Over 100 devoted colporteurs from the Caribbean Union (CARU) and the Jamaica Union (JAMU) came together in Punta Cana, April 24-27, 2024, a picturesque destination known for its beautiful beaches and warm hospitality. This was an extraordinary occasion - the Joint CARU and JAMU Colporteurs Congress and Retreat, characterized by fervor and enthusiasm and centered around the theme “Connected to Christ: Engaged in Mission.”
Guided by the uplifting melody of their theme song, "Lord I Want to Serve," Pastor Dudley Hosin, Publishing Director at Jamu, and Pastor Ashton O'Neil, Publishing Director at CARU, warmly greeted all attendees. The event was graced by esteemed guest presenters: Pastor Almir Marroni, Publishing Director of the General Conference; Pastor Stephen Apola, Associate Publishing Director of the General Conference, and Dr. Isaias Espinoza, Publishing Director of the Inter-American Division, whose powerful words kindled a fire of inspiration.
Colporteurs of the Jamaica Union Conference pose with the book "Colour Your Appetite" during the Joint CARU and JAMU Colporteurs Congress and Retreat in April. :: Photo credit: Sophia Dormer
Attendees pay keen attention during the Joint CARU and JAMU Colporteurs Congress and Retreat held in April. :: Photo credit: Sophia Dormer
During his motivational speech, Pastor Marroni used the metaphor of "sheep in the midst of wolves" to describe the role of Literature Evangelists. He compared them to sheep due to their kind, humble, meek, and committed nature. According to him, doors are always open for the sheep but closed for the wolves. He emphasized that any true calling comes with a price and requires sacrifice.
Pastor Espinoza underscored the significance of "Mission Calls" for Literature Evangelists. He emphasized that these calls should prioritize spiritual growth over financial gain. This approach leads to transformative outcomes such as a deeper reliance on God, continuous learning, personal growth, and a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In one of his presentations, Pastor Apola discussed the importance of values and approval. He pointed out that apart from seeking societal approval, we also desire acceptance and approval from our family. Our family is our fundamental unit, and being accepted, supported, and affirmed by them is our basic desire. Pastor Apola asked his audience: "What did your family say when you told them that you were becoming a literature evangelist?"
Pastor Almir Marron (left), Publishing Director of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists leads discussion during the Joint CARU and JAMU Colporteurs Congress and Retreat held in April. :: Photo credit: Sophia Dormer
One of the main events of the congress was the recognition of champion Colporteurs, who demonstrated outstanding performance in purchases and sales, as well as evangelism. Sister Angela Brown from the West Jamaica Conference was recognized as the JAMU champion for her exceptional performance in sales and soul-winning. Tanikia St. John from CARU was also acknowledged for her outstanding performance.
Amidst applause and accolades, where other champions:
Purchases and Sales:
- Venus Wallen (East Jamaica Conference)
- Annette Page (North Jamaica Conference)
- Jennifer Stewart (North East Jamaica Conference)
- Verlis Hamilton (Central Jamaica Conference)
- Agnetta Swavngs (CARU)
Assistant Director for Publishing Ministries, Central Jamaica Conference Ms. Marjorie Edwards (left), presents an award to Pastor Dudley Hosin, Publishing Director of the Jamaica Union, during the Joint CARU and JAMU Colporteurs Congress and Retreat held in April. :: Photo credit: Sophia Dormer
Soul Winning:
- Henry McFarlane (East Jamaica Conference)
- Joy Edwards (North Jamaica Conference)
- Morne McFarlane (North East Jamaica Conference)
- Mauvelette James (Central Jamaica Conference)
Champion Recruits:
- Lorna Carr-Balfour (North Jamaica)
- Bridgette Williams (North East Jamaica)
Pastor Dudley Hosin received a surprise award from all 5 JAMU Conferences in appreciation for his hard work and commitment to the publishing Ministries and, by extension, his love and care for the Colporteurs.
The jubilant celebrations were graced by Conference Presidents and Directors, whose presence added resonance to the occasion. In the spirit of camaraderie, all attendees were gifted with the book "Colour Your Appetite," courtesy of Sister Clara Spengler, Bookstore Director, IADPA.
Sister Thelma Johnson, one of the oldest colporteurs in the Jamaica Union Conference. :: Photo credit: Sophia Dormer
Ensuring the well-being of all attendees was Dr. Michelle Hamilton, a Naturopathic Medical Physician whose holistic approach to health left an indelible mark on the participants. Amidst invigorating exercises and dietary tips, Dr. Hamilton reminded Colporteurs that their lives were their greatest influencers.
Among the one-hundred-plus colporteurs was Sister Thelma Johnson, one of the oldest Colporteurs in JAMU. She had an unwavering spirit and was zealously dedicated to spreading knowledge and goodwill through literature distribution. Thelma believed that age was not a barrier to making an impact. Through her presence, she became a beacon of inspiration, reminding everyone that passion and dedication know no bounds and that the power to touch lives transcends the passage of time.
The program overflowed with melodious harmonies and heartfelt testimonies, uniting diverse voices in a symphony of faith and fellowship. Despite linguistic barriers, bonds were forged with the warm-hearted locals, epitomizing the universal language of kindness and hospitality.
In the heart of Punta Cana, amidst the sun-kissed sands and whispering waves, Colporteurs stood as champions—connected to Christ, engaged in mission, and poised to illuminate the world with the radiance of their faith.
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