time focusing on ‘Reverence.’ Pastor Blondel Campbell took the responsibility for speaking to his congregation about the importance of reverence inside as well as outside the sanctuary. Though the turnout for Friday evening’s presentation was small, the message was no less impactful. The theme was ‘Heart of Worship: Journey into His presence.’ Quoting Joe Horness, worship was defined as the natural, heartfelt, genuine, emotional response to the character, the works, and the grace of God! or ‘active response to God whereby we declare His worth (Allen and Borror, p. 16)’ Pastor Campbell stated that it was only through recognition of the importance and value of worship that we can come to a place of true and authentic reverence for God and His Sanctuary. For Sabbath’s divine hour presentation, the leader of the flock spoke squarely on the topic of Reverence. He declared that reverence is seeing God as high and lifted up - Holy, omnipotent and infinite. And seeing ourselves for what we are. Pastor Campbell opined that titles such as ‘Reverend’ as used by some Christian leaders or ‘His Worship’ assigned to Mayors, are titles that should be shunned by sinful human beings. Instead these should be reserved for a sinless Saviour and Christ. The series continued with a Bible Class presentation and closed with Sunday night’s presentation. The Sunday Night presentation was conducted by Elder Edward Chambers. Elder Chambers led the congregation to contemplate and discuss very sobering statements on Reverence taken mainly from Messages to Young People by EG White, one of which reads: ‘I am sorry to see that many…who profess religion do not have a knowledge of a change of heart. There is no transformation of character. They do not realize that it is a solemn thing to profess to be a Christian (p. 267) One by one, thought provoking statements such as these were presented. We were reminded of the great danger in being indifferent to religion and that we should train our minds to focus on the eternal and avoid the frivolous. The parallel drawn between meeting with earthly dignitaries and meeting with the God of the Universe made it clear that special preparation and care as to one’s conduct in the House of the Lord are appropriate and necessary. As such parents should teach their children how to behave in the House of the Lord and to practice being reverent themselves as irreverence sets a poor example for others. . Finally, we were admonished to hold steadfast to eternal things and our relationship with God for the closer our relationship with God, the more we will see our need for humility in His presence. - Damian Wilson
Pastor Blondel Campbell during his Friday evening presentation of Teach Weekend, May 18, 2012
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Health as a Lifestyle
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o single food can reduce your risk of cancer, but the right combination of foods may help make a difference. At mealtimes, strike a balance of at least two-thirds plant-based foods and no more than one-third animal protein. This is an important cancer fighting tool, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research. Check out better and worse choices for your plate. Fighting Cancer with Colour
More Folate-Rich Food
with salt raises your exposure to agents that can potentially cause cancer. Cancer Fighting tomatoes
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.
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Fruits and vegetables are rich in cancer-fighting nutrients -- and the more color, the more nutrients they contain. These foods can help lower your risk in a second way, too, when they help you reach and maintain a healthy body weight. Carrying extra pounds increases the risk for multiple cancers, including colon, esophagus, and kidney cancers. Aim for at least five servings a day, prepared in a healthy way. The Cancer-Fighting Breakfast
Folate is an important B vitamin that may help protect against cancers of the colon, rectum, and breast. You can find it in abundance on the breakfast table. Fortified breakfast cereals and whole wheat products are good sources of folate. So are orange juice, melons, and strawberries.
Other good sources of folate are asparagus and eggs. You can also find it in chicken liver, beans, sunflower seeds, and leafy green vegetables like spinach or romaine lettuce. According to the American Cancer Society, the best way to get folate is not from a pill, but by eating enough fruits, vegetables, and enriched grain products.
Whether it's the lycopene -- the pigment that gives tomatoes their red color -- or something else isn't clear. But some studies have linked eating tomatoes to reduced risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Studies also suggest that processed tomato products such as juice, sauce, or paste increase the cancer-fighting potential. Tea’s Anticancer-potential
.
Pass up the deli-counter
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An occasional sandwich or hot dog probably isn't going to hurt you. But cutting back on processed meats like hot dogs and turkey-slices may help lower your risk of colorectal and stomach cancers. Also, eating meats that have been preserved by smoking or
Even though the evidence is still spotty, tea, especially green tea, may be a strong cancer fighter. In laboratory studies, green tea has slowed or prevented the development of cancer in colon, liver, breast, and prostate cells. It also had a similar effect in lung tissue and skin. And in some longer term studies, tea was associated with lower risks for bladder, Continued on next page...
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stomach, and pancreatic cancers.
stay in contact with the bladder lining.
Grapes and cancer
The Mighty Bean
Curcumin is the main ingredient in the Indian spice turmeric (which is used to make curry) and a potential cancer fighter. Lab studies show it can suppress the transformation, proliferation, and invasion of cancerous cells for a wide array of cancers . Cooking Methods Matter
Grapes and grape juice, especially purple and red grapes, contain resveratrol. Resveratrol has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In laboratory studies, it has prevented the kind of damage that can trigger the cancer process in cells. There is not enough evidence to say that eating grapes or drinking grape juice or wine can prevent or treat cancer.
Beans are so good for you, it's no surprise they may help fight cancer, too. They contain several potent phytochemicals that may protect the body's cells against damage that can lead to cancer. In the lab these substances slowed tumor growth and prevented How you cook meat can make a differtumors from releasing substances that ence in how big a cancer risk it poses. Frying, grilling, and broiling meats at damage nearby cells. very high temperatures causes chemicals to form that may increase cancer The Cabbage Family vs. Cancer . risk. Other cooking methods such as stewing, braising, or steaming appear Eliminate Alcohol to lower cancer to produce fewer of those chemicals. risk And when you do stew the meat, reCancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, member to add plenty of healthy, proesophagus, liver, and breast are all tective vegetables. linked with drinking alcohol. Alcohol may also raise the risk for cancer of Pass on the sugar the colon and rectum. Even two drinks for men and one for women elevates the risk. Water and other fluids can protect . Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, bok choy, and kale. These members of the cabbage family make an excellent stir fry and can really liven up a salad. But most importantly, components in these vegetables may help your body defend against cancers such as colon, breast, lung, and cervix. Sugar may not cause cancer directly. But it may displace other nutrient-rich Dark Green Leafy Vegetables . foods that help protect against cancer. Dark green leafy vegetables such as And it increases calorie counts, which Water not only quenches your thirst, mustard greens, lettuce, kale, chicory, contributes to overweight and obesity. but it may protect you against bladder spinach, and chard have an abun- Excess weight can be a cancer risk. cancer. The lower risk comes from wa- dance of fiber, folate, and carotenoids. Fruit offers a sweet alternative in a viter diluting concentrations of potential These nutrients may help protect tamin-rich package. cancer-causing agents in the bladder. against cancer of the mouth, larynx, Also, drinking more fluids causes you pancreas, lung, skin, and stomach. Source: WebMD to urinate more frequently. That less- Protection from an Exotic Spice Reviewed by Andrew Seibert, MD September 9, 2011 ens the amount of time those agents
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his year the quadrennial event, the summer Olympics, will be staged in London from July 21- August 12. For Seventh-day Adventists, as we draw near to this event the question for contemplation - does competitive sports and athletics have a place in the life of the Christian? Questions such as these urge the Adventist Christian believer to find balance in our answer and to always rest on the side that whatever we do, it should be done to bring glory and honour to God and never to self. How then should the Adventist Christian treat or view participation and in a broader sense the celebration of competitive sports at any level: school or community or even as spectacular as the world stage such as the Olympics? The apostle Paul made references to athletic competition in 1 Corinthians 9:24, 25 and Hebrews 12:1 and draws on the prowess of the athletes in his day to urge the Christian believers into thoughts of spiritual endurance. Likewise as Adventists we can appreciate and celebrate athletic talent, skill and success in others. However we must always recognize and acknowledge that it is God who gives these talents to compete at an extraordinary level. Therefore we should not glory in the athletes themselves and the competition so much so that we make them into idols and be absorbed by the personalities. Even in the pursuit of patriotism and national pride, we must be mindful of the levels to which we become engrossed in the celebration of success. Even in our love and appreciation for athletic display, let us not rob God of absolute time and devotion as many of these events are held on Sabbaths and distract us from our spiritual commitment. The Adventist Church’s official statement on competition serves as the
guideline “to individual members, churches, conferences, as it relates to our involvement in sporting events that lead us in high level of rivalry and competition.” The church holds the position that “In any church or school situation involving organized physical activities, the results can be beneficial if the following ideals prevail: cooperativeness, helpfulness, selflessness, a cordial spirit, playing for enjoyment rather than only to win, and observing the rules in spirit and not merely in letter.” Ellen White states, “Recreation, when true to its name, tends to strengthen and build up” (Ed 207). It will not foster selfishness, rivalry, hostility, strife, love of dominance, love of pleasure, or unwholesome excitement. Cleary the church’s statements in tandem with the Spirit of Prophecy wholly support each member consistently involved in recreational activities that engender physical exercise which aids the total development of all the faculties (spiritual, mental, physical, social and emotional). In other words, recreation or physical activity that brings honour to God will have at least three key objectives: (1) developing the character to include self-discipline, selfreliance, emotional control, respect for the rights of others, and moral and ethical conduct based on Christian ideals; (2) provide proper physical experiences and recognition of achievement that will contribute to self-discovery, emotional stability, and cooperative social relationships and (3) develop the spiritual qualities and social traits that make up a good citizen with Christian morals and ethics to guide in human relationships. Is there any avenue that lends itself to Seventh-day Adventists participating in competitive sporting activities such as school, competitive sporting leagues, etc?
As it relates to these specific situations there is clear stance for Seventh-day Adventists. We are guided to minimize and avoid engagement in activities that foster rivalry and encourage a competitive spirit. Specific situations such as those mentioned above would be classified as highly competitive and lead to the development of rivalries. Why this stance? In the pursuit of a healthy body and mind The Servant of Lord writes . . . God's plan of life has a place for every human being. Each is to improve his talents to the utmost; and faithfulness in doing this, be the gifts few or many, entitles one to honour. In God's plan there is no place for selfish rivalry" (Ed 225, 226). Hence through divine and direct inspiration, God wants to lead his people to wholesome recreational and physical activities that lead us to find fellowship and give glory to God. In a society that thrives on competition and rivalry we must make every attempt to inculcate within our children, warnings of engaging in highly competitive activities. As the Apostle alluded to in scripture, we are all spiritual athletes in the Christian race and as such we should allow God to direct our motives in our pursuit of athletic activities whether we participate or simply enjoy and celebrate the talents of others. In having a balanced approach, we can engage in recreation that may involve teams, as long as we conduct ourselves in a manner that displays brotherly love, seeks to promote development of each believer and is utilized as a means of incorporation of others into the fellowship. These motives will have greater and heavenly results. - Elder Wayne Harrison
T he Li ght
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JULY Evangelism Impact Phase III Mon 2 Pastors’ and Bible Workers’ Meeting – CJC Board Room Wed 4 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Manchester (Christiana Church) Thur 5 2nd Quarter Reports due at CJC Office Sab 7 Day of Prayer and Fasting Sab 7 Vision One Million Rally (P.M.) Mon 9 2nd Quarter Statistical Report due at C.J.C. Office Wed 11 Executive Committee Meeting Sab 14+ World Mission Budget Sab 14* Tell the World: Media Ministry Sab 14 New Members’ Convocation – Clarendon (May Pen Church) Sab 14 Parish Federation Bible Bowl Finals Sab 14 Church Membership Count (All Churches) Tue-Tue 17-24 Summer Camp – Teen (Camp Verley) Sab 21 Communication Day Sab-Sab 21*-28 Consolidation Emphasis: Church History Week Tue-Tue 24-31 Summer Camp – Junior (Camp Verley) Thur 26 Pastors’ Community Outreach – Clarendon Sab 28 Bible Emphasis and Church Heritage Day Conference-wide Tue-Tue 31 -Aug 7 Summer Camp – Senior & Reunion Camp (Camp Verley) AUGUST Wed-Fri 1-31 Abuse Prevention Month Wed-Fri 1-31 Vacation Bible School (All Churches) Wed 1 Emancipation Day Sab 4* Children’s Ministries Emphasis Day Sab 4 Global Mission Evangelism Sab 4 Small Group Ministries Sabbath Sab 4 Day of Prayer for the Nation, Jamaica Union Mon 6 Independence Day Fri-Sun 10-12 Graduation, NCU Sab 11* University Education Promotion Day Sab 18 Abuse Prevention Emphasis Day
Sab 18 Youth Day Sab 18 Church Membership Count (All Churches) Sun 19 Pastors, Elders, and Youth - Sports Day (NCU) Conference-wide Wed 22 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Clarendon (Lionel Town Church) Thur 23 Conference Workers’ Picnic Sab 25 CJC Connect – Manchester Sun 26 Art and Vintage Expo (Mandeville Church) Wed 29 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention Manchester (Mandeville Church)
SEPTEMBER Sab 1 St. Catherine Bible Bowl Finals Sab-Sun 1-30 Lay Evangelism Month Subscription Material & Miss. Magazine Promotion Month Mon 3 Teachers’ Meeting (Willowdene Group of Schools) Sab 8* Family Togetherness Day Sab 8*+ Adventist Mission Emphasis (Offering) Sab-Sab 8-15 Adventist Review (Annual subscription promotion) Sun 9 Leaders’ Council (Camp Verley) Wed 12 Executive Committee Meeting Sab 15 Youth Spiritual Commitment Day Wed 19 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Clarendon (Chapelton Church) Sab 22 Pathfinder Day Sab 22 Special Offering (District Projects) Sab-Sab 22-29 Health & Health Care Emphasis Week Sab 29# Vision One Million Baptismal Day Sab 29 13th Sabbath Offering (Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division) Sab 29 Conference Bible Bowl Finals Sab 29 Book and Nutrition Centre Book Review (During Personal Ministry Time - Conference-wide) *Programme provided by the General Conference or by the InterAmerican Division +Worldwide Offering. Special offerings are included in the systematic plan of the Division # Organized Baptisms are conducted and recognition of those baptized during the quarter