Jamaican Field Conference

With great expectation we looked forward the spiritual and physical feast that awaited us at the Conference. This wonderful retreat is located in the hills of the parish of St. Mary, at Enfield, Camp Curtis’ camp site, and is surrounded by forests, including fruit trees.

“Arise and Trim our Lamp” was the spiritual eye-opening theme, and the theme song was “A Little More Oil In My Lamp.” We had four (4) wonderful days of fellowship. Registration and the preparation of Sabbath proceeded the official opening of the Conference by Br. Branko Cholich.

Sis. Elham Gordon, in welcoming the Sabbath reminded us that it was on the Sabbath that John received special revelations concerning the Church. He was at one with God, and so also must we be, in order to receive full blessings. Bro. Cholich then gave an in-deptb presentation of the history of the Advent Movement and the 51 movement.

The Sabbath was wonderful, sharing with brethren and friends from our sister churches throughout the day, especially in our Sabbath School. In the divine hour, Br. Cholich presented the message of the parable of the ten virgins found in Matthew 25. He said that all were waiting, but when the test came, five failed. He said the commandments are not forced upon us but they are to make us wise and allow us to make the right decision in a crisis. The oil enables us to shine for Jesus and brighten the way for others to see the way to Him.

In the different youth hours there were lovely renditions of songs, recitals of scripture passages and poems.
In a workshop on health, Br. Michael McNiesh reminded us that ancient Israel was given a specific diet, so also is spiritual Israel given a vegetarian diet. It can sufficiently sustain us. We also learned a lot about the very versatile and nutritious soybean and nutrients that are found in it and other plant foods.

Br. Gowie, in a presentation on stewardship, stated that we are only servants and are here to perform our faithful duty. The proper way of calculation our tithe was illustrated: one-tenth of our gross income (not net income), and must include allowances such as uniform, travelling, rent etc. Another wonderful Sabbath came to a close with Br. Gowie giving thanks to God for His benefits.

On Sunday, we gathered at the nearby river and witnessed, with joy twelve souls, the majority being youth, as they made their covenant with God in water baptism. The ceremony was performed by Br. Gowie. They were given the right hand of fellowship by Br. Cholich. After this they were all personally welcomed into the Church by the members who greeted them with hugs and even tears of joy.

In a workshop on marriage Br. Gowie stated that there is a pattern that should be followed: attraction, friendship, courting, marriage, sex and then children. Couples should be spiritually and physically bound together. Sis. Evadney Dockery then gave thanks to God for a wonderful day.

Monday morning, while we were saddened because it was the final day, Sis. Audrey Wallace encouraged us to be patient. She stated that patience enables us to get along with others, and it is our connection with Christ, which enables us to develop patience.

To close a wonderful conference, Br. George Moodie-Henry asked the question, Who is God? Psalm 19 answers this: He is the Creator, heavenly Father, owner of heaven and earth. We however, cannot by searching find out God. But we know that God is love.

It is my wish and prayer that we will hold steadfast in the unity of the faith, until we all go home and live with Christ forever.
AMEN