GEMS Launched at New Haven

Story by Laureen Brown photos by Mark Mc Knight-(New Haven SDA Church)
Published | May 13, 2013

"Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above rubies." This is the standard to which some young ladies aspired as they participated in the launching of the Girls of Eloquence, Morals and Standards – GEMS Ministry at the New Haven Seventh Day Adventist Church on Sabbath, April 13, 2013.

 

Visiting GEMS from both the Shortwood and Sandy Park churches shared in the occasion which was moderated by Sis. Norma Griffiths, wife of Pastor Errol Griffiths .

 

All the speakers for the afternoon reminded the young ladies of the impeccable morals and standards which they are called to live by as they grow in their walk with the Lord. In her opening remarks, Natalie McKenzie, president of the GEMS ministry at New Haven, reminded her fellow GEMS that, Jesus has called them to shine for Him.

 

"We are not a passive group of young women at the New Haven Seventh Day Adventist Church... We are its future leaders. Remember you are gems, worthy, dynamic and strong..."

 

In a beautiful poem entitled, "A Woman of God," which was written and read by Pricilla Robinson, the GEMS were given further insights into how they should live lives that are above reproach and mirroring the character of Christ. Pricilla stated,

 

"Graciously she walks in the footsteps of Christ, Earnestly seeking His perfect will... That breathes patience and love While allowing her ways to be carefully crafted by Jesus Christ."

 

As Pastor Errol Griffiths, the church pastor, brought greetings to the church, he called on the GEMS to let their lives demonstrate the high standard that God has for those who bear the name of Christ. "May you so live so that God's name may be glorified. Next year at this time, we are looking forward to see double the number of the Gems here...looking forward to see you unfold your talent in God's church," Griffiths told the GEMS.

Elder Claudette Genas, founder of GEMS and guest speaker for the afternoon, did not mince words as she instructed the GEMS about valuing themselves and demonstrating this in their conduct. She advised them to be circumspect in their relationships as they socialize with the opposite sex and aim to measure up to the standards that the Lord has set for them.

"I did not come to play around this evening," she pointed out early in her presentation. "We want some more young ladies who will live up to what God expects of them socially."

" It hurts," she emphasized, "that girls have allowed themselves to be let loose with just anybody. We want some more girls of class in this New Haven Church so that the community looking on can say I want my children to go to that church," Genas said. She encouraged the girls to, "Shape up, clean up, brush off."

In a vivid demonstration, Sister Genas illustrated how shattered and worthless a young lady will feel when she is abused or gives herself freely to the males she associates with. She indicated that the mentor's role is to guide such a young lady towards spiritual restoration through prayer.

 

Sister Genas did not end her presentation without reminding the GEMS and the general congregation that Jesus is able to mend shattered lives. She said, "If you are found wanting, that's why Jesus is there... Right now you can repair with God's help."

After a very meaningful message, Elder Claudette Genas declared the GEMS Ministry officially launched at the New Haven Seventh Day Adventist Church.

For More Story Details: Church's Website