The Light Issue #7 by Damian Wilson

A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA Church Communication Department September 2011

Issue #7

‘Christ for the Crisis’ Right on Time

Evangelist Livingston McNarrin

ith terror attacks in Norway, rioting in London, financial gloom in the United States, flooding in South Korea, starving refugees in war-torn Somalia, a spate of beheadings in Jamaica and closer to home, a flare up of gang violence in the Gregory Park area - the signs of crisis were all around. From July 17 to August 14, 2011, the Lord’s end time message was presented at Gregory Park SDA Church through the timely ‘Christ for the Crisis’ Evangelistic Series, with his messenger Evangelist Livingston McNarrin. . The tall evangelist, who hails from the second city of Montego Bay, presented nightly, Sunday to Wednesday and four consecutive Sabbaths on a range of topics such as The Divine Deed Pole, Remember Lot’s Wife, The Valley of Dry Bones and Lazarus Come Forth. His lengthy sermons were all deeply entrenched in the truth of God’s Holy Word and supported by a litany of Bible texts. Evangelist McNarrin always reminded the congregation of God’s renewing and transforming power and that the time to accept Christ is now, as His return is imminent. . The evangelistic effort included a children’s baptism, special presentations from the Health and Family Life departments, baby blessings and special prayer tower nights held each Wednesday night. Evangelist McNarrin was a tireless speaker, with a passion for preaching. He also presented two special Adventist Youth (AY) Services where he addressed the youth and singles, on the topic, Keep your Honey, Honey – imploring them to maintain their Christian integrity and purity. The following week, couples were treated to 13 Tips to Keep Your Marriage, where the preacher offered practical ways in which married couples can enjoy a long, happy and sacred union. . It was clear that hearts were touched and souls were blessed as the gospel message was proclaimed, evidenced by the nightly response to the altar call for persons to make a (re) commitment to Jesus. At the end of the meetings, 22 persons accepted the call to follow Christ and made the ultimate display of that decision through baptism. Indeed, if there was ever a time that this crisis-ridden world needs Jesus Christ it is now, once again proving that our God is an on-time God. * See page 5 for more pictures from the Crusade

Damian Wilson, Communication Director

One of 22 persons who accepted the Gospel Message

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I s s ue # 7

The Light

Issue No. 7

September 2011

Pastor • Poetic Expression

4&5

Scenes • Where are they Now?

A Different World: Tertiary Education

Nutrition for Students

Promotions • Publications

Effective Prayer • SDA Resources

CJC Calendar of Events

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From the the

Pastor

Blondel

CAMPBELL Pastor, Gregory Park Circuit of SDA Churches

Once more we must say thanks to God for His bounties toward us, for His manifold blessings in so many ways. During the third quarter we witnessed the mighty hand of God leading in the life of the church as we embarked on the objectives before us. Our major event was the Evangelistic Series, Christ for the Crisis Programme. Our hearts burned within us night after night, Sabbath after Sabbath; we were blessed with wonderful Singing, Special Prayer Sessions, Nuggets on Health and Family Life etc. The main course was the presentation of the Living Word of God by Evangelist L. McNarrin. He was truly filled with the presence of God as he presented the Word each session. The Church was energized, and great grace was upon us and we are better made for Jesus in preparation for eternity. Twenty-two precious souls were won to Jesus in escape from the cruel paws of the devil. I say thanks to everyone and praises to God for the marvelous ways in which things went. Many of our children were successful in their GSAT Examination and will be moving on to new schools; whole-hearted congratulations to them and their parents – may the Good Lord lead them as He led the children of Israel by day and night as they travelled through the wilderness. Congratulations as well to our young people as they continue to strive. Some have been successful in their academic pursuits by getting high passes in their CSEC Examination, God bless you as you allow God to lead you. What would we do without our senior members of the church who continue to be there for the younger ones of us helping to keep the focus in front, by their prayers and their kind words of wisdom and encouragement. Thank you very much! As we face the final quarter of the year, we continue to trust in our Lord for His leading. We will celebrate with our parent organization, Central Jamaica Conference’s 50th Anniversary under the theme “Lest We Forget”, this coincides with our own celebration of the leading of the Lord in establishing and maintaining His presence in this community through the Gregory Park Seventh-day Adventist Church for over 70 years of existence. Thank you Lord for The Light, it continues to shine until Jesus comes!

New NCU President Selected

by Andrea Anderson

Are you worried about tomorrow? Stressed-out by care, fear and sorrow? Get some faith! Believe in God and His promises, Read about Him in the Bible stories Get some faith! Faith of our fathers on which we strive, Has kept our hopes and dreams alive! Oh for the faith like Moses, That when he stretched forth his rod, the Red Sea parted! Oh for the faith like Abraham, Not knowing where he was going, but on his journey started! Oh for the faith like Rahab the harlot, Who did not perish in the city of Jericho, but sought to make God‘s people her friend- not her foe! Oh for the faith like that of a mustard seed, then we wouldn‘t have to worry about what we need!

Talk about when you were down, And He lifted you up! Talk about the bread He provided, and when He filled your cup! Talk about His protection and care, when the gunmen and thieves, the angels did scare! The NCU Board of Governors Oh that we might have faith like that of Job! has selected a new president. Saying Tho‘ my flesh be destroyed, He is Dr. Trevor Gardner, presi- I still, I still will serve you God! dent of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), Trinidad and the legacy of the 104–year-old instituTobago. The announcement was made on tion . Monday, August 22, by NCU Board Chairman Dr. Gardner is an illustrious NCU Pastor Everett Brown. Dr. Gardner will work alumnus who once served as the institution’s with interim president, Dr. Daniel Fider, dur- Vice President of Academic Administration for ing a period of transition which concludes on over four years. He holds a Master of Arts December 31, 2011 . degree in Reformation History and EducaIn making the announcement, the tional Administration from Andrews UniverNCU board chairman said Dr. Gardner was a sity, Michigan, USA and a PhD in Educational visionary who is committed to advancing the Administration from Michigan State Univerreach of quality Christ-centred education and sity.

I s s ue # 7

from the

Kevin Peart, Marlon Roper, Devroy Peart and Earl Anderson (l-r) conduct song service before a street meeting in the community of Gregory Park. (July 16, 2011)

Elder Wayne Harrison presents the word of God in the community of Hamilton Gardens, July 9, 2011

Shellion Anderson (in red) leads off the Gregory Park female relay team while Kadijah Green, behind, waits to receive, at the Portmore Federation Sports Day at the Waterford High School playfield, July 3, 2011.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Tajeane Roseway, who became man and wife on July 31, 2011.

Jean-Mark Davis, Javaun Powell and Shavoy Maye present a skit during the AY Service, August 27, 2011

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Visitors respond to an altar call during the ‘Christ for the Crisis‘ Crusade

These seven make their pledge before baptism

Bro. and Sis. Davis stand together during a special prayer for married couples

“The Lord has been good and continues to be”. These are the words of one of Gregory Park SDA’s young stalwarts who now resides overseas. Ashia Ava-Marie Lennon took seriously the admonition found in Ecclesiastes 12:1, “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…”. She took her stand for the Lord on December 25, 2004 and wasted no time in committing her talents and time in the service of the Lord. Though still a high school student facing all the rigours of school life and examinations, she never wavered in her commitment to service. She participated willingly in church activities bringing to bear the fresh new ideas and vigour of youth, even delivering a Youth Day’s sermonette. After completing High school, Ashia migrated in August 2007 to Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. There she pursued a course of studies in Bio-Technology. She also continued to hold on to her faith and build on the foundation established at Gregory Park. She attended the Hamilton Mountain SDA Church where she served as Sabbath School teacher, Superintendent, AY Representative, Evangelist, and on the Hospitality, Social and Visionary Committees. In April 2011 she relocated to Regina, Saskatchewan where, she is currently a supervisor at a Department Store, while planning to pursue further studies. She now attends Hill Avenue SDA Church and requests the prayers of the brethren as she continues on the Christian pathway. She misses her church family but is determined by God’s grace to shine for Jesus wherever she is.

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A Different W

rld…

Making the Leap to Tertiary Education by Melissa Brown

or many adolescents, going to college or university can be a scary proposition - while for others it may be a time of great joy, excitement and freedom…a giant step into adulthood. Whether commuting or boarding, the order of priorities often goes something like this; select and register for courses, get books and lab equipment, get familiar with the campus, buy new clothes and sign up for a few extra-curricular activities. However, many students neglect to plan for the challenges that going to college will bring to their spiritual life. Whether it is a Christian or secular institution, the truth is that students oftentimes do not place the same importance on keeping their Christian values intact and consequently fail to remain true to their beliefs. Undoubtedly, many Christian students, especially those who attend, non-Christian schools, are faced with the challenges of adapting to a new environment, including anti-Christian philosophies, sexual immorality and drug and alcohol use. New Environment Life before college is often seen as one of rules and restrictions. As such it is not uncommon for students to become overwhelmed by their new found freedom. The thrill of doing what they want, when they want and how they want is quite liberating. College is a whole new world by itself; lectures instead of classes, professors not teachers, sleep until 12 noon because your first class starts at four. It is very easy for young people to get pulled into habits and activities that conflict with their Christian beliefs, especially being away from the influence of parents and guardians. Many a tale has been told about the results of seemingly committed Christian youth going to college and mixing with ‗bad company‘, moving in the wrong direction, getting into trouble and even being expelled. The best way to adjust to your new environment is to decide on the kind of person you want to be before you go, and stick with it. Making friends with individuals that share the same values and beliefs as you do, even if they are not exactly the same as yours, these persons can be a good support group. We are heavily influenced by the company we keep and we need to be mindful of

Solomon‘s advice found in Proverbs 13:20, ‗he that walketh with the wise men shall be wise; but a companion of fools shall be destroyed‘. Also, keep in touch with your friends and family back home and get involved in voluntary activities and actively participate in whichever church you choose to be a part of for the duration of your studies.

‗everyone is doing it‘. Peer pressure at this level is extremely intense, especially since parents and guardians are not around to see or tell them what to do. Co-ed facilities and off-campus housing increases the likelihood of having sleepovers with persons of the opposite gender, invariably increasing the temptation of premarital sex. This, as we have been taught, is contrary to God‘s plan which Anti-Christian Philosophies confines sex to the sacred marriage relationIt is not uncommon for students to be ex- ship. posed to theories and philosophies that run Drugs and Alcohol counter to their beliefs. In fact, even faculty members may openly oppose Christianity. In Alcohol and drug abuse among college stuboth Christian and non-Christian institutions, dents is a big problem in both secular and students are exposed to theories such as Christian institutions. The results of a recent Humanism, Marxism and evolution. While study done in the United States revealed that these ideologies are commonplace in acade- approximately fifty percent of college stumia, there are instances in which, Christian dents reported participating in binge drinking students may also encounter facilitators that – which is heavy consumption of alcohol over may denounce belief in the Bible outright, a short period of time, with the specific intent dismissing it as a work of fiction. Christian of becoming intoxicated. The study also students may also encounter the challenge of found that alcohol and drug use increases having classes and/or exams scheduled on the likelihood of unwanted sexual intercourse religious days like the Sabbath. If one is not and sexual contact . grounded, he or she may begin to question No matter how great the pressure to and ultimately forsake his or her beliefs. use alcohol and/or drugs, Christian students What can you do to safeguard must remember that ultimately the choice against succumbing to this form of pressure? lies with them. One can always say no and Keep holding on to the same thing that they leave the area in which these are being used are hostile towards -God and the Bible. God or distributed. The Bible tells us in Proverbs and His Word have been around long before 13:19-21 ‗hear thou, my son, and be wise, these theories and will still be, long after and guide thine heart in the way. Be not these ways of thinking become obsolete. among winebibbers...for the drunkard…shall Bible study and prayer are keys to keeping come to poverty‘. doubt away, and when you pray, pray for your Summary professors and fellow students. Be firm, but respectful about your beliefs. Never be afraid Yes, going to college is challenging. You will to stand up for what you believe, people have to accept and accommodate your new around are looking for a leader – be one, and experiences and change is inevitable. Howbe a good one. Prove yourself to be a disci- ever, you have control over how much and in plined student from early, so when the time what ways you will let it transform you. Howcomes that you decline to participate in ac- ever, you cannot do this alone! You will need tivities on the Sabbath, persons may be more support from the church, and a network of lenient to your cause. like-minded people. Take time each day to build your relationship with God, pray and Sexual Immorality read His word. This is a time of great testing Probably the greatest challenge to the Chris- and trials. But it is not impossible to maintain tian student is the determination to remain your Christian commitment while pursuing sexually pure - abstaining from sex. It is hard higher education and leave with your enough that we live in a society where ‗sex Christian beliefs not just intact but reinsells‘, but many students often find them- forced. selves in a college environment where

T he Li ght

HEALTH AS A LIFESTYLE

Nutrition for Our Students

reparations for the new school year usually entail purchasing books, book bags, uniforms and paying of school fees. Another very important part of the preparation which should not be left to chance, is planning for the nutritional needs of our school age children. Healthy eating can stabilize children‘s energy, sharpen their minds and even make them less moody. The Lord has given clear counsel in this regard through his servant. Parents can read ‗The Child‘s Diet‘ pages 383 to 385 in The Ministry of Healing by Ellen G. White as they continue preparations for their child‘s nutrition this school year. The following dietary guidelines for school age children and the special nutritional needs of teenagers are provided by the popular health website, helpguide.org. Dietary Guidelines for School Age Children ►Three to five servings of vegetables per day. A serving might be one cup of raw leafy vegetables, 3/4 cup of vegetable juice, or 1/2 cup of other vegetables, raw or cooked. . ►Two to four servings of fruit per day. A serving may consist of 1/2 cup of sliced fruit, 3/4 cup of fruit juice, or a medium-size whole fruit, such as an apple, banana or pear. . ►Six to eleven servings of whole grains per day. Each serving should equal one slice of bread, 1/2 cup of rice or 1 ounce of cereal. . ►Two to three servings of 2-3 ounces of cooked lean meat, poultry, or fish per day. A serving in this group may also consist of 1/2 cup of cooked dry beans, one egg, or 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for each ounce of lean meat. . ►Two to three servings (cups) of dairy per day of low-fat milk or yogurt, or natural cheese (1.5 ounces equals one serving). ►Studies also indicate that zinc may improve memory and school performance, especially in boys. Good sources of zinc are dried beans and peas, whole grains, fortified cereals, nuts, milk, cocoa, poultry and other kinds of meat. Nutritional needs of teenagers Teenage is a period of rapid growth as a result the requirements for all nutrients increase especially iron and calcium. Due to all the growth and activity, adolescent boys need 2,5002,800 calories per day, while girls need around 2,200 per day. It is best to get these calories from lean protein, low-fat dairy, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables. . In order for the body to grow and maintain muscle, teens need 4560 grams of protein per day. Most teenagers easily meet this need from eating meat, fish, and dairy, but vegetarians may need to increase their protein intake from non-animal sources like soy foods, beans and nuts. . Many teens do not get sufficient amounts of calcium, leading to weak bones and osteoporosis later in life. Encourage teens to

cut back on soda and other overly-sugary foods, which suck calcium from bones. The 1,200 mg of calcium needed per day should come from dairy, calcium-fortified juice and cereal, and other calcium-rich foods such as sesame seeds and leafy greens like spinach. . Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, and weakness. Boys need 12 mg each day, and teen girls, who often lose iron during menstruation, need 15 mg. Iron-rich foods include, chicken, beans, nuts, enriched whole grains, and leafy greens like callaloo and pak choi. Promoting Healthy Eating Habits The site also suggests the following for instilling healthy eating habits in children and minimizing the urge for junk food. ►Have regular family meals. Knowing dinner is served at approximately the same time every night and that the entire family will be sitting down together is comforting and enhances appetite. Breakfast is another great time for a family meal, especially since kids who eat breakfast tend to do better in school. ►Cook more meals at home. Eating home cooked meals is healthier for the whole family and sets a great example for kids about the importance of food. Restaurant meals tend to have more fat, sugar, and salt. Save dining out for special occasions. ►Get kids involved. Children enjoy helping adults grocery shop, selecting what goes in their lunch box, and preparing dinner. It's also a chance for you to teach them about the nutritional values of different foods, and (for older children) how to read food labels. ►Make a variety of healthy snacks available instead of empty calorie snacks. Keep plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grain snacks, and healthy beverages (water, milk, pure fruit juice) around and easily accessible so kids become used to reaching for healthy snacks instead of empty calorie snacks like soda, chips, or cookies. ►Limit portion sizes. Do not encourage your child to overeat by forcing him/her to eat off all the food put on his/her plate, and never use food as a reward or bribe. . Let us approach the matter of nutrition for our students prayerfully. The Health Ministries department wishes for all our students and their parents a healthy and successful school year. Compiled by Marjorie Stone, Health Ministries Leader, Gregory Park SDA Church For more information on nutrition and other health related resources visit: www.healthguide.org

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Come and share in the celebration of our rich heritage. Join us on October 8 ,2011 for our Seventieth Anniversary Launch, and December 9-11, 2011 for our Grand Anniversary Celebration as we mark a significant milestone in the history of Gregory Park Seventh-day Adventist Church. Together, let us lift our hearts in praise and thanks to God— We’ve come this far by Faith!

COUNSELS ON EDUCATION - Much of Ellen G. White‘s writings and ministry was dedicated to Adventist education. Parents, teachers, school administrators, students—anyone with an interest in Seventhday Adventist education—will find this book invaluable. Topics include home training, God and nature, school management and finance, the character and work of teachers, and much more. AVENUES TO THE HEART - Next to parents, teachers have the most influence on children. Avenues to the Heart celebrates 52 teachers who made a difference in the life of one of their students that has remained a cherished memory and inspiration to that student ever since. If you ever had a ―favorite‖ teacher or if you are a teacher who prays to have a similar influence on those you teach, this book will warm your heart.

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Tips for Effective

Prayer Excerpt from “How to have an effective prayer life” Elder’s Digest: April-June 2011; page 15 General Conference Ministerial Association

• Have on hand your Bible, a pen, and a notebook. • If possible, find a quiet place to pray. When this is not possible, God will still bless your prayer time in the midst of distractions. • Become accustomed to periods of silence, and don’t be afraid of pauses. • If you find your mind wandering during prayer: 1. Pray out loud. 2. Read scriptures out loud. If you don’t know what to pray, then pray the prayers of the Bible; there are dozens of prayers that you can take as your own. For example, pray the Psalms. They are songs, and perhaps they will reach the heart more easily when heard by the ear. 3. Ask the Lord to protect you as you pray.

4. Declare that you are determined to pray. 5. If there is a pressing need on your mind, submit it to the Lord in prayer. Write down any distractions that cause your mind to wander, and submit them to the Lord. 6. Stand up. Walk. Change your posture. If you find yourself dozing off regularly during your devotions and prayer times, stand up and walk around the room. 7. Ask the Lord if this is the best time for you to be praying. Some people are morning people, and others prefer to talk to the Lord at night. Find the time that works best for you. May a richer, more effective prayer life fill your heart with peace and joy, and may the strength and beauty you find in your time with your heavenly Father spill over to bless everyone around you.

THE LIGHT

Resources Below are links to some Adventist owned and operated educational institutions

If you haven’t received last quarter’s issue of The Light via email, email us at the address below. If you are also 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

Northern Caribbean University

University of Southern Caribbean

http://ncu.edu.jm

http://usc.edu.tt/

Victor Dixon High School

Andrews University

http://www.victordixonhigh.org/

http://www.andrews.edu/

Loma Linda University

Walla Walla University

http://www.llu.edu/

http://www.wallawalla.edu/

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NOVEMBER

OCTOBER Sab 1 Sab-Mon 1-31 Sab-Mon 1-31 Sab 1 Sab 1* Sab 1

Text a Text– 2 Peter 3:9 Senior Citizens and Disabilities Emphasis Fiftieth Anniversary Celebrations (CJC) Ingathering Launch Tell the World: In the Community Spiritual Revival and Renewal /Prayer and Fasting (Conference-wide) Sun 2 Community Services Expo – Conference-wide (Sydenham Church) Mon 3 Pastors’ & Bible Workers’ Meeting Mon 3 Third Quarter Sabbath School & Personal Ministries Report Tue 4 Family Life Education – Conference Office Wed 5 Evangelism Committee Meeting Thur 6 Pastors’ Community Outreach – St. Catherine Sab 8 Bible and Mission Conference (Conferencewide) Sab 8 Singles’ One-Day Convention – Sydenham Church Sab 8* Spirit of Prophecy Sab 8*+ Day of Kindness and Compassion Mon 10 3rd Quarter Churches’ Statistical Report due at Conference Wed 12 Executive Committee Meeting Sab 15* Adventist Children’s Day Mon 17 National Heroes Day Fri-Sun 21-23 CJC Fiftieth Anniversary Celebration (Conference-wide) Sab 22 Pastors’ Day Wed 26 Education In Service Training Seminar Thur-Sun 27-30 Women’s Ministries Retreat & Rally Sab 29 Sab. Sch. & Personal Min. Rally/AGM (Clarendon) Sab 29 Sab. Sch. Community Relations Day Sab 29 Book & Nutrition Centre Book Promotion (Conference-wide) Sab 29 Publishing Rally (Bushy Park Church) Sun 30 Adventist Songwriters Finals Concert (Camp Verley) Sun 30 Stewardship Training –Clarendon (May Pen)

Tue-Wed 1-30 Tue-Wed 1-30 Tue-Wed 1-30 Sab-Sab 5*-12 Sab 5 Sab 5 Sun 6 Wed 9 Sab 12*+ Sab 12* Sab 12 Sab 19 Sab 26 Sab 26 Sab 26 Sab 26

Parents’ Month Youth Month Ingathering continues Week of Prayer (Conference-wide) “Back to church” Sabbath/Small Group Min. Day Text a Text – Isaiah 1:18 Pastors’ Evaluation Day Executive Committee Meeting Annual Sacrifice (Offering) Trust Services Emphasis Day (Conferencewide) Sabbath School Personal Min. Rally/AGM Manchester Master Guide/Youth Day (Conference wide) Bible Emphasis Sabbath School Personal Min. Rally/AGMSt. Catherine HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (Conference-wide) Religious Liberty Convention – Camp Verley

DECEMBER Thur-Sab 1-3 Sab 3 Sun 4 Sun 4

Youth Plenary Session (Camp Verley) World Stewardship Day Community Outreach – Health Ministries Family Life Education Certification – Confer ence Office Sab 10 13th Sabbath Offering (North American Division) Wed 14 Executive Committee Meeting Wed-Sab 14-17 Lay Institute & Camp Meeting Sab 17 Text a Text – Matthew 1:21 Sun 18 Sab. Sch. & Personal Min. Workshop (Camp Verley) Sab 31 Membership Count Sab 31 CJC Community Concert *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