A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA Church Communication Department December 2012
Issue #12
20 Pathfinders Invested in Annual Investiture Service
Assistant Pathfinder Director, Melissa Brown, of the Royal Crown Pathfinder Club presents Dejhanae Madden with her neckerchief (left), as one of the 20 Pathfinders and Adventurers invested on Sunday November 25, 2012.
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h we are the Pathfinders strong, the servants of God are we. Faithful as we march along, in kindness, truth and purity...'. This was the declaration of the over 90 Pathfinders and Adventurers gathered at the Tent City Seventh-day Adventist Church on November 25, 2012 for the Annual Portmore Federation of Adventist Youth (PFAY) Investiture service. Smartly dressed in their uniforms, these young, dedicated, proud boys and girls represent the present and the future of the PFAY; 20 of which were members of Gregory Park's own Royal Crown Pathfinder Club. Other clubs represented were Philadelphia Pathfinder Club from Waterford, Maranatha from Portmore and Golden Gates from Tent City SDA Church. The Investiture Service is a ceremony which signifies that the Pathfinder, Adventurer or Master Guide has successfully completed a prescribed course of study for a particular class and can now move on to another. It involves the pinning of class badges and the presentation of regalia and other awards. The theme for the ceremony was 'Continually Devoted and Inspiring Others.' It began with an inspection of all candi-
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dates, led by the Youth and Children's Ministries Director of the Central Jamaica Conference (CJC), Pastor Howard Grant - who was also the guest speaker - as well as executive members of PFAY. Following the inspection was an awesome drill display led by members of the Golden Gates Pathfinder Club of Tent City SDA. Attendees were wowed by the precision and control of the movements as well as the 'fancy' drill techniques and formations. Next was the processional which included members of the platform party, executive members of PFAY, club instructors and uniformed master guides. The preliminary exercise featured investiture candidates from all churches and a special song from Gregory Park's Melodious Brothers. Their performance left everyone, especially Pastor Grant, in awe, so much so that he had to get up from his seat to greet them personally. Pastor Grant's charge focused on 'the life of Esther the Pathfinder'. Congregants were reminded that as we are on an 'adventure' for Christ, we need to wait to see what God has in store for us. We are to trust God Special year-end 18-page issue
because He is always there, always be loyal to Him and celebrate what He has done for us. . This was followed by the moment everyone was waiting for, the presentation of classes and pinning of candidates. The ceremony was called to order by Area Coordinator, Shernett Gooden, Following which the Grand Marshall, presented the number of candidates and the Marshalls/ Master Guides who would introduce them to the Youth Director. As each class was presented, the candidates made their way to the front of the church as their names were called. Next was the official pinning and presentation of regalia, done by invested master Guides. The order of classes were as follows: Eager Beaver, Busy Bee, Builder, Helping Hands, Friend, Companion, Explorer, Ranger, Companion, Voyager and Guide. (continued on page 3)
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■ Connecticut Shooting 4 3 ■ Song Competition
From the Pastor
5
Christmas & Christians
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■ Congratulations ■ Year of the Laity
Scenes from the Quarter
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Youth take over November
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■ The Light ■ Adventist Resources
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■ Women’s Ministry ■ Publications
12-13
14 Prophecy Corner
15 Health as a Lifestyle
16-17
6-7
18 Calendar of Events
Conversation with the President News
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Wilson offers message of condolence for Connecticut shooting victims, community
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eventh-day Adventist Church President Ted N. C. Wilson, offered a message of condolence following the mass shooting at the Sandy Hook elementary school in Newton, Connecticut, United States. A 20-year-old man shot to death 20 children, ages 6 and 7, and six adults before taking his own life. "The tragic killing of young children and others in Connecticut fills us with great sympathy and enormous sadness,” Wilson said from Germany, where he was attending a youth meeting. “On behalf of the world family of Seventhday Adventists, we share our profound sympathy and condolences with the families who suffer such terrible loss,” he said. “We are praying for the parents, students, teachers, and the rest of the affected community.”
State police personnel lead children from the school in Newtown, Connecticut
Adventist News Network, Dec. 15, 2012
20 Pathfinders Invested (cont’d from page 1)
Following the pinning, was the presentation of special awards, according to Church. From Gregory Park, Alayne Carty was voted as Eager Beaver of the year, Matthew Reid - Adventurer of the year and Abigail White - Pathfinder of the year. To bring the ceremony to a close, Pastor Grant gave the declaration of investment, that all candidates presented were now duly invested in their respective classes. -Melissa Brown, Assistant Pathfinder Director
List of invested Pathfinders Eager Beaver
Sun Beam
Alayne Carty Jahmaya James Myles Carter
Matthew Reid Ryheem Brissett
Helping Hand
Friend
Anika Treasure
Dejhanae Madden Jo-Ellen Green
Companion Gavin Fearon Ranger
Guide
Abigail White Adrian Hutchinson Fabian Latouche Reneisha Brissett Shavoy Maye Zachary Davis Daniel Gordon
Francine Green Jean-Mark Davis Michael Gordon Sabrina Roper
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Blondel CAMPBELL Pastor, Gregory Park Circuit of Churches
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ell we are in the final quarter for the year 2012 – a time to reflect on the goodness of God throughout the year and to express appreciation to all our members for their service of love to God. As such I extend sincere gratitude to all heads of departments and their teams for the various programmes that were planned, coordinated and implemented in the execution of their special days for this quarter and the year. The Church has been blessed by these inspiring programmes and has witnessed an increase in membership due to the efforts of all. I must make special mention of our young people and the AY Department for their ministry during the month of November which was Youth Month. We are grateful for the ministry of our young people and pray that they will continue to allow the Lord to use them. Not to be overlooked is our Children’s Department. We were shown that our children who are entrusted in our care are special and they too have a part to play in advancing the Kingdom of God. Well done to the leaders and their teams for ensuring that our children remain on the right path. November was indeed an exciting time for the youths. On Sunday, November 25, 2012 we shared in the investiture service for 20 Pathfinders and Adventurers. I encourage the Church to continue to support and pray for them to remain faithful and obedient to our Lord. The Stewardship Department did a marvelous job of reminding us of the importance of being excellent stewards of all God has entrusted in our care. Thanks to Pastor Howard Grant, keynote speaker for our International Stew-
ardship Day on December 8, 2012, for the inspiring message that was given. As a family we extend hearty congratulations to the Bro and Sis Wilson on the birth of their baby boy, Bryce Wilson on October 19, 2012 and shared their joy when he was dedicated to the Lord on December 8, 2012. Let us continue to pray for and support the family. We were saddened at the departure of Sis. Pearnell Treasure who migrated to the United States of America and pray that she will continue in her service to God. We also bid Sis. Michelle Roper-Carty God speed as she leaves on a work-related trip. As part of a global family we extend our condolence to the families and children affected by the horrible tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut on December 14, 2012 in which 26 lives including 20 children were tragically cut short. Indeed our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are affected by this tragedy. We have successfully completed our election of officers for the year 2013 and commend all those who have accepted the call to serve. I encourage them to give of their best to the Master in their service to the Church. As we come to the end of 2012, I express sincere thanks and appreciation to all our officers who served us well during the year. I also take this opportunity to encourage all our members to use the New Year to recommit your lives and hearts to the Lord in faithful love and obedience and to give of their best in witnessing to others as the second advent of our Saviour looms nearer than before. Have a happy and safe holiday.
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Angel Manuel Rodríguez, Associate Director of the Biblical Research Institute of the General Conference Angel Manuel Rodríguez, addresses issues of Adventism and Christmas including the Church’s position on Christmas and whether it’s appropriate for Adventists to celebrate Christmas
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dventists are not, nor should we be, against Christmas. Why would we be against a period of time when Christians remember the birth of our Savior? However, since this festivity is not ordained by Scripture, we don’t consider it to be binding on believers. We recognize only one holy day, the Sabbath; and we keep it holy in obedience to our Creator and Redeemer. Christmas and History: It is well known that the term “Christmas” is derived from the old English word “Christmesse,” which means “Christ’s Mass.” The term originated during the Middle Ages from the practice of having a midnight Mass on the eve of December 25 to celebrate the birth of Christ. In other languages it is called “Nativity” (Latin, natalis) or “Holy Nights” (German, Weihnachten). The history of this Christian feast remains unclear. Historians have indicated that the nativity feast began to be observed by Christians during the fourth century. But the most common explanation is that Christmas is somehow connected with the Roman cult of the Invincible Sun (Latin, Sol Invictus), the rebirth of the sun, which was celebrated on December 25. This could explain the importance of lights during the celebration of the Nativity, although “light” is also associated with Christ in the Scriptures (e.g., Luke 1:78, 79). It is therefore common to hear it alleged that Christians adopted and adapted a pagan feast. This is possible, but it’s difficult to demonstrate from available historical evidence. Christmas and the Believer: We should acknowledge two facts: First, we do not know why God, in His providence, chose not to preserve for us a record of the day of Jesus’ birth. There is no need to speculate about this. Second, the fact is that the Christian world celebrates the birth of Jesus on December 25. We cannot change this, and there is no reason to try to change it. Attempts to reject the feast are based on the absence of biblical evidence and its possible connection with a pagan feast. Therefore, we should leave this matter to the conscience of each individual. Having said that, let me state again that there is absolutely nothing wrong with selecting any particu-
lar time to meditate and reflect on the incarnation of our Savior. I would suggest that during Christmas we could spend time thinking about the mystery of the Incarnation. It is a mystery in that it testifies to the fact that the Son of God became “flesh” (John 1:14). The Creator became a creature in order to save us from the power of sin and death. The Nativity can also be understood as God’s gift to the human race; in His Son, God gave us the most precious gift He could bestow on us. He was the bread of heaven freely given to us by our heavenly Father (John 6:48-51). But the Nativity is also a time of proclamation. That night angels proclaimed to shepherds the good news: “Do not be afraid…. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you” (Luke 2:10, 11). We should join our voices with that of the angels and proclaim once more throughout the planet the glorious news of peace and freedom from fear and through Christ, the Lord. Christmas provides an excellent opportunity to remind the human race that the Child born in Bethlehem is coming soon.
Published in the Adventist World. “The International Paper for Seventh-day Adventists “
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FROM THE
Francine Green presents a basket to Evangelist Everton Wilks after his last Week of Prayer presentation, Sabbath November 10, 2012
Sis Lenora Green and Sis Veronica Fearon share a warm embrace with Bro. Findley and Bro Marlon Green as members of Church board extend the right hand of fellowship to new converts during communion service on, Sabbath December 1, 2012.
Sis Sonia Brown and Sis Caren Riley-Francis unveil the communion vessels on Sabbath December 1. On the pulpit are members of the Board of Elders and Church Pastor
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Damian and Fiona Wilson, supported by family and friends, take their baby boy, Bryce Wilson to be blessed, December 8, 2012
Zudie-Ann Grant, Kelly-Kay Brown, JeanMark Davis and Sammour Miller (Left to right) lead the Church in praise and worship during the final week of prayer presentation, Sabbath November 10, 2012
Young Annalease Nolan delivers an inspiring and captivating sermonette during Children’s Day, December 15, 2012. Annalease was one of three speakers for Children’s Day, the others being San-K-Yah Giscombe and Fabian LaTouche
Michca-Mae Editorial Bonner Committee
Tashawna Harrison
Wayne Harrison
Marjorie Stone
Fiona Dyer Wilson
Damian Wilson
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Pastor Dwayne Scott delivers the Divine Hour message on Youth Day, Sabbath November 24. Behind him, members of the Youth Choir lift their hearts, hands and voice in praise.(Above) Evangelist Courtney Wilks presents one of the Week of Prayer Readings, as he did from November 3-10 during Youth Month. (right)
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he directive came for the Central Jamaica Conference in 2010 to designate the month of November as Youth Month. The idea was for youth, under the age of 30 to assume the major offices of the church and lead out in the planning and execution of the various services. All this in an effort to have them gain the necessary experience in, and appreciation for the operation of the local church. Since then, the Gregory Park Church has adopted this initiative. Youth leaders were assigned to some of the major departments including Elders, Personal Ministries Leader, Deacons, and Sabbath School Superintendent. This year the AY Council took the reins, meticulously putting in place plans for all four Sabbaths, Sunday and Wednesday night meetings, Week of Prayer and Youth Day. The Council boldly proclaimed the theme for the month: ‘Committed to the Mission; together we can do more.’ Subthemes were also used for the Sabbath School portion of the worship services, namely: Evangelism, Character Building, Godly Influence and Behold He comes: Are You Ready? Evangelist Courtney Wilks presented the Youth Week of Prayer readings from Sabbath November 3 to 10. Wilks, a graduate of Northern Caribbean University with a degree in Religion and Theology, has served his local church in the various capacities including Elder, Deacon, Sabbath School Teacher, Lay Activities Assistant Leader, Pathfinder and Master Guide. Professionally he works at the Portmore Heart Academy as the Resident Manager.
“The idea was for us to get a feel of what taking charge feels like because after all our time will come, and at that time we must take our place” -Terence McLaughlin, AY Leader
The week’s messages were simple and applicable. Under inspiration, the Word and ordinary human existence were connected thereby deeply impacting thirsty souls. It was also made clear that one can never truly be a witness until there is a personal experience with the Saviour, as was evident in Wilks’ messages. Over and over he related personal testimonies of his own experiences that have strengthened his faith. As the Lord would have it, this period also coincided with the attachment of Pastor Dwayne Scott to the Gregory Park SDA Church. The twenty-two year-old is a recent graduate of the Northern Caribbean University having recently completed a Bachelor degree in Theology with a minor in Secondary Education. The ‘Youth Pastor’ was the speaker for Youth Day, Novem(cont’d on next page)
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Youth take over the month of November (cont’d from previous page) ber 17, where he delivered the uplifting message ‘Rejoice in Tribulation’ – referencing the passage found in Habakkuk 3:16-19. Pastor Scott used this passage to demonstrate that as Christians we will be faced with trials we do not understand, but more importantly “19The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.”
Church Pastor Blondel Campbell brought the curtains down on Youth month with the divine hour message on Sabbath November 24. Youth Month showed that the Gregory Park Church is blessed with an abundance of willing and able young people, ready to lead his Church in the proclamation of the Gospel Ministry. AY Leader Terence McLaughlin said of the month: “Youth month saw quite a few of our young persons taking charge and doing what the older folks would normally do as it relates to the services of the church. The idea was for us to get a feel of what taking charge feels like because after all our time will come, and at that time we must take our place. The Youth Department would like to express gratitude to all the youth of our church, the Pastor, board and members who helped us in making this month a success. We would also like to encourage the continued support of our department and its activities because in so doing we play our small role of investing in the future of our church. All in all the month was truly a blessing and we are really looking forward to next year because we are committed to the mission and together we will do more.”
Kerry-Ann Wilson poses with attorney Ambassador Stewart Stephenson, who robed her and made the application to the Chief Justice for her to be admitted to the roll of attorneys on December 6, 2012
htpp://2013interamerica.org
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including 100 amazing facts about the Sabbath and Argument Refuted—Biblical answers to common arguments, and so Bible Universe is the ultimate online bible resource. The site much more. features study tools, articles, blogs, a daily devotional, Bible word search and hymn of the day.
http://www.bibleuniverse.com
http://www.stepfast.org/ A health and lifestyle website that includes: Fitness, prevention & wellness, personal wellness & lifestyle We all know somebody that was once walking with Jesus and training and group based wellness & lifestyle seminar enthusiastic about being a Christian. These four presentations are especially designed to address the main reasons people drift from their church families. So if you know someone who http://www.gcchildmin.org/ has wandered from the fold, invite them over for a little warm General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ Children’s Minsoup and encourage them to view these programs with you. istries—a site dedicated to children and providing them with a number of resources and information including leadership certification and Ellen G. White & Children. http://www.sabbathtruth.com/
http://www.faithreclaimed.com
Presenting everything you wanted to know about the Sabbath
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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Women's Ministries Leadership Certification
Ladies have you heard about the Women’s Ministry Leadership Certification Training programme being facilitated by Central Jamaica Conference? If not, you are missing out on some great and interesting presentations that can enhance your personal growth and development in the Lord. Come explore topics such as communication skills, basic writing skills, conflict resolution, women of the bible, self-esteem, public speaking; interact with local presenters; enjoy spirit-filled devotions; fellowship, food and much more. Join us next quarter as we explore more exciting, interesting topics and enjoy the fellowship of ladies from all eight churches in PORTMORE. Dates, location and course schedules to be announced. Participants earn a Certificate at the end of each Level For further information contact your local women’s ministry director or visit this website
http://www.nadwm.org/article/31/leadership/women-s-ministries-leadership-certification
As a new year approaches, we continue to look forward to second coming of Jesus. God has promised that he will give us the power to work and watch while we wait. This 2013 devotional will empower us and through the influence of the Holy Spirit will help us as Christians to live for Christ. Filled with excerpts from Ellen G. White's writings of references to the work of the Holy Spirit, the complete transformation that He brings about in a Christian life, and just how much we need Him daily
The 8 volume SDA Bible commentary set covers the entire Bible providing commentary and discusses every proper name and significant word/objects found in the Bible and includes 536 photographs, line drawings, and charts, and additional information and key passages in the Bible. A must have for the avid SDA bible student.
Please contact our publishing ministry leader for further information on these and other resources
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Dr. Trevor Gardner was appointed President of the Northern Caribbean University on August 21, 2011 with immediate effect. On January 1, 2012, Dr. Gardner assumed presidency of the largest Adventist University in the world and the training ground for ministers and church administrators in the region. Dr. Gardner holds a PhD in educational administration, and has more than 40 years of experience in academia.
The Light spoke with Dr. Gardner about Christian Education, his goals for the institution and its role in nation-building The Light: Dr. Gardner, why did you choose to become President of this University? Dr. Gardener: Correction, I did not choose to become President, God placed me here; I’m His servant, and I go wherever He leads. But I have been given a very special honour to have been asked to serve. I am privileged to follow a line of outstanding leaders who have done extremely well, being led by God to give us a very good university today. My special mandate is to lead this noble institution to become a great university – to the honour and glory of God. Why should an institution that is of His planting be anything less than great? Why Christian Education, especially for an Adventist, over a secular and often cheaper education? The cost of an education is one thing; the value of the same education is quite another matter. Cost is what is required from you in terms of time and money, and other resources. Value is what is added to you in terms of time and money, and other resources. Why a Seventh-day Adventist Christian Education? Because, in terms of time, the value we offer is eternity. In terms of money, the value we offer is as you desire, and as God permits. In terms of other resources, the value we offer includes a rounded education that addresses the individual’s physical, mental, social, and spiritual needs. We must guard against being caught in the cliché cycle of being penny wise and pound foolish. The most costly commodity to every person is the potential of a loss soul. There is no price too high for a soul, and Christian education increases the probability of that soul being saved. What does NCU have to offer that a UWI or UTECH for example would not, both inside and outside of the classroom?
We operate on the premise that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” True education begins, and ends with God. We say that without fear of contradiction. At NCU we integrate faith and learning. We are a legitimate organ of the Church; we are about building up the Kingdom of Heaven. Inside and outside our classrooms, we prepare citizens who understand and embrace morality and integrity. We enforce the work ethic that calls for a full day’s work for a full day’s pay. It is also true that eternity is always in our pursuit of a good education. What are some of your medium or long term goals for the University? Some of our medium and long term goals - strengthening the satellite campuses across Jamaica and the Atlantic Caribbean region, and offering more courses and programmes online. This project will also meet the needs of churches locally and regionally. The administration is determined to strengthen the ties between the churches and the university, thus better meeting their needs. We also intend to make a greater impact on the health and wellness industry in our nation and region, by reinforcing fundamental beliefs of the SDA health philosophy. Another goal that we are working towards is to increase the percentage of SDA members as students of the university. We are a good university. It is our goal to create a great university for research, international recognition for scholars and develop industries to keep tuition down. During this our Golden Jubilee celebration (50 year anniversary as a nation), can you reflect on how the University has contributed to nation-building over the past 50 years. There are several indicators of the impact that a university has on its environment and how it therefore contributes to nationbuilding. I will refer to three:
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Conversation
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A. Sustainable research-based solutions that address real problems that impede growth and development, e.g. Sorrel on cancer growth retardation, breadfruit flour to reduce gluten intake, Microsoft Imagine Cup Champions. . B. The number of trained professionals who fill critical positions across various industries: In business, medicine, education, law, politics and ministry our graduates have made their mark locally, regionally and internationally . C. Outreach intervention programmes such as, Restorative Justice, Information Technology to local and regional bodies, etc. In recent years, we have been taking more decisive steps to build a much stronger research culture at the University and we have been reaping encouraging successes in this endeavour. We have an on-going breadfruit project in Portland that is aimed at bringing production levels and quality to acceptable standards. We’ve also done ground breaking work with sorrel, cassava and garlic. And directly related to the surrounding environment of the main campus, is the on-going work we are doing in the mined out bauxite lands, with a view of improving the fertility and moisture retention for farming purposes. . In terms of our annual
Later on, we are turning out medical technologists, world champion IT professionals, and various professionals across the humanities spectrum. Today, with five (5) colleges and one (1) school, we offer over 30 programmes with various emphases, eleven (11) Master’s degree, and four (4) doctorate degrees. Increasingly, the demand for graduates is growing, because of the professionalism and work ethic that our graduates typically display. . We have been consistently reaching out to the community, and as we go along we, are doing so in a more structured way. This is why we operate entities such as, the Community Counselling and Restorative Justice Centre (CCRJC), and the Morris Entrepreneurship Centre (MEC). We realize that there are many Jamaicans who cannot meet the matriculation requirements of becoming students at Northern Caribbean University, but they have needs too. So because they can’t come to us, we go to them. Through the CCRJC, we offer intervention and empowerment counselling and training services to troubled individuals and communities at a cost that is heavily subsidized by the University. The MEC targets micro, small, and medium sized businesses to offer training in various business skills including accounting, merchandizing, and writing business plans. Targeted groups include farmers, barbers, beauticians, small store operators, and the list goes on. . In this the Golden Anniversary of our Independence, we are taking the opportunity to recalibrate ourselves as we seek to become a more dominant presence in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region. It just so happens that this time of refocus coincides with my assuming reins of this noble institution at this juncture in our history.
“We operate on the premise that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” True education begins, and ends with God. We say that without fear of contradiction.” Photo courtesy of Ian Allen
graduates, we have grown leaps and bounds over our humble beginnings since officially entering the tertiary scene in 1959. With modest numbers averaging fewer than 50 annual graduates, we are today averaging over one thousand (1000) graduates per annum. These are professionals who have been groomed as problem solvers who fill important positions. They are nurses, Thank you very much. teachers, pastors, business professionals, in the earlier years.
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s we continue our series on the great image as seen in vision in Daniel 2, last quarter we discovered that the “head of gold” was descriptive of the Babylonian Empire. As we move down the image, we see the Bible gives its next descriptive narrative of the image of Nebuchadnezzar's dream. “This image's head was of fine gold…his breast and his arms of silver” (Daniel 2:32). History tells us that the next kingdom which rose to prominence was the kingdom of the Medes and Persians. This kingdom was prophesied by the Bible to overthrow Babylon. Under the leadership of Cyrus in 539 B.C., the Medo-Persian Empire conquered Babylon and ruled the world from 539-331 B.C. Interestingly, during the period of reign, similar to Babylon, the empire was most recognized for its use of silver. Let us journey through history and discover how this aspect of the prophecy in Daniel Chapter 2 was fulfilled. After the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, the Bible records in Daniel Chapter 5 that his son Belshazzar became king. Interestingly, many years before there was an empire of Babylon , the Lord through his prophet Isaiah, foretold that Cyrus was destined to fulfill the purpose of conquering Babylon: "'Thus says the Lord to His anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have held - To subdue nations before him And
loose the armor of kings... That you may know that I, the Lord, Who call you by your name am the God of Israel... I have even called you by your name; I have named you, though you have not known Me.'" (Isaiah 45:1, 3, 4). Again we see that we serve a God who intervenes in the affairs of men and will fulfill his divine purpose on earth. That night, Belshazzar staged a great feast in the banquet hall of his palace (Daniel chapter 5). The Bible records, “while he tasted the wine, Belshazzar gave the command to bring the gold and silver vessels which his father Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the temple which had been in Jerusalem, that the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines might drink from them... and the king and his lords, his wives, and his concubines drank from them. They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold and silver, bronze and iron, wood and stone." As they celebrated using the sacred vessels, "the fingers of a man's hand appeared and wrote opposite the lamp stand on the plaster of the wall of the king's palace; and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote." Frightened by the strange writing, the king called for the wise men of Babylon, however, they were unable to decode the meaning of writing of the wall. Daniel was finally called to give the interpretation of the dream and Daniel said,
“and this is the writing that was written, MENE MENE, TEKEL , UPHARSIN . This is the interpretation of the thing MENE; hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it. ; Thou art weighed in the balances and art found wanting PERES; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians. In that night the Medes and Persian led by Darius King of the Medes and Cyrus King of Persians diverted the waters of the Euphrates River, and the soldiers were able to enter the city of Babylon through the gates and along the river in which the Babylonians had left open and unguarded. As divinely directed by God, Belshazzar was killed and the Babylonian Empire came to end, and the Medo-Persian Empire was established. Persia was known for its storehouses and treasures of silver. However, it did not have the wealth of Babylon. While it is not recorded if Cyrus acknowledged the God of Israel as the only true God, yet we recognize through the fulfillment of this prophecy and the record of history that God remains in control of seasons , times and even the kingdoms of the earth. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts (2 Peter 1:19). Let us continue to hold fast to the profession of our faith and remember that the Word of God is true and continues to stand the test of time. We must also remember that through divine providence our God remains faithful to His promise and plan - which is to save us from our sins. Next quarter we will continue to look at this intriguing prophetic study. - Elder Wayne Harrison
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Health as a Lifestyle
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eed fast flu relief? Most of these remedies have been used to treat flu symptoms for generations, and may help ease your symptoms as your body fights the flu virus. Also, it's a good idea to call your doctor at the first signs of flu -- widespread body aches and a fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms, flu medications may be able to shorten the duration of the flu. Try these tips to ease stuffy sinuses and breathe easier: Breathe aromatic steam: Fill the bathroom or kitchen sink with steaming water, and add two teaspoons chopped fresh ginger (Zingiber officinalis). Drape a towel over your head and lean over the steam to get maximum benefit. Or add one teaspoon of the over-the-counter ointment Vicks VapoRub to the steaming water, then breathe in the steam for several minutes until you get relief. Another flu remedy is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil (Eucalyptus globulus) or menthol to the water. Eucalyptus is known to open up bronchial tubes, ease congestion, and make breathing easier.
Take a warm shower: Getting in a warm shower with the bathroom door closed works as your own personal sauna. The steamy bathroom helps to open your air ways and moisten and thin the mucus in your sinuses.
Use moist heat compresses: If your head is throbbing and it's difficult to breathe through your nose, you may find relief by applying warm moist compresses to the cheeks and sinuses. If you use moist heat, make sure it's not too hot to avoid burning yourself. Try nasal saline irrigation or saline sprays: A host of scientific studies support nasal saline irrigation as an effective flu remedy to thin mucus, decrease postnasal drip, and add moisture to dried mucous membranes. In addition, the nasal rinse helps to remove virus particles and bacteria from your nose. Saline (salt water) nasal sprays can be purchased at any drug or grocery store and are effective, safe and non-irritating, even for children. Spray the saline solution into one nostril and then gently blow the mucus and saline out of that nostril. Repeat the process in the opposite nostril until both are running clear. Increase liquids: Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water each day. Water keeps your respiratory system hydrated, which helps to liquefy thick mucus that builds up with a respiratory infection. Some findings show that hot liquids may be superior to cold liquids in upper respiratory infections. Other liquids can be added, but avoid coffee, tea with caffeine, or alcoholic beverages as these liquids may cause dehydration.
Consider decongestant nasal sprays: If you want immediate relief for a swollen, congested nasal passage, decongestant nasal sprays such as Afrin and Neo-Synephrine may be helpful. Decongestant nasal sprays are safe to use, but it's important to stop the spray after three days to avoid the development of rebound congestion (congestion that worsens when you stop the spray). This warning is on the bottle of most over-the-counter decongestant. sprays.
Reviewed by Roy Benaroch, MD on June 20, 2012 Š 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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JUTC bans preaching on its Buses
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he Jamaica Urban Transit Corporation has put a halt to the practice of preaching on the Government-owned public buses. Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin, Managing Director of the JUTC, in an interview with a local newspaper in November stated that a directive has been given to the drivers
to “politely” tell preachers that they could no longer proclaim the gospel on the Government buses. “I am all for evangelising but they can't use the bus as their platform,” Lewin said. “I have sent a memo to the drivers, basically, telling them to politely request that the people do not preach on the buses,” he added. According to the JUTC, there was no policy that allowed persons to preach on their buses. According to the Managing Director, the bus company had received complaints from some commuters about the practice of preaching on the buses. Lewin asserts that when persons board a JUTC bus they become a captive audience. “I think this is what makes the bus an attractive mobile Rear Admiral Hardley Lewin, church and I suppose you Managing Director of the JUTC can't just get off because you
have spent your money.” Lewin, however, said “If somebody feel that his con stitutional rights are being breached he should seek remedies". He said persons aggrieved could approach not only the courts, but the JUTC board or the Ministry of Transport and Works. Legal experts and members of the clergy have chimed in to say that while certain constitutional rights such as freedom of expression and freedom of religion may be considered, the objections and inconvenience to others must also be taken into account.
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CJC Votes to adopt 2013: Year of the Laity he Executive Committee of Central Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists has voted to adopt the Inter-American Division plan for the Year of the Laity. The unanimous vote was taken on October 31, 2012.
Pastor Israel Leito, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Inter-America, addresses top executive church leaders at the launch of 2013 Year of the Laity initiatives, Oct. 27, 2012. To the left of pastor Leito is Pastor Everett Brown, President of the Jamaica Union
“We believe that the programme of the Division is commendable and we will endeavour to implement the plans in our territory,” stated Pastor Levi Johnson, President of CJC. “The church has been enriched by the hard work of our ministers and laypersons, and other active members in spreading the gospel in Inter-America and this is why we have designated 2013 as the Year of the Laity to let the work of the church be felt more throughout the community,” said Pastor Israel Leito, President of the Inter-America Division. Scheduled events and activities such as spiritual celebrations, virtual councils, gatherings, special baptisms, evangelistic efforts and community impact events are planned as the church and its various ministries endeavor together for united efforts in 2013, said Pastor Melchor Ferreyra, personal ministries director for the church in Inter-America. “We are
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excited to gain full participation from our laity which includes professionals, men, women, young people and children in the preaching of the gospel,” added Ferreyra. Division-wide initiatives highlighting the Year of the Laity include revival convocation, day of fasting and prayer, virtual council for church elders, evangelism deployment throughout the territory, Vision One Million celebration, baptismal ceremonies by church elders and community impact through health activities. Already nearly one million laypeople have been specially trained during an initiative which the church in InterAmerica has coined as Vision One Million. The initiative seeks to train over one million disciples in any of five areas: preaching, Bible instruction, witnessing, small group leadership and global mission pioneering.
General Conference Leaders Affirm Care and Principle on Gay Issues
of the 2012 Annual Council at the church’s world headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland. Church leaders said the original position statement, drafted in 1999, was clear and based on biblical teachings. They chose to update the document to relay the message that while the Bible doesn’t condone homosexual practice, we recognize our Christian responsibility to minister with compassion to all people, said Vice President Pardon Mwansa, who chaired the policy committee that recommended the change. “We felt we needed to close this statement with a phrase that shows that the church is willing to show a Christlike compassionate spirit to those who practice homosexuality,” Mwansa told attendees. The statement also was reedited to show in a stronger stance than before that the church intends to remain faithful to Scripture. The final sentence of the threeparagraph document now reads: “As His disciples, Seventhday Adventists endeavor to follow the Lord’s instruction and example, living a life of Christlike compassion and faithfulness.” A more controversial agenda item, the revised position statement dealing with same-sex marriage, prompted passionate responses, sometimes focused on the issue itself, and at other times on the grammatical nuances involved in the group-editing of a sensitive document. Committee leaders said they elected to revise the same-sex union statement to reflect societal trends, such as acknowledging that some governments have given legal standing to same-sex unions. The statement also deleted the word “disorder”— to describe homosexuality, calling it outdated—and replaced it with “disturbance.”. That line in the five-paragraph document now reads: “Homosexuality is a manifestation of the disturbance and brokenness in human inclinations and relations caused by the entrance of sin into the world.” And like the statement on homosexuality, the statement on same-sex marriage emphasizes the church’s compassionate approach, holding “that all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, are loved by God.”
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n October 17, 2012, vote by Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders reaffirmed the church’s stance on homosexual activity and same-sex marriage, while signalling the denomination’s commitment to compassionate concern for individuals of gay or lesbian orientation. The half-page policy statement on homosexuality was approved overwhelmingly by a show of hands from the more than 200 pastors, laypeople, and other denominational workers attending the final Executive Committee business session
Adventist Church vice president Ben Schoun, on October 17, 2012, when Annual Council delegates discussed proposed changes to the church’s statements on homosexuality. G. Alexander Bryant, associate General Conference secretary and North American Division executive secretary, and Tamara Boward, a GC recording secretary, are also on the platform. (Photo Ansel Oliver)
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First Quarter 2013 January Tue 1 Tue-Tue 1-Dec 31 Tue-Thur 1-31 Tue-Thur 1-31 Tue-Thur 1-Feb 28 Thur 3 Sab 5 Sab 5 Sab 5 Sab 5 Sun 6 Sun 6 Mon 7 Wed 9 Thur 10 Thur 10 Sab 12 Sab 12 Sun 13 Sab 19 Sun 20 Fri 25 Sab 26 Sun 27
New Year’s Day Year of the Laity Evangelism Soulwinning and Nurturing Bible Boom and Re-Launch of Oratorical Competition Bible Year/Encounter Series Promotion National Spiritual & Social Intervention Cam paign Workers’ Meeting (Family of God Church) Soul Winning Commitment Vision One Million – Prayer and Fasting Personal Ministries Day Campbell’s Castle Prep. Promotion AY Leaders’ Council (Camp Verley) Leaders’ Council (Lay Convention) – Sydeham Pastors’ Meeting Executive Committee Meeting 4th Quarter Churches’ Statistical Report due at CJC Office Re-Launch Pastors’ Bible Year Club Tell the World: Spiritual Growth Church Attendance Count CONVENTION - Manchester Health Ministries Day CONVENTION – Clarendon Holy Convocation - Communion Service (All Churches) Religious Liberty Day CONVENTION – St. Catherine
February Fri-Sun 1-10
‘REACH’ – Spanish Town
Sab 2 Sab 2 Sab-Sab 2-9*
Tell the World: Church Planting Sabbath Religious Liberty Rally Christian Home and Marriage – Conferencewide Children’s Ministries Coordinators’ Training Level 2 – Manchester (Mandeville Church) Ash Wednesday (Holiday) Youth Temperance Emphasis Day Church Attendance Count Train the Trainers Workshop - Clarendon Youth Day Conference-wide Pathfinder & Adventurer AY Programme Education Workshop - Manchester
Sab 9 Wed 13 Sab 16 Sab 16 Sab 16 Sab 16 Sab 16 Sun 17
Wed 20 Fri-Sun 22-Mar 3 Sab 23 Sab 23
Executive Committee ‘REACH’ – May Pen Health and Temperance Magazines Stewardship Seminar Conference-wide (Sydenham)
March Fri-Sab 1-Apr 27 Fri-Sab 1-3 ‘ Sab 2* Sab 2*+ Sab 2 Sab 2 Thu 7
Laymen’s Evangelistic Deployment REACH’ – May Pen Women’s Day of Prayer Adventist World Radio Decision Day Train the Trainers Workshop - Manchester Day of Prayer (Educational Institutions)
Fri-Sun 8-17
‘REACH’ – Old Harbour
Sab 9* Sab 9
Tell the World: Personal Outreach Children’s Ministries Coordinators’ Training level 2 – Clarendon (May Pen Church) CJC Connect – St. Catherine Colporteur Institute and Field School – Camp Verley Executive Committee
Sab 9 Tue-Sab 12-16 Wed 13
Sab 23 Sab 23# Sun 24 Sab 30 Fri 29 Sab 30
Family Life Convention (Conference-wide) – Portmore SDA Global Youth Day (Community Impact) Youth Week of Prayer ‘The Exodus Cry’ (Prayer Initiative) Waterford Church Sabbath School Community Relations Day Vision One Million Celebration Train the Trainers Workshop – St. Catherine B.N.C Promotion Conference-wide Good Friday (Holiday) 13th Sabbath Offering (South Pacific Division)
Sab 30 Sun 31
Stewardship Promotion – Clarendon Communication Training (CJC Office)
Fri-Sun 15-17 Sab 16 Sab-Sab 16*-23 Fri-Sab 22-23
*Programme provided by the General Conference or by the Inter-American 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