From the Superintendent's DESK

The third annual St. Thomas prayer retreat was held at the Smith Bay church this past weekend. It was led by Michael Anthony, the Eastern Caribbean District Superintendent, who sent a summary of the event.

The retreat began on Friday, November 10, at 6:30 in the morning with a water baptism service for two candidates. Then at 9:30 a.m., everyone gathered again to pray before the morning teaching. For the message, Shermaine Mason spoke on “The Cause and Effect of a Powerless Prayer Life.” She used an object lesson to illustrate that some of life’s circumstances, such as loneliness or health problems, can weigh heavily on a Christian. A large bag of rocks was displayed, each bearing the label of a type of spiritual burden one might carry. Volunteers were asked to walk around the room carrying the heavy bag and then describe how they felt. Sister Shermaine pointed out that difficult circumstances can immobilize one’s prayer life, but God provides a remedy for every situation.   

On Friday evening the saints enjoyed a wonderful service, including uplifting songs and testimonies of victory. Sylvina Thomas brought the message from Exodus 2:23-25 under the caption “God Has a Time Schedule.” The point was made that people are often anxious, but God is never rushed, so Christians should wait on the Lord while continuing to pray in faith. A good altar service followed.

On Saturday, November 11, once again, the day began in the prayer room before the teaching. Brother Michael gave the message on “Important Factors in Our Communication with God.” He spoke about the similarities, differences, and value of praise, worship, giving thanks, alms giving, and understanding the Word, all of which lead to an effective prayer life.

In the evening service, Kundai Kamutando led the congregation in singing such songs as “Blessed Assurance,” “God is Still on the Throne,” and “Sweet Hour of Prayer.” Then, many inspiring testimonies were heard before the last special of “Amazing Grace Will Always Be My Song of Praise.” Visiting from East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, Olulana Alofe brought the message from Psalm 5:1-3. He emphasized that doubt comes from not exercising the measure of faith God has given to each one and from not believing that God hears the prayers of His people. The meeting closed with another good altar service.

Sunday marked the ninth anniversary in the Smith Bay church building, and the St. Thomas saints were joined by brethren from both Tortola churches. The services began with Sunday school, followed by prayer and then the morning meeting. The congregational singing was lively, but then concluded with the solemn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” 

For the sermon, Pearl Smith, who is the pastor at East End, Tortola, took her text from Philippians 4:4-7 and encouraged the congregation with “A Time to Rejoice.” The power of God fell during the sermon, and the altar and chairs became places of prayer and praise as many people were taken in the joy of the presence of the Lord. Brother Michael said it was a great way to end the prayer retreat, and everyone left feeling refreshed and encouraged.