Nearly 8000 Baptists from the 316 churches that comprise the Jamaica Baptist Union (JBU) witnessed the installation of Rev. Stephen Jennings as the new President.
The installation took place in the closing service of the JBU’s 158th General Assembly held on Sunday February 24 in the jam-packed National Arena, Kingston Jamaica.
Rev. Jennings succeeds the Rev. Karl Henlin who led for 2 years from February 2006 to February 2008. The new JBU President, will walk in a noble tradition as leader of one of the largest and most influential denominations in Jamaica.
He will need a double portion of anointing from the Holy Spirit. It is a good thing that for the next 2 years while he is in office, Baptists of the JBU will be reflecting on the theme, "Living In The Spirit."
I extend heartiest congratulations to Rev. Jennings. Around 14 years ago as a ministry candidate enrolled in the JBU Pre-collegiate program, it was Rev. Jennings who introduced my batch to the exciting subject of Introduction to the Bible. After that introductory course, I know I couldn’t wait for the full seminary program to start.
Hailed as one of the foremost thinkers of the JBU, Rev. Jennings walks in what one could call a dialogical tradition. His lifestyle and testimony reflects his attempt to balance a strong sense of the presence and manifestations of the Holy Spirit in his life, and a keen intellect. It is a rare and interesting blend.
This fascinates me because the general practice in Christianity has been to elevate one at the expense of the other. Over the years, and with the spread of Pentecostalism, there has emerged a more distinct dualistic view of the Spirit and intellectual exercise. Generally speaking, some Christians who claim to be led by the Spirit tend to shun academia and intellectual discipline. While those who strive after rationality and honing their intellect, oftentimes deny the presence and work of the Holy Spirit.
Along with the help from the Spirit, Rev. Jennings support team includes, Rev. Karl Johnson who continues his tenure as General Secretary of the JBU, 2 associate general secretaries, 2 vice-presidents and a slew of young fresh faces on the Executive Committee including for the first time (all at once) 3 female pastors. Naturally, that last bit of information would not have missed me.
Unfortunately, distance will prevent me from participating in all the programs, events and discussions surrounding the subject of the Holy Spirit at least for this year. However, I will do my best to keep up with the happenings. Of course, I will share with you.
Look out for additional posts on various aspects of the Assembly coming soon.
Until then,
Marvia
I dont know a lot about Rev. Jennings but you just confirmed my impression of him from my brief observations of him at the mission conference in Oct. He seems to be an intellectual with a clear awareness and willingness to be guided by the Holy Spirit. What a balance indeed.
My prayers are with him and the rest of the Exec. body.
Bless
Derri
As my pastor while in Jamaica, I have observed Rev. Jennings to be a “Spirit-led” man of God. He is a role model par excellence. I have been encouraged by his ministry in that he and I also share certain aspects of our background. He is a PK as well as I. So his sound council has helped me along the way. So Derri I think your thoughts are on point.
I pray that as he continues to serve God and God’s people in this capacity he will do it with all he has, to the honour and glory of God.
Amen.