“While Peter was still saying this, the
Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the
word (Cornelius and others of his
friends and family). And the believers
from among the circumcised who came
with Peter were amazed, because the
gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured
out even on the Gentiles. For they
heard them speaking in tongues and
extolling God. Then Peter declared, 'Can any one forbid water for baptizing
these people who have received the
Holy Spirit jus as we have?' And he
commanded them to be baptized in the
name of Jesus Christ.” Acts 10:44-48.
The conversion of Cornelius marked a
significant event in the life of the early
Church. As far as we know, he and his
household were the first Gentiles or non-Jews to be converted to the Christian Faith. In fact, up until this time, it was assumed that one had to be a Jew in order to become a Christian. In other words, following Jesus was considered the fulfillment of the Jewish Faith, and was, therefore, restricted to the Jews. Which explains the amazed reaction of the Jewish believers in Jesus when the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentile believers in Jesus before they could be circumcised! Clearly God was opening the Kingdom to Jew and Gentile alike. As Peter himself declared, “Truly I perceive that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.”
The significance of this event, however, greatly transcended the individuals involved, for their conversion released the Gospel throughout the entire Gentile world, resulting in the redemption of many individuals and the transformation of many nations.
This principle of release, therefore, is of great importance in the Kingdom of God, for there are times in God’s providence when a singular event can become the trigger for things beyond itself; not just a sign, but a catalyst.
It is our hope that the recent reception of Father Etienne Bowleg into the Charismatic
Episcopal Church will be such a precipitating event. Long have we prayed that the Lord would release us into the nations of the Caribbean Basin. Since my consecration as a Bishop three years ago, and my subsequent appointment as Patriarchal
Legate or Representative over the Caribbean, things have been in order in the natural realm for this to come to pass. What we have been awaiting is the release in the spiritual realm.
If this event is indeed such a release, we should begin to see evidence to that effect. Specifically other priests and pastors in the Caribbean nations will begin seeking affiliation with our communion, and we will begin planting and adopting congregations
in those island nations. Which is precisely what happened in the aftermath of Cornelius’ conversion; Paul and Barnabas set out on their first missionary journey, preaching the Gospel to both Jew and Gentile alike, establishing congregations in many cities, and raising up leaders to oversee those congregations and carry on the work of the Kingdom in those areas. May the Lord likewise bless our efforts to His glory and honor.
With summer vacation in full swing and kids out of school, many parents face the question of how to Wkeep their children occupied during the day. At Cathedral Church of the Resurrection, the answer is the SonRock Kids’ Camp. Toni Simpson, the program director, is very excited about the Vacation Bible School program.
“SonRock Kid’s Camp is a great evangelistic opportunity, as well as a break for parents. The children who attend will
come from a variety of backgrounds, such as the church
members’ own children and their neighbors and friends, along with others from the general community. The camp
has been promoted by distributing thousands of flyers, and by word of mouth, in an
attempt to reach families who do not normally attend church."
The SonRock program offered a fun-filled week with a variety of activities for children
ages three to twelve, including a daily life challenge, Bible discovery time, music, skits, arts and crafts, games, recreation and snack time. On the final day of camp, which was
a Sunday morning, there was a special service where the children were presented with
awards they earned at SonRock. The children also presented a program during the
sermon time, demonstrating what lessons they learned during the week.
The SonRock leadership, 30 people strong, included teenagers
and adults who volunteered their time as teachers, aides, musicians, and dancers, as well as office, kitchen, and medical staff personnel. “No experience is necessary to volunteer. Anyone is welcome, as long as they have a willing heart to serve God and demonstrate His love,” says Mrs. Simpson.
The ultimate goals of SonRock Kids’ Camp are to reach unchurched
families, teach children to receive the love of Jesus, and build friendships among the children
and the volunteers. Those who are unable to volunteer but wish to show their support for next year’s program may do so by making a monetary donation or by donating arts and crafts supplies.
In June, the Cathedral Church of the Resurrection launched a celebration of the history and culture of the region, which started with Caribbean–American Heritage Sunday on June 6th and continued through the entire month. Below are some highlights from the month’s events.
With summer vacation in full swing and kids out of school, many parents face the question of how to Wkeep their children occupied during the day. At Cathedral Church of the Resurrection, the answer is the SonRock Kids’ Camp. Toni Simpson, the program director, is very excited about the Vacation Bible School program.
