The Tribune

UNDER the theme "Kingdom Dominion: Battered, Broken, Yet Landing Safely", the Zion United Baptist Convention of Churches will meet to celebrate its 177th Annual General Session. Through the period of five days, April 10-15, the Annual General Session is poised to provide a spiritual feast for participants. According to members, the theme is best described as the pilgrimage of the Zionites over the years on board the proverbial "Ship of Zion" or "the Ancient Gospel Ship of Zion." "We are standing upon the shoulders of giants, those of whom have weathered the storms of life with raw sacrifices. They have made it safely into port to tell the story. Our hearts beat with gratitude for those who have given quality service in leadership capacity to the mass supporters of our Convention," said church members. The convention will address: The Spiritual Climate of The Convention, Social Concerns, Medical and Health Challenges, Family Dynamics, Economic Empowerment, Spiritual Infusion, Empowering Youth and Children, and the Changing of the Guard in Leadership. The contributions of spiritual and administrative leaders will be recognised, including the late Reverend Talmage Sands, the Reverend Dr Charles Smith, and the immediate Past President, Bishop Samuel Greene, will not soon be forgotten along with the thousands of Zionites all across the Islands of the Bahamas. "These Giants, along with thousands of others have responded to the call to ministry and have effected Bahamians and others in a very positive way." Last night, members met at the Mount Moriah Baptist Church for a word from Reverend Dr William Flippin, Senior Pastor of Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, in Atlanta Georgia. On Friday, the Annual Testimonial Crystal Ball will take place, where some forty Zionites will be honored for meritorious service within the Zion Church Family, as well as five leaders from the wider community for unselfish service to the community in the areas of Health, Philanthropy, Social Development, Sports, and Youth Activism. Convention highlights and schedule are as follows: TUESDAY, 10TH APRIL 2012: The Opening Session, Zion South Beach Baptist Church, Zion Boulevard, where The Convention President, Bishop B. Wenith Davis is Senior Pastor. WEDNESDAY, 11TH APRIL 2012 AND THURSDAY, 12TH APRIL 2012: Morning & Evening Sessions, Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Farrington Road, where the Reverend Dr. Wilton Strachan is the Senior Pastor. FRIDAY, 13TH APRIL 2012: Annual Testimonial Crystal Ball, Crystal Palace Ballroom, Wyndham Nassau Marriott and Crystal Ballroom SUNDAY, 15TH APRIL 2012: Closing Session, Zion South Beach Baptist Church, Zion Boulevard.