The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

EVEN as the 2016 comes to a close, an opportunity still awaits those who made spiritual commitments earlier in the year to accomplish their goals. 

Organisers are hoping that after the Church of God of Prophecy’s National Youth Conference this week, Bahamians will begin a consistent relationship with Jesus Christ and once again become committed to the Christian journey. 

The conference is being held this week under the theme, “Courage Under Fire”. It began last night in Nassau and culminates on October 23 in Exuma. 

Some of the highlights include a drama production on the opening night by the NYM drama team, dynamic speakers such as Ministers Jason Woodside, Brandira Woodside, Ghandi Thompson and Pastor Cleopathra Williams.

There will be a special guest appearance by Latoya Culmer with her new release, “Sending Up All of My Praises”, and a student empowerment experience at the LN. Coakley High School in Exuma tomorrow from 9.30am to 1pm.

A community outreach/jamboree and talent explosion will be held on October 22 in Exuma with a guest appearance by Christian Massive at 7pm. 

Brandira Woodside, national youth co-director, told Tribune Religion that they are excited to see what the conference will be able to accomplish and how lives will be impacted.

“The theme is one given under inspiration of the Holy Spirit after many days of prayer following the recent appointment of newly appointed youth co-directors – myself and Jason Woodside. As Jason sought the Lord for direction and a vision for this ministry, it was heavily impressed upon him at the time to use it specifically for the theme of this upcoming youth conference. And so, the theme was chosen in simple obedience to God,” she said.

The purpose of the conference, Mrs Woodside explained, is to bring glory and honour to God while also offering those who attend a life-changing encounter with the Lord. 

“Essentially, this conference seeks to encourage and inspire our young people to have a consistent relationship with the Lord, and not to be intimidated or fearful of any obstacle or opposition that they may face in their pursuit of the things of God,” said Mrs Woodside.

“This year’s conference is especially significant, primarily because it seeks to encourage attendees to be brave, confident and courageous when are faced with any difficulty or challenge that life throws at us. It is also timely as our nation has been recently hit with a devastating hurricane in our chain of islands, especially in New Providence, Grand Bahama and Andros, and are still coming to terms with its aftermath. As we advance as a people, this conference will challenge those in attendance not to give up on God, but to trust Him in the process.”