Baptist super-centenarian...
THE JAMAICA
Haiti Battered October 2016
Established 1874
Dorrett Campbell
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nprecedented in the history of the church in Jamaica,” is how the former Minister of Education, Reverend Ronald Thwaites, described the recent one-day mental health symposium hosted by the Kingston and St Andrew Baptist Association (KASABA), under the theme, Mental health matters, a mission imperative. The symposium, held at the Mico University College, on Saturday, September 24, was the Association’s major initiative to mark Mission Month. Hosted in partnership with the Mico, the Symposium sought to build awareness and facilitate a better understanding of mental health issues, with a view to crafting a suitable strategic response. On-going conversation KASABA Mission Coordinator Dorrett Campbell, in welcoming the more than 200 participants, noted that the symposium signalled the start of an ongoing conversation to ultimately implement ministry initiatives for persons with mental health problems. The symposium, she said, further served to urge people to seek treatment for mental illnesses with similar urgency as they would any other health condition. “We want to initiate a conversation that affirms the fundamental and inherent value of every believer to be accepted and treated with respect and worth. The conversation should increase understanding and awareness of mental health challenges in our congregations,” Campbell added.
Devon Dick endorsed the conference as a timely and direct response to the Jamaica Baptist Union’s sub-theme, Living the Sacrificial Life. Reverend Matthews viewed it as an opportunity to create awareness of the value of good mental health to the individual and the society. Rev Campbell believed that it was a welcome opportunity to equip the participants with tools to understand and minister to those who were coping with mental illnesses. President Dick emphasised the need for the body, mind and soul to be in complete harmony in order to live the sacrificial life. He encouraged conferees to feed the mind with things pure, true, just and lovely; and declared the conference open. Stigma and mental health Keynote speaker, UWI Professor of Mental Health, Wendel Abel, in a most regaling and activity-oriented presentation underscored the importance of self-management and healthy lifestyle in sustaining positive mental health. He spoke to the deleterious effects of depression on mental health; the dangers of confusing depression with demonic possession; and the social, socioeconomic and biological factors, particularly aging that affect mental health. He underscored the importance of sustaining a positive outlook on life; and gave pointers on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
KSABA Moderator Calvin Matthews, JBUMA Director Learoy Campbell and JBU President
Exercise time. Intermediate Camp. July 2016
President’s Message
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The blessedness of giving
his message continues in the context of our sub theme, Living the Sacrificial Life. I am sufficiently pleased with the general response to, and embrace of this theme. This has been evident in our visits to the associations, in references to the theme in several conversations and in the apparent attempts being made to make the word become flesh, in this instance. The importance of this latter outcome cannot be overstated. I can only appeal that this trend be continued with increasing impact and effectiveness.
This is an astounding thought of which none of us should lose sight, and which should be kept in full focus in our witness. We begin to realize the challenge Christian giving constitutes and the commitment it really demands when we recall the nature of the mind-conditioning and life-shaping dispositions and forces it counters.
It is with this in mind that I wish to share some thoughts with you on the subject of giving, which is a definitive and indispensable feature of the sacrificial life. In sharing these thoughts, I shall borrow something from the Apostle Paul in the well-known and oft-quoted Beatitude: It is more blessed to give than to receive [Acts 20:35].
There are five closely integrated factors that work together to create a prevailing, influential ethos: claiming rights, earning recompense, seizing possibilities, receiving gifts and owning and keeping of possessions as the measurement of human worth. Christian giving simply does not fit in with this kind of understanding of the meaning of life. Yet it insists that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
The notion and practice of Christian giving constitute a serious challenge. The phrase, ‘It is better to give than to receive,’ goes against what would be regarded as the natural order of things, the prudent way of pursuing life, the logical and desirable expectation and aspirations in search of fulfilment and satisfaction in life. The straightforward reality is that giving represents a radical and critical commitment that remains at all times, an index to authentic Christian self-expression. It lies at the heart of the sacrificial life. It highlights the blessedness of giving over receiving, in the midst of the world that sees life in the exact opposite. I plead with you to face this and understand its implications and far-reaching impact. Here, I share with you three things that the blessedness of giving, as critical to the sacrificial life means immediately: Banishment of a life-conditioning mind-set advanced in, and by, the world as absolutely decisive for a fulfilling existence. Bucking a deeply entrenched system and systemic ordering of life for which the world says there is no viable alternative. Breaking a vicious cycle that ensures the inevitable rise of receiver and the fall of the giver. Do we realize that Christian giving actually involves this? Do we realize that it speaks such a language to, and constitutes such a practice in the world? Surely then, it must be seen as more than an isolated, occasional and periodic act or event! It is a way of life that is all–embracing, counteractive and liberating. It is (always) more blessed to give than to receive, because, in reality, we ourselves are really not our own. 1Cor. 6:19 (NIV), states, Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.
My appeal is that we take a new look at Christian giving, recognizing that it lies at the core of the sacrificial life and must be properly understood. This implies the following: Rescuing it from the reduced, narrow, almost exclusively material and commercial associations with which it is usually promoted and thought to signify; Checking our own attitude and response to the individual and corporate commitments we have as members and leaders of the body of Christ. We ask ourselves what Christian giving demands of us, as a practical reality? Would we say we make it a core value of our lives, share it, teach it and preach it as such? Recognizing and acknowledging that Christian giving shapes the entire outworking of the Christian faith in terms of mission, evangelism, service and fellowship. These core areas of the Christian faith will be impossible in the way they are meant to be without the essential and indispensable dependence on Christian giving; Going a little deeper and further, when we, for example, say, giving involves offering our time, talent and treasure. Does time include our life-time? [Psalm 31:15 NIV). Does treasure include the treasure we have in earthen vessels? (2 Cor. 4:7) Does talent include the unheralded capacity which does not seem to measure up to what others have and not likely to gain popular attention, but is God-given nonetheless and with real potential to do good for Christ sake? My sincerest thanks to you, for your on-going co-operation to the greater glory of God. May grace, mercy and peace of the Triune God, be with you always.
Shilly-shally Matthew and Mission At the time of writing, Hurricane Matthew was a femme fatale, torturously teasing and tantalising us in a similar frustrating parody as Michael Forbes’ persona in his 1989 Festival Song, Stop and Go: He stop; he go; he stop… he waan go east, he waan go west…he waan fi go and he waan fi come…HE DIDN’T COME. Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail… The erratic Matthew prompted the muse: how we often ‘shilly-shally’ with God’s mission and how there’s need for consistency in the promulgation of our identity, heritage and beliefs. Baptist Awareness Week, observed in November, should be a big deal in promoting Baptist heritage… Yet I, a Baptist of 23 years, sat in the Education Committee planning meeting, ashamedly asking, ‘who is Mama Hall?’ Don’t drop your jaw just yet! Subsequent survey revealed that several others, younger and older, neither knew of “Mama Hall” nor of Elizabeth Garland Hall and the role she played in founding the Jamaica Baptist Women’s Federation; her caregiving support to victims of the 1920 small pox epidemic in St. Ann;
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and her legacy, the Garland Hall Memorial Home for Children. There is need for consistent education of members on Baptist heritage and beliefs. Our Sunday school and Enquirer’s Class curricula should be laced with related topics. Our parish and national quiz and essay competitions should, of necessity, become vehicles through which Baptists are reminded of who we are, from whence we came; what we stand for and where we are going. But back to Matthew: obviously bored with Jamaica, he relentlessly pursued Haiti - a fatal attraction that left in its wake a climbing death toll of more than 800; heart-rending destruction of property and an outbreak of cholera. Haiti’s tragedy summons us to our reputed role to lead in crises. The JBUMA needs all hands on deck. As at October 5, every donation made to its NCB savings account 304533943 goes to Haiti. Sacrificial living is sacrificial giving. Give consistently. Our sisters and brothers in Haiti need more than just our prayers. THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER Official publication of the JAMAICA BAPTIST UNION 2B Washington Boulevard Kingston 20 Telephone: 969-6268 Fax: 924-6296 Email: info@jbu.org.jm Website: www.jbu.org.jm Editorial Committee Dorrett R Campbell (Editor) Diedre Callam Clinton Chisolm Ptako Davis (Design and layout) Arlene Henry (JBU Programme Coordinator) Erica James King Dylan Toussaint Sophia Williams We invite you to submit your articles, stories, poems and comments by email, fax or send them to the above address.
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From the Desk of the General Secretary
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ecently, I had a conversation with our last son Nathan about certain ‘motivational gems’ that were drilled into me early in life. Quotes/gems such as ‘if u waan good, u nose haffi run’; ‘labour for learning before you grow old, for learning is better than silver and gold, silver and gold will vanish away but a good education will never decay;’ ‘heights of great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upwards through the night!’ Please don’t be detained by speculating on what triggered that conversation! After that father-son chat, I was seized by the thought that I couldn’t remember a time when I didn’t know those sayings. While I can’t state the date and time when they were taught to me, one thing is sure, and that is, I was very young and most impressionable. That led me to think again about the fact that humans are at their most malleable in the formative years. This thought trajectory led me - perhaps because we are at the early stages of a new school year - to reflect on the state of our Education sector. That there is still much ground to cover to make the sector what it ought to be is beyond debate. Let us not lose sight of the fact, however, that this sector has prepared countless thousands for productive work and engagement throughout the years. Character formation and development I urge increased and continued focus on Early Childhood Education because we are spending too much of our resources doing the work twice. If we are able to get it right at the early stages, then indisputably, Jamaica will be the better for it. Our denomination’s long and unchallenged commitment to education, grounded in our missional understanding, has found expression primarily through our involvement at the Basic and Primary school levels. What that means is that much of our engagement is with those who are at their most vulnerable and impressionable stage…a wonderful, albeit, fearsome opportunity to contribute to the shaping of young minds for generations to come. Let us continue to be good stewards of this task! We salute those who have toiled and continue to do so gladly in these areas of ministry; and invite others to join them on the journey. Many more of our nation’s children are in school than in church; many of our nation’s children are being influenced by voices outside of school and church. What shall our response be? Let us redouble our efforts to add our voice to the critical discourse around character formation and development; and having sensed the leading of the Lord, let us seize our opportunities for action! In solidarity with Haiti The recent visit of Hurricane Matthew reminded us that we are not yet out of the hurricane season and how easily one event can change the entire landscape of a nation’s economy. We are, on the one hand, relieved that Jamaica was spared a direct hit, but on the other hand, deeply saddened, by the devastation wrought on Haiti. The hurricane left a trail of destruction in the South where two of our congregations are located.
We know you will respond generously to the call for help and we ask that you remember in prayer, the families who lost loved ones, property and livelihoods. Fact of the matter is that the conversation about how best to stand in solidarity with Haiti needs to take on new dimensions at different levels. One cannot help but take notice of how the hurricane impacted countries like Cuba and Bahamas differently from Haiti. It points to unresolved issues related to sustainable development in Haiti and we must play a prophetic role, in addition to whatever else we do. Hurricane Matthew also reminded Jamaica that it too has issues that require increasing attention: our response to climate change; waste/ garbage disposal; adherence to construction codes; and the legislative framework surrounding mandatory evacuation. Notwithstanding, Jamaica has much to be proud of in how the country responded to news of Hurricane Matthew. Commendations are in order for the Government of Jamaica, Meteorological Office, ODPEM and other aspects of our Disaster Response apparatus. We salute them, especially the Meteorological Office, for facilitating the flow of information which led many to agree that we were fairly well prepared to face the Hurricane. As is to be expected, there are always lessons to learn and we urge those concerned to spare no effort to improve the machinery, at all levels. Lawlessness in JA Concerns and confusion abound about the apparent increasing levels of lawlessness in Western Jamaica. This part of the country has become a place which is unrecognizable to those who have more than a passing acquaintance with it. Clearly the situation is complex and lasting solutions will be long-term and multi-faceted. You may recall that in light of the recognized upsurge of crime and violence in Western Jamaica, the JBU, in consultation with our members in St. James, established a Peace and Justice Centre in Salt Spring, one of the communities reeling from the effects of crime and violence. Launched during the 2013 Assembly and housed at the Salt Spring Baptist Church, the Centre was intended to facilitate the pre-emption and prevention of volatile situations; to empower citizens to achieve their God-given potential through capacity building; to develop the kind of environment which would foster peaceful co-existence. The Centre is chaired by Everton Jackson, pastor of the Salt Spring Baptist church, who also heads the Peace Management Initiate (PMI) in the West. Reports received indicate that the community has been responding positively to their presence and work. In fact we couldn’t help but feel encouraged to read in a recent report from the Centre that ‘…the recent upsurge in gun violence in St. James did not include the Salt Spring community.’ It is our belief that our conflict resolution, life skills and community youth club resuscitation programmes are having a positive impact. We had envisioned that churches in other locations would establish similar centres. This is a vision which requires new impetus. When next you hear from me, God willing, via this medium, it will be 2017! Let me use this opportunity to wish for you God’s richest blessings for the Advent and Christmas seasons as well as for the New Year.
Karl B. Johnson 2016 October
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
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Ministries and Mission
Mission without excuse… The journey to Haiti
Michelle Blackellar Barbican Baptist
My biggest Lesson from the Haiti trip is: God can use anyone once the individual is available and is willing to risk exposing one’s weaknesses Joy Lawrence, Boulevard Baptist Church
I have learnt to appreciate and count my blessings as what I have in Jamaica is far more than what many Haitians have access to. Bernetta Gayle, Ocho Rios Baptist Church
I have learnt the necessity of always being prepared to fully engage in mission. It is a further reminder that it is God who equips for the mission and we who must simply avail ourselves to him. Gareth Irvin - Balaclava Baptist
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group of seven Baptist missionaries met at the Norman Manley International Airport, On 12 July 2016, and readied themselves to depart for the Republic of Haiti. This group was mixed with first time and repeat missionaries, all unsure of what lay ahead, but certain of the call on their lives to proceed in service of the brethren in Haiti.
The dawn of a new day was evident; cool air and bright smiles all around. Our devotional, led by Sister Joy encouraged us to be strong in the Lord… Be strong because our work was great and we would need to remember this as the days rolled on.
took the day before! It was with a sense of great accomplishment and thanks to God that we brought clinic to a close that day. Drs. Yohance and Camile Rodrigues continued the medical ministry after the departure of Dr Francis. They attended to 206 patients and were able to fill 98% of the prescriptions by the end of that week.
Among the travelling group were Rev. Gareth Irvin (Balaclava Circuit), Rev. Dukett Duncan (Morant Bay Circuit), Sister Joy Lawrence (Boulevard); Sisters Gloria Facey (Wheeler’s Mt.); Bernetta Gayle (Ocho Rios) and Hazel Sewell (Ebony Vale).
The Lord used every occasion to bring wisdom and maturity to the brethren for his glory. A major platform was the leadership training sessions with Rev Duncan who pointed to new areas worthy of exploration by the current leadership of the Port-au-Prince church.
Ahead of us in Haiti were JBU Mission Director, Rev. Dr. Learoy Campbell and Dr. Linton Francis (Ocho Rios). Drs. Yohance Rodriquez and Camille Ann Rodriques would join us on Thursday, when Dr. Linton Francis returned to Jamaica.
The mission climaxed with a scintillating trek to a lovely turquoise river for a baptismal service. This was a refreshing difference from the usual baptismal pool and presented another opportunity for fellowship for us. The baptismal service was conducted by Pastor Jean Rony Bataille, ably assisted by deacons, in full view of the community members and full hearing of the rejoicing of the brethren.
We landed in Providencialis, Turks and Caicos Islands, and connected shortly thereafter en route to Haiti, where we were met by Reverend Campbell and our able driver, Felix. Our ride to the Seven Stars Hotel where we lodged, was through the heart of Port-au-Prince, at peak hour traffic. Imagine our bus carefully pressing through the almost gridlocked traffic (Haiti has only a few traffic light-controlled intersections) avoiding the many pedestrians, beggars, motor cycles, in addition to the myriad of colourfully decorated and over-filled ‘tap-tap’ taxis in order to arrive at our hotel. It was the Jamaican traffic all over again. Having arrived at our hotel, we settled in and had our preliminary meeting, where we discussed the approach to Vacation Bible School and the medical ministry. We appointed Sister Joy Lawrence as our spiritual director and made plans to visit with the churches at their crusade later that evening. However, the advent of a sudden and massive thunder storm crushed any hope of that.
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So on Day Three of clinic and Day One of VBS, we quickly set up and prepared to receive the children, as we were not able to do so the day before. When we arrived at the venue we were basically on our own until the interpreters arrived, so we did the best we could with the space that was available to us. The teachers were a bit down-hearted with the show of support from the home church, as we were there to offer support to the VBS workers, not necessarily to ‘run’ the VBS; so that gave meaning to the encouragement from our devotions to be strong in the Lord. As the days progressed, the support from the church increased as did the number of children who attended VBS. The clinic was in full swing even as the VBS continued in the shared quarters. With the addition of a pharmacist and nurse, Dr Francis was able to concentrate on medicine and saw 27 patients in his final session in half the time it THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
Notwithstanding Haiti’s devastation from the January 12, 2010 earthquake, the resilience of Haitian people gurgles up like a never drying stream in its culture and we certainly drank from it. We toured the city; visited the Haiti National Museum, which chronicles the journey of the nation from slavery to modern times; patronised the street side artisans in Port-au-Prince, and journeyed up into the hills at night to view the picturesque city lights from L’observatoire. Again, we ventured into the hills to visit the Baptist Haiti Mission that has been ministering for over 70 years. However, we longed, like Paul to visit the brethren at our two sister churches in Kamonisa and Kafab; hopefully next time we will visit with them.
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Ministries AND MISSION
JBUMA Castor bean project full speed ahead
Judith Johnston Chairman – Urban & Rural Ministry Committee
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he JBU National Grow Castor Bean Project is on the verge of launching its Phase 1, cycle 1 planting season. Project participants who have waited for the better part of two years, since the project was officially launched, will soon see changes in their landscape as they engage in this productive enterprise. The problem with waiting is not having all the details. From our individual perspectives, we have everything figured out and we expect God to move within our timeframe. Waiting strategically can cultivate in our lives, good fruit such as patience, perseverance, and endurance. It also draws us closer to our Saviour and points those who are watching us to the Gospel. Psalm 5:3 says, “I pray to you, O Lord; you hear my voice in the morning; at sunrise I offer my prayer and wait for your answer.”
While we waited, many things have happened:
products in the same manner and quality as approved by the Jamaica Bureau of Standards and international Organization for Standardization [ISO]
JAMPRO is now fully on board with advancing the castor industry’s prospects for exceptional growth. They have spearheaded extensive market research on the product and are committed to identifying and securing export markets and promoting the industry. They have since had two castor stakeholders meetings (June 21 and August 9) at which the JBU project was represented; and plans are far advanced in establishing the Jamaica Castor Industry Association (JCIA). The first general meeting of this Association was held on October 20.
The Project has had drawings and estimates prepared for establishing its factory/warehouse, using alternative energy solutions. The aim is to eliminate up front any energy costs while also selling energy to the national grid. This type of net zero energy facility, which also reduces the carbon footprint, is one that attracts funding from donor agencies.
Members of JAMPRO and the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) will also engage in site visits to Jamaican castor farmers and producers to begin assessment of a possible geographical indication for the Jamaica Black Castor Oil (JBCO) industry. A geographical indication would protect the growers and producers of JBCO and would ensure that all those who produce JBCO products would have to make
In addition to storing and processing castor beans, it is expected that this facility will be used for other processing activities as the Urban and Rural Committee explores other income generating projects with our church communities across the island. Options like cocoa production, vegetable and fruit processing, herb pastes and processing chicken into chicken ham or smoked chicken will be considered. Churches are encouraged to share with the Committee any income generating ideas they have which we can replicate across the island for the good of our communities. As we pray, God delivers, not only His people from evil, but the resources that are needed to do His work. We therefore ask the people of God to keep this project at the forefront of your prayers.
Spiritual Empowerment Conference, a wow experience Dayne Grant
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rom the valley to the mountain top was the journey that over sixty conferees from across the island took on Wednesday, August 17, 2016; and oh, what a journey it was! The four-day Spiritual Empowerment Conference or retreat as some conferees dubbed it, served to deepen the spiritual experience and heighten attentiveness to God’s Spirit who constantly engages people. No conferee was to return to their comfort zones after such a thought-provoking sermon preached on the opening night of the conference by the President of the Jamaica Baptist Union, Rev. Dr. Devon Dick, who made the bold proclamation with practical application that it is always better to give than to receive. This he said in light of the theme, Living the Sacrificial Life: Giving Freely. Little did we know that this word was to set the tone for the study of the scriptures and moments of attentiveness, silence and prayer.
Rev. Norva Rodney. Through the communal engaging of the word, Rev. Rodney led the group to an appreciation that the sacrificial life was possible for all who were recipients of God’s grace. He said, “the sacrificial life that is lived in the context of Kingdom life is about receiving God’s grace for human disgrace… that we need to see the Holy Other in the othernesss of others… and therefore enter into their experiences to share in the fellowship of suffering.” The conference assisted participants in their understanding of Living the Sacrificial Life, through exploration of the sub-themes: Giving Freely, Serving Faithfully, Living Fully, and Witnessing Fervently. Some of the key features of this year’s conference were a creatively crafted prayer breakfast, practical workshops, indoor sporting activities and the thoughtprovoking Bible study series by this year’s presenter, THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
This was endorsed by the Rev. Stephen Henry, who took the baton for the closing and commitment service of the conference, charging us as God’s people living in God’s world to go and be fervent witnesses of God.
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Youth News
Junior Camp 2016… a biblical experience
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unior Camp 2016 was a fun and interactive experience. This year’s camp was held under the theme, OMG-Offering my gifts; and the theme song was most fitting for this theme.
When I was named Camp Princess I was really surprised even though fellow camper, Alicia had said I would be. I am really grateful to all, the aunties and uncles and my room counsellor for this experience.
On Monday, campers got the opportunity to socialize with each other while playing games. The following day the focus was, ‘Giving All.” I learned that in the Old Testament lambs were sacrificed but they had to be perfect, and that even though we are not perfect we should still give ourselves to God. That was a really important message to me.
Intermediate camp, a mountain top experience
We watched a movie and a slide show about some children in the world. It actually surprised me that even though they do not live life in luxury they are still very happy. Overall camp was a biblical experience. It made me see the deep meaning of parables that Jesus told. There was also a sports day, and Paul House, which was my house, came second. Additionally, there was a prize giving and commitment service. I received a prize for winning the Math race.
Intermediate camp was a success this year as the focus was on the theme, OMG: Offering my Gifts. All sessions were tied in with the overall theme for the week and each daily theme flowed into each other. The annual banquet was moved to Wednesday thus giving way to a commitment service that closed the week. The camp ended with a ‘mountain top experience’ with the Lord. The campers enjoyed the bible study sessions. This year, for Expressions, the campers were taught how to use the Performing or Visual Arts to improve or start a related ministry at their own church. This year’s camp yielded great fruit as everyday throughout the week, there was at least one camper who made a commitment or recommitted to a relationship with Christ. From the early morning devotions to the well participated sport activities, to the commitment service which saw many persons acknowledging their need for the Saviour, it was clear that this year’s camp was full with the content and context needed to touch and impact the lives of our campers.
I won’t forget the feeling that I had when my bus left us off at the campsite. I felt kind of intimidated which I find quite ironic seeing that I’m a big guy. It was a great experience that I won’t forget even though I only spoke to about five people. 6
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
ORDINATIONS Michael Barnett ordained to Christian Ministry
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he Rev. Michael Barnett was ordained and inducted to the Rock River Circuit of Baptist churches in a service held on Thursday 8th September 2016 at the Bethlehem Baptist Church in Clarendon. Officiating ministers were the President of the Jamaica Baptist Union, the Rev. Dr. Devon Dick; Asst. General Secretary, the Rev. Merlyn Hyde-Riley and Superintendent Minister for the parishes of Clarendon, St. Elizabeth and Manchester, the Rev. Karl Henlin. Pastor of the Bethel Baptist Church in Half Way Tree, Kingston, the Rev. Dr. Burchell Taylor, delivered the sermon, based on Romans 12:1-2. He emphasized the importance of the devotional life, stating that what one did on a day to day basis would bring glory to God. The giving of one’s self to God, he stated, was an act of enthronement and a clear statement about “who rules or who is in charge.” Rev. Taylor made further comments that related self-giving to an act of adoration, acknowledgement and affirmation. He added that the pattern of one’s life should not be determined by one’s capacity to get along with the world, but one’s priority should be the Christ- renewed mindset.
Prince Clemmings marks 50 years of ordained ministry
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n Thursday, September 1, 2016, a Service of Thanksgiving and Recognition was held at the Bethel Town Baptist Church for the Rev. Dr. Prince Clemmings to mark fifty years as an ordained Minister of the Jamaica Baptist Union. The large congregation was headed by the President of the Union, Rev. Dr. Devon Dick who led the service. Guest Preacher was Immediate Past President Michael Shim-Hue. Greetings were brought by JBU General Secretary, Rev Karl B Johnson; Custodes of Westmoreland and Portland, the Hon Father Hartley Perrin and Lincoln Thaxter; Ms Pamela Walsh of the St. Margaret’s Bay Circuit; Mrs. Monica Lewis of the Bethel Town Circuit and Mrs. Vivette McIntosh Yates and Mr. Leroy Dawes, Moderators of the Westmoreland and Hanover Baptist Associations, respectively. The congregation was challenged by Pastor Shim-Hue to remain constantly focused on Jesus despite the changes that were taking place in different areas of life. He emphasized that as the society and culture evolved, Christian values and teachings must remain the same. In his response, Rev. Dr. Clemmings thanked the different circuits and churches that he served, for their faithful support and attendance at the service. He challenged the congregation to continue to listen to the voice of God that “calls us to ministry and mission.” THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
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WINDOW ON THE WORD
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he captivates you with her charm, humour and wit. She leaves you breathless as you reel from stitches of laughter, while she regales you with stories of events, which occurred over one hundred years ago. She is 116 year-old Violet Mosse -Brown, the second oldest verified living person in the world, who also holds the distinction of being the oldest person in the Caribbean, the Americas and the Western Hemisphere; the oldest member of the Jamaica Baptist Union and the oldest living Baptist. Mrs Mosse-Brown was born to John and Elizabeth Mosse, on 10 March 1900, in Duanvale, Trelawny, during Jamaica’s period of British colonisation. Her age has been verified by family and friends as well as the Gerontology Research Group, a global group of researchers who compile the World Super-centenarian Ranking List. After graduation from the Duanvale Elementary School in her early teens, Violet Mosse worked as a domestic helper, before she decided to open her own grocery shop. This small business entrepreneur was also the caretaker of the Duanvale cemetery. Blessed with a vivid memory and cheerful demeanour, Mrs Mosse-Brown related that when she was growing up life was hard, but her faith in God always inspired her. Her life took on added meaning at 13, when she accepted Jesus as her personal Lord and Saviour and was baptised by the Rev. A. G. Eccleston, then pastor of the Waldensia Circuit of Baptist Churches.
Erica James-King “I cannot forget that on my baptismal day, the Pastor gave me the Scripture, Psalm 119:133 to keep in my heart: Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over. From that day, I have not forgotten that Scripture and I allow it to lead and direct my life,” Mrs MosseBrown related. This super-centenarian has always been devoted to using her talents and gifts to the glory of God, thus advancing His kingdom. Her passion for service to God has seen her serving as deacon, organist, chorister, church secretary, Sunday school teacher, worship leader and mentor. Her Pastor, Rev Harrif Allison, told us that she has given “many years of dedicated service to the church and many of the songs that the church members and choir now sings, they learnt it from Sister Brown.” Pointing out that the community agreed that Mrs Mosse-Brown had always maintained a spiritual consciousness, Rev Allison noted that her legacy is undoubtedly that of a Christ-centred and spirited contribution to the work of Christ in Duanvale and Sherwood Content in Trelawny. This mother of six children - one of whom predeceased her - is the matriarch of Duanvale. She is a mother figure to many in the community, and the residents love Mama Vie for her loving and caring ways.
Violet Mosse-Brown never ceased to amaze those with whom she interacts. One of the mindboggling things about her is that she can still read without glasses and her memory is as sharp as that of some of her children and grandchildren. She is able to recite several Psalms, the Creation Story in Genesis 1, and several other scriptures from the King James Version of the Bible. Her favourite creative expression is reciting lucidly and accurately, George Gordon Byron’s Ballad, Vision of Belshazzar, which is based on chapters four and five of the book of Daniel. Mama Vie lost her husband 38 years ago, but her son, the world’s oldest living child with a parent alive, 96 year-old Allan Harold Fairweather is good company for her. He told the Baptist Reporter of the many memory gems he learnt from his mother and his deep admiration for his mother’s unconditional kindness and strong faith in God. “Some of these memory gems, I did not understand as a child, but they became meaningful and inspiring to me when I became an adult,” he remarked. Queen Elizabeth II; the parish of Trelawny; and the Gerontology Research Group have all celebrated Mrs Mosse-Brown for her remarkable longevity. And what is the recipe for her longevity? “I love God, memorize His Word and follow His way,” Aunt V concluded with a sigh of satisfaction.
iSSUES AND COMMENTARIES
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he Reverend Joseph Jessel Williams celebrated his 100th birthday on 6 July 2016, making him the oldest Baptist minister, still in active service.
The contribution of this man of God is well known by people of all ages. Some of his sterling qualities are humility, patience, honesty, sincerity, contentment, meekness, boldness, vision and love for others. JJ, as he is affectionately called, was born in Stokes Hall, St. Thomas, to Deacon Jacob Joshua and Lillian Williams. His father was an accomplished organist and choirmaster, and Lillian a leader in the same church. Before the death of his parents, the young JJ migrated to Kingston in 1926 to live with his sister Pansy, who was then a student at the Kingston Public Hospital Pharmacy. He attended the Conversorium Elementary School, (later Central Branch) and the Calabar High School. After passing the Junior Cambridge Examination, he was unable to continue at Calabar because his family could not pay the tuition fees. Fortunately, the principal of the St. John’s High School recognized the plight of this promising student and enrolled the young Joseph on a flexible payment plan. He was allowed to pay the tuition in instalments, when he could afford to do so. After passing the Jamaica Certificate Exam and graduating with honours, he accepted employment as a teacher at his alma mater. His pay was withheld in lieu of school fees. Young Joseph had to forego enrolment in a commercial course because once again he could not afford the fees. After fulfilling his
Melody Williams financial obligations to the school, he then moved to work at the Government Bacteriological Laboratory on North Street, where he worked for forty-two years. Joseph started as a humble washroom attendant and after many successive promotions rose to the position of Supervisor which he occupied until his retirement in 1977. He became a Fellow of the Society of Medical Technologists in 1955 and for his outstanding achievements in the field of Public Health, he was awarded a fellowship by the World Health Organization in 1971. Rev JJ Williams was the recipient of the Badge of Honour for long and faithful service as a civil servant in 1976. His Christian service was equally impressive. He served at East Queen Street Baptist Church as a deacon, choirmaster of the adult choir, lay preacher, secretary of the Christian Endeavour and director of music of the youth choir. JJ is a founding member of the Young Men’s Fraternal Choir now Men’s Fraternal, which he served as director for over 40 years; and was instrumental in founding the Frat’s Quintet in 1951. Many persons do not realize that when they sing “The Lord’s Prayer” (Traditional) they are singing a composition by Rev Williams. Many may have forgotten or may not have known that in 1962 when Jamaica became an independent nation, he was lead bass in the Art Celebration Choir, which performed at the ceremony to herald the event. Although he became a Christian at an early age and served in several ministries, his call to Christian Ministry was a second career, having retired from the Public Service. This was to be the basis of fruitful and rewarding service to
the Lord and the community. After his retirement as pastor of the Richmond Vale Circuit of Baptist Churches, Rev Williams returned to East Queen Street Baptist Church where he continued his ministry, making regular visits to shut-ins, the sick and the lonely of the church showing love and giving comfort to all. Up until recently, JJ was still filling pulpit assignments, committing the dead to their final resting place, taking telephone calls on the prayer line and assisting the Fraternal Choir as conductor. He still sings bass in the senior and fraternal choirs. JJ did not accomplish all these feats alone. Although Ivy May McDonald and he were workers together at the East Queen Street Baptist Church, it was not until 1961 that he cast his eyes on her; and a strong romantic connection developed, culminating in marriage on April 25, 1962. The union produced five musically talented children namely: Jon, Melody, Wynton, Karen and Bridgette, all professionals in their chosen fields. On 30 March 2002 his very supportive and gifted wife was called home to Glory. Rev Williams, though bowed down with grief and sorrow, declared that “as a preacher of the gospel, I must practise what I preach and be strong and lean on the promises of God, who will supply our needs. The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord.” JJ Williams is an icon in Jamaican Church music. He sings, dreams and writes music. It would be good to follow his lifestyle of humble, dedicated service to God and his fellow human beings.
WINDOW ON THE WORD
Where have all the heroes gone? the costly fight against institutional and entrenched injustice perpetuated by the “respectable” sins of the powerful.
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you (Matthew 28:18-20a) The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour (Luke 4:18-19)
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henever Baptists are not at the forefront of justice pursuits, they lose touch with their heritage. Some view social justice as evangelism’s competitor. They believe that Christians who champion social justice do so at the expense of evangelism and that the twain cannot meet. This position crumbles when appropriate biblical interpretation prevails; neither can it hold before these passages, either separately or when juxtaposed. In Matthew 28:18-20a, Jesus uses the infinitive form of the verb, not the imperative mood. He really says “Therefore (as you are) going into the world, make disciples…” rather than, “Go therefore into the world and make disciples.” Jesus knew that we would all be “going” about our daily business, interacting with everything the world throws at us. While we are going, he says, we shall encounter others. Those others are not ‘targets’ waiting to be “saved;” neither are they ‘fruit’ waiting to be “picked.” They are people on business just like us, wrestling with the impact of injustice, sin, oppression, discrimination, exclusion, marginalization, wickedness, greed, and much more. Often, these are their own doing; sometimes, others. Christian mission is to both declare Christ’s hope to such people (evangelism) and then be the prophetic community that pursues the justice which reposes in that message. Mission interrupts and challenges the systems that imprison, blind, blindside, deprive, enslave and treat people unjustly. Champions of justice and evangelism All of these human predicaments are precisely within the catchment area of Jesus’ manifesto in Luke 4: 18-19. Jesus’ kingdom was not some distant afterlife ‘sinting.’ It was, as he often declared, a Kingdom that is here. It was not primarily salvation for heaven later; it was deliverance from bondage now. And
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soon, the poor, blind, indebted, oppressed, captives – even some captors – would see these words in action. It is for us Baptists to consider whether our love for crusades, with a view to “baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit,” matches our eagerness for “teaching them to observe whatever I have commanded you.” And what, exactly, have we observed? Well, what did Jesus’ disciples observe in him? They observed a disinterest in power and position for the self-serving. They observed a compassionate and actionable focus on the dispossessed, disfranchised, and disadvantaged. They observed a leader consumed with justice for all. Upholding the legacy Anabaptists – distant Baptist relatives – were champions of justice and evangelism. They were what Alan Bean Baptists today must (2016) in his article, Why White America consider whether Silences Jesus, in we are upholding The Baptist News the legacy of Bogle, Global, called Sharpe and Gordon “the radical wing or just pursuing a of the Protestant “prosperity gospel,” Reformation.” Martin which delivers us Luther King, Jr., comfort and selfBaptist gift to the world, was such interest… a challenge to American empire that the FBI pursued him like a criminal, before he was assassinated. George William Gordon, Paul Bogle and Sam Sharpe were as evangelical as they were non-compliant, radical, sacrificial, and transformational. Their primary life objective was neither comfort nor self-promotion, but justice for the dispossessed and oppressed. Baptists today must consider whether we are upholding the legacy of Bogle, Sharpe and Gordon or just pursuing a “prosperity gospel,” which delivers us comfort and self-interest, and “saves” us from THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
Who are Jamaica’s dispossessed, outcasts and captives? Apart from those literally in squalid prisons, could it also be those with whose sexual orientation we disagree, who our society pillories, denigrates, and hates? Could it be women and girls who are still objectified sexually and considered property? Could it be an impoverished citizenry from whom a massive transfer of wealth to the rich is arguably, still happening, both legally and illegally? Are today’s Baptists as much in the forefront of restorative justice for all these as we should or used to be? A new kind of evangelism What if Baptists were to befriend people who are repulsed by the rest of society, just as Jesus – in love, and unconcerned about his reputation – hung out with outcasts? What if we did this, instead of flocking to mass protest gatherings in Half Way Tree Square? What if we addressed human trafficking, and pursued sexual oppressors in suits and Audis instead of hounding their victims? What if powerful and prominent Jamaican Baptists (surely we have some!) used their position, not to cozy up with even more powerful and prominent politicians and citizens, but instead to be advocates for the masses? Would they surrender this coziness, as they celebrate, this October 17, Baptist heroes who surrendered their lives? What if we truly pursued the interest of others instead of our own? At his death, Sam Sharpe was merely 32 years old. What if young Jamaican Baptists became so incensed by injustice and corruption, so rampant in Jamaica, that some became informed disciples, sacrificially committing their lives to the pursuit of career and resources, but creatively including the pursuit of justice and jubilee, sight and healing relief and release, welcome and inclusion, and salvation and hope for God’s people – their people? Do we doubt that this could spark an avalanche of others, elsewhere in the church, and in other parts of the nation, partnering with our youths and young adults, for the transformation of Jamaica? Do we doubt that along the way, a new kind of evangelism, denominational life and energy may emerge, moving our membership count upward? And do we doubt that Christ may once again, do marvelous things for Jamaica, through his people called Baptists?
The Ministry of Deacons
The Baptist Reporter uses this medium to feature different aspects of what we believe This is Part one of a two part paper on the Ministry of the Deacons produced by the Faith and Order Commission. We invite your comments and questions
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he office of Deacon is one that exists in several Church communions. However, despite its near universal currency there is no consensus on who a deacon is and what a deacon does.
As is always the case, whenever new and emerging ministry-challenges confront the Church in general and individual communions in particular, effective ministry response becomes a matter of great importance. This in turn calls for renewed reflection on orders and patterns of ministry existing in the Church and individual communions. Based on the nature of challenges now being faced, the office and function of deacons have become a matter that calls for renewed reflection. Such reflection requires a look at New Testament evidence, developments in the early church tradition and practice, later development prior to what may be regarded as the modern period and then the contemporary period. New Testament Witness Ministry within the Church is fundamentally of an inclusive nature. Every member of the church ought to share in its collective ministry. God in Christ by means of the gift of the spirit endows every member of the church with a ministry gift for the common good of the Church itself (Rom. 12:3-8; 1Cor. 12:4ff. Eph. 4:7-13; 1Pet. 4:10ff). Ministry responsibility on the part of every member is therefore a New Testament provision and requirement. At the same time however, the New Testament also attests to special ministry roles to be carried out by certain functionaries within local congregations. Elders or Overseers [Bishops] and deacons are a prominent and significant case in point, (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-12). Elders are found far more frequently and independently of any accompanying reference to deacons, (Acts 11:30; 15:2, 5, 22; 16:4; 20:7; 1Tim. 5:17). Yet in the instances where deacons appear, they do so in association with elders. What then can be gleaned from the New Testament about the deacon and the deacon’s role? The role of the deacon The word that is rendered Deacon (diakonos) in the special sense of the office is the same word that is used in a more general sense for servant or minister (Phil. 1:1; 1Tim. 3:8, 12; Rom. 16: cf Rom. 13:4; 1Cor 3:5; 2Cor. 3:6; 11:23; Eph. 3:7; Col. 1:7.) Whatever the office of deacon meant, it was in the end, a specially designated function, role or expression of the more general category of ministry shared by all within the church. The status of deacons, with reference to superiority in relation to other members of the church does not arise in any way whatever. There are three clear and unambiguous references to the office of deacon in the New Testament: Phil. 1:1; 1Tim. 3:8, 11. In all of the references, deacons appear in association with elders or overseers [Bishops]. This suggests that deacons worked in ministry partnership with elders serving as significant help or assistant. Interestingly, nothing whatever is stated about the origin of the office or the duties involved. It can only be taken that such matters were well known and that there were no problems ostensibly related to them so there was no necessity to make reference to them.
What we are given in the Timothy references are qualities and characteristics of persons eligible for the office. They were to be worthy or respect, sincere, not double-tongued, not indulging in much wine, not slanderers, not pursuing gain. They were to hold the mystery of the faith with a good conscience, to be good managers of their household and married to one wife. It is the view of some interpreters that one can infer the functions of the deacon from these characteristics. The dignity and seemingly high reputation that were necessary pointed to the fact that they might have had to be engaged in a deputation work on behalf of the Church. This would have warranted their being highly respected both within the Church and outside. The requirement that they be persons who managed their household well and who comported themselves with much self-discipline meant they might have had administrative function in the affairs of the Church. Exemplary conduct in the areas referred to would be a great asset in this regard. The statement that they were not to be greedy for gain pointed to a specific role in relation to finances and or material possessions which demanded honesty. The most that can be said is that the roles named do not appear to be unreasonable inferences but there is no certainty about them. Subsequent developments in relation to the office and its practice include functions that have been here inferred. Women as deacons In Romans 16:1 Paul uses the same word Diakonos, in relation to Phoebe and her role in the congregation at Cenchreae. If the use of the term in relation to Phoebe is in the formal and technical sense as Deacon in the local congregation, then the reference here would make it a matter of four instead of three direct references to the office in the New Testament, (cf 1Phil. 11; 1Tim. 3:8, 12). This would also represent incontrovertible evidence that women were eligible for the office and actually functioned in it. Of course there are those who believe that the instructions given to the women, who in some translations, are assumed to be Deacons’ wives in 1Tim. 3:11 were actually female Deacons. The word used there was not the regular Greek word for ‘wife’ but for ‘woman.’ The instructions given are similar in significant ways to those given to the Deacons. Yet there are others who would deny that they were deacons. They argue that there would have been no need to single out women for instructions were they being instructed as deacons. It also seems as if the instructions to deacons resumed in verse 12 after a break at verse eleven to deal with the women. As said however, if Phoebe was being referred to as a deacon in the formal sense of the word then it would put the whole question beyond doubt that already women were eligible for the office and actually performed it… [Send your questions and suggestions regarding the role of the deacons to info@ jbu.org.jm]
News from around the Churches
Tower Hill, 120 Years of Ministry
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he St James based Tower Hill Baptist Church celebrated its 120th anniversary of ministering to its communities, on Sunday August 14, 2016, under the theme, Continuing the Journey for God’s Glory. Pastor of the Burchell Circuit of Baptist Churches, Rev Davewin Thomas, led the Thanksgiving Service, while Rev Michael Shim-Hue delivered the sermon. Rev Shim-Hue, in treating with the theme, noted the imperative of relying on God’s strength and His sustaining presence with the good news of salvation. He explained that in order to continue the journey for God’s glory, it was of paramount importance to do prayer as a way of life, fast daily to experience the closeness to God; spend time to know Jesus by reading His word; know who we are as Christians and Baptists and make the sacrifice in the face of struggles and suffering. Other ministers and officials who participated in the service include the Rev Rudolph Brooks; who represented the Jamaica Baptist Union and prayed the prayer of thanksgiving; Justice Claudette Bryan; who represented the Custos of St. James; Reverend Cleaveland Parker; representing the Ministers’ Fraternal of St. James and Pastor Alister Reid; representing the Gospel Temple Assemblies of God. The Thanksgiving Service also featured a special poem by Youth Fellowship President Peter Dayes; a chronicle of the History of the Tower Hill Baptist Church and a dance ministry. Musical offerings were given by the Tower Hill Baptist Choir, Burchell Memorial Baptist Church and Gospel Temple. In addition to the Thanksgiving Ser-
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Charmian Christie
vice, the Church engaged in several other activities to mark this important milestone. These include a community fellowship breakfast in July; a prayer vigil, community walk and health fair and a back-to-school treat in August. The Church will also be hosting a youth banquet as well as a ceremony to honour some of its long serving members. In celebrating the present, it is always good to take the journey back to where it all began:
Tower Hill Then Baptist work in Tower Hill began through the efforts of George Liele who pioneered the Baptist movement in Jamaica. Liele’s work witnessed the involvement of Thomas Burchell, whose input under God, allowed for the Baptist work to spread in Jamaica. Under their stewardship, churches were planted in different parishes. Burchell Baptist Church was among the newly formed churches established during the period of slavery and the Church grew in “leaps and bounds,” with its membership drawn from all around the parish of St. James, including the community of Tower Hill. As time progressed, the need to have an outreach ministry was discussed and the community of Tower Hill was poised for this great undertaking. The Rev H.L. Webster led a delegation to a land owner in the community, to secure a parcel of land to erect a building for worship. On August 12, 1896, stones were laid for the erection of a building, which was then described as a Class House. The work at Tower Hill continued to grow under the leadership and guidance of several pastors, including Reverends H.L. Webster (1896-1917); J.T. Dillion (1917-1940); Alfred Miller (1940-1943); E. H.Greaves (1944-1952); R.N. Morgan (1952-1953); Azariah McKenzie (1954-1960); Lester Leo Robinson (1960-2003); Rudolph Brooks (2003-2004) and Davewin Thomas(2005-present). Today, the Tower Hill Baptist Church is no longer a Class House but an established Church under Jamaica Baptist Union, operating under the Burchell Circuit of Baptist Churches. It has contributed significantly to education, youth and community development through the Tower Hill Primary School; the Education Centre adjoining the Tower Hill Chapel, which houses a community programme for education and social development; the Save our Youth Programme that helps youth in the community to acquire passes in CXC/CSEC examinations; and the establishment of a computer laboratory for the Community of Tower Hill. As we celebrate 120 years, we are resolute to continue this sacrificial journey for God’s glory
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
Assembly News News from around the Churches
Mission Imperative
Orange Park marks 125 years
continued from page 1
Gary Johnson
Professor Abel explained that many persons with mental illnesses experienced full recovery. However, he acknowledged that one major barrier to recovery was stigma - a consequence of a lack of understanding of mental health problems. Another cultural barrier was the tendency to treat mental health as a sign of demonic influence, not only because of inability to understand an unusual behaviour, but because of a religious mind-set that presupposed the existence of demons. The religious factor in mental health The three-member panel of psychiatrists sought to flesh out the issues raised by Abel. Moderated by broadcast Journalist Marvia Lawes, discussants E Anthony Allen, Daniele Nelson and George Leveridge addressed different aspects of the topic, The Religious factor in mental health. Dr Allen explored the relationship between spirituality and mental health, making the distinction between authentic and inauthentic spirituality and emphasising the need to foster the development and practical outworking of authentic spirituality for promoting better mental health; Dr Nelson explored voices in the head: auditory hallucination that may or may not be associated with mental health and Dr Leveridge shared experiences and ideas in discerning the difference between depression and demonic oppression. Seminars and workshops There were four workshops on varying topics: Social Worker, Marine Cunningham discussed a range of personality disorders; examined triggers and manifestations and pointed to several coping strategies for family members, spouses and congregations who may have persons with such disorders. Psychologist, Winsome Heron Fearon sought to build the resilience of participants to social shocks that often trigger mental health problems. She also focused on the impact of natural disasters and other traumatic experiences on children. Social worker, Richard Troupe gave perspectives on youth suicidal and self-harming behaviours. He discussed the implications of the suicide rate in Jamaica; common triggers inducing suicidal tendencies and pointed to ways in which we could discern suicidal intent and prevent the act. Educator, Fern McFarlane showed participants how to plan for persons in emotional and mental distress. Participants were taught techniques in supporting children who have been impacted by natural disasters and other such social traumatic situations. In an interview with TVJ News, Campbell expressed the wish to take the initiative to the 2017 JBU General Assembly in an effort to lobby support for a church-led national response. Other post symposium initiatives, she explained, would include a regular page that addresses mental health issues, in the Association’s on-line magazine; the establishment of a trauma team for persons in emotional and mental distress; provision of referral services and the development of a member assistance programme for aging members, particularly menopausal women. This conversation, she told TVJ News “will be on-going and will assist members to restore, rebuild and reclaim control of their lives by increasing their resilience to social, economic and cultural shocks that may impact their mental health.”
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he Orange Park Baptist Church, situated in the parish of St Ann, is this year celebrating its 125th Anniversary.
Activities to mark this significant milestone began in January with a launching service held at the church, where the special guest preacher was Rev Karen Kirlew, Pastor of the St Ann’s Bay circuit of Baptist churches and a Vice President of the Jamaica Baptist Union. Rev Kirlew used Psalm 125 to exhort the congregation on the importance of trusting in the Lord. Other activities and worship experiences included a Community Health and Wellness fun day, spearheaded by the youth department. A memorial service was held in June for members who had passed on over the previous 25 years. The guest preacher for this service was the Rev Dayne Grant, Pastor of the Port Antonio Circuit of Baptist Churches. He referenced Revelation 14:13 to remind the congregation that those who die in the Lord were blessed. In the month of August, a special anniversary service was held, with support and greetings coming from various organisations and individuals. The special speaker for that occasion was the Rev Judith Johnson Grant, the Pastor of the St Margaret’s Bay circuit of Baptist churches and a distinguished former member who was dedicated as an infant and baptized within the Orange Park Baptist Church. Rev Johnson Grant pointed to Hebrews 13 and reminded the congregation that they were not supposed to be numbered among those who “shrink back.” How it started The Orange Park Baptist church began as a mission outreach of the Ocho Rios Baptist Church in 1891, the founding minister was the Rev Frederick Edmonds. In 1992 the church became a part of the newly established Walkerswood Circuit of Baptist Churches, with the Rev Clement H Gayle serving as Pastor. Prior to this, the Rev A O Fraser and the Rev R S Muir were pastors of the church for 20 and 25 years respectively. The church’s current Pastor is the Rev Gary Johnson. The anniversary celebrations will conclude with a dinner and awards ceremony in November.
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
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Horizon Home, a home away from home Sophia Williams
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he vision of two-time President of the Jamaica Baptist Union, Joscelyn Leo-Rhynie, to provide elder care in ‘a home away from home,’ was realized some 50 years ago when he and the Reverend Luther Gibbs, then Pastor of the Boulevard Baptist Church, tackled the task of directing the construction of what is now known as the Horizon Home for the Aged. Former Administrator and Board member of the Home, Beryl Gibbs, told the Baptist Reporter that Leo-Rhynie was concerned about the wives of ministers who would be left without a home after their husband died. His proposal for such a home was inspired by the JBU theme for that year, Looking toward new horizons. The Home, now located at 9 Sullivan Avenue, off the Mannings Hill Road was made possible through the generosity of the late Bertram M. Andrade, who left a large part of his income in a trust for the interest to be used by Jamaican churches for social welfare. Beryl Gibbs stated that at the time of its inception, the single sex home was not only housing widows of ministers, but also retired teachers and other civil servants. “Even if they already had a home, this home would serve as a “home away from home” where those who lived alone would find companionship in a warm and sociable environment,” she explained. However, over the fifty years, with infrastructural development and increased capacity, the Board of Management shifted its policy from an all-female to a multi-sex home. Currently, with a staff complement of eight and a capacity of 18, the Horizon Home for the Aged is a welcoming non-denominational space that ministers to the social, physical, spiritual and mental needs of its 15 residents – 14 females and one male - who are aged between 50 and 100 years old, the oldest being Mrs Iris Brown at 99 years old. They are offered personalised care, monthly medical examinations, occupational therapy, and are given a balanced meal at least three times each day.
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In the earlier years, the home was managed by a matron, a post which has now been re-classified as an administrator, who must also be a trained nurse. Nurse Ivel Campbell, has been acting in that capacity since May 2016, she told the Baptist Reporter that workers in the home have to pursue courses in elder care and food preparation in order to maximize their care to the residents, who for the most part, are mentally well and physically abled, but experience the discomforts and ailments that come with the aging process. “You get a lot of jokes and learn a lot from them,” she volunteered. Part of their recreation includes playing dominoes, staging concerts, socializing and watching television. The Home receives support, in many ways, from church groups that also lead devotions on a regular basis. But former Chairman of the Board of Management, Basil Parker said, for the Home to achieve its full potential, more churches need to become involved in the life of the Home by making an annual budgetary allocation, promoting the home especially to retired males and volunteering their professional skills. “There has to be modernisation of the physical structure to be in keeping with the needs of the elderly population it serves, for example removing bath tubs and installing walk-in showers and paving sections of the ground to facilitate the residents moving freely and safely outside,” Parker added. He told the Reporter that he was also looking forward to the establishment of an Annex to facilitate the residents who would need 24 hour nursing care. The Horizon Home celebrated its 50th Anniversary through a number of activities: A concert that featured the Jamaica Constabulary Force Band and Choir was held at the Boulevard Baptist church on Saturday, November 7, 2015; a souvenir programme booklet with advertisements and greetings was prepared; a 5k Run was staged in December and a Tea Party climaxed the celebrations in February 2016.
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
Regional & International News
Haiti battered by Matthew…Bahamas pummelled
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urricane Matthew, the most powerful hurricane to threaten the Atlantic Coast in more than a decade, battered Haiti on Tuesday October 4, after flirting with Jamaica for nearly three full days. The Category 3 storm left a trail of death and destruction in its path, as it sliced its way to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, ultimately ‘landfalling’ in Florida. Unconfirmed reports trickled in at the time of writing placed the climbing death toll in Haiti at more than 800. Rural clinics were reportedly overflowed with patients whose wounds, including broken bones, had not been treated since the storm hit on Tuesday. Food was scarce and several people were dying of cholera, likely because of flood waters mixing with sewage. “The storm razed homes; corrugated metal roofs of those still standing were ripped off, the contents visible from above as if one were peering into doll’s houses,” said one reporter. More than 60, 000 persons were already in shelter. The Church in Kafab has not gone unscathed. The community was badly hit resulting in massive flooding, loss of life and property, including the roof of the church. Against this background, the Jamaica Baptist Union has issued the following statement: The Jamaica Baptist Union (JBU), with churches in Jamaica and Haiti, is, on the one hand, relieved that Jamaica, was spared a direct hit, but on the other hand, deeply saddened, by the devastation wrought on Haiti by Hurricane Matthew. While Jamaica awaits an assessment of the damage, it seems quite clear that it will be nowhere near what was feared. We give God thanks! This ‘near miss’ has brought to the fore, yet again, many issues which we, as a people, need to pay increasing attention to, such as climate change, waste/ garbage disposal, adherence to construction codes and the legislative framework surrounding mandatory evacuation.
Notwithstanding, Jamaica has much to be proud of in how the country responded to news of Hurricane Matthew. Commendations are in order for the Government of Jamaica, the Meteorological Office, ODPEM and other aspects of our Disaster Response apparatus. We salute them, especially the Meteorological Office, for facilitating the flow of information which led many to agree that we were fairly well prepared to face the Hurricane. As is to be expected, there are always lessons to learn and we urge those concerned to spare no effort to improve the machinery, at all levels. As we breathe a collective sigh of relief, we hold in thought and prayer those other countries which have experienced the destructive force of Hurricane Matthew. We feel particularly burdened for the people of Haiti. Preliminary word from our leaders there is that the hurricane left a trail of destruction to the work in the South. The family members here in Jamaica have already started to mobilize assistance and we invite as many of us as possible to join us in accompanying them on their long road to recovery by making tangible contributions through any of the many avenues available: GOJ/ODPEM, Red Cross and other NGO’s, church-based aid/outreach organizations. Always remember words found in the gospel according to St. Matthew in chapter 25 and verse 40 ‘…whatever you did for one of the least of these brethren of mine, you did for me.’ Please send the contributions with a notation to the following bank accounts at the National Commercial Bank, Half Way Tree Branch: ¬ Savings account (J$), #304533943 ¬ Savings account (US$), #304533978.
THE JAMAICA BAPTIST REPORTER OCTOBER 2016
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THE JAMAICA October 2016
Established 1874
That George Liele Lecture
The church re-thinking mission: new fields, new strategies
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Dorrett R Campbell
s the Jamaica Baptist Union contends with the reality of what has been described by many as ‘negative numerical growth’ in its membership, the Jeremy Taylor led Jamaica Baptist Historical Society has used th the 13 Annual George Liele Lecture to urge Baptists to re-think mission and devise new strategies to explore new mission fields.
understand the people whom it wants to evangelise; identify with, and be in solidarity with people - whether rich or poor; maintain a visible presence in communities and avoid treating people as mere statistics to be evangelised. There was also a call for consistency in and sustainability of our mission activities, especially in light of our historical role as social advocates.
This year, the Lecture, hosted by the Greater Portmore Baptist Church, assumed the format of a panel discussion with three able panellists: Rev Dr Learoy Campbell, JBUMA Director; Rev Norva Rodney, Pastor of the Kitson Town Circuit of Baptist Churches and Ms Karah Whitter, President of the St Catherine Baptist Youth Association.
The George Liele Lecture is held annually in memory of the late Baptist pioneer who strengthened the work in Jamaica. The Lecture aims at building a greater awareness of Baptists’ rich history and legacy in a bid to instruct the future. The choice of theme for this year, according to Chairman Taylor, is to compel us to look at ourselves… to face the reality of a declining church with an aging membership and to attempt to lift ourselves out of a 19th century rut of approach to mission and evangelism and find solid solutions to the lack of numerical growth.
Panellist Campbell, in establishing a context for mission, pointed to the ways in which globalisation had impacted mission activities and had necessitated a multi-disciplinary and greater ecumenical collaborative approach to evangelism. He acknowledged that no longer could the
church settle as just a ‘receiving church’ but must re-invent itself as both a sending and receiving church. Rev Campbell enumerated strategies being used by the mission agency to promote mission, noting further that Baptists, as social advocates must continue to focus on the Poor in their mission activities. Every Baptist, he argued, ought to have a lucid vision of who Jesus is because that was fundamental to understanding and embracing of mission. Whitter recounted Baptists’ role in social justice, expressing satisfaction with the work of the mission agency, but lamented that youth remained on the periphery and were not being engaged in any serious way in mission. She readily acknowledged that youth apathy was very much a part of the problem, as young people seemed to have become disaffected, disenchanted with, and disinterested in traditional religious forms. The challenge was to find relevant ways of reaching them. Whitter further called for increased use of data in informing decision-making and planning in the church, concluding that there ought to be more rigorous systems of measuring our outputs in relation to our vision, mission, strategies and programmes. Rev Norva Rodney sought to contextualise the theme by using Sodom as a metaphor for contemporary mission fields, stressing ‘a different approach’ rather than ‘new strategies,’ thus making the point that our mission remained the same; our strategies however could be qualitatively different. He pointed to several challenges inhibiting effective implementation of strategies, chief of which, he said, was the autonomy of the local church that has bred insularity and stymied collaboration. He underscored the need to review traditional responses to some contemporary realities and moral dilemma, especially the controversial common law arrangements to which the church has shown reticence in addressing. The presentations served as a springboard for a vigorous discussion from which several issues and solutions emanated: There was consensus that each member is a missionary and therefore each must be responsible and be accountable for personal evangelism. There were also nods of acquiescence to the suggestion that the Church ought to endeavour to
The book covers conversion, assurance, temptation, prayer and Bible study, church fellowship and witnessing. It will be available at $800, late November from the author and the JBU bookstore.