The Tribune

The Anglican Church Men Council initiated its first executive officers training retreat at St John’s College this month. The session was opened with a morning prayer led by Ruel Strachan, Chaplin, Holy Trinity ACM.

The ACM council President Kevin Ryan said: “I am pleased that you men have made the sacrifice to be apart of the ongoing efforts of the ACM to enhance the organisation through committed service. The intent of this retreat to inform you the branch executives of your role and duties as a member of your ACM branch leadership and we hope that at the end of this exercise you will be equipped with the knowledge that will assist you in carrying out your responsibilities to the best of your ability with God being your helper.”

Herbert Scott as past council president presented on the purpose of the ACM organisation. He said networking is a source of encouragement to men in the parishes around the diocese. Through the group, role models are developed for the younger men, to assist the church and the parish priest with giving time, talents and treasure. The organisation also encourages fellowship, which is important as men need time to interact with one another in a social setting to discuss issues that relate to men, said Mr Scott.

The participants were separated according to the office they held and asked to share ideas on ways to enhance their reporting, recording keeping, leadership and spiritual development. General discussions was chaired by immediate past president of the Church of Epiphany, ACM Joseph Hamilton. They focused on how all the parts can work together for the growth and development of the mission and ministry of God’s church, uplifting the men of the diocese at the same time. Reports from various groups were presented. To cap the day off a meditation on forgiveness was done by Brother Joseph Hamilton.

“I am extremely pleased with what took place today even so the Branch of St Gregory’s Anglican Church has its full slate of officers attending this executive officers training retreat. I am encouraged that the men of our diocese in particular the men of the ACM have committed themselves to serve in the capacity in which they were elected to at the various branches carrying out the mission and mission of our church,” said Mr Ryan.

“The information disseminated by the various leaders during group discussions was valuable as it bodes well as we activate our men and boys mentorship ministry. The 40 for 40 fund raising campaign and as we convene our 40th Conference of the ACM to be held April 10-14, 2013, at All Saints Parish. Speakers include Quinn McCartney and Barry Malcolm. We are looking for 300 plus men to register for the conference as we come together as men from the length and breath of our diocese to fellowship and share ideas that will enhance the organisation through christ. The Turks and Caicos islands completed their retreat in the earlier part of this year which was conducted by myself and VP Charles Hepburn. The same will be done throughout Grand Bahama and the Family of Islands in the near future,” he said.