“For such a time as this” was the theme of the Gala Fundraising Banquet of CEF of Anguilla; held on Saturday 10th March. What a fitting theme! Keynote speaker, Nigel Browne, National Board Chairman of St. Kitts- Nevis gave a stirring message to all of the need to have a kingdom perspective ensuring that one is called, chosen and committed. He said the task may be daunting; but with the King being Jesus Christ, we are certain to overcome every obstacle in guiding boys and girls in making that all important choice of being a part of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. He particularly exhorted the hard working Board, staff, volunteers and others to keep on marching on steadily.
The National Director, Florita Kentish shared the impact that the ministry has had over the last year, and attributed this to the Board, staff, many volunteers, sponsors, prayer partners and friends of CEF. She pointed to the fact that many teachers have been trained to effectively reach children with the gospel. She gave the startling figure of over 1300 children reached in Christmas Party clubs alone, with over a hundred of them giving their hearts to Christ.
A highlight of the evening was the soul stirring testimony of Jemima Romney and the anointed and professional music rendered by both herself and Earny St. Catherine of St. Lucia. The former is a CEF graduate and the latter a donating partner of the ministry.
The gala was well represented by Board members, CEF Friends and partners and specially invited sponsors, their staff and family. Many young upstanding local business persons as well as established business men and women were in attendance. The National Board Chairman, John martin expressed his deep appreciation for all present and participating in the momentous occasion and challenged all to be further involved in praying for, giving to the ministry, being trained and serving in Good News Clubs, their churches children’s ministries.
The event was magnanimously assisted by the kind sponsorship of the Anguilla Building Construction (ABC), Anguilla Social Security, CC Insurance Agency Ltd., Couture Concept, Mr. And Mrs. John Graff, Lake’s World, Leeward Construction Ltd, Morlens Architecture Services, Royale Caribbean Hotel, Safe Cargo Services, Synergy Consultancy, Tackle Box Sports Centre Ltd., and Tropical Treats. One Sponsor; Couture Concepts, was heard to say that it was indeed a spectacular event, and she was blessed to be associated with it. She was honoured to have been a part of it and to have agreed to contribute.
The event could not have been the resounding success it was without the physical help and donations of several others in the Anguillan society; as well as the purchasing of tickets by many well wishers.
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
