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October 9, 2024 | Portmore, St. Catherine, Jamaica | Brendon Coleman

More than 1,500 men from across the Jamaica Union Conference were empowered to be better mentors and Christians during the National Men and BEAMS Convention on August 31, 2024.

The Convention was hosted by the Jamaica Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (JAMU) through its Men’s and Family Ministries Departments and was held at the Portmore Adventist Church. The main emphasis was on the mentorship and development of young boys through the BEAMS program—Boys of Excellence Attaining Morals and Standards - and supported by the Family Ministries and Men’s Ministries teams across the five local conferences.

[caption id="attachment_12685" align="alignnone" width="941"] Members of the Manchester Men’s Chorale render a musical item at the National Men’s Convention held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portmore on Sabbath, August 31, 2024.[/caption]

The Convention objectives included highlighting the strength of Adventist Men’s Ministries, inspiring spiritual growth, and equipping men with the tools to address gender-specific issues.

Dr. Roy Dennis, Family Ministries Director of JAMU, delivered a powerful presentation on “Ministry to Young Men,” emphasizing the vital role of mentorship in keeping young boys engaged in school and church to prevent future run-ins with the law. “The secret to keeping our boys out of trouble with the law,” he explained, “is to keep them in school and the church through a strong mentorship program.” This message highlighted the BEAMS program’s importance and the church's role in nurturing the next generation of men through spiritual and personal development.

[caption id="attachment_12692" align="alignnone" width="931"] Pastor Roy Dennis, Family Ministries Director of JAMU presenting on the topic “Ministry to Young Men”, at the National Men’s Convention held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portmore on Sabbath, August 31, 2024.[/caption] President of Oakwood University, Dr. Leslie Pollard, delivered the Divine Hour message, addressing the issue of men in leadership and the need to confront challenges that may arise rather than retreat. “There will always be a test,” he explained, “and a real man’s character will be shown in a crisis.” He continued, “Men, let us not run from our problems, but rather let us run toward them in the name of the Lord.” [caption id="attachment_12693" align="alignnone" width="941"] Dr. Leslie Pollard, President of Oakwood University delivering the Divine Service message, at the National Men’s Convention held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portmore on Sabbath, August 31, 2024.[/caption] Pastor Everett Brown, President of JAMU, challenged the men to incorporate all the lessons they would have received through the various presentations into the administration of their family, church, and societal duties. He urged them to act on these lessons tangibly. He remarked, “Today’s men’s convention, from both a historical and spiritual standpoint, is a flashpoint, an epic moment in our journey with Christ as Christians, but more so as men of God.” [caption id="attachment_12694" align="alignnone" width="941"] Pastor Everett Brown, president of the Jamaica Union Conference, greets church members and introduces the guest speaker during the National Men’s Convention held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portmore on Sabbath, August 31, 2024.[/caption]

Other presenters included Dr. Norman Thompson and Elder Paul Stanton, who outlined practical strategies for implementing an effective BEAMS program in local churches, and Dr. George Grandison, who offered insightful advice on managing men's health.

The Convention also featured spirit-filled musical presentations by a 100-voice Men’s Chorale and contributions from the West Jamaica Conference (WJC) Men’s Chorale, the Manchester Men’s Chorale, and other soloists and groups.

The President of Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Dr. Lincoln Edwards, and other conference administrators were present.