“True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study. It means more than a preparation for the life that now is. It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It is the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come.” Education, p. 13, Ellen G. White.
This statement summarizes the crowning motive for all that the SDA Church seeks to do, not only for the youth but also for any and every one we serve. On March 10th, the members of the Mount Scenery Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church were blessed through the joy of giving, as we presented bicycles to about 33 youth on the island of Saba. The realization of this project was made possible through one of the many Dutch initiatives from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment in The Hague, also known as Kansen voor alle Kinderen. The Mount Scenery SDA Church was one of several non-profit organizations which received funds to execute projects for the youth of Saba – this cycling project was first for the SDA Church.
In collaboration with groups such as Youth and Family, KPCN and the Social domain of the Public Entity Saba, the SDA project leaders effected this venture successfully. Our church will continue to work with these entities on future projects, for the benefit of Saba.
Before receiving their bicycles, the children and their parents were given a detailed safety demonstration by Wingrove Baker, a local inspector. The safety tips included: How to properly place one’s feet on the bike pedals; the correct way to secure helmets; and, how and when to change bike gears. Ms. Cadella Marten, who represented the Social domain of the Public Entity Saba, shared that more cycling activities are in the pipeline for all youth who have bikes.
During this event, the youth and their parents were very excited. Some children expressed that they never owned a bike before and were therefore very pleased to have received one. Several parents expressed their delight. The event’s project leader, Ann Leter-Lake, commented, “I was very much impressed by the excitement of the kids.”
As a church, we have been called by our Savior to share our resources so a difference can be made in our communities. The Mount Scenery SDA Church worked very hard to make this event special and unique for the boys and girls of Saba. We are grateful to God for the support from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment in The Hague. We can gladly say that the project initiated by the Kansen voor alle kinderen was successful. However, there are even greater things in store, on our part, for the island – should God choose to spare our lives.
We extend special thanks to the project leaders, Mervin Alexander and Ann Leter-Lake. Additionally, we express gratitude to Dozlyn Pouchie, for his tremendous and courageous support in transporting the bikes and their accessories from St. Maarten. We, the SDA family on Saba, will continue to support and contribute to the community, where possible, under the guidance and leadership of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.