The South Bahamas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists hosted an inspiring and spiritually enriching “Mission Refocus Weekend” on April 19-20, 2025. This special event was designed to rekindle the members’ commitment to their divine mission and to equip them with renewed purpose and passion for sharing the gospel. The weekend featured prominent guests, impactful sermons, and dynamic presentations, all centred on the theme of Mission Refocus.

Saturday, April 19, 2025: A Day of Worship and Inspiration

The Sabbath morning service was a remarkable gathering, with the church building packed to capacity. Attendees spanned all ages—from children and youth to seniors—and included numerous visitors who were warmly welcomed by the leadership and membership. The event also featured notable representatives, such as Mr. Myles LaRoda, Minister of Social Services, Information, and Broadcasting, who represented the Prime Minister, and Senator Maxine Seymour, who represented His Majesty's Loyal Opposition. Both individuals delivered remarks from their perspectives.

The highlight of the Sabbath morning was the inspiring sermon delivered by Dr. Erton Kholer, the Executive `Secretary of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. His message, based on Revelation 21:1, was both practical and hopeful. Dr. Kholer reminded the congregation that as believers, we are a people of the Book—a people who teach, live, and preach the Word of God. He emphasized that our identity is intrinsically linked to the Scriptures, which are the foundation of our faith and mission.

Dr. Kholer passionately urged the church members to become disciple-makers, sharing the hope and healing found in God's Word with others. Using vivid imagery, he compared the church’s mission to giving medicine to those in need, illustrating that hope empowers us to be bold and active in our outreach. His analogy of a fireman rushing into a burning building to fix the picture on the wall underscored the importance of focusing on the actual mission—saving souls—rather than getting distracted by trivial matters. His closing call was for everyone to renew their hope in Jesus and actively share it with others, emphasizing that our faith is a call to action.

Saturday Afternoon: A Reflection on Prophecy and Mission

Later that afternoon, at 5:30 p.m., the focus shifted to the prophetic mission of the church. Dr. Leonard Johnson, the Executive Secretary of the Inter-American Division, delivered a compelling PowerPoint presentation titled “Prophecy Again.” He provided an extensive historical overview of how the church has carried out its mission since its early days, illustrating the continuity of God's work through generations.

Dr. Johnson posed a thought-provoking question: "Did Ellen White in 1896, if we as God’s people are in partnership with Him?" His presentation reinforced the idea that Christ’s primary business is making disciples, and that the prophetic messages serve as a call to action for believers today.

The afternoon session was further uplifted by the singing of Elder Harold Dorsett, Francophone Sanctuary Choir, and Hillview’s Children’s Choir, who reminded attendees that the mission remains unchanged. Their songs underscored that despite challenges, God's call to mission persists.

Sunday, April 20, 2025: Equipping Leaders for the Mission

The weekend concluded with a practical and empowering training seminar led by Dr. Leonard Johnson, targeting local church board leaders and executive committee members. The session focused on how church leaders can effectively foster a culture of active evangelism and mission within their congregations. This strategic training equipped leaders with tools and insights to prioritize outreach, disciple-making, and community engagement.

A Spirit-Filled Closing

Throughout the weekend, the overarching message was clear: Christianity is a mission-driven faith. Dr. Erton Kholer’s closing remarks reminded everyone that “Christians Are Always On Mission” and “Mission is a Miracle”. He cautioned against becoming distracted by the "aquarium"—the church’s internal maintenance—when our primary focus must remain on fishing for souls.

He called on members to seek the power of the Holy Spirit to be effective agents of change and to take personal responsibility in fulfilling Christ’s commission. The collective response was a renewed commitment to the mission, with many members publicly reaffirming their dedication to evangelism and service.

Conclusion

The “Mission Refocus Weekend”, held at the Hillview Seventh-day Adventist Church, was a powerful reminder of the church’s divine calling. With inspiring sermons, prophetic insights, and practical training, the event successfully reignited the passion for mission and disciple-making among members. As the South Bahamas Conference moves forward, empowered by the Holy Spirit and motivated by hope, it stands ready to continue its mission of making disciples and sharing the everlasting gospel with the world.

Pastor Craig Williams summarized the sentiment perfectly, describing the weekend as “both encouraging and motivating”, setting a fresh course for the church’s mission in the years ahead.

Elder Harvey Braithwaite thought the weekend was excellent and that it was a great initiative to reignite the passion for disciple-making within the South Bahamas Conference and beyond.

Elder Tyrone Paul said it was refreshing and welcomed. He desires to see the laity and clergy working more cohesively to complete the work.

Bro. Robert Archer said he was encouraged, and now the mission is clearer, and that we can count on him anytime.

Elder Carolyn Hanna-Deal said it was informative, clear and practical.