On Sabbath morning, January 5, 2019, the St. Croix #2 District of Churches, which includes Central and Hope, welcomed the minister-elect and the ministerial intern, Timothy Leito.
“It’s a historic moment in the life of the district,” commented President Desmond James as he introduced Leito, along with the pastor-elect. The two will guide the spiritual life of the members over the following years.
In his remarks, Pastor James shared the strategic plans of the North Caribbean Conference, for the next year – driven by the theme, “From Good to Great.” He outlined plans for “NCC LTM Impact 2019” and solicited the support of each member as emphasis is placed on impacting lives through Total Member Involvement.
Pastor Leito graduated from the University of the Southern Caribbean in July, 2018, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Pastoral Ministry. While attending university, he served in the Adventist Youth Society, Master Guides, praise team as well as the Church Director and Chaplain for the French Club. He is credited for orchestrating a successful French Week of Prayer, with Pastor Tony Gélie as the guest speaker.
Pastor Leito is dedicated and passionate about the salvation of souls. He is a team player and a wonderful Christian. I had the opportunity to be his pastor and to assist in mentoring him for ministry. His desire for God and spiritual things were nurtured in him from his youth. We expect him to make a wonderful contribution to ministry, wherever he is called.
Leito believes that God has given him a vision to create a model church that employs creative and revolutionary methods for church growth. He is excited to preach the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and is confident that God will bring to fruition, His purposes in his life.
In his message, the minister-elect reminded the congregation of where we are coming from as a church. “I believe with all my heart that this is God’s Church …every member of this Church must recognize you have a part to play in fulfilling the mission… never forget where God took you from. The journey was a long and hard one but His grace was sufficient to bring you to where you are.”
The message stirred the congregation as expressions of gratitude vibrated with praise and thanksgiving, on the first Sabbath of 2019. The churches, in the district, have gone through many transitions in the past year. Members are excited that they are now on a journey that is stable and intent on fulfilling the mission God has for them.