What a weekend!

Last weekend we had a retreat for those who were interested in serving as counselors with ISCF camp. I had a lot of little things to finalise on Friday morning for the retreat, before I headed out with the ITNAC crew to visit victims of Tropical Storm Bret in Woodlands. However, from the time I got downstairs, I was confronted with one setback after the other and I started to get flustered. Things were getting out of my control and I started feeling overwhelmed. I called one of my mentors and she reminded me to stop looking at the waves around me and to keep my eyes on Jesus so I could remain above the water. I repented for my lack of faith and left the house believing that God would work out every difficulty that presented itself that morning.

Giving a grocery hamper to a single mother with 6 children

Since Tropical Storm Bret devastated parts of Trinidad last week Tuesday, ITNAC has been mobilizing to channel relief to those who most need it. One of my friends who knows I am a part of this group messaged me on Thursday to say she was collecting donations from her friends and family. Later that evening I collected 15 grocery hampers from her, in addition to clothing which we were able to distribute the very next day. When I shared in church on Sunday about what we were doing, more people came forward with monetary donations that we were able to use to assist with the repairs to a home which lost its roof. I am so grateful to the community of believers who responded so we could bless those in need.

On the way to visit one of the homes in Woodlands

We teamed up with Pastor Kevin, who pastors an outpost of Faith Center, located upstairs of a children's home in Woodlands. From the Wednesday after the storm hit, he had been calling members of his church to find out how they were affected by the storm. He contacted ITNAC for assistance when he realised the extent of the damage. He and his wife then hit the ground, visiting families that were affected and bringing comfort and relief to them. This was not limited to members of his church, but as he saw needs, help was given to them as well.

If you look carefully you will see the white
line in the middle of the road

There were some parts of the main road which were still under water. We parked our vehicles and squeezed into the pastor's Xtrail for the remainder of the trip. The couple running the vegetable stall where we parked our vehicles told us of an elderly couple whose roof was completely destroyed in the storm. They had been sleeping in an old car in their yard until they were able to construct a makeshift shelter for themselves. When we saw the extent of the damage, we mobilized our construction crew and began work on the house over the long weekend.

Working while there is sunshine!

One of the families we met were living downstairs their house while they completed the upstairs portion. However, when the flood waters started rising, they had to abandon everything and escape upstairs so they lost everything that was downstairs. They had been stranded in their home since the storm while the water was still too deep for them to cross. By the time we arrived, some of our team members were able to cross using boots. When they were halfway across, one of the villagers who was guiding them across commented, "It does have caiman in dat water!" I was so grateful they did not hear him until after they gotten safely back across.

Wading through the murky waters

While visiting families we knew, we met other persons who were in need. Manohar related his experiences to us, as he lives right on the river shore. He told of how all his family's crab traps were washed away, and what a huge setback this was, as this is their primary source of income. We were able to bless him with a box a groceries, and encourage him to attend the pastor's church on Sunday. On the way back out, we noticed a man lying at the side of the road. When we stopped, we were advised to leave him because he was drunk and he was "always doing dat". However, we could not just drive off, especially when the rains began to fall, so we stayed with him until someone he knew came and took him home.

This elderly lady was also happy to
receive a hamper

From there I headed home to Bible Club where we had rehearsal for next week's Closing program. It was when I returned home after Bible Club that I found out that the mother of one of our Camps Committee members had passed away. For the entire afternoon, I had been getting calls about persons who would no longer be able to come to the retreat, and also about heavy rains and traffic up north and I wondered if we would still be able to pull off the retreat. When I got the news about the death and I thought about my earlier frustrations, I felt confident that God was going to move mightily at the weekend retreat, in spite of all the challenges we were experiencing. Thankfully some other committee members were able to get up to the campsite on time and were able to welcome those who got there early while the rest of us made our way there as soon as we could.  

Getting to know you session in progress

On the way up the highway I was taking my time because the roads were wet, when I realised the car in front of me stopped suddenly. I had enough time to stop, but I wasn't sure about the vehicle behind me so I started blowing my horn to alert him that something was wrong and thankfully he was able to stop in time as well. It looked like someone had gotten knocked down crossing the highway so I was even more careful after that and thank God we made it up to the campsite safely. The first session was already in progress as the campworkers were encouraged to let down their guards and have fun getting to know one another. The activities also reinforced the importance of team work and communication which are vital principles to apply at camp.

Digging into the Word

The weekend was structured to give counselors an idea of what life on ISCF camp would be like. From devotions to exercise to team duties to talent night, they were exposed to what a typical day at ISCF camp looks like. Campworkers were taken out of their comfort zones, as some had to adjust to only being able to shower once per day, and others had to learn that it's OK to act crazy at Talent night. Through these activities they learnt about the importance of trust, delegation, vigilance, and developing a strategy to get tasks accomplished. This last one was put into practise when our dedicated cook had to leave on Saturday to write an exam, so she did the necessary prep and it was up to our adventurous campworkers to finish the meal. Although they could cook, there is a big difference between cooking for your family as opposed to cooking for 35+ people. Let's just say they invented a new dish - honey stewed chicken!

Directors can cook too!

When I say that God worked out EVERYTHING for the retreat, I am not exaggerating. Half an hour before our first session which required the use of multimedia, I realised we didn't have a laptop because the committee member who was supposed to bring it was supporting the one whose mother had died. After some quick phone calls, we realised that one of the campworkers had a laptop we could use, and when they had to leave that night, someone else was able to bring up a cable to allow us to use another laptop that we had on site. We had catered for 30 persons but there were times when we fed close to 40 people and the food never run out once. Persons who were called to help with interviews just a couple hours before responded, as well as the one who just lost her mother because she had "given her word" that she would be there, so when those who had committed to come were unable to due to situations beyond their control, we were still able to complete all the interviews necessary. Even though there were setbacks in the program. we were able to accomplish all that we needed to over the time we were there - glory to God!

The real deal in schools

One of the most enlightening sessions was the one facilitated by two social workers - one who works in the schools and one who works in the hospitals. They shared candidly from their experiences of dealing with young people in the school system. Our campworkers realised that many of the issues that children experience do not start in school, but from the home, and sometimes even in 'safe' environments such as the church. They were given strategies for coping with some of the issues our campers will be facing, and also guidelines about how best to deal with difficult cases. The presentation and content shared was excellent.

Discussing case studies

From theory we moved on to more practical application, as campworkers were given case studies which they had to analyse to determine the underlying issues beneath the behaviors. Using the HELPS methods (Happening, Emotions, Listening, Problem solving, Support) they were able to experience how to walk the campers through the problems they were facing. We are so thankful for the professionals who were able to share freely of their expertise to ensure that our campworkers are equipped for the task they have been called to.

Honoring our hard working cook

 Two of our camp speakers were able to challenge the campworkers using themes which will be addressed at camp. They were encouraged to build on the unbreakable foundation of God's Word to ensure that they would not falter. They were also reminded that we have the Holy Spirit living inside us to empower us to live godly lives. The final session went back to the basics of the gospel, explaining the impact of sin and salvation on our body, soul and spirit. The campworkers were also introduced to a tool for sharing the gospel so they could confidently lead a camper to Christ. The feedback at the end of the retreat showed that campworkers appreciation every single aspect of the retreat, and many of them left feeling refreshed, with much to think about as they prepare to serve at camp. For some it was a wake up call and for others it was life changing. We give all glory to God for the good work He started at the weekend retreat, and we trust that He will be faithful to complete it at Camp 2017.

Winning team for Talent Night - Bestcreeeeeete!!!!!!

Oh yeah... remember my frustrating Friday morning when it seemed like things were just going wrong? Well God worked out EVERY SINGLE THING and all I can say is THANK YOU GOD!!!

Birthday celebrations 2017

As a child I enjoyed the birthday parties at home, whether they were attended by friends or just family. As I got older my birthday fell in the middle of exams so there was no desire to celebrate. When I started working birthdays were always celebrated with a meal at a restaurant. But after a while, I felt that the restaurant owners were benefiting more from my birthday celebrations than me, because of all the money we spent. So I started planning my birthday celebrations around the things that I love, and this year was no different.

At one of my favorite places - the beach!!!

My celebrations started two days early since my sister who normally resides in London was in Trinidad for a family thanksgiving. Her departure was scheduled for the day before my actual birthday, but luckily I have no problem celebrating my birthday on a day other than my birthdate ;) So my brother and his wife were roped in, along with my newest niece, for a trip to the sister isle. We were fortunate to rent an apartment right on Store Bay beach so we were able to maxmize our time there. I was so happy to be able to share my Tobago birthday beach time with my family who I love dearly :D

The gardens overlooking the sea

Sister sister :)

Fun in the sun and sand!

Enjoying her first taste of sea water with her parents

Breathtaking sunset

Pizza dinner

Enjoying the flowers in the garden

Enjoying my homemade mango cheesecake surprise with my
Bible Study family later that evening

On the morning of my actual birthday, my goddaughter and my munchkins sent me a voicenote singing a happy birthday song, and ending with pleas for me to take them to the beach. According to the 3 year old, "I know you will take us to the beach because you love the beach!" She was right, and fortunately one of my bathing suits was dry by then and none of them had school so off to the beach we went :)

Photoshoot on the rocks

With my beach buddies!

My official birthday event took the format of an evening of praise and worship. The idea was born after listening to a radio ad for a "worship experience" where the tickets cost $250. I did not like the concept of having to pay to worship God so I had an idea to create an opportunity for people to do so free of charge. After sharing this with one of my friends, she suggested that I still ask persons to make a financial contribution, which I could then allocate to whichever area of need I saw fit. And so the plan for an evening of praise and worship was born, with an offering being collected to purchase fans for Iraqi and Syrian refugee families living in Jordan. Because of the tremendous support of my church family, apart from inviting people, asking my friends to lead in worship, and getting someone to make and serve refreshments, I had very little planning to do.

United in worship

Many of those who attended came straight from work so they were really tired. Others drove all the way up from Point Fortin and other parts of South, and had to drive back down afterwards. One person even changed his flight to Tobago to allow him to be a part, and someone else had just come back into the country the day before and had to prepare for a job 2 days after but they came anyway. After spending 3 hours declaring the greatness of our God in song, persons expressed how much they needed that time in God's presence with His people, how they felt rejuvenated and encouraged after a stressful day at work, and how they felt burdens lifted as they worshiped. In addition to this, we collected enough funds to give over 50 refugee families relief from the summer high temperatures in Jordan.  I give God all the glory because this was all HIS doing. 

With some of my children afterwards

I do not take it for granted that God has allowed me to see another year on earth. Clearly His purpose for me is not yet completed, and I eagerly look forward to how He will work those purposes out in the years to come.

Living by truth - Take 2!

If it's nice, do it twice!

This was the thinking behind using the same theme from our Young Adults retreat earlier this year, Living by Truth, for our annual Borough Retreat. Point Fortin's Borough Day celebrations tend to take on a Carnival-like atmosphere, with lots of drinking and partying all over the borough. For more than 10 years, the youth leaders of Mahaica Gospel Hall located in Point Fortin plan a retreat for their youths over this weekend, so they could have a positive alternative to the festivities. This year was no different.

Pizza anyone?

We started off with our traditional Friday night activity - making homemade pizza. For some of the youths, this was a learning experience as they had never before had to cut up a fresh pineapple! With a little guidance and much grace to deal with the fast-rising dough, pizza sauce was made, ingredients were lavishly arranged and the pizzas were loaded into the oven to bake. While we waited, we watched the movie God's Not Dead 2. This movie set the background for our theme nicely, as it highlighted the lead character's decision to not compromise her faith (truth) even if it meant losing her career. It challenged them to consider if they would be able to trust God in the face of seemingly impossible situations.

Breakfast of champions!

Devotions the next morning focused on Psalm 1 where the actions of the righteous and ungodly men were contrasted. They were prompted to reflect on their lives and compare the characteristics of these men with the way they were living their lives. They were encouraged to meditate on the Word and live according to it's principles rather than the counsel of the ungodly.

Striking a pose outside the maxi

After breakfast, we contacted the driver who was supposed to take us to Port of Spain but in the background we overheard the sound of a party in full swing. He said he had to do some work on the maxi but he would send someone else to take us up. When the replacement driver came, he said they other driver was on his way but I felt more comfortable going up with him so I hurried everyone into the maxi so we could leave before the other one came. On the way up, he kept calling the other driver to see if he would come to pick us up but was not getting a favorable response so he decided that he would stay up in town with us so he could take us back home. I am so thankful to God that he cared enough to ensure we were not stranded.

Point posse in pink!

The event was Youth for Christ's Liberation Day held at the Queens Park Savannah. It was encouraging for our youths to see hundreds of other young people worshiping God in song and dance. They had a good time praising God with the various groups who led in worship, and it was a nice time of reconnecting with persons who I had not seen in a long time. Afterwards we had a photo shoot on the lookout before heading back home.

Taking in the sunset at the lookout

In the evening, we split the youths into two groups and they examined two case studies and answered questions about whether the decisions made were based on truth or experience. They were invitedand to consider whether they allow experiences from the past to influence decisions they make, rather than using truth as seen in the Word of God. Later that evening, a couple who were coming up from Point Fortin to help with meal preparation for our Sunday lunch had their car hit from behind. Thank God that even though their car was seriously damaged, neither of them were injured, and those who had to go back to Point later that night got back home safely.

Borough clip :)

For devotions the next morning we looked at the account of Jesus and Peter walking on water, and recognised that fear can hinder us from walking by truth. The youths were challenged to recognize that God's Word has power to change reality, so we need to have the faith to be obedient to God's Word despite the storms we face in life. We are thankful for the opportunity we had to impart truth to these young people, and pray that as they continue their Christian journey, they would apply the principles learnt and let God's truth dictate their reality.

Not a Promise but a Possibility

Children are a blessing
A heritage from the Lord
But they are not always promised
Even to those who belong to Jesus
Who have waited for God
To provide the help suitable
And have loved each other deeply
And have waited and prayed

But even though they are not promised
There is always a possibility
That joy will come in the morning
After a night of weeping
Proving beyond the shadow of a doubt
That the things which are impossible
According to the opinions of the world
Are possible with God

And every time a baby is born
It is a miracle
Because this life which before
Was just a possibility
Has now become an actuality
Known by God before even being formed
Made in the image and likeness of God
Knitted together in his mother's womb
Created in Christ to do good works
Loved by many who have yet to meet him

Celebrating the arrival of my newest nephew - Enoch Obeng :)

Faith walk

The faith walk is not easy

It sometimes means facing day after day of grey skies

With no end in sight

And the only thing that keeps you going

Is the promise of God's Word to you

So even though you have no evidence in sight

You keep trusting

Because God's Word is true

Even when your reality says otherwise

Then one day when you least expect it

But exactly when God ordained it

The sun comes shining through

And you are reminded once again

That you serve the God of the impossible

Who always keeps His Word

And never leaves the righteous forsaken

But is faithful to do what He has promised

In His time and in His way

So we live to hope another day

As we rejoice in the mercies of God seen today

And we find things to be thankful for

Even in the darkest of days

For although we may not see what He is doing

We trust His character to remain the same

And as we focus on who God is

We see the beauty in our present situation

As we await the fulfillment of His promises

Family Ties

There is no need to understand exactly how you are related

Just knowing that you are family is good enough 

Dinner with Mummy's aunt and cousin

When complete strangers can recognize the resemblance

You know your family blood lines are strong

On tour with the family

No distance is too wide to separate loved ones

Sometimes you just have to travel further than usual to see them

Family take over the hotel restaurant

Once the connection is made, it takes an effort to maintain it

But it is always worth the sacrifice

Trinidad, USA and Guyana connection :)

For every one that is getting older, new ones are being born

It's our responsibility to pass on the lessons learnt

The next generation!

You know the family ties are strong when you can't tell the difference

Between those who marry into the family and those who were born into it

Some of them had not seen each other for 50 years!

When you can get close to people who were complete strangers only 2 days before

You know it is because of a love that is connecting you

Taking in the sunrise on the beach

Our pockets may be emptier after our time spent together

But our hearts are fuller with the laughter and memories we shared

Reunion destination: Miami Beach

Celebrating the death and resurrection of Christ

At this time of the year, in the midst of the Easter Bonnet parades and Easter Egg hunts, those of us who are believers in Christ use every opportunity we have to share the message of the death and resurrection of Christ. This was the main focus at the closing session for Bible Club this term - that Jesus died to remove the sin that separated us from God, and demonstrated His victory over death by rising again after 3 days.

Hang the Jesus on the cross game

When sin entered the world through man's disobedience, our relationship with God was broken. The only way for us to be close to God once more was to remove the sin that separated us, and this could only be done through death. Jesus, who never sinned, took the punishment for our sins, so that we would not have to die (John 3:16)

Drama depicting Jesus' death

However, because Jesus is fully God, death could not keep Him in the grave. After paying the death price for our sins, He rose from the dead, defeating Satan's plan to keep us eternally separated from God. He remained on earth for 40 days, and then went back to heaven where He speaks to God on our behalf.

The women find the empty grave

Like Jesus, we too must die, but not a physical death. We must die spiritually to our old way of living, making decisions to please ourselves rather than to please God. We must also live, letting Christ be the center of our life, and reflecting Him in the way that we now live.

Skit demonstrating forgiveness by a victim of bullying

The children were challenged to stop living fake lives, according to the standards that society dictates, but to live authentic lives which are surrendered fully to God. They were given an opportunity to turn away from a life of sin, and invite God to take control of their lives, from the inside out.

Enjoying one of the games

Our prayer is that every young person who prayed that evening would truly be able to confess:

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20