1st Issue- July-Dec 2010

An East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Publication

SHARING THE LIGHT

First Quarter January 2011

“ Impacting Lives For Christ “

©2011. East Jamaica Conference

2 January 2011 | Adventist beam

EditorialTable of

ContentsAs we turn the pages to a new chapter in the life

of the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, we recognize that it is not by our

own might or power that we have been able to realize the accomplishments over the past six months. The Lord has brought and sustained us throughout 2010, and it is with this continued hope that we enter 2011. This year promises to be one with endless possibilities, many uncertainties, great successes, numerous challenges, disappointments and yes, oh yes, glorious and triumphant rejoicing! During 2011, the long battle between good and evil will rage on even with more severity.

We enter 2011 with great expectations. With this in mind, we need to arm ourselves with the word of God in order to stand successfully against the attacks that the devil will launch at us. In this New Year, we will continue to be tested spiritually. Families, Youth, Men, Women and Children will continue to experience the attack of the enemy. During this year our faith will ultimately be tried. It is a year in which we must be engaged in daily prayer and submit our lives to the will of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

As the sun scatters its rays on the dawning of this New Year, The Adventist Beam comes with the sole mission of reminding us that despite the many challenges we face in our Christian walk, God’s hands remain ready and willing to help us along life’s journey. The Adventist Beam helps us to showcase the work of the Church in East Jamaica Conference, despite the many challenges we face in our nation. Through this magazine we will continue to highlight our involvement in taking the gospel of Christ to communities.

We pray that as we journey through 2011, we will work in one accord. Let us take the gospel to the far ends of the earth, so that we will be able to rejoice in the coming of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Let us look toward the future with hope! As the Great Controversy rages on, may it to be a reminder to us that the battle will soon be over and our Lord and Savior will soon appear.

President’s Inaugural Address ..................................................... 3 - 4

Constituency Report.......................................................................... 4

East Jamaica Conference celebrates 150 years since the adoption of the name ‘Seventh-day Adventist’ ..................................................... 5

Week of Generosity and Day of Kindness Initiatives ..................... 6 - 7

Launch of the Thursday Mealsin Tivoli Gardens & Golden Age Home .............................................. 7

Establishment of the new Communication Department ...................... 8

Children’s Banquet .......................................................................... 9

Sabbath School Youth Fest 2010 ......................................................10

Construction is underway for the 30 bed overnight facility& Opening of the New Kitchen at the Good Samaritan Inn ...............10

A Call to Wider Service ....................................................................11

Leaders’ Summit December 2010 ....................................................11

Highlights of Youth Congressoree 2010 ...........................................12

Highlights of Camp Congressoree 2010 ...........................................13

Highlights of the Newly established JAMAICA UNION CONFERENCE .........................................................14

E.J.C.’s Administrators, Directors & Staff ................................... 15 - 16

Launche of The E.J.C School Of Evangelism ......................................16

Historic Week of Prayer at Kingsway High School .............................17

Launch of the Small Groups .............................................................17

E.J.C.’s Administrators’ Profile ........................................................18

E.J.C.’s Directors’ Profile ...........................................................19 - 23

Back to School Treat at the Good Samaritan Inn .............................. 23

Chief Editor: Phillip CastellEditors: Adiese Jonas, Joan StewartsonPhotographers: Phillip Castell & Adiese JonasArt Design/Layout: Chad Smith

3January 2011 | Adventist beam

MY Fellow workers, all that I own,

all that I am and the years of life available to me cannot praise God enough for His goodness to me. I stand before you today because of the “Divine Intervention of God” and “Grace Alone.” I am humbled to be chosen by God, grateful for the

privilege to serve, thankful for the confidence and support expressed, yet mindful, of the challenges ahead.

I thank Pastors Cornel Jackson, Linton and Leabert Williams, Maurice Reid, Samuel Lewis, Kevin White and Ryan Simpson for the service given as Secretary and Directors, respectively, over the last quadrennium. I pay tribute to all workers for the support and sacrifice given to the work and mission of the church. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord, Jesus Christ.

In three years, we will be celebrating 120 years of Seventh-day Adventism in Jamaica; 120 years of faithful service to Christ and the people of this country and in particular, the region of East Jamaica Conference. The blessings received and the growth, respect and reputation achieved did not come overnight. It came because of the faithfulness of God-fearing men and women with unyielding commitment to Christ, genuine love for one another, unbending unity, pervasive passion for mission and excitement for service.

East Jamaica remains and must always be the premier Conference in Jamaica and we can be the model Conference for the world. We are the keepers of the flame that lit the fire of Adventism here in Jamaica over 100 years ago. By our work, by our words, by our will we must resolve to build on the legacy of commitment, integrity, spirituality, humility, hard work and sacrificial service. Twenty– eight years ago when I started serving here in East, we walked circumspectly and humbly. We showed respect to one another and honoured those above

us. That is the East Jamaica I know, and this is the East Jamaica that we desire, must bring back and must preserve.

We are family, a family of workers. We have different family names but the same cleansing blood of Jesus flows through our veins, making us one. When one member of the family cries, all the others cry too. When one rejoices, all the other members rejoice.

As we begin this new quadrennium, let us dedicate our lives and surrender our hearts to the Spirit of God. Petty jealousies and grievances, rivalry and resentment, bitterness and bickering, divisions and dissensions are part of the enemy’s strategy to stifle growth, break up relationships, destroy this family and create disunity.

A new day has dawned for all of us to choose love over self-interest, forgiveness over hard-heartedness, and unity instead of division. We were chosen for this last leg of the journey here on planet earth to show to the world and in particular, East Jamaica, the wonders of our collective strengths and the unstoppable energy of our combined talents. Our strengths and our talents combined can transform our church and our community.

The New World Church President, Pastor Ted Wilson, is encouraging that the church be one characterized by prayer and revival. Jesus spent hours in prayer and studying Scripture. Our main purpose for being here is to know God’s will and then do it with all our might to bring glory to Him.

In our strategic plan and vision 20/20 we would like to add 40,000 new members and 30 new congregations here in East Jamaica by 2020. Mission is our business. Our singular passion must be mission; seeking to save that which was lost. Sharing the advent message with everyone is my mission and the church’s vision.

Today I call for the church to stand for mission and encourage the involvement of every worker and member. Let me remind you that our business, our priority and all that we do is evangelism. Evangelism is the lifeblood of the church, education is the mind of the church, publishing is the feet of the church and the church in the community is the hands of the church.

President’s Inaugural Address


These four areas must never be neglected. We must expand the educational ministry of the church. The work of education and redemption are one. We must work with one another to build our schools to represent the high and lofty ideals and philosophy we espouse – we are the head and not the tail. Our strategic plan must reflect these ideals.

We must continue to expand the Good Samaritan Inn. The training component and overnight facility for crisis situation must begin to take shape during this quadrennium. We have just completed a new kitchen and the Community Services Federation is getting ready to start cooking again. We envision the Inn as a first-class facility, adding dignity and giving hope to the outcast and downtrodden members of the society, while offering service seven days a week.

We have started work at Golden Spring and we intend to continue so we can have a first class recreational facility for our people and bring well needed income to expand the mission of the church.

Our families are in trouble. Every effort will be made to give greater attention to the family. The Family Counseling and Wellness Centre will be expanded with the Family Life committee to provide the ministry that will enhance family togetherness.

We can only serve you better and serve one another and the constituency better if you hold us accountable. I make myself responsible and ask of you to hold me responsible for the accountability that will eventually create the professional environment that is demanded first by God, then the church and this constituency.

We are not asking for friendliness although our hands will be extended first to clasp yours in friendship. We are not asking for professional courtesy and toleration although we will be promoting courtesy and lifelong commitment to the Conference. We are seeking Christian commitment and unity that come when the Spirit of God resides in our hearts. In spite of my faults and weaknesses and your faults and weaknesses, the love that come from the Spirit of God in our hearts will help us to stand together in unity for the mission of the church.

President’s Inaugural Address cont’d

HitHerto hath the Lord brought us and sustained us... It is under the divine leadership of our Heavenly Father, Jesus

Christ, and through our dedicated and hard -working Administrators, Directors and members of staff here at East Jamaica Conference, that we are able to report to this delegation our achievements over the past few months.

The 2010-2014 qradrennium began with a team of dynamic Administrators and Directors. Chosen to lead the Conference in various capacities were: Pastor Adrian Cotterell (as President), Pastor Devon Osbourne (as Executive Secretary), Elder Bancroft Barwise (as Treasurer & Trust Services Director), Pastor Glenville Carr (as Ministerial Secretary and Family Ministries Director), Sister Lorraine Vernal (as Women’s and Children’s Ministries Director), Pastor Carl Cunningham (as Personal Ministries, Sabbath School and Community Services Director), Sister Kathleen Dunkley (as Associate Personal Ministries, Sabbath School and Community Services Director), Pastor Hanson Drysdale (as Youth Director), Pastor Leonard Steele (as Health Ministries & Stewardship Director), Pastor Owen Thomas (as Public Affairs & Religious Liberty, Spirit of Prophecy and Publishing Ministry Director), Dr. Donna Brown (as Education Director), Elder Phillip Castell (as Communication Director and Sister Adiese Jonas (as Assistant Communication Director).

Here are a few of the successes we encountered during the period under review.

Constituency Report for the year 2010


THE month of October began on a high note, as the East Jamaica Conference joined the World Church in celebrating the 150th

Anniversary since the adoption of the name ‘Seventh-day Adventist.’ ‘Remembering Our Past - Watching unto Prayer,’ was the theme which rang out, beckoning scores of individuals to the 117 year–old North Street SDA Church in Downtown Kingston, to celebrate the name of the church which now holds the largest membership of any protestant faith in Jamaica.

President of East Jamaica Conference, Pastor Adrian Cotterell, highlighted the integral role that the North Street SDA Church played in the late 1800’s, as it contributed tremendously to the growth of Adventism in Jamaica and parts of the Caribbean. He paid tribute to the pioneers of Adventism and urged the members of the church to recognize the importance of remembering the history of the Church as it continues to grow from strength to strength.

Vice President of the West Indies Union Conference, Pastor Joseph Smith, also beamed with delight, as he shared his pride of being a Seventh-day Adventist Christian. He highlighted some of the characteristics that distinguish the Seventh-day Adventist Church from other denominations and urged the congregation to be active Christians not only on the ‘Seventh-day.’

So tremendous has been the growth of the church that today, the membership of the Seventh-day Adventist Church stands at approximately 16 million baptized members and operates the largest protestant network of schools and hospitals worldwide.

The mission of the East Jamaica Conference remains constant. We pledge to play our part in proclaiming to all peoples the everlasting gospel, in the context of the Three Angels’ message of Revelation 14:6-12, while leading them to accept Jesus as their personal Saviour. The Church in East Jamaica

Conference continues to provide hope to those in despair and pledges itself to prepare people for the soon–return of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

East Jamaica Conference celebrates 150 years since the adoption of the name ‘Seventh-day adventiSt’


The Week of Generosity campaign, got off to a smooth start on October 9, 2010. During this

week, Administrators, Department Heads, Students and members of local churches could be seen in several communities, going the extra mile to extend kind gestures to those in need. The Staff of the EJC, highlighted a number of projects in which they would participate.

Some of the projects undertaken included: the painting of a portion of the Walker’s Place of Safety, the distribution of cooked meals to members

of the Pembroke Hall High School’s football team, the donation of 150 lunches to three prep schools across Tivoli Gardens, as well as 60 lunches to the elderly at the Denham Town Golden Age Home.

Several Individuals from the parishes of Kingston, St. Andrew and St. Thomas, were treated to warm meals on Sabbath, October 16, 2010, as the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists climaxed the “Week of Generosity” campaign with the Day of Kindness. The “Day of Kindness” initiative, spearheaded by the Personal Ministries and Community Services of the EJC, sought to feed at least five thousand persons throughout the eastern constituency.

Schools also played their part in the week’s activities. New Hope Prep School, the longest– serving Adventist (Prep) school in Jamaica, visited the Golden Age Home as well as several other institutions, to donate gifts to the elderly. This was accompanied by devotional exercises and friendly conversations.

The Kingsway High School fed many homeless individuals situated in the streets of Downtown Kingston and surrounding areas. They also presented a token of appreciation to members of the Half Way Tree Police Station for their hard

work and dedication in protecting the citizens of Jamaica.

The Hagley Park Prep School also gave their contribution to the community as they distributed meals to numerous persons in and around the adjoining areas of their school. The latest addition to the Seventh-day Adventist Education fraternity, Miramar Kinder–Prep School, though faced with limited resources, traversed the hilly terrains of St.

Thomas, to visit the homes of a number of elderly persons, who were elated to receive toiletries, grocery items and special items in song and prayer

Week of Generosity and Day of Kindness Initiatives


by the students. The Woodford Prep School extended their hand of kindness, as they donated ground provisions to many who needed them.

Sabbath, October 16, marked the day of Kindness across the boundaries of the EJC. The Good Samaritan Inn, located at Geffrard Place in Kingston, was one of several places where members could be seen ushering countless individuals in, to receive meals. Persons from all walks of life came in; some who had not eaten for days, melted with congenial smiles, as they received meals from members of the non- profit organization. The Inn, conceptualized and owned by the EJC, is operated in conjunction with the Adventist-Laypersons’ Services and Industries (ASI) in East Jamaica.

Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen, supported this initiative as he too assisted in handing out several lunches to children, teenagers and adults. In like manner, the Projects Manager of the Good Samaritan Inn, Mr. Vermont Murray, beamed with enthusiasm as he too assisted other volunteers of the inn, in handing out lunches to those who needed them.

In October 2010, the East Jamaica Conference, through the leadership of the Community Services

Department, launched their lunch programme in the Tivoli

Gardens Community and Golden Age Home, catering to hundreds of individuals.

Each Thursday, persons from the Tivoli Gardens Community and the Golden Age Home are able to receive a balanced meal. Many individuals from the community have been satisfied and have indicated their appreciation to members of this department for their outstanding efforts in giving.

Launch of the Thursday Meals in Tivoli Gardens &

Golden Age Home


In September 2010, the East Jamaica Conference created history in the Jamaica field, when it constructed a new and improved Communication

Department. The construction of this Department was to further accommodate the dynamic duo appointed in September 2010, in the persons of Elder Phillip Castell- Communication Director and Ms. Adiese Jonas, Assistant Communication Director.

This team was appointed and given several responsibilities, one of which was to address the urgent need for the conference to improve the flow of information between the Conference Headquarters and local churches. The team was also mandated to find creative ways of fulfilling the Gospel Commission by utilizing the latest technologies available. Since the establishment of the new Communication Department, there has been a constant and consistent outflow of information to the congregants of our constituency through the medium of Electronic Mails.

Pastors, First Elders, Church Clerks, Communication Directors, along with other Heads of Departments are now being sent important bulletins via emails as well as pictorial Power Point presentations showing highlights of events spearheaded by the conference administrators and directors. These Power Point picture presentations have been dubbed “EJC Snapshots” and the feedback so far for from those who have viewed them have been positive.

Two Nikon Cameras were purchased during the last quarter of 2010 so as to capture photographs of the highest quality. Individuals are now able to keep abreast of activities of the Conference, as well as of other local churches since they are now able to view timely news bulletins in the form of the EJC Snapshots as well as announcements on the EJC Website. Plans are afoot to have this website reconstructed in order to allow more interaction between persons who visit the web site and the Web Administrator.

The Communication Department is currently engaged in Radio Ministry as it packages two radio programmes on a weekly basis. They are: “Word from Heaven”, with Pastor Enroy Ferguson, aired on RJR 94 FM at 4:45 am every Tuesday morning and “Healthy and Happy” with Presenter, Pastor Jovan Whyte aired on TBC 88.5 FM at 9:00 pm on Wednesday nights. There are further plans to increase the number of radio programmes being produced on a weekly basis, as well as to increase our listenership and partnership with NCU Radio.

We would like to invite churches to send us articles and information about important events taking place in your church. In this way we will be in a better position to assist you with the promotion of some of these events through our website.

Establishment of the new CommuniCationDepartment

East Jamaica confErEncERADIO PROGRAMMES:Healthy & Happy hosted by Pastor Jovan Whyte Wednesdays 9:00 p.m. on TBC Radio, 88.5 FM

Word From HeavenPresented by Pastor Enroy Ferguson Tuesdays 4:45 a.m. on RJR 94 FM


Health Department provides continued service to members of the community by offering regular and affordable Health Clinics

The Health Department of the East Jamaica Conference continues to promulgate the Health Message to all facets of the soci-

ety. The department seeks to cater not only for the physical but also for the spiritual needs of its members and members of the community at large. The Trench Town and North Street Clinics pro-vide weekly health services for members of the surrounding community. Individuals are able to receive blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, cholesterol tests, immunization for their children as well as other tests and checks.

Recently, the Trench Town and North Street Clinics hosted a Christmas treat for members of the com-munity. Parents and children of the surrounding community were presented with gift items as well as meals and drink. The Health Department was also engaged in a fund-raising venture which saw the acquisition of funds to purchase an eye ma-chine, to be used in the clinics to carry out tests.

On Sunday, October 31, the Children's Ministries Depart-ment, under the leadership of former Director, the efferves-cent, Sister Lorraine Vernal, held their annual Children's Banquet at the Altamont Court Hotel in Kingston.

Children from a whide cross-sec-tion of churches in East Jamaica Con-ference were out in attendance.

The banquet was primarily initiated to allow the chil-dren the opportuni-ty and experience of dining in a formal setting. Child star, Nathaniel McClean,

graced the stage with beautiful renditions in song. Children were taught how to utilize social graces, common courtesies and how to interact with the opposite sex. At the end of the banquet each child was given a token for supporting the venture. They appreciated this sitting and vowed to support the programme the following year.

Children’s Banquet

...Can be heard in

KINGSTON on 91.3 MHz on the FM band.

As of NOVEMBER 25, 2010


On Sunday, November 21, 2010, the Sabbath School, Personal Ministries and Youth Departments

spearheaded Youth Fest 2010, the re-launch of the Mr. and Ms. Youth Ambassadors’ Programme. The evening of praise highlighted young talent in the Seventh-day Adventist church showcasing various solo artistes, groups and choirs, as well as the 2009 Youth Ambassadors, Melony Smith and Geovani Maddix. The Youth Ambassadors’

programme seeks to encourage children,

teenagers and young adults to engage in

deeper bible study and church history with a specific area of focus.

The participants will be challenged by a pannel on the areas of study. In attendance were president - Pastor Adrian Cotterell, Directors and members of the EJC Staff, as well as a host of young people from across the EJC Constituency.

Sabbath School Youth Fest 2010 Mr. & Miss Youth Ambassadors Programme

Construction is underway for the 30 bed overnight facility at the

Good Samaritan Inn

In order to address the growing needs of members of the community in and around the Good Samaritan Inn, the Administrators of the East

Jamaica Conference (in partnership with the ASI) have implemented the construction of a 30 bed overnight facility to house individuals who may need a safe place to rest each night. This is the biggest

community project that the church is currently engaged in and hopes that this initiative will spread to other sections of the island. The Inn also provides over 400 meals to persons, three days per week. Under the constant supervision of Elder Vermont Murray, the Inn seeks to provide a safe haven for

Opening of the New Kitchen for the Good Samaritan Inn by the

Community Services Department

The period under review also saw the opening of the Good Samaritan Inn Kitchen, located on the grounds of the East Jamaica Conference. A ceremony to open the kitchen was held. In attendance were the

Projects Manager of the Good Samaritan Inn - Mr. Vermont Murray, Sister Lorna Fowler - President of the Community Services Federation, the Conference President, Directors and other members of staff. The Kitchen, is fully equipped with two refrigerators; one stand-alone and a deep freeze, a multi-burner stove, cupboards and counters. It is through the use of this Kitchen, that individuals from the Good Samaritan Inn will be able to benefit from sumptuous meals.

We praise the Lord for allowing us to be able to acquire this much anticipated facility.

homeless persons in need of shelter. Renovation of the bathrooms is currently underway so as to facilitate those who will be using the overnight sleeping facilities. Also under construction are facilities to accommodate a house mother.


The 14th and final quinquenial session for the West Indies Union Conference

got underway on Sunday, November 28, 2010 as delegates and guests gathered at the Northern Caribbean University Campus’ Gymnatorium to witness the historic opening of the Jamaica Union Conference. Delegates from East Jamaica Conference were represented and were pleased to witness the ‘Call to wider Service’ of three of its ardent and competent members of staff. Elder Bancroft Barwise, Pastor Eric Nathan and Sister Lorraine Vernal made East

Jamaica Conference proud. Their training and efforts at East Jamaica Conference paved the way for a call to wider Service. We salute you, true stalwarts and leaders of East Jamaica Conference. Chosen to fill the capacities of Treasurer and Women’s and Children Ministries Director on December 9, 2010 are: Elder Waldon Wright and Sister Claudette Genas, respectively. Let us continue to pray for our leaders.

A Call to Wider ServiceSend off for Elder Barwise, Pastor Nathan and Sister Lorraine Vernal

Finally, we come to the Annual Leaders’ Summit which got underway at the

Kencot Seventh-day Adventist Church on December 5, 2010. Scores of individuals were in attendance and were brought up-to-date with the plans and activities to be spearheaded by the East Jamaica Conference.

In addition to those timely reminders, local church officers were given much spiritual food for thought through several timely presentations. The summit took a different format this year, as it sought to enhance leadership qualities through presentations on various areas that pose a particular challenge to leaders. Among the issues discussed were: Unity in the Body, Balancing Spiritual Leadership Responsibility and Family Life and Embracing the Age of Mass Media. Among the presenters of the council were President of the East Jamaica Conference-

Pastor Adrian Cotterell, Sabbath School/Personal Ministries and Community Services Director - Pastor Carl Cunningham and Dean of the School of Religion and Theology at the Northern Caribbean University - Dr. Newton Cleghorn.

We recognize that the work accomplished in the past few months could not have been completed without the divine guidance and leadership of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Administrators, Directors and members of staff at the East Jamaica Conference continue to not only commit themselves, but also to submit themselves to the Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ as They continue to play their part in advancing the gospel to all the world.

Leaders’ Summit

December 2010


Members of the congregation participated in the service by paying close attention on the big 65” Flat Screen TV which was made available for the occasion.

Before every good sounding choir is a great music director. Choir Director of East Jamaica Conference Mass Youth Choir Bro. Raymond Douglas ensures every note is sung as practiced

Pastor of the Seaforth Circuit of churches, pastor Linton Hamilton prepares the church for prayer before the collection of the offering

Telling an interesting Story to the children, Master Guide , Sis. Claudette Brown

Even these Master Guides enjoyed the story

Education Director of East Jamaica Conference, Dr. Donna Brown, gives a beautiful smile in response to the words of welcome given by host pastor of the Hampton Court SDA Church, Pastor Titmus Morgan

Highlights of Youth Congressoree 2010 At The Hampton Court Seventh-day Adventist Church, St. Thomas on Sabbath December 12, 2010

President Cotterell expressed his appreciation to all who made this event a success and encouraged all to be faithful to the Lord.

A view from the outside ... Showing the proximity of the tent to the church building

Then the moment arrived when Pastor Charles Blythe , Youth and Chaplaincy Director of JAMU stood before the waiting congregation

A Proud Moment For Youth At EJC. - Youth Director for EJC Pastor Hanson Drysdale was pleased at the turn out for this big convocation at the Hampton Court church.

A Warm welcome was extended to all by Pastor Titmus Morgan, pastor of the Hampton Court Circuit of churches

Members of the East Jamaica Conference Mass Youth Choir gives another lovely rendition during the Divine Service lineup

On the inside of the church, the worshippers participated in the very interesting and biblically inspiring Adult Lesson Review

Leader for Zone 4 and Pastor of the Morant Bay Circuit of churches, Pastor Holland Thompson gives his quota of welcome to everyone at Youth Congressoree 2010The sharp eye of the camera picks up two familiar faces in church at

Hampton Court Church during Sabbath School Lesson Review.

Pastor Ray Davis gives the opening statements during the Divine Service at Youth Congressoree December 12-2010

Pathfinders and the church stand at attention during the opening moments of Divine Service


Highlights of Camp Congressoree 2010 At The Kencot Seventh-day Adventist Church, December 15-18, 2010


Highlights of the Newly established JAMAICA UNION CONFERENCE Northern Caribbean University Campus’ Gymnatorium, November 28, 2010

Secretary of the Inter-American Division- Eli Henry provides a charge on Day two of the 14th and final session of the West Indies Union Conference, now the Jamaica Union (JAMU)

Give me a crescendo on this part!

Treasurer- Elder Bancroft Barwise and Secretary Pastor Milton Gregory

The Choir (Audience) fully focused on their Director…

The staff of Directors of the Jamaica Union for the period 2010-2015

The anthem of the Bahamas is sung as the flag is being lowered…

The flags of the West Indies Union Conference being flown for the final time in unison…

Nadine Campbell Host of NCU TV Broadcasts the changing over ceremony of West Indies Union to the Jamaica Union (JAMU)

(L-R) Pastor Enroy Ferguson, Pastor Samuel Lewis and Elder Phillip Castell expressed their delight in being able to share in this momentous occasion.

Master Guides march with precision as they get ready to lower the flags of the West Indies Union Conference

NCU Media Group streams the shifting of the baton on NCU Radio (91.1, 3 &5) and NCU TV- Channel 188 on FLOW Cable Network. Also in the background, our very own Technical Director- Errol Vaz, recording footage of this Historic Event

Secretary (Pastor Glen Samuels), Treasurer (Carmelita Findlay)and presidents of the local fields in WIU await the handing over of the flags to mark their separation.

Master Guides prepare to hand over these flags to the President of the West Indies Union as well as the Division.

The Communication Department of East Jamaica Conference as well as the newly nominated Director of Communication, Religious Liberty and Public Affairs for the Jamaica Union- Elder Nigel Coke

Director of Family Ministries, Stewardship and Trust Services- Pastor Eric Nathan

Women’s and Children’s Ministries Director- Mrs. Lorraine Vernal

(L-R) Ministerial Secretary, Sabbath School and Publishing Ministries Director- Pastor Glen Samuels, Associate Secretary- Mrs. Doreen Grant and Director of Public Affairs, Religious Liberty and Communication- Elder Nigel Coke, Associate Treasurer- Mrs. Sharon Barrett, Youth Ministries and Chaplaincy Director- Pastor Charles Blythe

President of the Jamaica Union – Pastor Everette Brown introduces his new team of Directors

West Indies Union is no more… The Historic team of Master Guides which assisted this process


Administration Assistant

Pastor Adrian CotterellPRESIDENT Carmetha James

Pastor Devon OsbourneEXCUTIVE SECRETARY Audrey Barnett

Elder Waldon WrightTREASURER Kay Scott

Directors Assistant

Dr. Donna BrownEducation

Murlena Cuffe-McKenzie

Mrs. Claudette GenasWomen’s & Children’s

Ministries

Murlena Cuffe-McKenzie

Pastor L SteeleHealth & Stewardship Polly Mitchell-Wiggan

Administrators & DirectorsEast Jamaica confErEncE

Directors Assistant

Pastor Glenville CarrMinisterial & Family Life Sophia Dormer

Pastor Owen ThomasPublic Affairs & Religious Liberty, Spirit of Prophecy and Publishing Ministry

Joan Stewartson

Pastor Hanson DrysdaleYouth Ministries Polly Mitchell-Wiggan

Directors Assistant

Elder Phillip CastellCommunication

Adiese A. JonasAssistant Communication Joan Stewartson

Directors Assistant

Pastor Carl M. CunninghamSabbath School /Personal Min.

& Community Services

Kathleen Dunkley Associate Sabbath School /

Personal Min. & Community Services

Dion Thompson


Staff East Jamaica confErEncE

Accounts Department, from L- R: Paul Buchanan (Junior Accountant),Ann- Marie Angel (Payroll), Ellen McKenzie (Accountant), Marilyn Smythe (Chief Accountant),

Teslin Patterson (Cashier), Michael Porteous (Assistant Treasurer)

Resource Center, from L - R : Norma Williams (Accountant) , Herman Taylor, Gemrena McCook ( Assistant Cashier)

Shawn WhiteMIS

Henrick McKenzie Supervisor Resource Center / Auditor

Errol VazTechnical Director - Communication Department

Roland ClarkeBearer

Shryl Jackson Receptionist - Switchboard Operator

Rupert WhittakerInvestment Management Limited

Representative

SABBATH SCHOOL/PERSONAL MINISTRIES & COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

LAUNCHES THE E.J.C SCHOOL OF EVANGELISM

A steering committee has been established and fabulous plans are on the way to open a school of evangelism for training of all willing

members in the East Jamaica Conference (EJC) Constituency. The School which is been founded by the combined efforts of the leadership of the Department and the Lay Evangelistic Association (LEA) will seek to fulfill the mandate of Christ… making disciples of all people by the training and engagement of the members in intensive and ongoing soul winning activities. The implementation of this project is in direct answer to the EJC 2020 Strategic Plan of Growth and Consolidation.

A preliminary training, focusing on the operation of Small Groups Evangelism will run from January 30 until February 27 and the School of Evangelism will be officially opened May 1, 2011. The courses that will be taught will include:• PrinciplesofEvangelism• SpiritualGifts• SmallGroupMinistriesintheLocalChurch• MethodsofDoortoDoorEvangelism• SimpleMethodsofGivingBibleStudies• SpeakinginthePoweroftheSpirit• PreachingPlease contact EJC Sabbath School/Personal Ministries and Community Services Department for further information and registration.

–by: Pastor Carl Cunningham

East Jamaica confErEncE

Ancillary Staff, L-R Kenrick Anderson, Winston Radlin, Andrew Clayton , Nathina McKay

Missing from staff Photos are:Deloris Campbell, Maxine RadlinSharon Heman


The Annual Week of Prayer was launched on Sabbath, November 6 and climaxed

on Sabbath, November 13; one week later. The East Jamaica Conference Headquarters, local Churches and Adventist Schools within the boundaries of the constituency placed special emphasis on prayer. It

was a delight to see students and teachers participating in each day’s activities. God’s presence was indeed evident, as the Hagley Park Prep School facilitated students leading out in each day’s activities. At the end of their Week of Prayer, a total number of 40 students were recorded as seeking baptism.

The Kingsway High School was not to be outdone, as it created history at the institution, by having 18 students baptized. Yes, the school continues to nurture students as they seek to attain their Heavenly Education here on earth, with a multi-faceted curriculum. Since the Week of prayer, many have requested baptism and we are told of a further baptism to take place in the near future. The Woodford and Miramar Prep Schools also saw students making commitments to have a closer walk with Jesus Christ.

Historic Week of Prayer at KINGSWAy

HIGH SCHOOl

RECOGNIzING that Evangelism is at the very core of our

mission as a church, the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists readily embraced and adopted the Small Group initiative recommended by the World Church. As the name suggests, Small Groups allow small companies of individuals who may be members or non-members of the church alike, to engage themselves in face to face discussions, and deep study of the Word.

The programme, although presented to the church before, was officially re-launched in October of this year at the Hagley Park

SDA Church, with a vision to harness thousands of souls through direct contact with members of the group. Pastor Adrian Cotterell, led the way with other Directors, Adults and Children alike, in pledging their continued support for the Small group initiative, right here in East Jamaica as they signed pledge cards, symbolizing their commitment.

launch of the Small GroupS


ELDER WALDON WRIGHTTreasurer - EJC

Mr. Wright, who serves as an Elder at the Heroes Circle Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kingston, comes to the position with more than 18 years of experience in development banking and business training. He holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Management

Studies at the University of the West Indies and a Masters degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of New Orleans. He worked for 13 years as Manager of Banking Services and then Operations Manager at the National Development Foundation (NDF). In 2005 he joined the staff of the Churches Cooperative Credit Union Ltd. as the officer in charge of Business Loans and Special Project, where he worked until his present call to serve God through His Church in an administrative

capacity. He has lectured on finance and accounting up to the Masters degree level at the University of Technology (UTECH) and the University College of the Caribbean (UCC).

Pastor Adrian CotterellPresident - EJC

Pastor Adrian Cotterell grew up on the borders of Manchester and Clarendon

before coming to live in St Andrew in his early teens. He is an ordained minister and has served the church in many capacities. He entered the work in 1982 as a Bursar/ Teacher

at the Portland High School in Port Antonio. He served as a teacher and bursar at Kingsway High School in Kingston, instructor at Northern Caribbean University, Kingston Campus, pastor in Kinston and St Andrew, Portland and St Thomas. He also served as one of the chaplains at the University of the West Indies. In 2002 Pastor Cotterell was elected to serve as secretary of the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

He was later asked to serve also as Spirit of Prophecy Director and coordinator for Strategic Planning for the conference. In November 2005, he was asked to serve as president and at the Conference Session, August 2006, he was elected to serve as president.

Subsequent to his early and high school education, Pastor Cotterell earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from West Indies College, now Northern Caribbean University and a Master’s degree in Religion from Andrews University.Pastor Cotterell is one of the authors of the book entitled Divine Connection. He is married to Charmaine Goldsmith and the couple has two children: Adrian and Antwan.

Pastor Devon OsbourneExecutive Secretary - EJC

Born in East Portland, Pastor Devon Osbourne was educated at the Kingsway

High School, West Indies College where he gained a Bachelor’s degree in Theology, then a Masters Degree at Andrews University.

A minister of the Gospel for over thirty years, he also served as a church Administrator in the capacity of Ministerial Secretary of the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists from 2003- 2006, Director of Sabbath School, Personal Ministries and Stewardship. He currently serves as the Secretary of the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Pastor Osbourne loves the Lord, enjoys preaching the undiluted word of the Lord, has a penchant for justice, is patient, espouses strong family life and loves and respects people.

The personal mission of Pastor Osbourne is to inspire and motivate others to achieve Christian excellence and ways of wellness in their lives. His vision is to work assiduously in populating heaven with all those he tirelessly shepherds. Pastor Osbourne is married to Dorette, together they have three children- daughters: Janice and Shauna and son - Devon Jr.

Administrators’ ProfileEast Jamaica confErEncE


Dr. Donna S. BrownEducation Director - EJC

Dr. Donna Brown is a native Kingstonian and a foundation member of the Meadowvale

Seventh-day Adventist Church. She is an ordained elder and has served the church in many capacities. Educated at the Swallowfield All Age School and the Meadowbrook High School, she subsequently gained a B. Ed. (Hons)

in Business Studies from the University of Technology, a Masters of Business Administration from Northern Caribbean University, a Masters of Arts and Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Andrews University.

She began her teaching career at the Kingsway Preparatory School, later serving as Head of the Business Department for the High School. In 1998 she accepted the call to West Indies College now Northern Caribbean University where she has served in various capacitates, including Programe Chair in the College of Business and Hospitality Management. Many of her students attest to the fact that her Christian commitment has impacted their lives beyond the knowledge of books. In September 2010 she accepted a call to serve as Education Director for East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Her research interests have focused on job satisfaction, motivation and worker’s commitment in organizations as well the development of effective interpersonal skills and she has made presentations at research conferences both locally and abroad .

Among her recent publications is a book entitled “Factors Contributing to Job Satisfaction in Higher Education–The Key to Greater Productivity and Retention of a Qualified Workforce.” She is also a contributor to the Youth Collegiate Quarterly and the Women’s Devotional Guide of the Inter American Division of Seventh-day Adventists.

For her work in education she has received several awards, including Distinguished Faculty Award for Teaching and Certificate of Commendation for Teaching, NCU 2002 and 2009 respectively.A motivational speaker, Dr. Brown has inspired audiences nationally and internationally with young people specially benefiting from her experiences of having Christ as the helm of her academic sojourn. Her personal philosophy is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Pastor Hanson W. DrysdaleYouth Director - EJC

Hanson Wilberforce Drysdale, the ninth of 11 children was born in the cool, unspoilt environment of

Seaman’s Valley, Portland to Hanson and Wynnette Drysdale.

He was strongly influenced by his God- fearing mother who was a dedicated and hardworking Bible Worker at the Port Antonio Seventh-day Adventist

Church. The Godly influence of his mother impacted his life and at the age of nine (9) he gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized by the late Pastor Don Crowder.

Pastor Drysdale subsequently moved to Kingston where he became a member of the former Tarrant SDA Church (now Half-way-Tree SDA). At Tarrant he distinguished himself, serving in various capacities such as Personal Ministries Director, Sabbath School Superintendent, Will & Trust Director, AY Leader, and Pathfinder Director. Working in these departments his organizational and management skills, as well as his love for the Lord was noticed by Pastor E.R.E Wright, who recommended his ordination as an Elder. He was ordained Elder in 1998. Hanson is also a trained Master Guide, invested in 1991 under the leadership of former Youth Director, Pastor Mansfield Edwards.

Pastor Drysdale’s formal education began at Port Antonio Primary School. He later attended Titchfield High School. In 2001 Hanson Drysdale enrolled at the Northern Caribbean University (NCU). While at NCU he further established himself as a student leader serving as Chaplain, and Sergeant of Arms of the East Jamaica Conference Club, Outreach Ministries leader for Campus Ministries, Evangelism Coordinator, and President of the Ministerial Association. In 2005 Pastor Hanson Drysdale graduated from Northern Caribbean University Magna Cum laude with a B.A. in Religion.

On October 1, 2005 he joined the East Jamaica Conference family as a Ministerial Intern.

His Years of Service are as follows: Oct. 2005- Jun 2006 Ministerial Intern @ Trench Twn/Whitfield Twn. With Pastors L. Brown and E. Nathan. June 2006-Nov 2006 Ministerial Intern @Heroes Circle SDA with Pastor D. Osbourne Nov 2006-Dec 2006 Ministerial Intern @ Ebenezer SDA Supervised by Pastor L. G. Williams-Personal Ministries and Sabbath Director. Jan 2007-Jul 2010 District Pastor for Seaview Gardens & Olympic Way SDA ( both churches were dedicated during his tenure). Jul 2010-present, Youth Ministries Director, EJC.

He is happily married to the beautiful and articulate Andrea Brown who is an Environmental Health Practitioner employed to the Ministry of Health. They are the proud parents of Hanson Drysdale Pastor Drysdale is resolute that God has not given him the spirit of fear but of power, of love, and of a sound mind. (1Tim1:7)

Directors’ProfileEast Jamaica confErEncE


Kathleen DunkleyAssociate Personal Ministries Director – EJC

Kathleen Dunkley was born in Kingston. She attended the Holy Childhood High School and Durham

College where she obtained a diploma in Secretarial Studies. At completion she was employed at the Kingsway High School as secretary and also in the Cayman Mission as

secretary to the President and teacher at the Edmar High School.

In 1972 she was employed as a Bible Worker by East Jamaica Conference where she worked at several churches. In 1979 she received a diploma in Bible Instruction from West Indies College and in 1996 a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion.

In 1998 she was elected to serve as the Women’s and Children’s Ministries Directors. In 2002 to present she was appointed to serve as Associate Director to Sabbath School/Personal Ministries and Community Services Department.

Her philosophy is that she is in God’s hands and therefore she has nothing to fear. Evangelism and caring for the needs of other are her passion. Prayer is her “wings.” She is married to Wellesley. They have two (2) married sons – Tesmond and Travis – and one (1) grandson Ossayaba.

Dr. Leonard SteeleHealth Director - EJC

Dr. Leonard steele was born in the Parish of Kingston and is a graduate of Grantham College West

Indies College High School and Northern Caribbean University where he attained a Batchelor of Arts in Theology. Later he completed his Masters in Public Health at Loma Linda University and his Doctorate in

Ministry at Columbia Theological Seminary.

Dr. Steele is an Ordained Minister, Marriage Officer, a Lifestyle Facilitator and Health Educator. Dr. Steele has pastured several churches and have been chairman of several school boards. Dr. Steele is married to Correl and the union produced one son and two daughters.

At the departmental level, he has serves as:Health Ministries Director 1999 – 2006 - Re-elected in 2006Stewardship Director 2001 – 2006 - Re-elected in 2006Wills and Trust Director 2006 – 2010 - Re-elected in 2010Stewardship Director 2006 – 2010 - Re-elected in 2010

Claudette GenasWomen & Children Ministries Director - EJC

Mrs. Claudette Genas assumed responsibilities as Principal of Kingsway Preparatory and

High School in August 2005. Prior to her appointment she served as Language and Communication Lecturer at the Justice Training Institute, an agency of the Ministry

of Justice, HEART Trust/NTA as Career Guidance Counsellor and Regional Programmes Service Officer and Acting Vice principal at John Mills Infant Primary and Junior High.

Mrs. Genas holds a Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Northern Caribbean University, a Bachelors Degree in Managing Learning Difficulties and a Certificate in Social Psychology from the University of the West Indies (UWI), a certificate in School Administration, a Diploma in Guidance and Counselling from the Mico Teachers’ College. An energetic leader and trained diploma teacher, Mrs. Genas has a record of active service to the community. She served as a member of the team mandated to develop standards of performance for teachers with the Ministry of Education.

She served as an executive member of committees at the West Indies Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. At EJC she gave of herself unreservedly on the executive committees of the Family Life Department, IML, Protocol, Pentecost and More and Events Planning. She is also the Treasurer for one of the Quality Education Circles in the Ministry of Education and a Kiwanis Faculty Advisor.

Mrs. Genas has received several awards for academic and professional achievement, salient among them are, certificate of recognition for outstanding leadership service at the UWI Mona, and a certificate of appreciation from Jamaica Independent Schools’ Association. She has served in many areas of the church including, Director of Sabbath School, Family Life, and Adventist Youth (AY) Department. She currently serves on the Elders’ Board, Family Life Committee, Director for Usher and Hospitality, and Sponsor for the Crusaders Pathfinder Club and Adventist Youth Department.

Claudette Genas is married to Aston Genas, an Elder of the North Street Church. Her three children are active members in the church and community. Sherraine is a Family Life Director {Trinidad) and a lawyer, Shemaine a Deputy Pathfinder Director and Office Manager and Zwadie an Assistant Sabbath School Superintendent and NCU student. Mrs. Genas believes that ‘Appreciation is the bread of life, therefore everyone, everything, everywhere in the world should thrive on it’.

Directors’Profile East Jamaica confErEncE


Elder Phillip E.L. CastellCommunication Director - EJC

A leader and results driven Christian with proven experience in motivating people and leading

men and women to a saving knowledge of Christ, Phillip E.L. Castell been a member of the New Haven SDA Church since its inception in 1971. His professional experience and background

covers a broad range of disciplines including Information Technology, Sales, Marketing, and Management.

Born the second son of Valrie and Philip Castell in a family of four children, Phillip Edward Lee Castell was born in Kingston where he grew up with his siblings in a Christian home. His love for the Lord and his dedication to the church was encouraged at an early age by his mother Valrie who herself was an outstanding leader at the New Haven SDA Church. From an early age his ability to lead and communicate effectively was recognized in his church were he served in numerous leadership roles including Pathfinders Leader, Youth Choir Leader, AYS Leader, Personal Ministries Leader and Church Elder. His love for the Lord and people has been demonstrated over the years with his intimate involvement in personal evangelism at various levels. In 2003 Elder Castell was the evangelist in a four week evangelistic campaign where twenty three precious souls were won for the Lord.

In 1993, Phillip Castell was ordained as an Elder at the New Haven S.D.A.Church by Pastor Ucal Harris. In 2003 he joined the East Jamaica Conference Elders’ Association where he was elected Assistant Secretary. After one year, he was asked to serve as secretary of the Association. He remained in this capacity for four years until 2008 when the members of the Association elected him to serve as the President of the Elders’ Association in East Jamaica, a position he still holds today.

Elder Castell’s secondary education began in 1977 when he became a student at the Calabar High School where he excelled in the area of the sciences. After successfully completing his secondary education, he went to further his education at the University of the West Indies, (UWI) , where he read for a Bachelor of Science (BSc.) Degree in Computer Science and Electronics. His professional area of expertise and training is in Computer Technology Sales and Marketing. In 2006 he completed his Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) with the University of New Orleans.

Elder Castell has a passion for communicating the good news of salvation to those around him and has used his training and experience in the field of technology to share the Word of God with those who will listen. He is of the opinion that with God all things are possible and that he can do all things through Christ who gives him the strength to do His will. Elder Castell is happily married to his sweetheart and loving friend Yvette.

Adiese A. JonasAsst. Communication Director - EJC

Adiese Alicia Jonas, “the little dynamo” was born on September 22, 1987 to proud parents Winston and Janett

Jonas. She is the younger sibling of sister Shermaine, and received her wholistic spiritual nurturing at the North Street S.D.A Church.

Adiese grew up in Portmore St. Catherine and then later relocated to the parish of St. Andrew where she currently resides. She attended the Obistan-Kinder Prep School from 1990-1993, then moved on in that same year to spend five years at the George Headley Primary School. After completing her Common Entrance Examinations in 1998, she moved on to the Meadowbrook High School where she received seven CXC’s and six CAPE subjects.

Always an enthusiast in the field of Communication, with a special emphasis in radio, she moved on to the University of the West Indies, with a burning desire to fulfill her dream of studying what she termed, the ‘Art of Communication.’ She wrote for her Bachelor of Arts degree from 2005-2008 majoring in Language, Communication and Society and completing a minor in Literatures in English.

Upon the completion of her Bachelor of Arts Degree, the Lord saw it fit to open an avenue for her to begin the persual of her dream in the Mass Media. On May 19, 2008, she was asked to join the staff of Independent Radio Company Limited, the owners and operators of Power 106FM and Music 99FM. During her Two and a quarter year Tenure at Independent Radio Company Limited, she served in various capacities which include: Senior Creative Assistant, Duty Announcer, News Presenter, Producer of the morning talk show Independent Talk with Deacon Ronnie Thwaites, and Writer, Producer and Voice of the children’s gospel feature, “The Pickney Corner” aired on the programme Power and Glory on Sunday Mornings. She has also worked as a Duty Announcer for Advertising Agencies, namely: O.G.M. Integrated Limited and Waterworks Limited.

Adiese believes with all her heart that God has a magnificent plan for her life. She knows that her achievements could not have been possible without the divine guidance and presence of the Almighty Saviour, Jesus Christ. Recognizing that there is much more to life in Christ, Adiese (the Arabic name which means ‘born to lead,’) accepted the call of her Lord in September 2010, when she was asked to serve in the capacity which she now occupies, as Assistant Communication Director of the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

For Adiese, the sky is the limit! She holds deeply in her heart that once Christ is at the forefront of her ship, she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. She encourages everyone not to be afraid to dream; because goals achieved, were at the initial stage precious dreams before they were manifested. Her Philosophy is: “A big dream begins with a big thought, a big goal realizes that dream, so think BIG in order to achieve great results!”

Directors’ProfileEast Jamaica confErEncE


Directors’Profile Pastor Carl M. Cunningham Sabbath School, Personal Ministries& Community Services Director

Motto: “This one thing I do” through a “Ministry of Presence” “Proclaiming the Blessed Hope” Pastor‘s family includes his wife, Sandra, a teacher at Kingston College and two sons –Carl and Joshua.

Born in Yallahs in the beautiful parish of St. Thomas where he received his earliest exposure to God through his parents and the Adventist church. Except for two years in St. Catherine, he

spent all his childhood life in this parish and began active lay ministry just after baptism at 13 years of age.

He then went on to West Indies College, where he achieved his first degree in Religion with studies in Business Administration and Secondary Education. He later earned his second degree from Andrews University MA in Religion and is now a candidate for the Dr. of ministry in Pastoral Theology at Inter-American Theological Seminary In over 22 years of full time pastoral work, Pastor Cunningham has been recognized as a dynamic and outstanding evangelist, a spiritual leader and has demonstrated much interest and skill in community development.

In 1997 he gave leadership on behalf of the government of Jamaica in response to 100 year disaster in Portland. In 2003, he organized the East Kingston communities to respond to and manage escalating gun crimes in Mountain View and other communities. Sabbath School & Personal Ministries In 1853, only a few years after the first group of Sabbath-keeping Adventists was formed in Washington, New Hampshire, James White organized the first regular Sabbath School in Rochester, New York. In 1852, estimating an informal membership of about 1,000 in the state of New York, White had written a series of 19 lessons appearing in the new Youth’s Instructor.

From its inception Sabbath School has focused on four emphases that are still prominent to this day:► Fellowship development► Community outreach► Bible study► World Mission A solid balance of these elements characterizes the most vital Sabbath Schools around the world.

Based on these four emphases, from its beginning in 1853, Sabbath School membership has exploded from a handful of believers in upstate New York to an estimated 14 million today. General Conference President Jan Paulsen has said that Sabbath School is like breakfast. For more than 150 years it has provided the spiritual nourishment that is needed to meet the challenges that arise during the rest of the week. In order to achieve and maintain its four core emphases the department functionally operates through three main departments in each local congregation:Sabbath School DepartmentPersonal Ministries DepartmentCommunity Services DepartmentThe goals and objectives are further achieved through the following areas: Theological Education Spiritual Nurturing Mentoring and Discipleship Fostering church membership and fellowship Recruiting, training and equipping members for service and witnessing.Engaging Community in positive, critical partnership toward Holistic life improvement and betterment for the community. Special Services are geared toward the following special groups:Senior Citizens Persons with disabilitiesThe poor and needyPersons behind Bars Partners include:EJC Sabbath School FederationEJC Lay Evangelistic AssociationEJC Communities Federation and Loving Hands MinistryEJC Bible SchoolJC Prison MinistriesThe Good Samaritan InnAdventist Laymen Services and Industries (ASI)EJC AmbassadorsAll other departments and ministries of the church.

Directors’Profile East Jamaica confErEncE


Directors’Profile

Pastor Owen ThomasPublic Affairs & Religious Liberty, Spirit of Prophecy and Publishing Ministry - EJC

Owen Edward Thomas, a third generation Seventh-day Adventist and an ordained

minister hails from Boundbrook, Port Antonio in the beautiful parish of Portland. After graduating from Titchfield High School, he taught at

Portland High School for a short stint. In October 1980, his love for law led him to seek employment in the civil service as an assistant clerk of courts in the Resident Magistrate Courts, a post he held for over nine years. During this time, he worked in the parishes of Manchester, Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Catherine and St. Thomas, mainly as a government prosecutor at the level of deputy clerk of courts.

In 1989, Owen answered the call to be a literature evangelist and worked unstintingly and extensively in the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew for five years. His efforts copped him the position of leading colporteur in West Indies Union. This was not the only call Owen was to receive. He answered the call to the gospel ministry and so in 1994, he headed to West Indies College (now Northern Caribbean University) and successfully pursued a Bachelor of Theology Degree. He entered the work as an intern five years later and served as a district pastor up to June 2010.

At the last local conference session held in July 2010, Pastor Thomas was asked to serve the constituency as Director of the Departments of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty, Spirit of Prophecy and Publishing. Pastor Thomas, who has a penchant for languages, has a working knowledge of Spanish and German. Also, he has served as instructor at Northern Caribbean University.

He is married to Elena Burke and they are the proud parents of Adiel, Danielle and Oren. His hobbies are singing, playing volley ball and jogging and his philosophy: “Treat all men as equals.”

The East Jamaica C o n f e r e n c e continued its

efforts to spiritually nurture and care for the members of the community.

On Wednesday September 8, 2010 Administrators, Directors and members of staff at the EJC, participated in a ‘Back to School Fair’ held at the Good Samaritan Inn, which was spearheaded by the Personal Ministries and Community Services Departments. Students living in and around the surrounding areas Good Samaritan Inn, were engaged in devotional exercises and were treated with gift items to be utilized during the new 2010-2011 School Term.

Items distributed include: one thousand school bags, stocked with notebooks, pens, and pencils. These were handed to students of pre-primary and primary schools, while a total of eighty thousand dollars in cash payments was given to 30 students to assist with purchasing of books and other stationery. The students were also treated to sumptuous meals by members of the Community Services Department which also saw the involvement of the President for the ASI Eastern Chapter, Elder Cecil Foster. In total 250 meals were distributed to students.

Back to School Treat at the Good Samaritan Inn

East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists74 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10 • Telephone #: 876-924-1061-3 • Fax: 876- 924-0263

Feel free to contact us via e-mail at [email protected] or visit our website at ejc.interamerica.org

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Documents

1st Issue- July-Dec 2010