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Caribbean Leaders Bi-Annual Meet-up

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 01:15:01 GMT

A group of five leaders from Jamaica to include the Swabys, Hanniff Miller, and the Reynoldses had the honour of attending the Caribbean Leaders’ bi-annual Meeting (CLM) in the Dominican Republic from Thursday April 17 to Sunday April 19. Under the theme “Our Competence comes from God,” we were treated to three enriching days of inspiration from God’s word, worship in songs, and sweet sweet fellowship. I was profoundly impacted by all the sermons; Angel Martinez- “Competence comes from God,” Brian Santos- “Dealing with Difficult Situation,” and Jeff Hickman- “Team Leadership.” My personal takeaway came from a statement made during the Sunday sermon by Jeff, ‘Walk in the life’ that Jesus gives!

Typically, CLM builds unity and strengthens bonds among Caribbean leaders and churches, provides encouragement especially for smaller groups, and facilitates discipling and the exchange of ministry ideas. There were representations from a number of Caribbean nations; St Kitts and Nevis, Bahamas, Barbados, Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Puerto Rico, St Thomas Virgin Island, St Vincent, Haiti (it was particularly encouraging to see them considering the multiple challenges on their home front), DR, and Jamaica. There were also representatives of Caribbean Mission Society (CMS) from Orlando, North River, and Canada.

DR is led by Angel and Luz Martinez and a team of leaders who together epitomize servant leadership. The church has a membership of over 800 vibrant disciples. It is a warm, deeply family-oriented ministry that emphasizes love for God, each other, and the lost. It sure was a joy to worship with the saints of Santo Domingo on Sunday April 19. The diverse blend of youth, mature, and cohorts in between was a beauty to behold.

Health Centre named after Dr. Kenneth Baugh

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 03:01:41 GMT

A fitting tribute

The Hon. Dr. Kenneth Baugh OJ was an outstanding surgeon who had a strong desire to better the lives of his fellow man and saw political representation as the way to do so. He was successful in his bid to be a representative in parliament several times throughout his political career, which spanned almost 40 years. He served his country as a member of Parliament, Minister of Health, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, and Deputy Prime Minister. Under his watch at Minister of Health, poliomyelitis was eradicated from Jamaica, a programme of improving dental health was initiated, and the health and well-being of Jamaicans greatly improved. He had the reputation of being calm, fair, and honest, which earned the admiration and fondness from those on both sides of the political aisle. He was awarded the Order of Jamaica in 2016 for his distinguished service to Jamaica. Dr. Baugh was diagnoses with brain cancer in 2015 and was baptized that year. He underwent brain surgery but did not fully recover. He passed away on September 1, 2019.

"The passing of the Honourable Dr. Kenneth Lee O'neil Baugh, OJ, is truly a sad day for Jamaica. The nation has lost a veritable patriot who, while being a politician, was never political. He was a true servant who was the epitome of humility, dignity, and integrity" - The Prime Minister, The most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, MP

Health Centre
A new health centre being constructed in Point Hill, the constituency which he last served as a Member of Parliament, will be named after him. This is seen as a fitting tribute, seeing that he gave free health care to so many people in that town and the surrounding districts. Ground was broken in November 2019.

Health Fair sees hundreds attend

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 11:45:33 GMT

Many received health care, legal advice, and books

A total of 566 patients registered and benefited directly from health care offered at our recent fair (180 males and 386 females). This does not include persons who came solely for books, and volunteers who did not get the chance to access health care. All included, an estimated total of about 700 persons were in attendance at the Health and Book Fair 2019 hosted by the St Catherine Region of the KCOC. Twice the amount anticipated.

81,000 (eighty one thousand) children’s multi-vitamins, over 50 water filtration systems which created a buzz among attendees, anti-parasite medications, and other pharmaceuticals were given out. A whopping 26,000 (twenty six thousand) books ranging from Kindergarten to tertiary level were given to patrons. What a sight that was to behold! Children and adults alike flocked multiple tables to make their book selection without having to pay a dime. 4,000 tested, and reading glasses enabling people to see better. This service was over-subscribed, with many requests for another glasses distribution soon.

We were excited to see, greet, and serve many people from nearby communities which include, Union Estate, Twickenham Park Housing scheme, Greendale, Bernard Lodge, Strathmore Gardens, and others. Of special note, over 20 children from the Sunshine Place of Safety were seen by onsite paediatricians. Disciples from all across Jamaica (Kingston, Montego Bay, Westmoreland, Santa Cruz, Mandeville, and May Pen) journeyed by bus, and private motor cars to access a range of services in Spanish Town.

The services offered at the Health Fair included Paediatrics, dental, optical, general medical, pharmaceutical, other services such as legal, nutrition, justice services, financial, and not to leave out our prayer corner.

To God's glory 2 men who were studying the bible, and present at the health fair were restored and baptized the following week. Also, a young lady who accessed medical services at the fair has visited church twice, and will commence bible studies soon. On her first visit, she brought her son, and a couple out to church. Please pray that God moves her heart to accept Jesus as her Lord.

Kudos to the small planning committee of Health and Book Fair 2019! You truly are heroes. With the leanest budget, and the biggest hearts you have demonstrated that with God, “all things are possible”. Our primary objective was to plan an event that would create an opportunity for disciples to serve others, touching the lives of people as Jesus did while he walked the earth. To His honour the goal was achieved.

Special thanks to our Partners, Helping Others with Love Inc. who donated the books, John Mahagen and the Orlando Member Missions, who donated the glasses and the Staff of HOPE USA who came to serve along with donating pharmaceuticals and water filters. Thanks also, to our many kind local donors, and a highly qualified cadre of professionals who freely gave of their time and talents in service to the poor.

Savannah-La-Mar Gets Leaders

Tue, 09 Apr 2019 23:31:09 GMT

The Clarkes return home

The migration phenomenon with Jamaicans is typically going in one direction - away of the island. When members of the church migrate, they are typically servants of the church, so their departure leaves a gaping hole in the leadership of the church. Therefore, it is of great delight when disciples migrate to Jamaica, especially when they come to serve the church.

The disciples in the west are overjoyed to welcome Mark and Sophia Clarke from the church in Hartford, Connecticut, who have moved back to Westmoreland, Jamaica, and have agreed to lead the ministry in Savannah- La-Mar (Sav). The team of disciples from Sav are excited and eager to work together to win the people of Westmoreland for God.

They have started with once per month Friday devotionals and Sunday services. The team of disciples has friends and family who come out consistently, and several visitors have started to study the Bible.

Please keep the Sav ministry on your hearts and in your prayers.

A Dream to Serve Comes True

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 14:10:11 GMT

A school-feeding programme is born

On March 12th, 2019 members of the Montego Bay Christian Church family and friends from Hilo had the pleasure of serving a hearty breakfast to the students of Albion Primary School.

This is a program that has been on my heart since 2017, shortly after my family moved to Jamaica. As I saw the needs at my daughter Jasmine’s school, where classmates would eagerly partake of her lunch, generally because they didn’t have their own. So Jasmine and I decided to send extra lunches to help a few students. As we spoke to a teacher to see how this lunch plan could be expanded, it came to my attention that there was an even greater need at Albion Primary School. So we contacted Albion and made plans to start the school feeding program. (We still send lunches for a few students at my daughter’s school, but we focused on the needs at Albion).

This idea has now blossomed into a bi-annual event, where we provide things like porridge, sandwiches, franks with beans, cake and tea to the students who need breakfast at Albion Primary High School.

Disciples donated, prepared and served the breakfast. Mellonie Boothe, a disciple and teacher at Albion, has been encouraged and inspired by the loved shown to the students of her school.

The first year, Hilo supermarket gave donations of food items and a representative came and gave gifts to the most improved student of each grade. This year, Ms Phillip, the Hilo representative who came last year, called to ask if we can partner with her to serve the students as her birthday treat.

On Tuesday, Ms Philip and Ms Davis, the store manager, came and provided a large quantity of the food that was served on March 12th. They were inspired and asked if they could be part of our next scheduled school feeding.

The first year we fed approximately 120 students. This year we fed approximately 160 students. At the end of serving the last group of students, one of the children came back to say thank you and God bless.

At the end, we spent time thanking God for providing for the needs and for the privilege of serving in this way.

Please continue to pray for us and that God continues to grow the program to consistently meet as many needs as possible.

My Experience at the KCOC's 1st Women's Retreat

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 20:01:25 GMT

A perspective from a participant

Proverbs 25:25 - Like cold water to a weary soul is good news to from a distant land

The Women's retreat was good news in a distant land! the land of Runaway Bay, St. Ann! and to say it was like a drink of cool water is an understatement. The retreat was so needed by all of us that it was like a drink cool water, to get away from our routines, to bask in the warmth the sun/son, to enjoy sweet fellowship with sisters we don't get to see that often, was so good!

Tori and I arrived Friday, as it was her birthday weekend we spent two nights, so we had the hotel all to ourselves, it was a time for me to prepare for the retreat. Saturday morning brought a flood of happy, bubbly disciples from all over Jamaica, dressed to relax and rejuvenate, all smiles, and chatter as we moved through the registration process into the main auditorium for breakfast and a message or so I thought, instead there were so many delightful surprises, before we got into the message there were games including Bingo and a scavenger hunt that lasted the two days.

Nacia Reynolds, and her mom Nadine prayed and open the door for heavens blessings on the event, then there was a message by Shelly Wong that I absorbed with all 12 senses, Yes all 12! the word of God but pressure on my soul to think differently about some challenges in my life through Shelly's message.She suggested the 'what would Jesus do'(WWJD) maxim maybe more effective if we use"what would Jesus think'(WWJT)

We broke into two classes, the teens had a separate class, after a scrumptious lunch we hung with each other and absorbed the beauty of God's people so many of us in one place. We were encouraged to have Claudette Patterson one of the sisters form the Santa Cruz church who was a trouper, calling us all higher as she set an example of self denial. The group was encouraged by a presentation by Drs Sandra Swaby and Maxine Cargill who addressed questions on women's health including back pain and menopause to name a few. We all took away delicately wrapped soaps of various fragrances as tokens,wowza!

After we broke for dinner, checked into out rooms, some couldn't rest, it was back to the auditorium for games and dancing, Kalooki ended past midnight, and some disciples were up by 6 am the next day for a rigorous prayer walk to the beach. Some stayed in the auditorium for aerobics.

The retreat ended after an amazing service where Simone Baugh used Mary's relationship with Jesus to remind us that worship is more important than activity, Marsha took us back to Mary's encounters with Christ and it was like we were right there, seeing her tears, worshiping Christ with Mary!

The retreat ended all too soon , but with just enough to keep us longing for the next retreat.

Giving God Glory

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 10:03:49 GMT

Courtney Bailey excels in his career

Courtney Bailey was appointed to the role of Teacher for the Kingston Church of Christ in 2012, and has served in the teaching ministry for other Caribbean churches of the International Churches of Christ. He co-founded the Damian Jean-Baptiste Caribbean School of Ministry, along with Tyrone Marcus, a disciple from Trinidad & Tobago whom he helped become a Christian whilst they were both law students at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies in Barbados. Courtney has been an outstanding student and servant of God and continues to be so. He is currently pursuing a post-graduate degree in theology at the United Theological College of the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica. He initially enrolled in the Masters programme, but was invited to apply for an upgrade to the PhD programme based on his performance.

In early 2019, Courtney Bailey became the managing partner of one of the largest law firms in the English speaking Caribbean. If asked, he will tell you that he owes his success to God. He is keenly aware that all his talents have been God-given, and he uses them for God’s glory. Courtney is firstly a man of God, a meticulous student of God’s word, a family man, then a lawyer. It is his drive to be excellent in his service to God that has enabled him to advance professionally. He epitomizes Colossians 2:23, the scripture that reads, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters”.

Courtney’s success ought to motivate and encourage all servants of God. If one strives to please God, then one becomes more of what God intended: for us to be made in his glorious image. Success, therefore, may be right around the corner. Believe the word that reads, “All hard work brings a profit” (Prov 14:23). Let this example motivate you to put God first, while being excellent on your job. God will be glorified and your will find success.

Double Celebration in St. Catherine

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 01:01:12 GMT

Two daughters of disciples baptized a day apart

The St. Catherine Ministry had time to celebrate and rejoice with the angels in heaven as they welcomed their new sisters in Christ. Nasya Reynolds and Deandra Westcarth from the teen’s ministry made Jesus Lord of their lives and were baptized on December 30th 2018 and January 1, 2019 respectively. These young ladies grew up in the church, as their parents have been faithful servants of God for many years. It is truly inspiring to see the younger generation make Jesus their Lord, and families being united in Christ. We pray that God may use them to help their generation and the next to come to know Him as their Lord and savior. Let us continue to reach out to the next generation and pass on to them what has been given to us.

“Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” ( Deuteronomy 11: 18 - 19)

Teen Ministry Christmas Initiative

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 14:49:44 GMT

Teens feed to poor

Shantal Barrett, a young teen disciple of the KCOC church came up with an initiative to purchase and distribute food items to those less fortunate in and around New Kingston after church. On Sunday, December 16,2018, this idea became a reality. The Kingston Church of Christ (KCOC) Teens and Teen Workers went in and around areas of New Kingston where food items such as patties and cran-waters were distributed to less fortunate people. A sum of $6000 JMD was raised amongst the teens to purchase these food items. A total of 20 teens and workers volunteered their time, which helped to make this event successful.

Anya Says 'Yes'

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 14:42:52 GMT

A teen's journey to faith

Anya came to church in 2016 when she began to live with her aunt, "Aunty Marcia", who is a disciple in the church in St. Catherine. Anya wasn't quite like the other teens who have since become Christians in that she initially was befriended by an adult, Nomali Campbell. She would sit with Aunty Nomali on Sundays and hangout with her at various places and activities, including the monthly "Singles Lyme" at Cafe José.

In the course of time Anya expressed interest in studying the Bible. At the time there were no female disciples in the teen ministry and so she studied the Bible with adults and continued to fellowship with persons in the singles ministry. Anya wanted change in her life and she knew that that change would come from God. At her first study, her heart of repentance was obvious; her aunt shared with those who were studying with Anya that Anya was so moved by the word of God that she wrote her a letter in response. She continued her Bible studies with this determination and on June 5th, 2017 she was baptized into Christ. Since then she has continued to be her fun-loving self, hanging out with teen disciples and adults alike.

Although Anya hasn't had the easiest life and her journey with God has had its typical challenges, she has persevered, retaining a kind heart, and being willing to serve and help others.

Good Friends Baptized on the Same Day

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 09:09:35 GMT

Xavier and Lishawn are a examples for May Pen teens

This is an inspiring story of Xavier Walker and Lishawn Anderson, two teenagers of the May Pen church, who got baptized into Christ on the same day. These two friends and brothers in Christ have had such wonderful friendship from a tender age. They went to the same day care, same primary school, and now they are living in the same community. In 2015 Lishawn started coming out to church. The following year, he wanted to go to Teen camp but didn't get to go because of lack of funds. Xavier grew up in the Church, son of disciples, and has attended the Camp before. In 2017, Lishawn was determined to attend Teen Camp and was the first to make a down payment. He continued to make his deposits until he paid the Camp fee in full. Lishawn and Xavier were ready and excited to be going to Camp together. It was a wonderful time for both. They were so inspired that they both made the decision to study the Bible. On the 29th October 2017 Xavier and Lishawn were baptized into Christ to God's honour and glory. They are young and vibrant men with incredible talents, please keep them in your prayers that God may use them to bring much honour and glory to his Name.

Teen Christmas Party 2018

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 08:29:47 GMT

Teens celebrate Christmas together

On Friday, December 7, 2018, the KCOC Teen Ministry held their annual Christmas Party at the Christar Villa Hotel. This Christmas Party serves to end the year on a fun note, by giving the Teens and Teen Workers a time to just relax and have fun. The night started at 6:30 with exciting interactive games like “Atoms” and “Electricity”. Following that, there were intense FIFA mini tournaments and foosball games that really brought out everyone’s competitive side. With good food, great company and amazing music by DJ Drew, this night was sure to be an unforgettable experience. By 8p.m., it was time for the party to dwindle, but the teens were buzzing about all the fun that they had and couldn’t wait to do it again next year.

Teens workers have fun together

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 13:25:09 GMT

Teen workers enjoy Konoko Falls

Don’t just wait for the perfect moment. Take a moment and make it perfect.

We decided as the youth and family ministry leaders and workers to spend some time together bonding and building our relationships. We embarked on a journey from Kingston/St. Catherine to the beautiful parish of St. Ann.

Our destination? Konoko Falls.

Konoko falls is a spot hidden away approximately 5 minutes outside the town of Ocho Rios, St. Ann. As we drove onto the property, it was evident that this was one of the many treasures we possess on this beautiful island called Jamaica. We were welcome by the staff at the front desk after which we commence our tour. Our tour guide escorted us through the River Garden(literally a river flowing through the garden.

The trees were green and luscious. The river was so clear that you could actually see every stone and fish darting about. Our tour guide led us to the fountain where we took a refreshing drink of the water that was springing from beneath the ground. We were ushered into the museum which exhibited rare artifacts, maps and pictures from our ancestors, the Tainos. We were then led into a mini zoo which was home to a variety of exotic birds and reptiles including parrots, iguanas, snakes, tortoises, and even crocodiles.

After the tour ended, we changed and headed for the main attraction, yes the water fall. As we got closer we could hear the water gushing down the rocks and felt the mist inviting us to come and enjoy. The steps to the bottom of the falls seemed never ending. The picturesque beauty of the falls from the bottom, seemed unreal. It reflected a painting by greatest artist ever. It was unbelievably beautiful.

We dropped our stuff and began the climb up to the top on the falls. We stopped a few times along the way to take a dip in the pools along the way. Crystal clear water greeted our faces as it rushed to the bottom. We journey to the top and enjoy the view and the final stop at a makeshift pool. We chatted, laughed, and celebrated the achievements of those who dared to make it to the top, (babies and all).

After enjoying the beauty of this masterpiece created only by God, we decided to stop by the jerk pit to surprise our stomachs. The service was excellent and the food was delicious. I'm sure our stomach were smiling after the meals. We sat and chatted and laughed some more then took some photos and headed for home.

EVERY MOMENT WE SPENT TOGETHER WAS PERFECT.

Health & Wellness Fair Launched in St. Catherine

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 18:58:59 GMT

Almost 100 people received free medical attention

On Saturday December 1, 2018, the St. Catherine Region of the Kingston Church of Christ, organized and executed its inaugural Health and Wellness Fair. It was done as part of its strategic plan to serve communities in the environs of the Jose Marti High School, its place of worship.

A group of volunteer disciples from the Orlando Church as a part of their member missions, joined in on the event and served the community by distributing reading glasses free of cost.

The day’s proceeding began with a short praise and worship which included members of the community after which the Health Fair was open to the public. There was a steady stream of individuals throughout the day who came and accessed several well-needed health care services. These services were provided through the support of our community partners:

The National Health fund who did blood pressure checks, glucose and cholesterol tests and weight and body mass index (BMI) checks, all important information that each person should know. Our very own nurse Peters and Nurse McKenzie a visiting friend of the church was on site all day long doing weight, glucose and blood pressure checks as well.

Eve for life gave people the opportunity for persons to check and know their HIV status, and did Syphilis tests as well. Private counselling was provided to individuals as needed.

Presentations were done on various health related topics such as: Oral health presented by Dr. S. Finegan and Nutrition by Mrs. Kayon Robinson Brooks Nutritionist. If the presentations were not enough one had the opportunity to pick up brochures on various health issues at the registration desk or the various booth throughout the day.

Seeing how important it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle the Health Fair also provided individuals with solutions to their financial health through a presentation done by Ms. Swaby of the City of Kingston Credit Union (COK).

Our very own Mr. Richard Salmon from Geddes Refrigeration gave a presentation about air-conditioning and how to beat the heat.

A popular booth on the day was that of the Members Mission team, where reading glasses were given to visitors who went away thankful for the opportunity to now see better when reading.

Almost 100 individuals registered for the health Fair, many of whom were able to see one of five doctors privately, including our very own Doctors’ Peter Swaby and Joseph Kelly Jr., who were on call for the day. Individuals received advice, referrals and prescriptions for their ailments.

The day was a success, as the St Catherine Region of the KCOC, through their planning committee and volunteers succeeded in their mission to reach out to the community, by providing health care services to individuals who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to have same. We thank God for the opportunity to serve people in a personal way as Jesus customarily did Luke 5:12-19).

Blood Brothers become Spiritual Brothers

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Mon, 10 Dec 2018 18:58:58 GMT

Charles Lawrence, Wray's brother, was baptized

It was very uplifting to hear Charles' family and friends share about him before his baptism. It was especially moving to hear about how close he and Wray have been over the years. Charles' new found faith was not a sudden occurrence. Wray has been a disciple for 25 years, and married to Karlene almost as long. So Charles has interacted with disciples of Jesus for that long, but only recently was it obvious that the seed of the gospel had been planted.

Charles made his good confession on December 9, 2018, in front of many witnesses, including his 19 year old son. He is full of joy, faith and gratitude at now being a part of the family of God.

Katherine gets baptized at 13 years old

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 19:23:40 GMT

An amazing heart for God

There are few people who at their early stages of life are as devoted to God as Katherine. Her personal devotional notebook is full of scriptures and personal insights, she has been conducting group devotionals at her school on her own initiative, and has been praying to be baptized for 2 years. Although she is only 13 years old, everyone who speaks with Katherine sees her genuine devotion to God. It was a celebration to see her parents, Ozzy and Karen, baptizing their daughter into Christ on Sunday, November 25, 2018.

Madge Swaby's Baptism

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 14:33:13 GMT

The race is not for the swift

It was a beautiful sunny morning when Margaret Swaby slowly made her way into the water. Marjorie, (aka. Madge), was baptised at the age of 84 years old on Saturday, October 20th, 2018 by her son, Dr Peter Swaby. Dr Swaby was the first baptism in the Kingston Church back in 1984.

Madge, has always been an avid reader of the Word, and always thought that she was already saved, after all, she had been christened as an infant.

Madge who had been constantly moving between Jamaica and Canada, and never had the opportunity to put down roots in a church.

We saw God’s love put into action, when she became ill in August of 2018, and a caregiver was sought from among the daytime family group. Two members from that group shared passages from the Bible on baptism with Madge.

Then it was suggested by her daughter-in-law Dr Sandy Swaby, that we move the daytime group, from the home of Mary Hopkin, in order that her daytime caregiver could carry on participating in the family group, just what we were going to ask her to do anyway. This was all God’s doing in, order that Madge would get the opportunity to study the word. God made sure that this time it would happen!

One more message on the need for baptism was enough for Madge to realise her need, and she reached out and asked to study the Bible in order to be baptised.

She came ready to study the Word of God like a child, with a totally open mind despite her years, and her name is indeed written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Welcome to the Kingdom Madge!

A Thrilling Prayer Plan

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 12:12:21 GMT

Praying three times a day for November

The disciples in Kingston will be praying three specific times each day of November. The times and focus of each prayer will be determined by certain scriptures. The book chapter will determine the hour, and the verse will determine the minute.

The Harvest

Matthew 9:38 “Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

At 9:38 AM – Pray for the Harvest

Enlightenment (For you and others)

Ephesians 1:18 (at 1:18 PM) 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,

At 1:18 PM – Pray for enlightenment for you and your brothers and sisters

Your Day

James 5:13 13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.

At 5:13 PM - Pray about your day. If there is trouble, pray. If the day went well, pray a prayer or sing a song of praise.

Dedicate yourself to this plan, and ny the end of November, you prayer life will be transformed.

"Cool Runnings"

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 15:09:20 GMT

A Vincentian's visit to Jamaica

W. Almando Quow is the Solid Waste Manager at Central Water and Sewerage Authority of St. Vincent and the Grenadines . He also is the minister to the ICOC fellowship in those islands.

"34 The Son of Man came eating and drinking. And you say, „Look at him! He eats too much and drinks too much wine! He is a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!‟ 35 But wisdom is shown to be right by those who accept it.” (Luke 7:34-35; ERV) 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 22: 37-40; NIV)

I just returned home from a business trip in Jamaica over the last week and I thought I should share the good news of what God has done as I surrendered myself to be used by him. The Church in St.Vincent has been studying out Jesus’s approach to sharing the gospel as part of a fresh look at evangelism through a series of lessons collectively dubbed ‘All Things to All Men’. This business trip presented a perfect opportunity to put into practice what we have been learning from the scriptures. Jesus obviously loved fellowship (Luke 7:34-35) and he used those opportunities to gain access into the lives and hearts of men and women in order to find the perfect place to plant the seed of the gospel- thus giving it the best opportunity to germinate and grow. If you are into gardening you may have a better appreciation for what I am saying here, in that depending on what you want to plant, you first survey the field to find the best place to plant it. Jesus’s example has taught me to first spend some time surveying the field of an individual’s heart and then plant the word once a fertile spot is found. This approach also guards against having any preconceived ideas of where people are at spiritually or any fixed agenda about what I want to share.

The schedule was grueling and hectic with lots of information to take in and an expectation that I should be mentally engaged enough to meaningfully contribute to discussions and decision making that has regional and national implications. Then there are the informal lunch and dinner meetings with old and new professional associates and other organized social events that aim to strengthen collaborations. The temptation is to simply focus on business, as there seem to be little room to get into people’s personal lives where the Gospel is most relevant and effective. Besides, professionals are generally guarded and have the tendency to want to stick to discussing business related issues. But I felt convicted that the gospel must be shared, so I had to find a way to make the most of every opportunity no matter how limited.

Preparation for the mission required constant prayer for an open door and my daily devotions for the week focused on meditating on just one applicable scripture. That scripture was Luke 10: 38-42, where I zeroed in on Jesus’s teaching about the tendency to be busy and concerned about many things when only one thing is necessary. My one thing was to allow the Holy Spirit to lead the way each day, trusting that through Him I can fulfill my professional obligations while at the same time effectively share the Gospel. And man did the Spirit deliver on that promise! As I type this I am suffering from evangelism overload! No complaint though it is what it is. I saw Satan fall like lightning from the sky! Yet I am humbled that this was not done by my strength alone, the Holy Spirit took charge and I am happy that I had the conviction to follow.

By following Jesus’s example I made many friends on this trip, I was allowed into the personal lives of so many professionals while still gaining recognition as a leading technical resource in the region. But most importantly, I found fertile ground to plant the seed of the gospel and my faith is telling me to expect an abundant harvest of righteousness. If I were to write descriptively of all the people I met and shared with after having fairly deep personal conversions, this article will be about 10 pages long. And mind you, many of these conversations were less that 1 hour but in applying the lessons from Jesus and with the guiding of the Holy Spirit, those conversations were deep and rich. I have met folks for the first time who have invited me to come to their country and stay at their homes with my family, I have been officially adopted as a brother by someone from Central America, I am considered a mentor to others and on my final flight home, I met a brother from the mainline Church of Christ who is excited about getting to know more about our fellowship. These are just some of the new relationships built during the trip and all because of the Gospel.

In building these relationships we started off talking about business, then I asked about family life ( married, kids etc.) and usually from then on personal struggles and religious experiences came into play which then identified the perfect spot to plant the Word. You see, men were created for relationships and no matter how successful people may appear, if they are not following Christ they have broken and dysfunctional relationships which leaves a gaping hole in their hearts. That’s what the Gospel seeks to fill (Matthew 22:37-40). No matter how well qualified and accomplished people may seem, that hole can never be filled by professional accolades and material possessions. It is in that hole that you drop the seeds of the Gospel as you will find little initial resistance. But you have to move quickly and with sincerity or they will soon cover it up and it will be difficult to uncover again. Professionals do not like to be vulnerable and they have so many cloaks available to mask their pain (degrees, material possessions, influential positions in society, admiration and respect of others etc.).

There is more work is to be done to follow up and get my friends plugged in to a fellowship in their respective countries and some of that work has already started. But the Spirit is saying to me that someone or some people out of this group will become disciples of Jesus Christ. In a way I write this article so that I don’t forget to finish the work. I will be sending contacts to disciples in the countries where my friends are from to help water the seeds.

It was also a special threat to spend some time catching up with my longtime friends Kirk and Sheree Spencer and their daughters Jasmine and Jenee. Overall, the trip was fulfilling professionally and evangelistically and allowing the Sprit to lead has truly made the experience "cool runnings‟ (Jamaicans will know what I mean:) ).

Understanding God's Love from a Mosquito Sting

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 15:08:59 GMT

Knowing God's love for you will transform your life

A few days ago, I was feeling exhausted. I had 15 minutes to spare before I left for my next appointment, so I decided to nap. The time I sleep the soundest is when my head is in my wife's lap. I asked Simone, my wife, to wake me in 15 minutes, and I was asleep in her lap in a jiffy. I awoke in 10 minutes, feeling refreshed and recharged from the power nap. As soon as I opened my eyes, Simone said, "Mosquitoes are biting (stinging) me; there is one." When I looked on the ground to where she was pointing, there was a big, fat, overfed mosquito. She had sucked so much of Simone's blood that she could not take off in flight. I easily splattered her on the ground.

At that moment I thought, "Why would Simone allow this mosquito to suck her blood for what was obviously a long time?" Then I asked incredulously to confirm what was obvious. "Did you allow this mosquito to bite (sting) you so that you would not disturb me while I slept." When she said yes, I blurted out what I already knew, but now knew with more understanding: "You really love me." This act of selfless kindness is not something I would have asked of Simone. But she chose to bear pain and discomfort so that I could sleep. Then I thought, if this act of kindness riveted in my heart Simone's love for me, how much more should reminders Jesus selfless act of dying on the cross cause me to blurt out praises to him and others for his amazing love for me.

Jesus laid with his shredded back on rough wood and kept still while men drove nails into his wrists. He could have called legions of angels to rescue him at any time, but he chose to remain still. He did it for me, and for you, and for all mankind, while were were spiritually asleep. There are many aspects of the crucifixion that were painful and shameful, and it amazes me that Jesus bore each of them for me. The betrayal; the abandonment; the punching; the spitting; the whipping; the mocking; the pulling out of the beard (Isaiah 50:6); the nails; the hanging in the nude; the gasping for air; watching his mother weep as he died; the separation from the Father; death itself. At each stage, he could have said, "Enough". But he loved me, so he did not.

How does that love affect your life?

Titus 3:3-8
3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

Because of Jesus' love for us, we ought to be careful to devote ourselves to doing what is good. Take some time to meditate on each aspect of the crucifixion. Then consider what changes you can make in your life to do what is good.

A Disciple Receives A National Award

baughgreg@gmail.com (Gregory Baugh) — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 22:18:38 GMT

An Order of Distinction Award was conferred on Alia Atkinson

Alia Atkinson, a Jamaican swim sensation and disciple in the South Florida Church of Christ, received a national award from the Jamaican government on Heroes Day, Monday, October 15, 2018. Alia is the first black woman in history to win a World Championship Title in swimming. She is also the world record holder in 50 m breast stroke, even recently breaking her previous record.

Alia is at the peak of her career, so the nation is looking to her to keep us on the sporting map with even more amazing accomplishments. However, what she has accomplished so far in her swimming career has been nothing less than amazing. Her humble manner does not betray her incredible achievement. But her nation does not hold back in recognizing the significance of her fetes. The government of Jamaica conferred on her Order of Distinction Rank of Commander, a very prestigious award. Alia said, “This tops all my awards” and her awards are many.
The disciples in Jamaica are delighted by Alia’s award, her achievement, and most of all, her partnership in the gospel.

See the article about the ceremony one of Jamaica's newspapers here ( http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20181015/tops-all-my-awards-swimmer-alia-atkinson-says-order-distinction )