Over the past few weeks, we have seen a surge in the number of COVID-19 cases that have sadly resulted in the demise of so many persons globally. Regrettably, some of our members have succumbed as well. The Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists extends heartfelt condolences to all who are experiencing loss at this time.

After consulting with our Pastors and members in the medical field, the decision was made to recommend that churches in Nassau and some family islands use the virtual platform for church services for the next 3 - 4 weeks. Please know that we made this decision out of an abundance of caution and love for all members.

Covid-19 is indeed a killer, and we need to be prudent. We urge you not to listen to conspiracy theories or questionable sources. We advise you to obtain the pertinent information from your physician and make intelligent decisions regarding this virus.

Members may find the church's position and recommendations on COVID-19 and vaccination on the Conference's website at www.southbahamasconference.org.

As we seek to be diligent in our decisions and planning, we encourage every member to be faithful to God.

Matthew 6:33 says it best, "seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

May God continue to bless us all!


Featured Article written by Barrington Brennen

Decades ago, abuse was a word many of us were afraid to use or refused to understand. Are you being abused or are you abusive? Can we talk about it? Quiet! Do not talk about it. Shhh!

Many have their ways of ignoring or evading the subject. As far back in 1973, writer Esther L. Olson, stated in her book “No Place to Hide - Wife Abuse: Anatomy of a Private Crime,” the following about wife abuse:

"Wife Abuse. To the ignorant, wife abuse is something a wife has coming to her,

To the naive, wife abuse is a social problem that isn't desirable yet is somewhat inevitable.

To the curious, wife abuse is bizarre and occurs only in bad marriages.

To Christians, wife abuse is something that happens to non-Christians,

To most of us, wife abuse is depressing, and we'd rather not think about it. "

It is true that not only wives or females are victims of abuse, but the above sentences speak volumes about our attitude decades ago. Almost five decades later we are more open to admitting that children, teens, young adults, boys, men, and women are victims of abuse. We do know that in The Bahamas and worldwide, and even in the Adventist church, there are many more little girls and women than men who are being abused.

Abuse is about the use or misuse of power and control. Abuse is wrong because it destroys the body (1 Cor 3:16,17). Abuse is wrong because it robs children of their innocence (Math 18:6). Abuse is wrong because it lowers self-esteem (Eph 4:29). Abuse is wrong because it warps the perception about God (1John 3:1).

How do you know if you are being abused or are abusive? The brochure “Breaking the Silence . . . Are You Being Abused . . . ?“ states: “To abuse, someone is to intentionally or unconsciously injure or damage him/her physically, psychologically/emotionally, or sexually with the purpose to intimidate, dominate, control and/or exercise power. . . “ Thus, abusive relationships include behaviors such as slapping, pushing, hitting, refusing to let you have your own money or handle your finances, being forced to have sex, feeling afraid to express your opinions or wishes, extreme possessiveness or jealously, being ignored when you say “No”, threatening or swearing, disrespecting you, your family or friends, feeling uncomfortable.”

Child abuse is far too common in The Bahamas. Unfortunately, even among us as Adventists, many of our children are being abused by Adventist parents who want to feel powerful over their children. There is emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, incest, neglect, verbal abuse, etc. One form of abuse we do not talk about is that of exposure to pornography and drugs that lead to addiction and marital discord. “Sixty-four percent of self-identified Christian men and 15 percent of self-identified Christian women view pornography at least once a month (compared to 65 percent of non-Christian men and 30 percent of non-Christian women).

Claudio and Pamela Consuegra state: “Sixty-four percent of self-identified Christian men and 15 percent of self-identified Christian women view pornography at least once a month (compared to 65 percent of non-Christian men and 30 percent of non-Christian women).

Can we end this now? Yes, we can.

Around the world, Adventist leaders and members are even more aware in the increasing issues of abuse of all kinds among its believers and the community. This year’s emphasis is “Bringing Peace Home . . .Addressing Youth Violence and its Roots.” Today we will share about sex and porn addiction, painful behaviors leading to all kinds of abuse. I encourage all Adventist today to become more informed about abuse and become an advocate of victims of abuse.

--This article is written by Barrington H. Brennen, marriage and family therapist, retired/transitioned pastor