“The Only Constant Is Change”
The only constant is change, continuing change, inevitable change that is the dominant factor in society today. No sensible decision can be made any longer without taking into account not only the world as it is, but the world as it will be. — Isaac Asimov
Life is a series of frequent changes. Some changes are welcomed; others range from inconvenient to catastrophic. It should be noted that life brings us two constants, change and transition. There is a difference between changes and transitions. Change is situational; transition is psychological. It’s not the events outside us that make the transition; it is the inner re-orientation and meaning; the redefinition we make to incorporate those changes. This issue of transition was also addressed at our District Conference held 25th -26th February 2010.
“It is evident in the world around us dramatic changes are taking place. As a result, our personal lives and District/churches are not exempted from these changes. In addressing the prevailing issue of change and transition, the District Executive has set about to make necessary changes. Our vision is to cultivate a vibrant and cohesive community of empowered believers, establishing churches, extending the Kingdom and exalting the lordship of Christ. Subsequent to the District Executive Retreat held on 16th -18th September, major steps taken to realize this vision include:
- Enhancement In Communication: We are moving swiftly and comprehensively to address and correct the many roadblocks and flaws in our communication system. Areas being established are functional database of all our churches; making use of emails; and the active portfolio of a Communication and Marketing Specialist in the person of Rev. Peter Regis.
- Personal Leadership Development: This was commenced at our Pastors/Spouses Retreat on 17th, 18th September. We are seeking to cultivate leaders that take personal responsibility of their lives, help churches overcome adversity and break out of mediocrity.
- Missions and Evangelism/Church Planting: Policies are almost completed for more effective and efficient approach to our mission and evangelism effort. Rev. Warren Harper is spearheading the challenge in this area. Leading churches in the area of Missions/Evangelism will be incorporated for greater impact. Some of these churches include- Arouca Revival Tabernacle, Bethel World Outreach Ministries, Global Missions Centre, Jesus Life Centre, Curepe Empowerment Ministries, and La Horquetta Gospel Foundation.
- Church’s Personality: Identifying the personality of each of our churches is being pursued. This is believed to be of great importance in recognizing the unique characteristic and leadership fit for our individual churches.
Team of Consultants: Presently certain individuals are being courted to be part of this team. This is deemed as an important component in aiding church leaders in strategic planning and enhancement of church operations/management. - Standard Discipleship Program: A discipleship program is being developed for all our churches. We firmly believed that when believers are properly discipled, the church goes in the world; when we fail in this regard, the world comes into the church. The church is only as strong as her concept of God.
Collaborative Ministry: As we seek to expand the Kingdom through evangelism and church planting, plans are being put in place for some of larger churches to assist in the development of some of our smaller churches. Three of our pastors have gracious consented to support this initiative. Details of this endeavour will be released early in 2011.
The Bible reminds us that in this ever-changing world there is one thing that does not change. “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night. (Psalms 90: 1-2, 4 ESV)
While everything may change around us, God will always remain constant. He will always be the rock upon which we can build our lives. He will always be the anchor that holds us steady. He will always be our protector and our guide. We will always be safe in Him. I beseech us as a Christ-centred community of believers, to embrace our faith, and envision a future with victory in Jesus-Our Saviour Forever! Let us
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle”
-Rev. Dr. Raymond Boca-