The Light Issue # 20 by Damian Wilson

A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA Church Communication Department December 2014

Issue #20

Gregory Park District Welcomes Pastor Montaque

Pastor Onell Montaque presents his first sermon as District Pastor

he afternoon of November 1, 2014 was an historic one for the Gregory Park district of churches as it marked the installation of a new Pastoral family to the district. There were smiles, greetings and hugs as members from both churches in the district gathered at the Waterford SDA Church to welcome their new Pastor. Some faces were bursting with excitement while others were quietly pondering the moment, for when new members are added to one’s family the expectation, anticipation and joy cannot be muted. The Installation service began with Pastor Onell Montaque and his wife, Lori-Ann being formally escorted into the sanctuary. They were seated in the front row with members of their family seated close by. These family members included the parents and sibling of Sis. Lori-Ann and the siblings of Pastor Montaque. The solemnity of the moment was fully reflected in the words of the Opening Hymn

‘Live out Thy life within me, O Jesus King of Kings!’ This appeared to be the sentiment of the entire congregation as the sanctuary was filled with lusty singing. Officers from both the Gregory Park and Waterford churches led out ably in the Prayer, Welcome and Scripture Reading. Among the Conference personnel in attendance were Sis. Mary Cole, Pastor Valbert Walker, Sis. Renee Malcolm, and Pastor Kevin Danvers. Sis. Mary Cole and her husband are the parents of the Pastor’s wife, Sis. Lori-Ann Montaque. Pastor Kevin Danvers was the officiating Conference Representative. In his stirring remarks, he highlighted the fact that the greatest need of the Church is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The emphasis on spiritual growth and unity of the members will be reflected in visitation of every member and fulfilling worship experiences in which our churches will become houses of prayer. “Prayer has to be our priority if these goals are to be

achieved,” Pastor Danvers insisted. Pastor Montaque and his wife were escorted to the Platform by Elder Whittingham (Waterford) and Elder Joan Pusey (Gregory Park) respectively. Welcome was extended to Pastor Montaque by Elder Williston Patterson while Elder Angela Chambers extended welcome to Sis. Montaque. The litany of installation was led by the Conference Representative, Pastor Danvers. This was followed by Installation prayers offered by Elder Wayne Harrison and Pastor Billy Watson. In his first sermon as District Pastor, Pastor Montaque proclaimed the omnipotence of the almighty, Creator God. “God does not need us to be God”, he declared. However, God has called us out of darkness into light to carry on a ministry of reconciliation in which we both show and tell God’s love to others. Through this service of commitment and consecration, a new Pastor and his wife were welcomed into the Gregory Park district. Punctuated with beautiful singing and vibrant presentations, the installation ceremony symbolized only a changing of the guard, for the mission and the message remain the same.

Elder Wayne Harrison offers prayer during the service

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How important is dress to God?

From the Pastor’s Desk Publications

Five Years of the Light

The Light/Adventist Resources

Scenes from the Quarter

Health as a Lifestyle

News

Women’s Banquet 10 Days of Prayer

Calendar of Events

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The Pastor’s Desk

Onel Montaque Pastor, Gregory Park Circuit of Churches

od has preserved our lives to the point where in a few days from now we will see the curtains closing in on the year 2014. Undoubtedly we can say that we have all been blessed. An eventful year is almost behind us and we are standing on the brink of a new year. A new year carries with it opportunities, challenges and successes. Life is not void of any of the three possibilities mentioned in the previous sentence. These possibilities add excitement and unpredictability to our lives. Membership in God’s church is also accompanied by all three possibilities. It therefore means that it is an exciting experience to be a member of the church of God. God’s people will inevitably be jubilant and live in expectancy, because each day we encounter all three possibilities; we receive opportunities to serve, and service is a fertile ground for challenges. Challenges on the other hand rightly managed will ultimately supply the sweet taste of success. The membership of the Gregory Park Church experienced the annual challenge between the months of September and October to elect suitable officers to serve the church for the year 2015. The members of the church stood up to the task and persons were nominated and voted and those persons who have accepted the challenge are now prepared to serve as officers of the church for 2015. I am convinced that the Holy Spirit guided this process because nothing happens in God’s church without God’s

permission or by His doing. Sometimes like Israel we lose sight of God and become bent on having our own way and being the loving God that He is, He sometimes allows us our hearts desire as similarly He gave Israel a king when they demanded one. We know the unfortunate conquences that followed their decision to choose a king to lead them over God. The fact that God was involved in the election process suggests that God is in agreement with the team chosen to serve the church for the ensuing year; He certainly has allowed it. If God is in agreement it therefore means that we are therefore obliged or duty bound to work with those selected until God’s purpose is fulfilled. God’s purpose for His people in each locale, varies: it could be that a particular individual is the best person suited for the Job, it could be that God places someone in a particular position to teach them a lesson, or teach you a lesson, or it could be that he/she is there to reveal to the church their true colours, for whatever reason God allows someone to hold an office in His church He has never made a mistake. If God is in agreement with the person/s chosen, then why give those who serve a hard time? If those who serve do less work than desired, the best thing to do is to consult with Him to whom we are all accountable and wait until the annual challenge returns next year. For now every officer needs our fullest support. Every member of the church is accountable to God for the opportunities and challenges we enjoy by virtue of our membership in his Body. The truth is that God has called all of us to function as a member of His body. We are all part of this organism which is called the church. The organism is only alive and well when all its parts are working. So whether we hold an office or not we are expected to serve. I am convinced that there is enough work in the church for every member to be occupied. Like the living organism each of its parts has a specialized function. We do not expect nor do we believe that each member of the church can perform in every capacity, hence there are multiple ministries in the church. Specialize if that brings comfort. The ideal to be attained is that every member of the living organism called the church must be working for the good of the organism. I encourage every member to get involved in at least one of the many ministries of the church. Next year the emphasis in mobilizing the membership of the church will be on ministries and not on departments. Our objective is to have all members active and involved in one or more ministries. With the guidance of and help of God, who we believe is actively involved in the affairs of his church, His will, will be done. Here are the keys to successfully fulfill the will of God. First we must seek to know his will through prayer and bible studies; second we must surrender daily to the will of God. And finally we should never forget that we are ultimately accountable to God for all that we do or fail to do. These keys will open the door to a successful and a spirit filled 2015.

T he L i g ht

Five years of The Light Thanks to everyone who has read, written in, shared or supported The Light over the past 5 years

Issue #1, March 2010

Issue #7, September 2011

Issue #11, September 2012

Issue #13, March 2013

Issue #15, September 2013

Issue #17, March 2014

To GOD be the Glory...Great things he hath done

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Elder Cavan Davis and the church say goodbye to Pastor Blondel Cambell and Sis Maxine Campbell, Saturday October 24, 2014

Shauna-Kay Miller, Filicia Morrison, Georganne Thomas and Terence McLaughlin perform the closing song before the close of AY service, Sabbath November 28, 2014

Pastor Onell Montaque and Elder Davis conduct a baby blessing service during Divine Hour, Sabbath November 7, 2014

Sammaur Miller, Jade McGann, Michca-Mae Bonner, Zudie-ann Grant and Devroy Peart sing during the installation service for Pastor Montaque at the Waterford SDA Church, November 1, 2014

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Women’s banquet ends year on High Note “The Wrinkle Free Woman – Putting Starch in your Life” – the banquet’s powerful theme which sometimes evoked a smile or a chuckle, then curiosity, then awareness among the women from the Women’s Ministries of the Churches in Portmore who streamed into the Four Seasons Hotel on Sunday, December 7th 2014. The beautiful ambience created a relaxing, soothing setting for the evening’s proceedings. Women from the Gregory Park, Braeton and Greater Portmore churches made up the bulk of the attendees, though there were sisters from other churches also in attendance. The elegantly attired women truly enhanced the beauty of the setting as their radiant smiles and beautiful colours adorned the room. The scene was one of splendour and dignity, totally befitting daughters of the King. The banquet marked the end of year activity for the Women’s Ministry. The women had worked hard throughout 2014 and a social activity to end the year was another of the department’s objectives being met. It was a social activity with a strong spiritual emphasis. As the women basked in the beautiful, regal ambience, there was no mistaking the fact that they got more than physical food. There was a strong spiritual undertone to the banquet. The women were reminded to put the ‘starch’ of faith, prayer, sweetness, kindness, concern and caring in their lives since God’s image must resonate through their lives in all circumstances. Sis. Dannie Barrett-Clarke masterfully guided the program through the various activities. She kept the audience smiling and appreciative. The special music was of an exceptionally high calibre. There were also giveaways and jokes and

an opportunity for the women to rekindle old friendships and start new ones. The Guest Speaker, Sis. Sharon-Mae Shirley gave a heart-to-heart talk with the women, exhorting them to take care of themselves physically and spiritually, in order to truly represent the King of Kings. As the evening’s proceedings came to a close, one could sense the deep spiritual resolve. As the women committed their lives anew to God, the following verses printed on their programs seemed to reflect everyone’s sentiments. Arise, Woman of God Rise up, o woman of God In what He has given you, The things God has laid on your heart, Rise up, go forth, and do Unlock what God has placed within, the potential you have inside. The world is waiting for your release To expand your wings and fly. Arise in your God-given gifts, for this is your finest hour Arise in the Lord’s holy might, ignited and empowered For God is calling you to come forth, to impact this world for Him, don’t hold back or limit yourself, let His power arise within And take His message to the world, to those who have lost their way For you can surely make a difference, if you’d hear His voice and obey. Rise up, o woman of God In what He has given you, the things God has laid on your heart, RISE UP, GO FORTH AND DO!

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How important is our dress to God? In Romans 12:1 Paul’s heartfelt request to the brethren in Rome is captured in the words, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Based on the known traditions it was understood that as a sacrifice, the highest standards were required for it to be acceptable to God. The issue of dress has been one that has had numerous discussions in the Seventh-day Adventist Church and to date, there is no definitive position. Differences in culture might militate against being able to present such a stance. But wouldn’t it have been included in the Ten Commandments if it were that important and not left to be so unclear, cloudy and at times a source of discord? However, on an individual basis, should dress be considered as being important to God? After many discussions, research and introspection, I submit to you that our dress is of equal value in our service to God as is faithfully observing the Ten Commandments because of the following reasons: 1. We are a Royal Priesthood: There is a sense of belonging when we are reminded of who we are such as 1 Peter 2:9 “We are a chosen generation, a holy nation, a royal priesthood...” This pleasure should not stop at ascribing the texts to ourselves but should transcend into action. God used 43 verses, 1,277 words to outline the peculiarities in dress that were required of the priest in his ministry. No lesser attention should be shown today by those of us who are ‘happy’ to consider ourselves a royal priesthood. Too often the response is that ‘I’m wearing this because it makes me look good’ or ‘because I like it’. Instead of seeking to gratify self in wearing the latest fashion let us seek to dress modestly in our ministry to God

2. It signifies being true to our vows: Solomon said

“when thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it, for he hath no pleasure in fools, pay what you have vowed, better is it that thou shouldest not vow.” Ecclesiastes 5:4-5. This was not the first time the seriousness of making a vow was presented (Num 30:2, Psalm 50:14). One vow that all Seventh-day Adventists Christians have made publicly which I daresay requires ‘public’ obedience is “Not to wear ornamental jewellery such as rings, earrings, bracelets and painted faces (lipstick and rouge). (Taken from the Baptismal Pledge Card.) Many may view the issue of dress as insignificant, however, because it was a vow made unto God, it is now of equal value to Him as the Ten Commandments. However, persons willingly choose to dishonour this vow as the use of make-up and wearing of jewellery seems to be the norm. Even as individuals dishonour their vows on a personal level, the church seems to be supporting this violation as persons so adorned are continually used in the services of the church. Mascara is derived from the Italian word maschera meaning mask and when we further analyse the names used for the other “beautification” products, it indicates intent to cover up, add to or enhance how God has made us. This action is synonymous to what our fore parents sought to do when they disobeyed God. David said “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” Psalm 139:14 and this should guide our acceptance of who we are but should also underlie our deepest desire to ho our our vows.

3. We are ‘New Creatures’: I accept that on our own

we have no control over our sinful nature (Ps 51:5) and sin has the effect of causing us to be blind to the beauty of God’s creation including ourselves. Having chosen to follow Christ, however, Paul assures us that we are now ‘new creatures’ (2 Cor. 5:17). It is incumbent on us to find-out what is required and to so do. There are numerous biblical references that indicate the necessary

The Light

Youth Department to join Plant-a-tree initiative

preconditions when God intended to deliver His people or to pronounce a blessing. Often times it included getting rid of false gods and dirty clothes and to dress differently. (Gen 35:4, Ex 19:10, Ex 33:1-6). As ‘new creatures’ there should be no difficulty in identifying a Seventh-day Adventist by dress.

The Central Jamaica Conference is encouraging churches in in the Conference, to joint The ‘Plant-A-Tree. This initiative is in response to the imperative of spiritual growth and unity and such is a metaphor for both. Each Youth Department is being asked to consult with their Pastor and Board in acquiring a suitable place on the church compound to plant a fruit tree that will bear within a year. This tree should remind the youth and the members of the church of three things:  The tree of good and evil in the Garden of Eden; Like the tree in the garden, temptation is always lurking; and youth should be constant in prayer lest they fall  The tree Christ died on – the cross; just in case they fall at the tree of temptation, they can run to the cross, where there is forgiveness, healing and power  The tree of life, this world is not their final destination and since it is temporary, they should focus on inheriting the new earth which will contain the tree of life. The planting and maintenance of the tree should unite the youth toward one common goal; salvation and service! The Youth Department of Gregory Park SDA Church will be joining this every important initiative on January 25, as they seek to watch our spiritual lives grow and flourish.

As Seventh-day Adventists young ladies and young men we needn’t search far to understand how we are to present ourselves. Paul while at Ephesus gave Timothy this counsel, “women adorn themselves in modest apparel with shamefacedness and sobriety, not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls or costly array (1 Tim 2:9). This instruction still remains relevant and applicable to us today. As we view world events both locally and globally, there should be a recollection of bible prophecies even the signs of the times as presented by Jesus (Matt 24:14). More than focussing on dress reform is the need for a heart reform. As members who should be growing daily in Christ and seeking to be obedient to His will it is time to reflect: Is wearing this dress (make-up, nail polish or ring)  worth it? Am I living like a new creature but more than anything else am I being true to the vows I made to God?   Contributed by Julia Campbell Pathfinder Director, Tent City SDA Church

Coming up in the next issue We look at the History of General Conference Countdown to Youth Retreat Scenes from Officers induction, Youth Day and a report from OSAY

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To get copies of these and other SDA Christian Literature: 

Speak with your local Publishing Director



Visit your local Book and Nutrition Centre Kingston, 74 Constant Spring Road. Spanish Town, 58 Brunswick Ave Mandeville, 5 1/2 Annex Drive, Ocho Rios, Native Plaza, 58 Main Street Montego Bay, 30 Church Street Savana-la-mar, 6 Rose Street Visit the Inter-American Division Book Store Website at http://store.iadpa.org/ Or any other online book store such as Amazon or Barnes and Noble

PUBLICATIONS

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of the Quarter



DESCRIPTION Fourteen inspiring sermons about what the Bible says about stewardship. It explores many of the questions we have about serving the Lord.

DESCRIPTION The author responds categorically the attacks made against the doctrine of the sanctuary and Ellen G. White. A critical analysis of the accusations made against the Adventist Church in the past, as well as in recent years.

Features: • Well-organized sermons • These can be used at church or for private reading.

Best features: The most debated aspects of Adventist theology. • Ellen G. White and William Miller. • The role and function of a prophet.

Dimensions: 15 x 22 cm • Binding: paperback • 120 pages

Dimensions: 15 x 23 cm • Binding: paperback • 176 pages

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Health as a Lifestyle

Health Wonders of Water Are You Drinking Enough Water? Most healthy adults get enough to drink by letting their thirst guide them. But the exact amount you need depends on your size, level of activity, the weather, and your general health. You may need more water if you exercise or sweat heavily. Here are seven health wonders of water.

Stay Slimmer With Water Trying to lose weight? Water revs up metabolism and helps you feel full. Replace calorie-filled beverages with water, and drink a glass before meals to help you feel fuller. Drinking more water helps amp up metabolism - especially if your glass is icy cold. Your body must work to warm the water up, burning a few extra calories in the process.

Water Boosts Your Energy If you're feeling drained and depleted, get a pick-me-up with water. Dehydration makes you feel tired. The right amount of water will help your heart pump your blood more effectively. And water can help your blood transport oxygen and other essential nutrients to your cells.

Lower Stress With Water About 70% to 80% of your brain tissue is water. If you're dehydrated, your body and your mind are stressed. If you're feeling thirsty, you're already a little dehydrated. To keep stress levels down, keep a glass of water at your desk or carry a sports bottle and sip regularly.

Build Muscle Tone With Water Drinking water helps prevent muscle cramping and lubricates joints in the body. When you're well hydrated, you can exercise longer and stronger without "hitting the wall."

Nourish Your Skin Fine lines and wrinkles are deeper when you're dehydrated. Water is nature's own beauty cream. Drinking water hydrates skin cells and plumps them up, making your face look younger. It also flushes out impurities and improves circulation and blood flow, helping your skin glow.

Stay Regular With Water Along with fiber, water is important for good digestion. Water helps dissolve waste particles and passes them smoothly through your digestive tract. If you're dehydrated, your body absorbs all the water, leaving your colon dry and making it more difficult to pass waste.

Water Reduces Kidney Stones The rate of painful kidney stones is rising. One of the reasons could be because people -- including children -- aren't drinking enough water. Water dilutes the salts and minerals in your urine that form the solid crystals known as kidney stones. Kidney stones can't form in diluted urine, so reduce your risk with plenty of water!

Source: webmd.com Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on December 7, 2014

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Health as a Lifestyle

TEN TIPS

FOR

H E A LT H Y H O L I D AY E AT I N G piece of pie!

Take the focus off food. Turn candy and cookie making time into

non-edible projects like making wreaths, dough art decorations or a gingerbread house. Plan group activities with family and friends that aren’t all about food. Try serving a holiday meal to the community, playing games or going on a walking tour of decorated homes.

Bring your own healthy dish to a holiday gathering.

10. Practice

Healthy Holiday Cooking. Preparing favorite dishes

lower in fat and calories will help promote healthy holiday eating. Incorporate some of these simple-cooking tips in traditional holiday recipes to make them healthier.



Gravy — Refrigerate the gravy to harden fat. Skim the fat off. This

will save a whopping 56 gm of fat per cup.



Dressing — Use a little less bread and add more onions, garlic,

celery, and vegetables. Add fruits such as cranberries or apples. Moisten or flavor with low fat low sodium chicken or vegetable broth and applesauce.

Be realistic. Don’t try to lose pounds during the holidays, instead

try to maintain your current weight.

Plan time for exercise. Exercise helps relieve holiday stress and



Turkey – Enjoy delicious, roasted turkey breast without the skin

and save 11 grams of saturated fat per 3 oz serving.



Green Bean Casserole — Cook fresh green beans with chucks of

potatoes instead of cream soup. Top with almonds instead of fried onion

prevent weight gain. A moderate and daily increase in exercise can help rings. partially offset increased holiday eating. Try 10- or 15-minute brisk  Mashed Potato — Use skim milk, chicken broth, garlic or garlic walks twice a day. powder, and Parmesan cheese instead of whole milk and butter.

Don’t skip meals. Before leaving for a party, eat a light snack like



Quick Holiday Nog — Four bananas, 1-1/2 cups skim milk or soy-

raw vegetables or a piece of fruit to curb your appetite. You will be less milk, 1-1/2 cups plain nonfat yogurt, 1/4 teaspoon rum extract, and ground nutmeg. Blend all ingredients except nutmeg. Puree until tempted to over-indulge. smooth. Top with nutmeg.

Survey party buffets before filling your plate. Choose your fa-

Eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed. Savor your favorite holi-

 Desserts — Make a crustless pumpkin pie. Substitute two egg vorite foods and skip your least favorite. Include vegetables and fruits to whites for each whole egg in baked recipes. Replace heavy cream with keep your plate balanced. evaporated skim milk in cheesecakes and cream pies. Top cakes with day treats while eating small portions. Sit down, get comfortable, and enjoy.

fresh fruit, fruit sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar instead of fattening frosting. Enjoy the holidays, plan a time for activity, incorporate healthy recipes into your holiday meals, and don't restrict yourself

Be careful with beverages. Alcohol can lessen inhibitions and from enjoying your favorite holiday foods. In the long run, your induce overeating; non-alcoholic beverages can be full of calories and mind and body will thank you. sugar. If you overeat at one meal go light on the next. It takes 500 calo-

Source: Sutterhealth CPMC by Greta Macaire, R.D.

ries per day (or 3,500 calories per week) above your normal/maintenance

http://www.cpmc.org/

consumption to gain one pound. It is impossible to gain weight from one

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The Light shares the following news stories on religion from across the world, for the information of readers. Opinions expressed in these reports/stories do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Light, the Gregory Park SDA Church or the Seventh-day Adventist Church

ADVENTIST CHURCH APPOINTS EBOLA RESPONSE COORDINATOR ADRA TO MANAGE CHURCH’S RESPONSE

he Adventist Development and Relief Agency has appointed an Ebola Response Coordinator in a move that Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders say will help the global denomination and its numerous entities respond to West Africa’s Ebola outbreak. In December, the agency hired Elizabeth Foulkes, who previously worked on the international health team at World Vision US, to serve in the newly-created position for a term lasting at least three months. Foulkes, who holds a master’s degree in global health from Loma Linda University’s School of Public Health, will coordinate response efforts between the Adventist Church’s Health Ministries Department, ADRA International, ADRA offices throughout West Africa, Loma Linda University and Adventist Health International. “We want to have a united approach, especially in terms of utilizing the church’s networks in the affected countries,” said David Holdsworth of ADRA’s Emergency Management Unit. “This is a really interesting situation that no agency, including ADRA, has ever faced before,” Foulkes said. “It’s both a learning opportunity as a recent graduate as well as an opportunity to pull different Adventist entities together to work as a team.” “There are a lot of people working on this, the General Conference and unions and conferences and universities, and I’m really just helping to facilitate all of those efforts,” she added. The Ebola outbreak this year has infected nearly 18,600 people and taken the lives of more than 6,900 people, according to a December 17 release from the World Health Organization (WHO). Most victims live in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. Ebola is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids and tissue of an infected person. Those most at risk are

healthcare staff and family members caring for someone infected with the virus, according to the WHO. Case fatalities range from 25 percent to 90 percent depending on the amount of treatment available. Foulkes said most Ebola people affected by the virus are not those infected with the virus. Ebola also affects citizens who now have limited access to healthcare and food, she said. One of ADRA’s primary responses to the crisis so far has been providing emergency food rations to those affected. Also, ADRA’s Emergency Management Unit is coordinating with the United Nations Food Programme and seeking educational grants from several governments, including the United States, Germany and Denmark. Already this year, various Adventist organizations have responded to the crisis with hundreds of thousands of dollars in supplies and equipment.

Elizabeth Foulkes, left, ADRA’s new Ebola response coordinator, talks with Dr. Peter Landless, Health Ministries director of the Adventist world church ([photo] Ansel Oliver, ANN) Source: Adventist News Network, http://news.adventist.org/ December 18, 2014 News continued on next page

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O-SAY Launched in Central Jamaica Conference

AY Federation officers presenting to the Congregation during launch of O-SAY [Photo by Hubert Swearine]

n Sabbath, December 20, 2014 the Youth Department of Central Jamaica Conference (CJC) launched O-SAY (Operation Save a Youth), a mission-driven program for the youth and by the youth of Central Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The launch took place during the Sabbath afternoon program of Camp Meeting and Lay Institute 2014 amidst much fan fair and presentations by Adventist Youth (AY) Federation officers. “O-SAY is a program planned by and for the youth of Central Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, in response to the downward spiral devastation of other youths in the community and nation.” According to the Youth Director of CJC, Pastor Greg Baldeo, “O-SAY was inspired based on ideas that were shared by the youth of CJC during a series of consultations with the young people across the three parishes of the Conference, captioned, ‘Let’s Talk Youth’”. “During these consultations”, Pastor Baldeo shares, “the young people expressed that they had a desire to be involved in mission; not merely within the four walls of the church, but they wanted to get involved in outreach activities.” Thus, the idea of O-SAY was born. The vision of O-SAY, is to have 4,000 youth converge in Mandeville on Sunday, February 22, 2015. After a spiritfilled devotion at Northern Caribbean University, young people from across the Conference will engage in community outreach projects in various communities of Manchester. These projects would have already been chosen during registration for O-SAY. Funding for these projects are provided through a J$1,000.00 contribution by each youth who registers for OSAY. Written by: Damian Chambers, Central Jamaica Conference Website—centralja.org December 23, 2014

Religious Liberty Celebration for Jamaica

ome January 24, 2015, all eyes will be on Jamaica when the Seventh-day Adventist community, will host the first-ever Religious Liberty Festival at which they see all religious organisations and civic leaders coming together to celebrate freedom. Pastor Glen Samuels, member of the organizing team, said the event will be an avenue to thank past and present governments for their contribution in sustaining religious freedom over the years. "We believe everyone should enjoy religious freedom, even those who do not share the same doctrine. The freedom to believe or not to believe without persecution is the right of every human being, and we are looking forward to that day I know this will get global attention," he declared. "There are a number of countries around the world who do not value freedom as it is valued here in Jamaica, and we are really giving God and our leaders thanks for the protection of religious freedom," Samuels said. He also said that the event will not prevent anyone from professing their beliefs. "There are countries where the Islam faith is dominant, but they do not hesitate when it comes to killing Christians, but as a church we have to take an opposite view and protect the rights if every person," he said. "One should not divorce religious freedom from our belief in God. As a Christian Church, we have no shame in saying that we believe in God, neither do we intend to stray from the Scriptures. However God made all of us free, and as result, each person should be allowed to worship God, according to the dictates of his own conscience," he declared. The Festival will be held on Saturday January 24, 2015 at the National Arena under the Theme: “Our Right...Our Freedom...Let’s Celebrate!” Speakers will include Pastor Glen Samuels, Pastor Everett Brown, President of the Jamaica Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and Dr. John Graz, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty Director, Adventist World Church and Secretary General of the International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA). Additional information from the Jamaica Gleaner Published December 31, 2014

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Central Jamaica Conference, First Quarter January Thur 1 Thur-Sab 1-31 Thur-Sab 1-31 Thur-Sab 1-31 Thur-Sab 1-31 Sab 3 Sab 3 Sab 3 Sun 4 Sun 4 Mon 5 Tue-Wed 6-7 Thur 8 Sab 10 Sab 10 Mon 12 Thur 15 Fri 16 Sab 17 Sab 17 Sun 18 Sab 24 Sun 25 Sab 31 Sab 31 Sab 31

Sun 15

New Year’s Day Year of the Pastor Y.E.S.S., F.R.E.S.H. Growth launch at Convention Local Church Sensitization by Federations Local Church YESS! Fresh growth Launch/Tree Planting Exercises Soul-Winning Commitment Personal Ministries Day Vision One Million - Prayer and Fasting Youth Federation Planning Retreat – May Pen Church CJC Youth Advisory – Clarendon (May Pen Church) Workers’ Meeting Pastors’ Retreat Pan Jam Pastors’ Meeting CONVENTION – Portmore (St. Catherine East) Health Ministries Day 4th Quarter Churches’ Statistical Report due at CJC Office “Let’s Talk-Youth” Weekly Radio Program Com mences Fruit, Vegetables and Grains Day Tell the World: Spiritual Growth CONVENTION – Christiana (Manchester North) Children’s Ministries Coordinators’ Meeting – St. Catherine National Religious Liberty Festival/Religious Liberty Day – National Arena Women’s Ministries Directors’ Meeting – St. Catherine (CJC Office) Religious Liberty Day CONVENTION – Lionel Town (Clarendon South) Stewardship Emphasis

February

Sun 15 Wed 18 Thur 19 Sab 21 Sab 21 Sab 21 Sun 22 Sab 28

(Manchester South) Women’s Minis. Directors’ Meeting/Training – Manchester (Mandeville Church) Youth Leaders’ Council in all Federations Ash Wednesday Fruit, Vegetables & Grains Day CONVENTION – May Pen Church (Clarendon Central) Health and Temperance Magazines ‘Say the Text’ Launch – Manchester, St. Catherine & Clarendon FRESH GROWTH Rally O-SAY – (Jesus in the Streets – Manchester) Conference-wide CONVENTION – Mandeville (Manchester Central)

March Sun-Tue 1-31

Bible Boom/Bow/Challenge launch (Conference-wide) Fri-Sun 6-8 Special Needs Summit – Camp Verley Sab 7* Women’s Day of Prayer Sab 7*+ Adventist World Radio Sab 7 CONVENTION – Spanish Town Church (St. Catherine Central) Sab 7 Spanish Town Convention (March Pass) Sun 8 VBS Leadership & Workers’ Workshop Sab 8 Adventist World Radio Tue 10 Day of Prayer (Educational Institutions) Wed 11 Executive Committee Sab 14* Tell the World: Personal Outreach Sab 14 Commencement of IICM Training - Clarendon Wed 18 Prayer & Fasting (Women & Children) – Con ference-wide Thur 19 Fruit, Vegetables & Grains Day Sun-Sab 22*-28 Youth Week of Prayer Sun-Sun 22-April 19 Evangelistic Series – St. Johns District (Pastor Barrett) Wed-Sun 25-April 12 JAMU/Atlantic Union Partnership Evan gelism Sab 28 Sabbath School Community Relations Day Sab 28 13th Sabbath Offering (North American Divi sion) Sab 28 Old Harbour Youth Rally & Conf. Social – Old Harbour Church Sab-Sab 28-April 4 Vision One Million Evangelistic Campaigns

Sun-Sab 7-14* Christian Home and Marriage Week Thur-Wed 1-28 Launch of Couples’ Club in Local Churches Wed 4 General Conference Family Ministries Direc tor Meets with all Pastors – East Jamaica Con ference, Kingston Sab 7 Tell the World: Church Planting Sabbath - At least one new church planted in each Conference/Mission Sab 7 National Couples Convention NCU Church Sun 8 Commencement of IICM Training - Manchester Wed 11 Executive Committee *Programme provided by the General Conference or by the Inter-American Division Sab 14 Youth Day – Conference-wide Sab 14 CONVENTION – Grove Town Church – **One week before each “Mission To The Big City/Town Outreach” all night prayer meeting on the Saturday night at the main church +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