Pentecostal Tabernacle Annual Report 2016

Rita Jane Thomas

Sister Thomas was hospitalized in May
2016 and even while on her hospital
bed she maintained her evangelism
thrust, witnessing to anyone she could
about their need for repentance, bap-
tism in Jesus’ Name and the infilling of
the Holy Ghost.

Rita Jane Thomas has left us on but
the light of her spirit lives on …

Sister Rita Jane Thomas (right) accepting her long service Sister Rita Thomas poses for the camera after attending one of
plaque from Maxine Henry-Wilson, CEO of the Jamaica the camp sessions at the UPCJ Camp held at the UPCJ Multi-
Tertiary Education Commission, during the Early Child-hood Purpose Complex in Moneague, St. Ann.
Commission’s 10th Anniversary celebration in 2014.

who later became Sister Wilson, having
experienced the saving power of the
Lord Jesus Christ, along with her
daughter who was also converted.
Prayer meetings were held on Thurs-
day evenings, and Saturday evenings
were reserved for witnessing. Mem-
bers, in particular children from the
New Haven community, were transport-
ed to services at Pentecostal Taber-
nacle.

50 Salt and Light

O’Dayne Valentine Richards—The Humble Olympian

A“ nd whatsoever ye do in word or distracted by the bright lights of glitz and
deed, do all in the name of the Lord glamour which have characterized his
Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father professional life over the last nine years.
by him.” (Col. 3:17). “At the end of the day…I will die at some
point…athletics ends…I focus on what
This encouragement to the saints at Colos- really matters.” This places into perspec-
sae aptly depicts the philosophy with which tive O’Dayne’s approach to his athletic pur-
Brother O’Dayne Richards approaches life suits and his ability to maintain his spiritual
and in particular his pursuit of athletic focus. “I believe God has a plan for every-
prowess. This has propelled him into the body’s life. It is therefore easy for me
international arena where despite being in because of that plan…it comes naturally,”
the limelight he has nevertheless managed says O’Dayne who credits his own relation-
as a believer to let his light shine so that ship with God for his accomplishments.
others may see and glorify the Lord Jesus “It’s encouraging to have a ritual for perfor-
Christ. mance - a part of this ritual is to ask God to
help me to perform to the best of my ability,
Although born in a Christian family, Brother “says O’Dayne, a student of the University
O’Dayne made his own decision to serve of Technology and member of the prestig-
the Lord at the age of 10, thus establishing ious MVP Track Club.
a personal relationship with the Lord.
Hecurrently serves in the Media Ministry. He also attributes his ability to ‘fight the
good fight of faith’ and ‘stay the course’ to
His foray into international competition his father who constantly encourages him
came with the Pan Am Games of 2007 in to examine the Word and to remain
Sao Paulo, Brazil. Since then he made focussed on God. “My father played
history by securing Jamaica’s first medal in
the shot put field event at the 15th IAAF 51
World Championships in August 2015, and
went on to win the same event at the Com-
monwealth Games in September of that
year. Brother O’Dayne also had the hon-
our of co-captaining Jamaica’s team to the
Rio Olympics in 2016. Additionally, he was
the RJR Sports Foundation Male Athlete of
the Year Nominee for 2014 and 2015, and
first runner-up in both years.

Focused and steadfast with fixity of pur-
pose, the 28 year old Olympian is not

Salt and Light

O’Dayne Valentine Richards

Brother O’Dayne Richards positions himself to perform his Brother O’Dayne Richards (centre) poses with fellow sports-
shotput throw at the 2015 IAAF World Championships in men after the medal ceremony at the 2015 IAAF World
Beijing China. Championships in Beijing where he bag the bronze medal.

sports. He taught us that at the end of the “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages
day, the glamour and all that will end. He are riches and honour and life.” (Proverbs
encouraged us to remain focused and to 22:4 NIV) Despite his accomplishments,
give God glory for everything that we do.” Brother O’Dayne’s humility is not lost on
his peers. They often express admiration
His family which includes a younger sister at his humility, regarded him as an exam-
and brother also plays a large part in help- ple to follow and provided constant encour-
ing him to maintain his focus. “If they were- agement to him to continue striving for
n’t proud of me and the world was, I would excellence.
not have accomplished anything.” He add-
ed, “Before a bronze medal, a lot of things Brother O’Dayne does not see himself as
were happening- injuries… feeling really an Evangelist on the track but he believes
pressured…I called home and just the sup- he has had some influence on his peers as
port of my parents kept me in a relaxed he shares about his walk with the Lord
mode. It helped to propel me to perform.” when the opportunity presents itself. “I
don’t set out to be salt or light …while I
His Sunday School teachers in the 18 to 24 have no direct control over my peer’s
year old Class also came in for mention, for actions, I believe I have had an indirect
their efforts at equipping him with the tools influence.” “…And what doth the Lord
to develop, both in his spiritual walk and require of thee, but to do justly, and to love
secular life, as well as build a Christ-like mercy, and to walk humbly with thy
character. God?” (Micah 6:8). As a believer, Brother
O’Dayne has shone his light nationally and
52 in the international arena, thus being an
example to the believers and to lighten the
eyes of the Gentiles, all to the glory of God.

Salt and Light

George McKenzie—The Gracious Benefactor

L et us not become weary in well doing: Brother George McKenzie hugs his wife Monica during a
for in due season we shall reap, if we renewal of vows service held at Pentecostal Tabernacle.
faint not.” (Gal 6:9)
Truly, who God calls He also equip.
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us Brother McKenzie is an astute business
do good unto all men, especially unto them man. From its humble beginnings, the Lord
who are of the household of faith.” (Gal. has blessed his business. His Photo Gen-
6:10) ics Studio of Photography began in the late
70’s at his home in Edgewater. He loves to
It may be said that this encouragement tell the story of how he started with one
from the Apostle became the mantra for camera, and each time he took pictures he
Brother George McKenzie, motivating him would take it to Harriot’s Photo Studio
to give back—to young and the old, in the down Town Kingston to develop them, take
Church and society in general—anywhere them home and his family along with neigh-
he saw the opportunity to make a differ- bours would help to place them in enve-
ence. lopes for delivery.

Brother George, Big George, Uncle Today, the business is a long way from the
George, Big Mac, has been in the Church “one camera” operation as it has expanded
for 53 years serving in several ministries. in the mid 80’s with the opening of the flag-
However, what is striking about this “giant” ship store in Spanish Town at the LOJ
of a man is his passion for people and pro- Shopping Centre which is still in operation,
jects. His many acts of kindness, done in
an unassuming manner resonates on the 53
hearts of the many recipients. Additionally,
he always seems to consider it his respon-
sibility to support projects in the Church
and community, of course, with the usual
proviso that his name not be mentioned.
No project is too large nor none too small
for him.

Over the years, he has given support to the
Side Walk Sunday School, Mother Russell
Memorial Home for the Aged for over 30
years, Pentab High and Evening Institute,
the needs of members and various projects
of the Church.

Salt and Light

George McKenzie Certainly Brother McKenzie has responded
to the urging of the apostle Paul to the
rebranded as Wholesale Photo. Later, Romans, that we that are strong ought to
other stores were opened in Kingston, bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to
St. Andrew, St. Thomas, St. Mary, St. Ann please ourselves, (15:1). By giving self-
and Manchester. He employs over 63 per- lessly, he has impacted the lives of many
sons, the majority of whom are from the and epitomizes the salt which as children
household of faith. of God we are called to represent to the
world.
Brother George has made contribution to
several schools including providing schol-
arships to Knox College and St. Hilda’s
High School for Girls. For several years
including 2016, Knox College presented
him with an awarded for his years of dedi-
cated service.

54 Salt and Light

Five young men were given financial assis- Fellowship Ministry Report
tance on Father’s Day including Brother
Kashawn Smith who was accepted to Continued from page 42
pursue tertiary studies in the United States.
held with the Men’s Fellowship, had an
LABOUR DAY attendance of 20 persons.
The Labour Day project was to renovate the
special needs male bathroom. This was MOTHER’S DAY SERVICE
a demanding undertaking which was This was held under the theme “The Heart
successfully completed by year end. of a Mother.” The Service featured mothers
with children who have physical, behaviour-
The final activity for the year was participa- al or biological challenges. Sister Christine
tion in a Men’s Week Service at Grace Pryce, mother of a child diagnosed with
Tabernacle UPC, Old Harbour to which the autism was highlighted in a video interview.
men were specially invited. The Service was
primarily supported by members from the Sisters Marva Jackson, Moneaque Rigg
18-25 Male Class. and Kerry-Ann Latham were also honoured.

CLOSING Evangelist Patricia Cuffe delivered the
In all things God is great, and we must message. Tokens were distributed to all
never forget His benevolence towards us. mothers attending the Service.
The year was very successful because the
Lord allowed it to be so, by providing us with COMMUNION SERVICES
a wealth of talent and vision. We are Sisters Daisy Francis, Dorrel Dryden and
privileged at Pentecostal Tabernacle. other faithful workers continued to prepare
the Sanctuary for Communion Services. We
We are also grateful for each and every salute these workers for their faithfulness in
man who made special sacrifices for the this area of ministry.
execution of our initiative through cash, kind,
talent and support. We look forward to the NATIONAL/REGIONAL ACTIVITIES
continued blessings of our Lord Jesus.  National Retreat—held under the
Grace and Peace!
auspices of the National Men’s and
WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP Women’s Fellowship departments on
Three general meetings were held on March May 19-21 at the Holiday Inn Sunspree
22, May 31, and November 1. The attend- Hotel in Montego Bay. Eight ladies
ance to the meetings were generally low. from Pentecostal Tabernacle partici-
The last meeting a talent showcase, jointly pated in the Retreat.
 National Women in Ministry Circle
Salt and Light Conference held October 15 under
the theme “Be Happy in Ministry”.
Three ladies were in attendance from
Pentecostal Tabernacle.

55

 Region 1 Ingathering Service was held Fellowship Ministry Report
on October 6 and four persons from
Pentab attended. A contribution of HOSPITALITY
$20,000.00 was made by towards this The function of the Hospitality Ministry
effort from Pentecostal Tabernacle. (Ushers, Greeters, Traffic Wardens) included
welcoming and seating members and guests
 The Region 1 Prayer Breakfast was held in a friendly and professional manner, receiv-
on November 19 and seven persons ing offerings and directing traffic.
from Pentab attended. The fruits were
donated by Pentab’s Women’s Fellow- Two seminars were conducted by the team
ship Committee. at Pentecostal Tabernacle—Hellshire and
Faith Sanctuary, Braeton. More than 25 ushers
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT from these churches were in attendance.
Thanks to the members of the Committee,
the congregation and our leaders for their APPRECIATION AND CLOSING
support. We are grateful for the health, Appreciation is extended to Minister Neville
strength and understanding to accomplish Richards, Pastoral Assistant who gave over-
the work done amidst the challenges. sight to the Fellowship Ministry. Heartfelt
Thanks be to God for the honour bestowed thanks to Assistant Leaders, Brother Law-
on us to lead this ministry. rence Nalty and Sister Judy-Ann Beckford
for their dedication and commitment in
LOVING ARMS MINISTRY providing selfless assistance. Special thanks
Support was given to bereaved families of to Sister Kahreen Nembhard who migrated
members and non-members by attending for not only providing secretarial assistance,
funeral services and prayer meetings. but was involved in other areas of the Minis-
Sympathy cards were also given. The team try. Thanks also to the leaders and commit-
visited the sick and shut-ins once per month. tee members of the various arms of the Min-
Some of the persons visited were: istry, volunteers, and persons who gave
support in whatever form—your dedication
 Pastors Milton Kelly and Clement Brown and commitment have been exemplary and
 Minister Verona Rushton can be likened to 1 Thess. 5:24 “Faithful is
 Sisters Maud Lawrence, Jean Henry, he that calleth you, who also will do it.”

Ethline Decatt, Estella Hamilton, Francis Special mentioned must be made of
Graham, and Doris Carnegie, Brothers Sister Judean Clarke-Hemmings who gave
Bernard Taylor, Mark Hill, Paul Prender- exemplary service to S.T.R.E.T.C.H.
gast, and Patrick McKenzie
 Mr. Roy Hermon, visitor of Pentecostal Yours in Christ,
Tabernacle
 During the Christmas season over 55 Andrew Marquis
packages of groceries and toiletries
were distributed to members and non- Ministry Leader
members of the Assembly.
Salt and Light
56

Barbara Scarlett—The Compassionate Worker

F“ or we are his workmanship, created in
Christ Jesus unto good works, which
God hath before ordained that we should
walk in them.” (Eph 2:10)

“…verily I say unto you, in as much as ye
have done it unto one of the least of these
my brethren, ye have done it unto
me.” (Matt. 24:40)

Sister Barbara Scarlett is well known for her
oversight of the Clothes Bank at Pentecostal
Tabernacle. But perhaps what may not be
so well known is that she is a woman on a
mission—to touch lives.

She can often be seen busily involved in smiled as she shared that her mother had a
activities that require preparation of food, ‘dulcimina’ in which she would save items
facilities, clothing, gifts, toys, you name it— to give away. This heart to give was
whether at Church, homes or places of busi- brought over into her Christian walk as it
ness. A couple with limited resources wish- was solidly reinforced by her pastor the late
ing to get married poses no challenge for Tennyson Palmer of King’s Chapel UPC,
Sister Barbara. She uses her influence to Montego Bay. She recounts how he would
source various items including the wedding often advise, “Always remember people in
dress, and you can be assured that she whatever you do. Don’t just think about
would be involved in the decoration and food yourself. You must have a heart to show
preparation for the event! She also some- love, and empathize with others.” For Sister
how finds it possible to set aside funds from Scarlett, this meant doing whatever you can
her resources to extend a caring hand to per- for others, ‘not to be seen’ but because God
sons whom she considers to be in need. If has laid it on your heart.
she knows that a friend, brethren or just
about anyone is not well, it is not uncommon Although she may not have consciously
for her to visit, and where necessary to cook, thought of her efforts as letting her light
clean, and generally assist in nursing them shine, it may be concluded that fulfilling this
back to health! command of the Lord can also mean oper-
ating out of the limelight! Such was the
When asked about her love for serving, she case with the Clothes Bank. She recalls
simply remarked, “It’s how I grew up— that when she returned to Pentecostal Tab-
whenever my mother received things, she ernacle she wanted something to do and
always gave, it was not just for us.” She

Salt and Light 57





Mark Smith Jesus reminded the Pharisees that it is the
sick that needs our attention. It is to them
Quiz. What is significant is that, while operat- that we must minister. This requires us
ing in the sphere of his peers in secular going where they are—thus entering their
activities, he also thrust himself with equal world. Brother Smith has displayed a com-
vigour in the “ministry,” and eventually mitment to follow the example of the Lord
became Vice President of the Inter-School and work in areas of the vineyard where his
Christian Fellowship. Again at the university light can shine on those who need it most.
level, Mark was involved in various clubs and
societies including the Universities and Brother Mark’s community involvement has
Colleges Apostolic Ministry. been recognized by the highest office in the
Land in much the same way as Joseph
With his philosophy to “Put God first in every- through his love of and submission to God
thing you do and love your neighbor as your- was honoured by Pharoah. He was a recip-
self,” Brother Smith sought to engage the ient of the Governor General Achievement
youth in his community, both at the secular Award for 2016.
and spiritual level through involvement in the
Harbour View Youth Club where he also Paul told Timothy not to let any man despite
served as President. There he was instru- his youth but to be an example to the be-
mental in the club undertaking a number of lievers. Brother Smith's accomplishment is
outreach programmes and engendered a instructive to young Christians that even as
better relationship between the police and they aspire to achieve in the secular arena
residence of the community. Brother Mark in they can maintain their faith and be a light
his effort to shine God’s light in the wider for Christ.
communities became a member of the
National Integrity Action (NIA) head by
Professor Trevor Munroe. He is currently the
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of
MBRK Production 85 which began in 2014.

60 Salt and Light

Stewardship Ministry Report

To: Pastor John-Mark Bartlett PenTab Evening Institute offers a pro-
Saints gramme of academic and vocational
courses in 10 subject areas. It has a popu-
A“ nd he called him, and said unto him, lation of 110 students.
How is it that I hear this of thee? give
an account of thy stewardship; for thou Well needed improvements to the physical
mayest be no longer steward.” (Luke 16:2) facilities are being hampered by resource
constraints.
PURPOSE STATEMENT
To facilitate the management of God’s PENTAB CANTEEN AND TUCKSHOP
resources God’s way, understanding that, The PenTab Canteen and Tuckshop contin-
God owns everything and we are mere ued to operate under new management and
stewards of His resources—monetary and provided meals for the schools and church
non-monetary, and will be called upon to community at affordable prices.
give an account.
PENTAB BOOKSTORE
The Stewardship Ministry has responsibility The PenTab Business Centre formally the
to oversee the following ministries of PenTab Bookstore is now located on the
Pentecostal Tabernacle: grounds of the High School and is being
operated under new management. It has
 PenTab High and Evening Institute expanded its service offerings beyond the
 PenTab Early Childhood Institute sale of books to include: an internet cafe,
 PenTab Nursery & Day Care document centre and a snack counter.
 PenTab Scholarship Programme
 PenTab Canteen and Tuckshop 61
 PenTab Bookstore

After careful review a decision was made in
March 2015 to divest the operations of the
following:

PENTAB HIGH AND EVENING INSTITUTE
The PenTab High has a population of 73
students spanning Grades 9-11. The school
focuses on providing students with a second
opportunity to complete their high school
education.

Salt and Light

Stewardship Ministry Report

OTHER PROJECTS physical facilities, the Church Board of
The other entities continue to operate under Pentecostal Tabernacle commissioned a
the management of the Church with PenTab Disaster Management Plan following the
Early Childhood Institute having a population earlier completed Disaster Management
of 105 students for the 2016/17 academic Policy. The Plan will assist PenTab in
year. Improvements are required to the responding to disasters such as hurricanes,
physical facilities and it is hoped that this can earthquakes, fires and floods. The Plan
be done in 2017. which is now completed is expected to be
reviewed by the Church Board 2017.
The PenTab Scholarship Programme
issued four Scholarships to Mark Hill at OPERATION DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
the primary level, Marissa Lawson at the The Ministry provided support to the team
secondary level, Amanda Malabre and Kas- that is working on the Operation Develop-
hauna Smith at the tertiary level; amounting ment Project. This project involves diversi-
to $245,000. fying the energy source of PenTab to
include solar energy. The Project will also
DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN provide air conditioning for the Sanctuary.
As part of our efforts to preserve our Phase one is completed and the adminis-
trative building now runs largely on solar
energy during the daytime. The next phase
of the project will include the modification to
the Sanctuary to facilitate the air condition-
ing of the building.

We give honour to the Lord for the achieve-
ments of 2016 and look forward to the chal-
lenges of 2017.

Yours in Christ

Varden Downer

Ministry Supervisor

62 Salt and Light

To: Pastor John-Mark Bartlett Youth Ministry Report
Saints
Duhaney Park Outstations were held. We
L“ et no man despise thy youth; but be also visited Christ Tabernacle UPC—
thou an example of the believers, in Sandy Bay, First UPC Mandeville, Miracle
word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in Tabernacle—Brown’s Hall, as well as
faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12 Fellowship Apostolic and Greater Grace
Temple.
It is the aim of the Youth Ministry to engage, YOUTH SUNDAY
equip and empower the young people of Three Youth Sunday Services were held in
Pentecostal Tabernacle through our minis- the months of April, June and October. In
tries activities. April, we heard from Minister Demoy Nash
from North Kingston Sanctuary UPC on
YOUTH WEEK how to ‘overcome our giants’. The evening
The activities began with Youth Week service took the form of a panel discussion
March 9–13, under the theme “Living the on practical ways of dealing with and over-
Transformed Life”. We joined with our broth- coming our giants.
ers and sisters from Pentecostal Taber- In June, the young people shared testimo-
nacle—Nannyville in worship during the nies including the great things God had
week of services. The conference speakers
were Reverends O’Garth McKoy and Luke 63
York and Ministers Demoy Nash and Nathan
Thomas. The Lord used these individuals to
inspire and challenge our young people
throughout the week. The Lord gloriously
filled one soul with the Holy Ghost while
three persons were baptized in Jesus’ name
and two restored. We thank the Lord for
what He did during Youth Week 2016.

YOUTH SERVICES
Twelve youth services were held during the
year under review and the focus was on
young people being more Christ-like and
conforming to His image. The focus was
highlighted by way of two panel discussions
and video presentations. Joint youth
services with the brethren of Nannyville and

Salt and Light

Youth Ministry Report CAMPUS MINISTRY
The youths of Pentecostal Tabernacle con-
been doing in one primary school. In the tinued to support the Universities and
evening, we had a presentation by the Colleges Apostolic Ministry (UCAM) across
Media Ministry which focused on the church the Kingston Metropolitan area and were
and social media. integral in the operations and activities of
this ministry.
In October, Brother Benjamin Fraser from
North Kingston Sanctuary UPC shared his SHEAVES FOR CHRIST (S.F.C.)
experience and gave a passionate charge to Sheaves for Christ is the fundraising arm of
the congregation to choose to live the trans- the Youth Ministry. It sponsors and sup-
formed life. We are grateful to God for what ports Youth Bible Quiz, Youth Corps,
He did during these services and look Caribbean Bible Institute scholarships and
forward to greater things in 2017. aids in the development of assemblies in
need of financial assistance with their
YOUTH EVANGELISM OUTREACH evangelistic efforts.
MINISTRY (Y.E.O.M.)
Y.E.O.M. is the evangelistic arm of the Pentecostal Tabernacle’s S.F.C. goal for
Youth Ministry and provides an opportunity 2016 was $355,000. We were only able to
for youths to evangelize communities across raise $113,395. We hope that in 2017 a
Jamaica. Programmes under this Ministry stronger effort can be made to achieve or
are Youth Corps and Youth Camp. even surpass our target.

YOUTH CORPS We are truly grateful for the support of
This programme engages youths in evange- Pentecostal Tabernacle. We look forward
lism by sending them to various churches to a productive and fulfilling S.F.C. 2017.
across the island to assist with outreach
activities. These individuals are responsible YOUTH BIBLE QUIZ
to evangelise the surrounding communities, The Youth Bible Quiz season for 2016 ran
plan and participate in evangelistic services from March to July under the theme
each night for a period of one week, or as “Unashamed”. Pentecostal Tabernacle was
instructed by the Pastor of the assigned unable to participate in the programme in
assembly. Youth Corps was held August 2016 due to challenges with scheduling
22-28, 2016. Ten persons participated in practices and insufficient quizzers to field
Youth Corps. teams in the Under and Over 19 catego-
ries. It is our desire to be more proactive in
NATIONAL CAMPS 2017 as we endeavour to overcome these
Teen and Youth Camps were held July 13- challenges. We welcome persons who are
18 and 20-25 respectively. Sixteen persons within the age group 15—40 to come out
attended Teen Camp and three attended
Youth Camp for 2016. Salt and Light

64

and participate in this spiritually enriching Youth Ministry Report
experience.
In closing I would like to express my deep
GOALS FOR 2017 appreciation to the members of the Youth
 To host 18 Youth Services Committee who gave their time, energy
 To achieve our Sheaves for Christ and resources during the year. Heartfelt
appreciation is extended to our Pastor for
(S.F.C) goal his continued support and to our church
 To increase the number of individuals leaders and members for their support
during 2016.
who attend Youth Corps by 100%
 To have two teams participating in Yours in Christ

Youth Bible Quiz Nathan Thomas
 To host four Youth Sunday Services
Ministry Leader
CLOSING REMARKS
I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for all that He
has done for the Youth Ministry. These
achievements would not have been possi-
ble without Him. When we consider what
we faced during 2016 we join the Apostle
Paul who said “In every thing give thanks:
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus
concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Salt and Light 65

Minutes

PENTECOSTAL TABERNACLE
ANNUAL SAINTS MEETING – 2016
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, & SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2016

72 WILDMAN STREET
KINGSTON

MINUTES RATIFICATION OF OFFICERS MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2016

Present Were: chorus, I Belong to the King. Prayer was
 Pastor John-Mark Bartlett, Chairman offered for Sister Tricia Denton whose
 Members of the Church Board and father died earlier that day.

other Elected Officials GREETINGS/WELCOME
 Members of the Assembly Members were given the opportunity to
 Visitors move about and greet each other, following
 Bystanders (i.e., five persons on the which Pastor Bartlett welcomed everyone
to the Meeting.
outside) Making a total attendance of
268 people.

APOLOGIES PRAYER REQUEST
Apologies for absence were tendered for Pastor Bartlett advised that the sister of
the Dwight Neil and Sherdon Forbes fami- Sister Raquel Hassan Alcock died in her
lies, Minister Harold Wright and Brother sleep yesterday (January 26) and asked
Robert Farquharson; Sisters Judean Clarke, members to pray for the family.
Paulette Codner, Astenett Gordon, Desrine
Douglas, Marjorie Rose, Alecia Bartlett, CALL TO ORDER
and Judith Penny. An apology was also The Meeting was called to order at 7:20
tendered for Minister Neville Richards who p.m. on a motion that was moved and se-
would arrive late. conded by Sisters Dasneth Richardson and
Lillieth Royal, respectively.
OPENING EXERCISE
Pastor Bartlett assumed the chair at 7:00 RATIFICATION EXERCISE
p.m. following a prayer session involving Pastor Bartlett read excerpts from the Con-
singing of choruses, worship and prayer stitution of the United Pentecostal Church
led by Sister Jacqueline Nicholson. of Jamaica as follows:
 The Preamble
PRAYER  The Purpose
As directed by Pastor Bartlett, members  Article One dealing with Membership
engaged in united prayer and singing of the
Salt and Light
66

Minutes the Canteen. He said that we were
now partnering with them and that was
 Sections 1, 2, and 3 of Article XV why no appointments were proposed
covering Local Church Government for those areas
 Brother Leonard Smith and Minister
He then stated that he would be making a Moses Williams were off the island but
strong push this year for members to mem- were both willing to serve in the offices
orize the Mission Statement of Pentecostal for which they were recommended
Tabernacle, which he quoted following a  He gave oversight to the Worship
failed attempt by several members. Pastor Ministry and would do the same for the
Bartlett said that everything that was done Prayer Ministry for the time being; and
at Pentecostal Tabernacle must help us to raised with the Members of the Board
fulfill the Mission Statement. the question of whether proposed
appointees should vote for themselves
Ballots were distributed, and the following and then advised the Assembly that
passages of Scripture were read from the they would look further into the matter
New Living Translation: Mark 9:33-35,
Mark 10:35-45, 1Corinthians 8:1-3, and The voting exercise ended, the marked
Philippians 2:1-12. ballots were collected, and Pastor Bartlett
thanked members for their participation.
Pastor Bartlett informed members that the
ballots did not bear the photographs of the Announcements
proposed appointees, but that these would The following were included in the
be displayed on the screen. He explained announcements:
that this method allowed for savings as
less paper was used. Annual Saints Meeting –Sunday morning
and evening, February 7, 2016.
Brother Donovan Williams prayed for the
proceedings following which members cast The National Conference of the UPCJ
their votes as the photographs of proposed would commence February 8, 2016.
appointees were displayed and identified Pastor Bartlett advised that the Constitution
by Pastor Bartlett. stipulated that assemblies that were affili-
ated with the United Pentecostal Church of
Pastor Bartlett moved throughout the Jamaica should hold an Annual Business
Assembly providing answers to questions Meeting prior to the National Conference.
that were posed, some directly to the indi- He explained that the National Conference
viduals and others for the benefit of the was tied to Ash Wednesday and that when
entire gathering. The following points were this fell earlier in the year it presented a
noted by Pastor Bartlett: difficulty.

 Pentecostal Tabernacle no longer had 67
direct oversight of the High School and

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He advised that the Financial Report would Minutes
not be presented during the Annual Saints
Meeting this year due to staff and other return the following week. He mentioned
related issues. He apologized for this and that his wife would not be accompanying
said that there were some difficulties but him on that trip and asked members to
steps were being taken to address them in pray for him.
an effective manner. Pastor Bartlett then
gave an undertaking that the Financial Members who were successful in their
Report for 2015 would be presented in the examinations were asked to submit their
early part of July 2016. He again apolo- photographs before Sunday.
gized and thanked members for their
patience and understanding. Appreciation: Pastor Bartlett thanked
members for attending and requested pray-
Community Matters: Pastor Bartlett er for those members who were appointed.
advised that there were little outbreaks of
violence in the community and mentioned RECEIPT OF OFFERING
that sometimes residents who lived on The Ushers were invited to receive the
Wildman Street could not go to James offering.
Street, and those at the top could not go to
the bottom of Wildman Street. He CLOSING EXERCISE
expressed a desire to have a street service Pastor Bartlett encouraged members to
on Sunday evening, but because it would support the National Conference and men-
be 5th Sunday, the plan was to do so on tioned that the Region 1 Choir would minis-
Wednesday evening (February 3), at the ter on Monday.
intersection of Wildman and Beeston
Streets, possibly in the paved area. He Prayer: Brother Varden Downer prayed.
further commented that perhaps we need-
ed to have meetings in various areas of the Adjournment: The Meeting adjourned at
community. 8:54 p.m. on a motion moved and second-
ed by Brothers Donovan Williams and
Pastor Bartlett asked the young Cleon Barrett, respectively.
people to come out on Tuesday evening to
walk through the community and invite the Davine Walters,
residents to the meeting on Wednesday.
He then invited Sister Angela Millwood and Recording Officer
Minister Nathan Thomas to see him after
the Meeting. John-Mark Bartlett,

Overseas Travel: Pastor Bartlett advised Chairman
that he was scheduled to leave the island
the following day (January 28) and would Salt and Light

68



Minutes available and could be collected at the
Music Room. He said further, printed cop-
they related to each other. The best way to ies would be available for members who
demonstrate grace was to practise incarna- were not ‘tech-smart’ and for senior citi-
tion and to look at life through the eyes of zens. Senior citizens were directed to
others. Brother Gilon Callum for their copies.

Pastor Bartlett expressed a desire Members stood and together sang
for all of us to understand and appreciate the chorus, I love You Jesus.
what it meant to live the crucified life; to
understand what Paul meant when he said, Pastor Bartlett apologized for the
“I am crucified with Christ.” He stated that lateness of the Report and stated he had
that was his dream for Pentecostal Taber- deferred the date of the Annual Saints
nacle. He said that he did not have a Meeting to facilitate the preparation of the
dream of building a mega church, but that Annual Report for Pentecostal Tabernacle.
the Assembly should become a place
where the truth of the Gospel comes alive. ANNOUNCEMENTS AND OFFERING
He also said, by the help of the Lord this Welcome: Sister Angela Millwood wel-
year, we would endeavour to teach and to comed the presence of the Lord and every-
talk about these things more than we have one to the Service. Sister Jacqueline Gar-
done in the past. He asked members to be rick and Pastor Paul Sibblies—former
patient with each other. No one here, he members who were visiting from overseas
said, was perfect; therefore, we needed to where specially mentioned. Brother Leon-
exercise patience with each other. ard Smith, and Minister Moses Williams
and his wife who had returned from over-
Pastor Bartlett stated that he would seas were also acknowledged.
be providing each member with a little card
with the Mission Statement to facilitate Announcements: The announcements
memorization and focus. were read.

Pastor Bartlett expressed apprecia- Receipt of Offering: Before receipt of the
tion to all members of the Assembly, and offering, Pastor Bartlett extended welcome
stated that we are in this together and to all former members of PenTab who were
needed to do our best for the Lord. He visiting, making particular mention of Broth-
said that some of us would die and some er Marlon Taylor and other members of All
names would be forgotten but it would not Nations Apostolic Tabernacle, New York,
mean that our contribution was not signifi- who were on the island to attend a wed-
cant. The Lord would not forget, he said, ding. He also acknowledged the presence
and encouraged us that when we labour of Minister Moses Williams and his wife, as
we should labour for the Lord. well as Brother Leonard Smith.

Annual Report: Pastor Bartlett advised
members how to access the Annual Report
online. He said that CDs were also

70 Salt and Light

Pastor Bartlett blessed the offering Minutes
that would be received. Sister Connie Neil
led the worship during the receipt of the church; that she stopped praying, fasting,
offering. and attending church, and started to live
the life of a sinner, and how she was
Presentation restored. She spoke of the love shown to
Pastor Bartlett advised that the theme of her by Sisters Dorrett Headley and Valerie
the Meeting was, ‘Loving God, Loving Each Stewart and how this, along with the love of
Other,’ and said that we would be concen- the Body of Christ, helped to influence her
trating on that today and for the rest of the return to the Lord.
year. He then invited Sister Alecia Bartlett
to present on the theme, which he said, he Sister Bartlett thanked Sisters Headley and
hoped would be a blessing. Stewart for representing the Assembly so
well in reaching out to Sister Powell in the
The presentation commenced with way they did.
a dramatic role play by Sister San-Jal
Richards. She spoke as someone who was Sister Ann-Marie Gallimore – stated that
dead, who had anticipated acceptance by when she looked at where she was coming
the Lord, but was rather rejected as one from, she could not attend church and hold
whom He did not know, and who, although her peace. She spoke about the prayer
banished to destruction, encouraged those breakfast she organized at the Courtleigh
yet alive to make the commitment to really Hotel as a means of witnessing to the peo-
live for Jesus. ple in the theatre industry as well as her
witness to a prostitute. She said it was
Sister Bartlett stated that we had come to time to bring the Church to a dying world.
celebrate Jesus and that to do so we had Sister Gallimore mentioned that she was
to celebrate His love. planning another witnessing event for
Valentine’s Day and that it was time for
She introduced the following persons to Zion to awake.
talk about the most meaningful way in
which the love of God had impacted their The presentation continued with Sister
lives: Bartlett who stated that we should colonize
the world with the Kingdom of Heaven.
Brother Norval Wilson—spoke about the She said that the Kingdom of God was not
significant change in his behavior since his here to take on the culture of the world, but
conversion. He had become a giving and to change it. Once we have been baptized
helpful person. and filled with the Holy Ghost, we become
citizens of Heaven she continued, and that
Sister Marsha Powell – who was converted citizenship had rights and responsibilities.
in 1986 reminisced about her life in the Sister Bartlett said every kingdom had a
constitution and that the Bible was our

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Minutes Adjournment
The Meeting adjourned at 12:55 p.m. on a
constitution. She added that we had the motion moved and seconded by Sisters
responsibility to obey the laws of the King- Angela Millwood and Dahlia Easington,
dom of Heaven. respectively.

Sister Bartlett made reference to MINUTES ANNUAL SAINTS MEETING
John 15 - 30, where she pointed out that SUNDAY EVENING, FEBRUARY 7, 2016
the law of love was mentioned several
times. She further highlighted and com- Present Were
mented on some of the statements therein.  Pastor John-Mark Bartlett, Chairman
She also said, keeping the law goes  Members of the Church Board and
beyond our feelings and that we could not
love like God without God. Other Elected Officials
 Members of the Assembly
Sister Bartlett shared a personal experi-  Visitors
ence where she was inhospitable to a visi-
tor to her home. She said that she was Apologies
‘called up by the Lord’ about it and had to An apology for late arrival was tendered for
apologize to the caller in due course. Minister Lorna Senior. Apologies for
absence were tendered for Ministers
She expressed the view that if we did not Vinette McLean, Gary Cunningham,
love others, it was a matter of choice, as Sylvanous Fray, Moses Williams; Sisters
God had given us the resources to do so. Rosemarie Williams, Paula Walters,
She said that we should not be too big to Minnette Nelson, Nordia Thomas, Sister
go to others we had hurt, or who had hurt Sharpe, Christene Rowe, Marcia Chen,
us for reconciliation. She encouraged Angela Davis, Donna Cole, Nora Marshall,
members to first be reconciled and then Susan Thompson, Marva Nalty; Brothers
bring their gifts to the altar. Donovan Williams, Damani Collins, Law-
rence Nalty, Paul Marshall, Constantine
Choir Ministry: Immediately after Sister Drummond and the Varden Downer family.
Bartlett’s presentation, the Choir sang,
Broken/Don’t Pass Me By. Opening Exercise
Prayer Session (6:30 to 7:00 p.m): Mem-
Closing bers engaged in a prayer session led by
Pastor Bartlett invited all the people who the Prayer Ministry Team.
were broken to the altar for prayer.
He mentioned those suffering from an infe- Worship: Worship was led by Brother
riority complex, those who were messed Dameon Burrell accompanied by the Choir,
up, and so on. This was followed by prayer singing choruses, “Oh What a Love, and
at the altar. ‘Such Love.’

72 Salt and Light

Choir Ministry: The Choir sang, ‘Here is Minutes
Love.’
Ratification of Officers
The Word of the Lord: This covered a Pastor Bartlett reported that a meeting had
presentation of selected scripture passages been held on Wednesday, January 27 to
by the Speech Choir. Pastor Bartlett com- facilitate the ratification of officers. He said
mented, among other things, that he had that any person who did not secure 75% of
gone to many conferences, but had never the votes would not serve. He said that no
attended a love conference. one got 75%, but that everyone got in ex-
cess of 80% of the votes.
Call to Order: The Meeting was called to
order on a motion moved and seconded by Confirmation of Minutes
Sister Desrine Douglas and Brother Cleon Pastor Bartlett stated that the Minutes to be
Barrett, respectively. confirmed were in the Annual Report which
was recently made available. He explained
Welcome & Opening Remarks that the Annual Saints Meeting had to be
Pastor Bartlett welcomed everyone to the held earlier this year because of the date
Meeting and gave an overview of its objec- on which Ash Wednesday fell. He said that
tives. Sister Desreen Marquis and Team did a
good job and that the report booklet was of
Youth Week: Pastor Bartlett advised that a high quality despite the fact that it had
Youth Week had been postponed as the been produced in less than one month. He
General Elections for Jamaica would be advised members of the different options to
held during the week in which it had been access to the report, including the Church
scheduled. He said that he was now think- website.
ing to reschedule the event for the first
week in April. Pastor Bartlett called attention to
the Minutes on pages 82 to 96 of the
Announcements: Announcements were Report, opened the floor for possible
made covering ( a) the funeral service for amendments and stated that only errors of
the father of Sisters Tricia and Devica Den- fact would be taken. The following amend-
ton, and (b) activities that were scheduled ments made and clarifications provided:
for the UPCJ National Conference. Pastor
Bartlett encouraged members to attend the Page 91: Column 2, under, ‘Ratification of
Conference. Annual Report,’ lines 15-17, take out the
entire section from the word ‘column
Offering: Pastor Bartlett read the scripture through Young’ and make new paragraph
Luke 10:25-30, then encouraged members as under:
to give a 'grace offering.' Brother Kevin “Column 2, paragraph 2, line 7, insert,
Powell led the singing and worship as the “Wauchope” to create the surname, Wau-
offerings were received. chope-Young.” This amendment was pro-
posed by Sister Wauchope-Young.” Insert
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73

Minutes

(last) paragraph which begins with the heading, “Closing Remarks.”
name, ‘Pastor Bartlett.’ Page 37: Column 2, paragraph 2, line 1,
delete the number “14”, and insert, “13.”
Page 84: In response to question from
Minister Nathan Dave Thomas, as to In reference to the amendment to insert the
whether a motion to adjourn was taken at heading, Closing Remarks, on page 30,
the Meeting held on February 4, 2015. At Sister Desreen Marquis expressed the
the request of the Chairman, Sister Davine opinion that a heading was not needed.
Walters responded that a motion had not This was considered and the decision was
been taken. taken that the amendment should stand.

Page 90: Column 2, line 14, delete the Page 53: Photo captions:
name, “Astenath” and insert “Astenett;” a) Joshua Amos Allen, delete the
line 20, delete the name, “Lesa” and insert, number “28” and insert “18.”
“Lisa.” b) Jalon Jason Alvin Ferguson, delete
the name “Kay Ann” and insert,
Page 88: Item “d) Call to Order”, line 3,
delete the name, “Desrene” and insert, “Kayon.”
“Desrine.”
Page 59: Paragraph 3, line 3, delete the
The Minutes of the Annual Saints Meeting name, “Brittney” and insert, “Brittany”
of Pentecostal Tabernacle held February 4,
8, 10, and 11, 2015 were confirmed with Page 62: Paragraph 2, line 7, after the
amendments above on a motion moved word, “and”, delete the word “the.”
and seconded by Brother Kavian Kennedy
and Sister Desrine Douglas, respectively. Page 67: Paragraph 3, line 1, after the let-
ters “TLC” insert the word, “Nursing.”
Ratification of Annual Report
Pastor Bartlett apologized for the late circu- Page 72: Column 2, paragraph 3, line 3,
lation of the Annual Report. after the word, “seek”, insert “ye.” This pro-
posed amendment was disputed by Sister
The Report was brought on the floor for Desreen Marquis who stated that the pas-
sage was not a direct quotation. This was
ratification and the following amendments discussed and the proposed amendment
did not stand.
were made:
Page 80: Column 2, under “Sheaves for
Page 21: Column 1, under, “Youth Minis- Christ”, line 4, change the word, “Corp” to,
“Corps.”
try,” paragraph 2 – Achievements, line 1,
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delete the word, “Department” and insert,

“Ministry.”

Page 30: Column 2, under,

“Acknowledgements,” paragraph 4, insert

74

The Annual Report for the period ended Minutes
December 31, 2015 was ratified as amend-
ed on a motion moved and seconded by -Ratified on a motion moved and seconded
Sister Judean Clarke and Brother Cleon by Brothers Cleon Barrett and Joel-Dean
Barrett, respectively. Thompson, respectively.

Resolutions Resolution #2: BE IT RESOLVED that
Pastor Bartlett reminded members of the this Meeting records its appreciation for the
relevant procedure in respect of the ratifi- contribution of the principals, teachers and
cation of Resolutions. He was then assist- other staff members of the Pentab Nursery
ed by Brother and Sister Gilon Callum in & Day Care, Pentab Early Childhood Insti-
undertaking the process as well as Sister tution, Pentab High & Evening Institute,
Davine Walters who read the Resolutions. and the Pentab Canteen. BE IT FUR-
The Resolutions hereunder were ratified: THER RESOLVED that this meeting rec-
ords its appreciation for the contributions of
Resolution #1: INASMUCH as the work all workers in every other area of the
of leadership is very vital to the success of church’s operations.
any movement, BE IT RESOLVED that this
Meeting records its appreciation to the -Ratified on a motion moved and seconded
following categories of workers for their by Brother Kavian Kennedy and Sister
contribution: Tavia-Ann Carr, respectively.

 The Pastor Sister Marsha Powell spoke on the Resolu-
 The Secretary/Treasurer tion expressing commendation based on
 Pastoral Assistants her personal experiences with the Pentab
 Deacons Nursery & Day Care and the Early Child-
 Zone Leaders hood Institution. She also encouraged
 Outstation Leaders members to support these entities.
 Ministry Leaders
 Chairpersons of Boards, Committees, Resolution #3: BE IT RESOLVED that
this Meeting records its appreciation for the
Ministries and Associations contribution of all persons who have ten-
dered resignations as well as all persons
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this who have served in any area of ministry at
Meeting also records its appreciation to all Pentecostal Tabernacle who would not be,
Extension School and Community School for various reasons, serving in the same
teachers for their contributions to these areas of ministry during the present year.
vital areas of ministry.
-Ratified on a motion moved and seconded
by Brother Kevin Powell and Sister Daisy
Barrant, respectively.

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Minutes Pastor John-Mark Bartlett spoke on the
Resolution expressing the belief that the
Sister Judy-Ann Beckford spoke on the production of the 2015 Annual Report was
Resolution expressing appreciation to and a minor miracle. He said that it was well
pronouncing a blessing on Sister Desreen into January when Sister Marquis and
Marquis for all the years of dedicated lead- Team received the reports from himself
ership that she had given to the Care and other leaders and in that short space
Services Department (now Fellowship Min- of time they had a report ready, and one of
istry). She also expressed appreciation to very high quality. He expressed the opin-
Sister Hermine McFarlane who migrated in ion that the Report was one of the best
2015, for the services which she had ren- reports here at Pentecostal Tabernacle.
dered as Secretary to the same Ministry. Pastor Bartlett commended Sister Marquis
and Team for working as unto the Lord and
Minister Nathan Thomas expressed appre- gave the Lord thanks for people who
ciation to Minister Phillip Shay who served worked in the Kingdom. He invited Sister
as a Pastoral Assistant. He said that Min- Marquis and Team to stand and they were
ister Shay did an outstanding job and applauded by members. Members of the
asked for applause on his behalf. Minister Team who were absent were named.
Thomas also expressed appreciation to
Brother Delroy Carter who was a hard Resolution #5: BE IT RESOLVED that
worker in the Sidewalk and Extension this Meeting places on record its apprecia-
Schools. He commented that he missed tion to the following persons for the volun-
him and expressed the belief that Sister tary services that they have provided in
Marlene Clarke felt the same way. respect of the preparation of the church
premises for services on Sundays:
Sister Delores Cummings stood to speak
on the Resolution in respect of a member  Sister Adlyn Beaumont
of the staff who had resigned. This was  Sister Rachel Johnson
disallowed by the Chairman who explained  Sister Sonia Murphy
that the Resolution was in respect of peo-  Brother Orville Walker
ple serving in ministry only.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this
Resolution #4: BE IT RESOLVED that meeting places on record its appreciation
this Meeting places on record its apprecia- to all the members of Pentecostal Taber-
tion to the team of workers, led by Sister nacle who from time to time provide volun-
Desreen Marquis, for their contribution in tary service in the administrative offices, or
respect of the production of the 2015 Annu- in any other area of the Assembly.
al Report.
-Ratified on a motion moved and seconded -Ratified on a motion moved and seconded
by Brother Kavian Kennedy and Sister by Brother Cleon Barrett and Sister San-Jal
Raja-Nee Andrews, respectively. Richards, respectively.

76 Salt and Light