A Publication of the Gregory Park SDA Church Communication Department

June 2012 Issue #10

Page 2

Gregory Park Church ‘Armed’ and in Crusade Mode

Damian Wilson, Communication Director

T he Gregory Park Church switched into crusade mode and ‘armed’ for a spiritual battle. From June 17-June 22, the Church experienced a three night Revival se-ries, under the banner ‘Armed for the Conflict’ – as a

precursor to the ‘Empowering the Family Bible Series.’

The Revival opened on Sunday night, June 17 with Elder Wayne Harrison delivering a message he captioned ‘Spiritual Warfare; Are you Prepared?’ Elder Harrison charged members regarding preparation for the great conflict between the powers of darkness and righteousness. He placed the con-gregation on alert in anticipation of the Crusade, that we are preparing to take back all that the devil has stolen from us. The young elder with the big passion for Christ encouraged the brethren to be ready to take back our joy, our families, our friends, and to impact and be witnesses to this community. He further charged the brethren to be revived, lively, alert and ready to take on the conquest, but most importantly to be armed with

God’s weaponry.

Elder Harrison spoke to six key areas of prepara-tion for spiritual warfare citing texts from Isaiah 54:17

Ephesians 6:10-18 and II Timothy 2:3-4.

The second night’s presentation was delivered by First Elder, Cavan Davis. The ex-

perienced elder who is no stranger to proclaiming the Word of the Lord, expounded on the topic “The battle is the Lord’s.” Elder Davis closed with the hymn Sound the Battle Cry, citing the words:

Rouse, then, soldiers, rally round the banner,

Ready, steady, pass the word along;

Onward, forward, shout aloud, “Hosanna!”

Christ is Captain of the mighty throng.

This he proclaimed was our call to fight the battle against sin, with the Lord as our Leader and Protection.

The third and final presentation was made by Personal Ministries Leader Clive Ebanks. Bro. Ebanks titled his message ‘Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty, Victory at last.’ Bro. Ebanks declared that “victory over sin and the world is only through our faith in God who is the same yesterday, today and forever.” He went on to say that victory of the saints was from the foundation of the world, sealed by Christ’s resurrec-tion, it is just for us to claim it!

During the month of June, the Church also stepped up its witnessing activities with the distribution of tracts, literature and church/crusade invitations in addition to a series of AY and Sunday night street meetings in the communities of Lesser Port-more, Watson Grove, Christian Gardens and Christian Pen.

The ‘Armed for the Conflict’ series was a lead up to the highly anticipated ‘Empowering the Family Bible Series’ Church Crusade with Evangelist Hopeton Moving. The four week Cru-sade will run from July 1-July 28, at the Gregory Park SDA Church.

Special 16 page

10th Issue

During the month of June, the Church also

stepped up its witnessing activities with the

distribution of tracts, literature and

church/crusade invitations in addition to a

series of AY and Sunday night street meet-

ings in the communities of Lesser Portmore,

Watson Grove, Christian Gardens and

Christian Pen

Personal Ministries Leader, Clive Ebanks, presents Friday evening’s

Message during the three night ‘Armed for the Conflict’ Revival Series

Quick fact about the Adventist Church

Issue #10

This

Issue

From the Pastor Adventist Resources

The Light Scenes from the Quarter

Teach Weekend Singles’ Convention Prophecy Corner

Father’s Day

Church Crusade

Youth Retreat

Where are they Now?

Publications

There are some 270,000 Adventists worshipping at more than 650

churches in Jamaica. Church officials estimate that about one in every

eleven people in Jamaica is an Adventist. Source: Nigel Coke/ANN

Calendar of Events

Michca-Mae Bonner Tashawna Harrison Wayne Harrison

Marjorie Stone

Editorial

Committee Damian Wilson Fiona Dyer Wilson

Sports and Christianity Health as a Lifestyle

Adventist Medical School Opens in Nigeria

The Light

communications.gpsda@gmail.com

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dress below.

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material to THE LIGHT for publication,

you may see any member of the editorial

committee or indicate via email.

Please send your comments,

opinions or feedback to:

Below are links to important information and resources related to the

Seventh-day Adventist Church

Blondel CAMPBELL

Pastor, Gregory Park

Circuit of Churches

▌The Single Adventist is the best free dating website

created by Adventists - http://thesingleadventist.com/

▌A new Seventh-day Adventist world church initiative titled “Revived by His Word,” aimed at strengthening the spiritual experience of each church member http://revivedbyhisword.org/

▌Churchpond is a network and website which streams live and pre-recorded Seventh-day Adventist program-ming 24 hours a day, seven days a week http://churchpond.com/

▌ enditnow is a global campaign to raise awareness and advocate for the end of violence against women and

girls around the world - http://www.enditnow.org/

▌The Official Website of the NCU Media Group which include NCU Radio and NCU TV http://ncumediagroup.com/

O nce again, the members of the Gregory Park SDA

Church have demonstrated that the Church is

alive and vibrant as we ended the second quarter with a

range of programs that have greatly motivated us in our

walk with our Saviour.

I must express commendation to every member,

especially Department Leaders and Elders for their untiring

work to ensure the success of the following programs:

Women Ministry Day, Men’s Day, Deacons’ and Deacon-

esses’ Day, Teach Weekend and Couples’ morning out. The

experiences of these special days were enriching and have

left an indelible imprint in our memory.

Matthew 24:14 reminds us: This gospel of the

kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness

unto all nations; and then shall the end come. It is with this

in mind that we look ahead to our upcoming crusade,

slated for July 1, 2012. Our Bible workers have been out in

the field, every member has done their part to influence a

soul for the kingdom. As such we are looking forward to a

time of rejoicing as we bring in the sheaves of souls ready

for the kingdom and the sowing of the gospel seed in the

hearts of men, women, boys and girls.

I encourage us all that in spite of the vicissitudes

of this present life let us continue to be faithful stewards of

the gospel and live a life of love that will lift up Jesus.

God bless you.

Issue #10

(left) Pastor Derrick

Bignal offers the

closing prayer on

Education Day, April

28, 2012. Standing

beside Pastor Bignal

is his wife and Divine

Hour speaker for

Educ at ion D ay ,

Yvonne Bignal. Sis

Bignal is the Vice

President for Student

Relations at Northern

Caribbean University.

(right) Elder Janet

Able-Simpson offers

special prayer for

students sitting exter-

nal and final exams

◄Members of the

AY Council along

with some addi-

tional hands hud-

dle together after

their Labour Day

project where they

helped to paint the

Christian Gardens

Basic School on

May 23, 2012

Dr. Newton Cleg-

horn, Dean of the

School of Religion

and Theology,

Northern Carib-

bean University,

delivers the divine

hour message on

Men’s Day, June 2,

2012 ▼

▲ Personal Ministries Leader Clive Ebanks offers a tract and

invitation card to a resident of the Gregory Park Community

during a walk through the area, Sabbath June 2, 2012.

The Light

The Couples of Gregory Park Church enjoy an early morning outing at the Hope Gardens, with breakfast and games, May 27, 2012

(above)▲ Members of the Youth Choir sing the song of Meditation, “He Will Not Let

you Fall” during the Armed for the Conflict Revival, Wednesday June 20, 2012

(top right) Elder Sharonmae Shirley, First Elder of Tredegar Park SDA is all smiles as

she prepares to take the podium and deliver the Divine Hour Message on Women’s

Day, June 9, 2012

(bottom right)► Sis Sophia Robinson and Sis Tarsha Blackwood-Davis participate in

the footwashing ahead of the Communion Service, Sabbath June 16, 2012

Issue #10

In a Christian household, the husband is the priest. He is supposed to lead the family in worship and obedience to God. He is the chief bread-winner/provider for the family. He is also the protector of the family and is to en-sure that his family is secure.

The role of a father is to provide emotional, spiritual and financial leadership for the fam-ily and to be a good role model and true representative of Christ in the home.

The role of the father in a Christian home is to provide spiritual direction and leadership by instructing his fam-ily to obey the will of God and provide the living example which will make it easier for them to know and under-stand God.

FATHER’S DAY is a day honoring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Many countries, including Jamaica, celebrated Father’s Day on June 17. In acknowledging and

celebrating fathers, The Light asked some of the fathers at Gregory Park Church.

“WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A FATHER IN A CHRISTIAN HOME?”

Proud father Barrington Carter

with son Myles

Mboya Gordon with sons

Daniel (left) and Michael (right)

Damion Brown with his little girl

Alsunea

Kerlew Francis with son

Kamali and daughter Kaliyah

The Davis’ - Urian, Jean-Mark, Zachary and father,

Cavan Davis

The Bible says 'the father is the head of the family' and as such he is expected to guide the family spiritually and so-cially. A father in a Christian home should also provide for the family and set a good example for his children

Terence McLaughlin with his father

Royston McLaughlin

The husband and father in the home is the head and priest of the household. The wife looks to him for love and sympathy and for aid in the training of the children. Children look to their father for support and guidance.

As a Christian father, I must provide and live a Godly life so that my children can see Jesus in me and want to serve Him too.

The Light

In keeping with family and child month this quarter, our recommendation

for must read publications are as follows:

Child Guidance covers the essentials of parenting, with chapters on specific building blocks of

character, such as purity, cheerfulness, self-control, reverence, respect, honesty, cleanliness,

and courtesy. It includes guidance on how to teach self-denial, how to mould the will, rein-

force good habits, evoke penitence without resentment, and conduct effective family wor-

ships.

Publications of the Quarter

T he name Cleston Hamilton elicits

warm smiles from many members

of the Gregory Park SDA Church. He and

his family served the Lord and the

church so faithfully that members who

knew them readily recall fond memories

of their ministry and service to the

church. The converse is also true; the

name Gregory Park SDA elicits an

equally warm response from Bro. Hamil-

ton who fondly remembers July 13,

1980 as that memorable day when he

became a baptized member of the Greg-

ory Park Church. He and his family be-

came such dedicated workers for God

that there was hardly a member at that

time who was not touched in one way or

another by their influence.

Some of the church offices

Brother Hamilton held included First

Elder on two separate occasions; Lay

Activities leader now known as Personal

Ministries Director; Family Life Director;

Health and Temperance leader and Sab-

bath School teacher. He remembers well

that while he was a Sabbath School

teacher, Elder Cavan Davis, the current

First Elder, first sat in his Sabbath

School class. He is particularly pleased

at how well Elder Davis has blossomed

into a stalwart for the Lord.

Brother Hamilton’s wife and

daughters stood by him in ministry and

are fondly remembered for their beauti-

ful singing. Sister Hamilton and Sister

Ferguson were known for their awesome

duet and his daughters though very

young at the time sang in a trio with Sis.

Jeudeen Chambers.

In addition to his work in the

local church, Bro. Hamilton was a colpor-

teur for over 25 years. In 2004 he was

adjudged the champion colporteur for

Central Jamaica Conference and West

Indies Union!

He was an electrician par excel-

lence and is responsible for the electri-

cal wiring of the current church building

and the installation of the chandeliers

which so beautifully grace the edifice.

Brother Hamilton and his family

relocated to Rosewell, Clarendon and he

transferred his membership about

2001. In 2008 he migrated to the Cay-

man Islands where he is now a member

of the Maranatha SDA Church and cur-

rently an Elder, Sabbath School Superin-

tendent; Bible Instructor for Bible Class

and Health Ministries director for two

consecutive years. He also occasionally

does Bible Work .

Although Bro. Hamilton is in

another part of the vineyard, he contin-

ues his work in service for the Lord. He

admonishes us to, “keep up the good

work. Continue to work for the Lord and

do what you can to finish the work”. He

sends special greetings to the Gregory

Park Church family and still maintains

contact where possible with some mem-

bers.

Have you ever wondered how you can get insights on the secrets of good parenting? As a

parent, you try to show your child so many things. But what will shape their characters

most? What will they look back on most fondly when they grow up? What will count the

most? What can you do that will really stick with your child?

What My Parents Did Right by Mark Finley and Steven Mosley, answers these ques-

tions. Drawing from the testimonies of several young adults, the authors reveal time-tested

methods for teaching children right from wrong, making children feel loved, transmitting a

positive attitude about God and faith, and more.

- Marjorie Stone

Elder Cleston Hamilton

Issue #10

Horse Strength and Power in Battle Job 39:19, Psalms 147:10, Proverbs 21:31

Dragon Satan or his agency Isaiah 27:1;30:6, Psalm 74:13-14; Rev. 12:7-9; Ezekiel 29:3; Jeremiah 51:34

Beast Kingdom / government / political power Daniel 7:17, 23

Lamb Jesus / sacrifice John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:7

Lion Jesus/Powerful King i.e. Babylon Rev. 5:4-9, Jer. 50:43-44, Dan. 7:4,17,23

Bear Destructive Power / Medo Persia Proverbs 28:15, 2 Kings 2:23-24, Daniel 7:5

Leopard Greece Daniel 7:6

Serpent Satan Revelation 12:9; 20:2

Tongue Language / Speech Exodus 4:10

Wolf Disguised Enemies that hunt in a time of darkness

Matthew 7:15

Dove Holy Spirit Mark 1:10

Ram Medo Persia Daniel 8:20

Goat Greece Daniel 8:21

Horn King or kingdom Daniel 7:24; 8:5, 21, 22; Zechariah 1:18, 19; Revelation 17:12

Wings Speed / Protection / Deliverance Deuteronomy 28:49, Matthew 23:37

Prophecy W hy are Bible prophecies shrouded in symbols? In Luke 8:10

Jesus said, "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of

the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, ‘that

seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not under-

stand”. Many of the end time prophecies were given while the prophets were in a

hostile foreign land. One reason God hid the prophecies in symbols was to pro-

tect the messages. Here we look at some of the symbols used and where they are

found in the bible. This quarter, study these symbols and the reference to gain

the keys to unlocking the prophecies, especially those in Daniel and Revelation.

Next quarter we will use these symbols to unlock the prophecies recorded in the

Book of Daniel.

Animals or parts thereof

Woman, Pure True Church Jeremiah 6:2; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:23-27

Woman, Corrupt Apostate church Ezk. 16:15-58; 23:2-21; Hos. 2:5; 3:1; Rev. 14:4

Thief Suddenness of Jesus' coming 1 Thessalonians 5:2-4; 2 Peter 3:10

Hand Deeds / Works Ecclesiastes 9:10, Isaiah 59:6

Forehead Mind Deuteronomy 6:6-8, Romans 7:25; Ezekiel 3:8, 9

Forehead Your Walk / Direction Genesis 19:2, Psalm 119:105

Eyes Spiritual Discernment Matthew 13:10-17, 1 John 2:11

Skin Christ's righteousness Exodus 12:5, 1 Peter 1:19, Isaiah 1:4-6

Harlot Apostate church / religion Isaiah 1:21-27; Jeremiah 3:1-3; 6-9

Heads Major powers / rulers / governments Revelation 17:3, 9, 10

People and body parts

Cont’d on following page

The Light

W hen chancellor Gilbert Wari pronounced the

words of inauguration on Friday, June 1,

2012, Babcock University [BU] in Nigeria be-

came the fourth Seventh-day Adventist medi-

cal school worldwide, and the first on the African conti-

nent. Some 500 attendees witnessed the establishment

of BU’s eighth academic unit, the school of medicine

named in honor of world-renowned neurosurgeon Benja-

min S. Carson, Sr.

Representing the Adventist Church’s world presi-

dent Ted N. C. Wilson and the General Conference of Sev-

enth-day Adventists were general vice president Benjamin

Schoun, along with his counterpart Delbert Baker and

world education director Lisa Beardsley-Hardy. Several

members of BU’s governing council, including Chair and

Prochancellor Oyeleke Owolabi, and Vice Chair Bassey

Udoh, represented the West Central Africa Division, BU’s

home division. Vice Chancellor Makinde introduced and

welcomed George and Dorothy Bolleteri, President and

CEO of Medical Bridges, a Houston, Texas, based organi-

zation that was responsible for assisting BU with obtaining

80 percent of the medical equipment available for the

school of medi-

cine. .

B a b c o c k

University is a pri-

vate Christian co-

educational Nige-

rian university

owned and oper-

ated by the Sev-

enth-day Adventist

Church in Nigeria.

The university is

located equidis-

tant between

Ibadan and Lagos.

The university was established as the Adventist College of

West Africa (ACWA) in 1959, initially with 7 students. In

1975, it changed its name to Adventist Seminary of West

Africa (ASWA). The university was officially inaugurated on

April 20, 1999.

Adventist Medical School opens in Nigeria ■ School named in honor of world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson

LAEL CAESAR, Adventist Review

Other Symbols

Lamp Word of God Psalm 119:105

Oil Holy Spirit Zechariah 4:2-6; Revelation 4:5

Sword Word of God Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12

Bread Word of God John 6:35, 51, 52, 63

Angel Messenger Daniel 8:16; 9:21; Luke 1:19, 26; Hebrews 1:14

Babylon Apostasy / confusion / rebellion Gen. 10:8-10; 11:6-9; Rev. 18:2, 3; 17:1-5

Mark Sign or seal of approval or disapproval Ezekiel 9:4; Romans 4:11; Revelation 13:17; 14:9-11; 7:2, 3

Seal Sign or mark of approval or disapproval Romans 4:11; Revelation 7:2, 3

White Robes Victory/righteousness Revelation 19:8; 3:5; 7:14

Time 360 Day Daniel 4:16, 23, 25, 32; 7:25; Daniel 11:13

Times 720 Days Daniel 7:25, Revelation 12:6,14, 13:5

Day Literal year Ezekiel 4:6; Numbers 14:34

Trumpet Loud warning of God's approach Exodus 19:16-17, Joshua 6:4-5

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

- 2 Timothy 2:15

- Compiled by Elder Wayne Harrison

Prophecy Corner...continued from previous page

Issue #10

Pastor Blondel Campbell during his Friday evening presentation

of Teach Weekend, May 18, 2012

T he words ‘Reverence my Sanctuary’ is emblazoned over the altar of many Adventist Churches across the world including the Gregory Park SDA Church. It is a clear acknowledgement of the importance of reverence, to worship.

The second in the quarterly ‘Teach Weekend’ series was held from May 18-20, 2012 – this time focusing on ‘Reverence.’ Pastor Blondel Campbell took the responsibility for speaking to his congregation about the importance of reverence inside as well as outside the sanctuary.

Though the turnout for Friday evening’s presentation was small, the message was no less impactful. The theme was ‘Heart of Worship: Journey into His presence.’ Quoting Joe Horness, worship was defined as the natural, heartfelt, genuine, emotional response to the character, the works, and the grace of God! or ‘active response to God whereby we declare His worth (Allen and Borror, p. 16)’ Pastor Campbell stated that it was only through recognition of the impor-tance and value of worship that we can come to a place of true and authentic reverence for God and His Sanctuary.

For Sabbath’s divine hour presentation, the leader of the flock spoke squarely on the topic of Reverence. He declared that reverence is seeing God as high and lifted up - Holy, omnipotent and infinite. And seeing ourselves for what we are. Pastor Camp-bell opined that titles such as ‘Reverend’ as used by some Christian leaders or ‘His Worship’ assigned to Mayors, are titles that should be shunned by sinful human beings. Instead these should be re-served for a sinless Saviour and Christ.

The series continued with a Bible Class presentation and closed with Sunday night’s presentation. The Sunday Night presen-tation was conducted by Elder Edward Chambers. Elder Chambers led the congregation to contemplate and discuss very sobering statements on Reverence taken mainly from Messages to Young People by EG White, one of which reads:

‘I am sorry to see that many…who profess religion do not have a knowledge of a change of heart. There is no transformation of character. They do not realize that it is a solemn thing to profess to be a Christian (p. 267)

One by one, thought provoking statements such as these were presented. We were reminded of the great danger in being indifferent to religion and that we should train our minds to focus on the eternal and avoid the frivolous. The parallel drawn between meeting with earthly dignitaries and meeting with the God of the Universe made it clear that special preparation and care as to one’s conduct in the House of the Lord are appropriate and necessary. As such parents should teach their children how to behave in the House of the Lord and to practice being reverent themselves as irreverence sets a poor example for others. . Finally, we were admonished to hold steadfast to eternal things and our relationship with God for the closer our relationship with God, the more we will see our need for humility in His pres-ence.

REVERENCE my Sanctuary

Teach Weekend Teach Weekend

- Damian Wilson

The Light

Issue #10

Health as a Lifestyle

N o single food can reduce your risk of cancer, but the right combination of foods may help make a differ-

ence. At mealtimes, strike a balance of at least two-thirds plant-based foods and no more than one-third ani-mal protein. This is an important can-cer fighting tool, according to the American Institute for Cancer Re-search. Check out better and worse choices for your plate.

Fighting Cancer with Colour .

Fruits and vegetables are rich in can-cer-fighting nutrients -- and the more color, the more nutrients they contain. These foods can help lower your risk in a second way, too, when they help you reach and maintain a healthy body weight. Carrying extra pounds increases the risk for multiple can-cers, including colon, esophagus, and kidney cancers. Aim for at least five servings a day, prepared in a healthy way.

The Cancer-Fighting Breakfast .

Folate is an important B vitamin that may help protect against cancers of the colon, rectum, and breast. You can find it in abundance on the break-fast table. Fortified breakfast cereals and whole wheat products are good sources of folate. So are orange juice, m e l o n s , a n d s t r a w b e r r i e s . More Folate-Rich Food .

Other good sources of folate are as-paragus and eggs. You can also find it in chicken liver, beans, sunflower seeds, and leafy green vegetables like spinach or romaine lettuce. Ac-cording to the American Cancer Soci-ety, the best way to get folate is not from a pill, but by eating enough fruits, vegetables, and enriched grain products.

Pass up the deli-counter

An occasional sandwich or hot dog probably isn't going to hurt you. But cutting back on processed meats like hot dogs and turkey-slices may help lower your risk of colorectal and stom-ach cancers. Also, eating meats that have been preserved by smoking or

with salt raises your exposure to agents that can potentially cause can-cer.

Cancer Fighting tomatoes .

Whether it's the lycopene -- the pig-ment that gives tomatoes their red color -- or something else isn't clear. But some studies have linked eating tomatoes to reduced risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Studies also suggest that processed tomato products such as juice, sauce, or paste increase the cancer-fighting potential.

Tea’s Anticancer-potential .

Even though the evidence is still spotty, tea, especially green tea, may be a strong cancer fighter. In labora-tory studies, green tea has slowed or prevented the development of cancer in colon, liver, breast, and prostate cells. It also had a similar effect in lung tissue and skin. And in some longer term studies, tea was associ-ated with lower risks for bladder,

Continued on next page...

The Light

stomach, and pancreatic cancers.

Grapes and cancer

Grapes and grape juice, especially purple and red grapes, contain res-veratrol. Resveratrol has strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory proper-ties. In laboratory studies, it has pre-vented the kind of damage that can trigger the cancer process in cells. There is not enough evidence to say that eating grapes or drinking grape juice or wine can prevent or treat can-cer.

Eliminate Alcohol to lower cancer

risk

Cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, liver, and breast are all linked with drinking alcohol. Alcohol may also raise the risk for cancer of the colon and rectum. Even two drinks for men and one for women elevates the risk.

Water and other fluids can protect .

Water not only quenches your thirst, but it may protect you against bladder cancer. The lower risk comes from wa-ter diluting concentrations of potential cancer-causing agents in the bladder. Also, drinking more fluids causes you to urinate more frequently. That less-ens the amount of time those agents

stay in contact with the bladder lining.

The Mighty Bean

Beans are so good for you, it's no sur-prise they may help fight cancer, too. They contain several potent phyto-chemicals that may protect the body's cells against damage that can lead to cancer. In the lab these substances slowed tumor growth and prevented tumors from releasing substances that damage nearby cells.

The Cabbage Family vs. Cancer .

Cruciferous vegetables include broc-coli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts, bok choy, and kale. These members of the cabbage family make an excellent stir fry and can really liven up a salad. But most importantly, com-ponents in these vegetables may help your body defend against cancers such as colon, breast, lung, and cervix.

Dark Green Leafy Vegetables . Dark green leafy vegetables such as mustard greens, lettuce, kale, chicory, spinach, and chard have an abun-dance of fiber, folate, and carotenoids. These nutrients may help protect against cancer of the mouth, larynx, pancreas, lung, skin, and stomach.

Protection from an Exotic Spice

Curcumin is the main ingredient in the Indian spice turmeric (which is used to make curry) and a potential cancer fighter. Lab studies show it can sup-press the transformation, proliferation, and invasion of cancerous cells for a wide array of cancers .

Cooking Methods Matter

How you cook meat can make a differ-ence in how big a cancer risk it poses. Frying, grilling, and broiling meats at very high temperatures causes chemi-cals to form that may increase cancer risk. Other cooking methods such as stewing, braising, or steaming appear to produce fewer of those chemicals. And when you do stew the meat, re-member to add plenty of healthy, pro-tective vegetables.

Pass on the sugar

Sugar may not cause cancer directly.

But it may displace other nutrient-rich

foods that help protect against cancer.

And it increases calorie counts, which

contributes to overweight and obesity.

Excess weight can be a cancer risk.

Fruit offers a sweet alternative in a vi-

tamin-rich package.

Source: WebMD

Reviewed by Andrew Seibert, MD September 9, 2011

Issue #10

T his year the quadrennial event, the summer Olym-pics, will be staged in Lon-don from July 21- August

12. For Seventh-day Adventists, as we draw near to this event the question for contemplation - does competitive sports and athletics have a place in the life of the Christian?

Questions such as these urge the Adventist Christian believer to find balance in our answer and to always rest on the side that whatever we do, it should be done to bring glory and hon-our to God and never to self. How then should the Adventist Christian treat or view participation and in a broader sense the celebration of competitive sports at any level: school or commu-nity or even as spectacular as the world stage such as the Olympics?

The apostle Paul made refer-ences to athletic competition in 1 Co-rinthians 9:24, 25 and Hebrews 12:1 and draws on the prowess of the ath-letes in his day to urge the Christian believers into thoughts of spiritual en-durance.

Likewise as Adventists we can appreciate and celebrate athletic talent, skill and success in others. However we must always recognize and acknowl-edge that it is God who gives these talents to compete at an extraordinary level. Therefore we should not glory in the athletes themselves and the compe-tition so much so that we make them into idols and be absorbed by the per-sonalities. Even in the pursuit of patri-otism and national pride, we must be mindful of the levels to which we be-come engrossed in the celebration of success. Even in our love and apprecia-tion for athletic display, let us not rob God of absolute time and devotion as many of these events are held on Sab-baths and distract us from our spiritual commitment.

The Adventist Church’s official statement on competition serves as the

guideline “to individual members, churches, conferences, as it relates to our involvement in sporting events that lead us in high level of rivalry and competition.” The church holds the position that “In any church or school situation involving organized physical activities, the results can be beneficial if the following ideals prevail: coopera-tiveness, helpfulness, selflessness, a cordial spirit, playing for enjoyment rather than only to win, and observing the rules in spirit and not merely in letter.”

E l l e n W h i t e s t a t e s , “Recreation, when true to its name, tends to strengthen and build up” (Ed 207). It will not foster selfishness, ri-valry, hostility, strife, love of domi-nance, love of pleasure, or unwhole-some excitement.

Cleary the church’s statements in tandem with the Spirit of Prophecy wholly support each member consis-tently involved in recreational activities that engender physical exercise which aids the total development of all the faculties (spiritual, mental, physical, social and emotional). In other words, recreation or physical activity that brings honour to God will have at least three key objectives: (1) developing the character to include self-discipline, self-reliance, emotional control, respect for the rights of others, and moral and ethical conduct based on Christian ide-als; (2) provide proper physical experi-ences and recognition of achievement that will contribute to self-discovery, emotional stability, and cooperative social relationships and (3) develop the spiritual qualities and social traits that make up a good citizen with Christian morals and ethics to guide in human relationships.

Is there any avenue that lends itself to Seventh-day Adventists par-ticipating in competitive sporting ac-tivities such as school, competitive sporting leagues, etc?

As it relates to these specific situations there is clear stance for Sev-enth-day Adventists. We are guided to minimize and avoid engagement in ac-tivities that foster rivalry and encour-age a competitive spirit. Specific situa-tions such as those mentioned above would be classified as highly competi-tive and lead to the development of rivalries. Why this stance? In the pur-suit of a healthy body and mind The Servant of Lord writes . . . God's plan of life has a place for every human be-ing. Each is to improve his talents to the utmost; and faithfulness in doing this, be the gifts few or many, entitles one to honour. In God's plan there is no place for selfish rivalry" (Ed 225, 226).

Hence through divine and di-rect inspiration, God wants to lead his people to wholesome recreational and physical activities that lead us to find fellowship and give glory to God. In a society that thrives on competition and rivalry we must make every attempt to inculcate within our children, warnings of engaging in highly competitive ac-tivities. As the Apostle alluded to in scripture, we are all spiritual athletes in the Christian race and as such we should allow God to direct our motives in our pursuit of athletic activities whether we participate or simply enjoy and celebrate the talents of others.

In having a balanced approach, we can engage in recreation that may involve teams, as long as we conduct ourselves in a manner that displays brotherly love, seeks to promote devel-opment of each believer and is utilized as a means of incorporation of others into the fellowship. These motives will have greater and heavenly results.

- Elder Wayne Harrison

The Light

The Light

JULY

Evangelism Impact Phase III

Mon 2 Pastors’ and Bible Workers’ Meeting –

CJC Board Room

Wed 4 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention –

Manchester (Christiana Church)

Thur 5 2nd Quarter Reports due at CJC Office

Sab 7 Day of Prayer and Fasting

Sab 7 Vision One Million Rally (P.M.)

Mon 9 2nd Quarter Statistical Report due at C.J.C. Office

Wed 11 Executive Committee Meeting

Sab 14+ World Mission Budget

Sab 14* Tell the World: Media Ministry

Sab 14 New Members’ Convocation – Clarendon (May Pen

Church)

Sab 14 Parish Federation Bible Bowl Finals

Sab 14 Church Membership Count (All Churches)

Tue-Tue

17-24 Summer Camp – Teen (Camp Verley)

Sab 21 Communication Day

Sab-Sab

21*-28 Consolidation Emphasis: Church History Week

Tue-Tue

24-31 Summer Camp – Junior (Camp Verley)

Thur 26 Pastors’ Community Outreach – Clarendon

Sab 28 Bible Emphasis and Church Heritage Day

Conference-wide

Tue-Tue 31

-Aug 7 Summer Camp – Senior & Reunion Camp

(Camp Verley)

AUGUST

Wed-Fri

1-31 Abuse Prevention Month

Wed-Fri

1-31 Vacation Bible School (All Churches)

Wed 1 Emancipation Day

Sab 4* Children’s Ministries Emphasis Day

Sab 4 Global Mission Evangelism

Sab 4 Small Group Ministries Sabbath

Sab 4 Day of Prayer for the Nation, Jamaica Union

Mon 6 Independence Day

Fri-Sun

10-12 Graduation, NCU

Sab 11* University Education Promotion Day

Sab 18 Abuse Prevention Emphasis Day

Sab 18 Youth Day

Sab 18 Church Membership Count (All Churches)

Sun 19 Pastors, Elders, and Youth - Sports Day (NCU) -

Conference-wide

Wed 22 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Clarendon

(Lionel Town Church)

Thur 23 Conference Workers’ Picnic

Sab 25 CJC Connect – Manchester

Sun 26 Art and Vintage Expo (Mandeville Church)

Wed 29 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention

Manchester (Mandeville Church)

SEPTEMBER

Sab 1 St. Catherine Bible Bowl Finals

Sab-Sun

1-30 Lay Evangelism Month Subscription Material & Miss.

Magazine Promotion Month

Mon 3 Teachers’ Meeting (Willowdene Group of Schools)

Sab 8* Family Togetherness Day

Sab 8*+ Adventist Mission Emphasis (Offering)

Sab-Sab

8-15 Adventist Review (Annual subscription promotion)

Sun 9 Leaders’ Council (Camp Verley)

Wed 12 Executive Committee Meeting

Sab 15 Youth Spiritual Commitment Day

Wed 19 Prayer and Heeding the Word Convention – Clarendon

(Chapelton Church)

Sab 22 Pathfinder Day

Sab 22 Special Offering (District Projects)

Sab-Sab

22-29 Health & Health Care Emphasis Week

Sab 29# Vision One Million Baptismal Day

Sab 29 13th Sabbath Offering (Southern Africa-Indian Ocean

Division)

Sab 29 Conference Bible Bowl Finals

Sab 29 Book and Nutrition Centre Book Review

(During Personal Ministry Time - Conference-wide)

*Programme provided by the General Conference or by the Inter-

American Division

+Worldwide Offering. Special offerings are included in the system-

atic plan of the Division

# Organized Baptisms are conducted and recognition of those

baptized during the quarter