The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

Under the theme “Service To Country Above Self,” Exuma’s Royal Bahamas Police Force was recently honoured in a worship service at the Palestine Union Baptist Church in The Forest, Exuma.

It was a time of thanksgiving and celebration as the armed forces and government departments lifted their voices in praise.

Friends and visitors stood together with the officers in thanking God for His grace and mercy to the island of Exuma and the Bahamas at large.

Rev Lynden Clarke said he was gratified that ASP Bradley Sands and Administrator Neil Campbell chose to worship at Palestine.

ASP Bradley Sands made a financial presentation to Rev Lynden Clarke and the family of Palestine Union Baptist Church.

Exuma native Vanessa Smith said the all-male choir of the Royal Bahamas Police Force performed “Hold To My Hand Dear Lord I Pray” and “How Great Thou Art”.  

“What an amazing sight to see the uniformed men of the Bahamas plead to God to lead them on. Our country will definitely progress and advance for generations to come as our men stand and walk in the holy way,” said Ms Smith.

“Many officers have suffered gun shot (injuries), motorbike accidents...and can today testify of the greatness and goodness of God Almighty. Our police officers are protected on the battlefield. Many Bahamians fear and revere God. As government agencies you must protect the borders of the Bahamas and collect the government’s revenue. 

“David made a decision to stay in Jerusalem and found himself out of position. He was at the right place at home, but during the wrong time. He should have been on the battlefield. Being out of position can produce devastating consequences. God always provides us with choices to do the right thing.”

She said Rev Clarke challenged the officers to hold onto their integrity no matter what they may face or have to endure, telling them to maintain a good name up until their retirement.

Rev Clarke also encouraged the officers to continue to enforce the laws of the land and assist in providing peace and protection within the communities.  

“He commended and thanked them for their service. He admonished all to strive to adapt to the character of Uriah. There is good in everyone and we must strive to remain focused and on track. 

“The race is not for the swift, nor the battle for the strong, but for the one who endures to the end,” said Ms Smith.

Officer Alonzo Lewis took the opportunity during the service to pray an act of dedication, remembering the officers no longer with us, namely: Corporal 3107 Jamaal Freddie Munnings, Sergeant 956 Aaron Johnson, Corporal 2909 Tamiko Johnathan Rolle, and Sergeant 1556 Evelyn Yvette Arnett, as well as Immigration Officer Rachael Munroe Gaitor.