The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

MEMBERS of the City of Israel International Covenant Church are encouraging Bahamians to take a "Quantum Leap of Faith" at this year's convention.

For seven days, beginning Monday, August 20, and ending Sunday, August 26, the convention will take place on the church's grounds on Lightbourne Avenue Farrington Road. It will feature a musical night, an African native wear night, an evening dedicated to women, evangelism, youth and more.

With morning sessions kicking off at 10am and noon sessions to begin at 12.30pm, speakers will include Apostle Elect Kimmerie Bethel, the general overseer of Women at the City of Israel International Covenant Church; Bishop Femi Soneye and Apostle Anslem Madubuko visiting from Nigeria, as well as Bishop Prentise Depre Vann and Bishop Quin Heard from the United States.

"You will be surprised to see the manifestation of the Holy Spirit at this convention. In past times we have had prophecy and persons who have never experienced prophecy before. Once the spirit of God enters the room, He takes full control of the atmosphere. It is just beautiful," said Chief Apostle G Elton Major, presiding bishop of the City pf Israel International Covenant Church. He said people will walk away from this convention blessed with an experience they will talk about for years to come.

"I know God is going to be present. He does it every time we meet and there is always a strong word in the house for the people of God. We want to speak a word to people to not lose hope in this season. I don't care how hard it gets; this is not the season to give up. Continue to believe because God has you in His plans. I believe this," he said.

Speaking about this year's "Quantum Leap of Faith" theme, Bishop Major said it was given to him by the Lord himself to encourage Bahamians to take a chance on their dreams.

"I thought about the times we are living in and I believe it is not about what you have, it is about having a relationship with God. You have to have that faith to believe that God can do anything no matter where you were born, who you were born to or what church background you came from. God has something specifically for you and you just have to be prepared to take that quantum leap of faith," he said.

"You have to be willing to take a jump towards your purpose in life. We want to get persons rallied up to know that God has something for them. We are going to rally them to do church work, go after their dreams and make their dreams a reality."

With the convention now in its third year, the bishop said he is happy to see the mighty work of God in their efforts.

"We have representatives from as far as Nigeria, the United States and Jamaica. We are also dedicating a night to an Afro-centric theme. Persons will come in their African attire and celebrate. This is the first time we are bringing someone in as far as Nigeria. We are excited about it and that is one of the things we are embracing this year, Nigeria," said Bishop Major.

For more information, contact 601-5703.