I pray that this Christmas is the BEST EVER

The Night Before Jesus Came


Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house.
Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care
In hopes that Jesus would not come in there.

The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And Mom in her rocker with babe on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.

When out of the East there arose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here!
With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be The Day!

The light of His face made me cover my head
It was Jesus! returning just like He’d said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said "It's not here" my head hung in shame.

The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without sound
While all the rest were left standing around.

I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and this sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight.

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.
There's only one life and when comes the last call
We'll find that the Bible was true after all!

Just a note about some trees

Three Little Trees
Once upon a mountain top, three little trees stood and dreamed of what they wanted to become when they grew up. The first little tree looked up at the stars and said: "I want to hold treasure. It want to be covered with gold and filled with precious stones. I'll be the most beautiful treasure chest in the world!" The second little tree looked out at the small stream trickling by on it's way to the ocean. "I want to be traveling mighty waters and carrying powerful kings. I'll be the strongest ship in the world!" The third little tree looked down into the valley below where busy men and women worked in a busy town. "I don't want to leave the mountain top at all. I want to grow so tall that when people stop to look at me, they'll raise their eyes to heaven and think of God. I will be the tallest tree in the world."

********* Years passed. The rain came, the sun shone, and the little trees grew tall. One day three woodcutters climbed the mountain... The first woodcutter looked at the first tree and said, "This tree is beautiful. It is perfect for me." With a swoop of his shining axe, the first tree fell. "Now I shall be made into a beautiful chest, I shall hold wonderful treasure!" The first tree said. The second woodcutter looked at the second tree and said, "This tree is strong. It is perfect for me." With a swoop of his shining axe, the second tree fell. "Now I shall sail mighty waters!" thought the second tree. "I shall be a strong ship for mighty kings!" The third tree felt her heart sink when the last woodcutter looked her way. She stood straight and tall and pointed bravely to heaven. But the woodcutter never even looked up. "Any kind of tree will do for me." He muttered. With a swoop of his shining axe, the third tree fell.

The first tree rejoiced when the woodcutter brought her to a carpenter's shop. But the carpenter fashioned the tree into a feedbox for animals. The once beautiful tree was not covered with gold, or treasure. She was coated with saw dust and filled with hay for hungry farm animals.

The second tree smiled when the woodcutter took her to a shipyard, but no mighty sailing ship was made that day. Instead, the once strong tree was hammered and sawed into a simple fishing boat. She was too small and too weak to sail on an ocean, or even a river; instead she was taken to a little lake.
The third tree was confused when the woodcutter cut her into strong beams and left her in a lumberyard. "What happened?" The once tall tree wondered. "All I ever wanted was to stay on the mountain top and point to God..."
Many many days and night passed. The three trees nearly forgot their dreams.

But one night, golden starlight poured over the first tree as a young woman placed her newborn baby in the feedbox. "I wish I could make a cradle for him." her husband whispered. The mother squeezed his hand and smiled as the starlight shone on the smooth and the sturdy wood. "This manger is beautiful," she said. And suddenly the first tree knew she was holding the greatest treasure in the world.

One evening a tired traveler and his friends crowded into the old fishing boat. The traveler fell asleep as the second tree quietly sailed out into the lake. Soon a thundering and thrashing storm arose. The little tree shuddered. She knew she did not have the strength to carry so many passengers safely through the wind and the rain. The tired man awakened. He stood up, stretched out his hand, and said, "Peace." The storm stopped as quickly as it had begun. And suddenly the second tree knew she was carrying the king of heaven and earth.

One Friday morning, the third tree was startled when her beams were yanked from the forgotten woodpile. She flinched as she was carried through an angry jeering crowd. She shuddered when soldiers nailed a man's hands to her. She felt ugly and harsh and cruel. But on Sunday morning, when the sun rose and the earth trembled with joy beneath her, the third tree knew that God's love had changed everything. It had made the third tree strong. And every time people thought of the third tree, they would think of God. That was better than being the tallest tree in the world.

Yes I look very foolness. Please don't show my wife this one. Oh that is right I am not married. Now you know why. 

It is that time of the year.
CHRISTMAS

I am so happy to be able to say MERRY CHRISTMAS. I know is some parts of this world that is not a thing to do. But we still live in a free country and I feel we should all take this time to wish everyone we know and even some we don’t.
There is a picture above of me, during a Christmas party for our Home Bible Study. That night we ate and sang Christmas Carols and ate some more, plus played a couple of games. We broke up in small groups and we had to fill up this stocking with balloons and then we were judged.Sorry to say I didn’t win, but it was still a lot of fun.
I will be in Fort Lauderdale, Dec. 18 to Jan. 2. So if you would like to contact me or what ever. Please e mail me (toms@alcbahamas.org)and when I get in town I will give you my phone number. Sorry to say I have phone for over there but I am not sure of the number. I will not be sending out cards this year.
Well at this time I just want to wish ALL of you MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

This is the Upper Room, of the barn facing north. 

This is the Upper Room,of the barn, facing south 

Hello, My Family In Christ

Hey, it is me again!

This time, I am writing to you about our classroom above the Barn. This is going to be the student’s Sanctuary, away from the rest of Centre. This room will have computers, desks and sofas so that the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and studying the Word of God. There is still some work that needs to be completed here. The picture you are looking at is where we stand now. By seeing this, you can see the potential. We are still in need of about $20,000 to finish this room. The Patmos students will be here on January 21, 2007. There is a lot to do by then! For the bathhouse, we have received about 5% ($2,500) of the funds needed for completion. So, there are still some funds needed for that as well.

I am so proud to call you all my family in Christ. By looking at the world’s standards, we as believers have so much to be happy about. Just think about how we all know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savor. Simply knowing that when we leave this earth we will be in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ is mind boggling! I love these verses that are in Book of John. Chapter 3 verses 16-17 say, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” Isn’t that just so neat to know and to be able to go to the bank with that?

Fellow believers, please take this time to thank Him for what He has done for you. Plus, remember that this Christmas is all about Him. Please don’t go through this year not giving thanks and praise for what He has done for us. Thank you for your prayers and time.

Bye for now,
Tom
Phil 4:5-6


P.S. Would you like to write to me, E Mail address is
toms@alcbahamas.org
Plus if you would like to see my blog
http://tombahamas.blogspot.com

This is the Patmos Team, Pastor Chet (left) then Meredith, Ashley in front, Matt in back, Giovanni. These are the people that are over seeing the 24 students that are coming Jan. 21, 2007. Please keep them in prayer. 

Hey all of you out there

This is the blog that I have talked about before. Patmos Team, the picture you are looking at is that team. Just think of it, January 21st 2007, is just around the corner. Pastor Chet as been having us work on the different areas that are needed by that time. Here is a run down on what is going on. Our old laundry room has been made into an apartment for one of the team members, (Dustin). Then the kitchen at the centre has been expanded to two areas now. There is an industrial stove; regulator stove too, two refrigerants, two freezers. Plus more shelving so that, Miss Ada can feed the Patmos students and the 50 to 80 kids that come in for program at the ALC. I am so excited about these things that are happening around here. It has been such a blessing to have the Patmos team here working and getting things done. The big guy Matt, he has been doing most of the work around here, that is in new construction. We have had some others come in and help out, they were a real blessing. There main job was the kitchen area. Sanding down all of the walls and then again, sanding even more. The other people you see in the picture are, Meredith, she will be over seeing the girls while here. Plus Ashley and her take care of any office work. The web page, paper work things, All the things we don't see because they do such a good job at it. Then you have Giovanni, his main thing is getting the student ready to come and make sure that all things are in order. Matt and him will be doing some of the teaching too.
The clock is running down to the final minute. Will the place be ready or not? By what I have seen done up to this point, that would be a Big 10/4 big buddy. I have written another newsletter about our needs and what is going on. That should show up in my blog next weekend. Well I just wanted to stop by and say hello and let you all know what has been happening around here. Please keep us in your prayers and if you would like to help us out with funds, please e mail and I will give you the information that you will need. Thank you again, Tom, Phil 4:5-6. A new one for this time of my life.

Men's Retreat Nov. 17 - 19 2006 

Men’s Retreat
Calvary Bible Church of Nassau, Bahamas’

Hello my fellow friends, I just came off of a retreat. I can tell you this, it was great. We started off on Friday night.
Our first speaker, Dr. David Allen, he set the mood for us. His talk was on Presentation on Stress. Man he hit almost every area of my life. It comes down to the word sharing our lives with other men. Accountably, the sad part is as a man, we do not like to share our deep thoughts and troubles. If you do know me I love to share, I have watched Pastor John at Calvary FTL. He has showed me that we need to be an open book and be willing to share with other men.
Dr. Evens came in on Saturday morning. His topic was Health Crisis. He spoke on Prostate Cancer and how to know about it. Which you all know, after the age of Forty (40) years old, MEN need to be checked. Women don’t have one. It is a killer and you don’t even know it is happening. There was on point, he told us about how Vitamin B 1 can help with any ones addictions. I really thought that was very valuable to pass on to any one that is trying to stop their addiction, smoking, drinking, drugs and even caffeine. You need to take 400 to 500mg everyday for at least a month.
Then Pastor Lee, Spiritual Crisis, taught on 2 Kings 18:1 to Chapter 19. About a man named Hezekiah who was a man that had a close relationship with God. He pretty much handed it over to God and He took care of the problems.
In the afternoon a man named Tshombe Godet spoke to us on Financial Crisis. This guy was born to preach the Gospel. His whole talk was focused on Christ. It was good but, I believe we need a Money Management class. He spoke on; you need to save for the future. Don’t let your bills run your life.
That night, Barrington Brennam on, Relationship Crisis. This guy was real and he seemed to live as he talked. During his time he really spoke more to the married men. But I can tell you this; I was listening and even taking notes. So, if you don’t know this about me. I have been married two (2) times before being a Christian. I know He is working on me.
Then the last speaker with Vicente Roberts. His was on General Discussion. This was a like a work sheet that we filled out Saturday morning and he came and picked it up that night. During the night he worked on how we answered the questions. He told us that we are pretty much all like the rest of the Christians that he has poled. That is we are not coping well with our lives and blaming ourselves about what is happening around our families and friends. That to me is showing why, we as men have heart attacks and don’t live as long as women do. But the funny thing is, while I was not walking with the Lord. I loved to blame everyone else and it was their problem. Even the church down the road has the same problems. So we need to take off out MASKS and be open and willing to share with other men so we are NOT carrying the whole world on our shoulders. Plus it comes back to ACCOUNTABLTY. Right where we started that Friday night. MEN WE NEED EACH OTHER TO SURIVIE. So in closing, I ask you, what are your problems??????

Another shot of the unfinished bath house 

This is our old and new bath house at the Camp 

Building our Bathroom

The picture that is above, is actual, our new bathroom. If you really look at the blueness/ greenness, building on the left hand side. That is the bath house we have now. Inside there, we have three (3) toilets and two (2) showers on both sides (women’s and men’s). Now the building next to it is fully set up for 5 toilets and 5 showers, on both sides. So when the groups come, that are like 30 to 80 students, we have a better turn over. We will still need to use the outside showers (garden hoses) but I think the grown ups would really enjoy having a larger area. This building will have a laundry room (3 washers, 3 dries) plus all of the linens that we use when the groups come in. Another reason we need this room, our old laundry room is a Patmos leaders’ (Dustin) apartment, now. So you can imagine how much more we need this tomorrow. The only reason I am talking about this is, we have a need now. If you have looked at my newsletter, (right below) you would understand what I am talking about. To build this building it is going to cost about 60,000. To finish it. The Patmos team is coming this next Jan. 20, 2007. So please take the time to pray and seek His face about helping us with this bathroom. You know as much as I do how our Lord can get it done in the time we need it. But He does use people to make it happen. So please seek Him and see if He wants you to help or not. I have been called to pass this on to you. Thank you so much for your time and prayers. Tom, Phil 4:13

These are some of our staff, family and board memebers. Plus staff that have been here before. 

Newsletter from Tom Schafer, Nov. 2006

It has been a year and half since I have been here. Our Lord has been so faithful. I just look at what He has shown me during this time. I have seen so many kids’ lives change. Boy, it is like that even with me. I believe He has done so much for my faith and steadfastness.

Well, I want to tell you all about this new program called Patmos. Pastor Chet is the one overseeing it. He has been doing discipleship for a few years now. In January 2007, 24 college students will come over here for four (4) months and they will be in a Bible (boot camp style) school here. During this time I will have the honor to be a leader and a role model. So, you can just image how excited I am to get started.

There are some things that we need to get done before they get here. First, there is the Bath House. That is going to cost about $60,000 to complete. Next, the barn (upstairs) is their classroom. That needs about $20,000 left to complete. We are now raising funds for these two areas. Beyond what you are already giving, I am asking if you would like to be more involved. It sounds like a lot of money, but our God is big and I am simply being one of His messengers. Please pray about whether or not you would like to support the Adventure Learning Centre in this way. Since it is that time of the year that some are looking for a tax write-off, I am letting you know of an opportunity.

To myself, God has been very faithful. However, my funds are running on the low side. I have not told you this until now, but I had been praying and seeking His face to see if I should stay. Yes was the answer I have received. 1 Timothy 1:12, “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.” He has spoken and I will be here another two (2) years. I know that there is a need, and I believe I am the one to fill it. So, at this time I am asking you to pray and seek His face and then do what He tells you to do.




If He has spoken to you, please write out your checks to the Adventure Learning Centre. Drop them off or mail them to
Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale
2401 W. Cypress Creek Road
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33309
Please, if you have any questions or if you want more information, e-mail me at Toms@alcbahmas.org. If you want to check out my blog, it will tell you more about what is going on in my life here. The site is http://tombahamas.blogspot.com.
I am looking forward in hearing from you. Thank you for your time and prayers.

Tom Schafer
Phil 4:13

This was our cable to lock up the bicycles 

Problems We Are Dealing With

I am needed to share with you all the problems that are coming against us at ALC. It has happen again, breaking into our stuff. The picture that is above is a cable that I made up for our bicycles. I glad to say that my bike stays at home during the night. The sad part is these bikes are being used by our missionaries that don’t have any. We were just blessed with two (nice) 27” road bikes. They needed some work but they were there to be used. We first thought all 6 of them got ripped off. The following week, one of our missionary’s found two bikes over on the other side (good side) of the fence. Plus our maintains trailer was broken into. There they stole a lot of small tools and chain saw, shop vac. And our chop saw, (DeWalt). The next day we looked all away around the areas and found some of our stuff on the other side of the chain link fence that was cut by bolt cutters or something like them. Going on the other side we found parts to the vacuum and some small tools. The thing that really does get under my skin is, some one just stealing it and deny it to your face. Pastor Chet and Pastor Dan went over to see if they could retrieved anything back. Just by asking and asking for their help to find out who are the thrives are. The police came and took some finger prints and they told Pastor Randy that they will set up a raid one of these nights and just see what happens. The week after I saw one of the bikes, the reason is, it is black and it has red brake and sifter cables. You could see it a ways away. Pastor Randy called the police and two of them came out. I told them about where I saw it and told them about t combination lock that is on the bar that supports the seat. I had the combination and gave it to them. It has been over three weeks now and we have not seen or heard from them since. It talks about desires we have and what will happen if we don’t nip in the bud. James 4:1-2. The real problem (I believe is) Americans have everything and they can go buy more. I don’t have cable TV, but I have seen the adds about us as Americans have it all. We have talking about getting three BAD dogs and letting them run on zip lines around the property. I just think they will kill them with poison and do their thing even more. The only reason why I say this is, they have begun tagging our building with spray paint. They think they own this land now. So if you think about us over here, remember us in your prayer life. I tried to talk Pastor Chet into an electric fence. He is afraid someone might get KILLED. Maybe that is the answer. No No that would not look good, us being Christians. Well I am so glad you have taken your time to check out my blog. I hope by need week to have a news letter on here. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

Finding Freedom.
Hi again, I have a book that I would love to share with you now. Here is the title and this will explain to you where I am going with this.
Finding Freedom in a Sex-Obsessed World.
The author name is Neil T. Anderson.
Okay I am telling you all about this book because I know that I have had some trouble with this subject in my passed. Maybe you don’t have that problem but I know you know others that do. So please pass this on to them. Okay the book is short but has a lot of meat in it.
Looking at my life before Christ, I was married twice. So I have had a life that was not of God. I am not going to get into it, but I can say by what Neil talks about is our passed. We can repent and the next day we are back on our knees again. This book talks about our passed and how we need to ask God to reveal our pass sins and then renounce them using the person’s name. It works and this is the first time in my walk with our Lord in my 10 years of being a Christian. I can say that my passed doesn’t come back and haut me, anymore. So please check it out. He does have many books out there. They pretty much all talk about our passed sins and he has a step program that you can go through. I just believe our Lord has just blessed me by reading this one, like I said before it is a short one. (136 pages) So please let me know if you have read it or any thing about it.
Like I have told you all before I have lost most of my e mail addresses. So if I have not written to you in the last month or so. Please e mail me. Thank you for taking this time to read this. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

First Baptist of Oviedo, Florida  

I AM SORRY

Hello friends, I am so sorry for it has been a while since the last Blog. I don’t really have any kind of excuse. Hey maybe I do, my computer has been down for more than two months. Plus I was sick for 7 days. So maybe I do have a reason. Well let me tell you about a group that came over in Sept. 29 to Oct. 4, 2006. Their name is First Baptist of Oviedo, Florida. They were so ready to make a difference here in the Bahamas. They did puppet shows at some of the schools and skits too. Then they worked at ALC a full day. Painting, repairing our driveways, plus even did a lot of weed pulling. There were other things to that they did too. Their stay here was all about ministry work. That is the reason why we love to have these kinds of groups come over here. There were a lot more things that they did, like blessing of my own ministry. At this time I just want to say thank you to them and all that help me stay help. While talking about staying here. I have signed up for another two (2) more years. I will explain in the news letter that I will write by the end of this coming week. Thank you for your prayers and all that you guys do for me. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

The New Fall Season is Here

Well folks there have been a couple of chances here at the Adventure Learning Centre. First of all, we have a new Executive Director, Pastor Chet Lowe. If you are not familiar with him, Pastor Chet has been part of Calvary Chapel of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for over 20 years. He became a Pastor about 13 years or more. During his time as Pastor, he has started up many churches and ran a program in Montana. Potters Field, this is Discipleship training. He has been doing this for awhile now. This is a time for kids from 18 to 26 year old, to draw closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. It runs for 4 months. During that time they have Bible teachings that cover 22 Books of the Bible. Plus there is a boot camp technique there. This is not a regular Bible School. So Pastor Chet believes this is his gift to Disciple. So he as talked with Pastor Bob Coy about this and he has brought it over here in the Bahamas. Pastor Chet is a Bahamian and was raised up on this island, (as a child). So in January this will start here. They are looking for 20 kids to come over and do this, boot camp. Patmos is the name of this program.
During these last three days Pastor Chet has been sharing his heart with our staff here. I am looking forward to see this take off and be part of the staff here, to help them at what ever needs are there. Just what he has talked about during this time we are just as excide as the staff of Patmos is.
Here is more about his heart about the three areas that he over sees. First is The Adventure Learning Centre. We are like the Disciples to get the Word out, teaching the Gospel, 80% education of nature and 20% The Word.
The next area is The Camp. That place is to make Disciples and let everyone know that is the only reason the Camp will be used for. If you have read some of my blogs before, you can see some people coming through here didn’t really have that out look for their stay here. So this alone will be more about them living out their lives as Christ did.
Then I have already talked about Patmos. That is going to be part of the camp and Adventure Learning Centre. They will live at the camp. The barn, at the centre will be their classroom. Plus during the day Patmos kids will be helping us out, where ever we will need them. So just about what I have written, is just a drop in the bucket. I have so much more to tell you about. But I know I have already lost most of you. So please let me know what you think and e mail me. May our Lord bless your day and keep you. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

Hello folks, having some trouble with my computer.

Yes it is hard to explain. But I am sorry that I have not written to you all for a while. There seams to be a virus that my laptop picked on Sept 3rd. Plus around that day we chanced out server and e mail address. So right now I only have a couple of peoples addresses. So if you could PLEASE e mail your addresses and I will write back to you. The computer that I am using is the one that all staff uses. So it might be a while before I get back with you. So please e mail at the same address. toms@alcbahamas.org That is the same but like I said before I don’t have my address book any more. I have written up a blog last week on what is going on here. I hope to send that may be tonight. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

That is right $4.78 a gallon. Aug 20 2006 

These are on sale, 6 pack. NOT a 12 pack. 

I need to share with you.

Well I came a back from Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. (vacation), now I need to look into the future. I have signed up to stay here until Dec. 2006. Maybe even longer, if that is what He wants. You all can relate to how the money thing works. I need to explain to you all about the cost of living over here is. The picture you see above is filling up my gas tank here. The price of gas has gone from $4.35 to $4.78 in the last two weeks. It took $61.41 to fill my tank on the truck that I brought from Ft. Laud. If you want to read about how and the cost, you can go back in my blog. The date is March 27, 2006, The next picture is price of a 1 six packs of Pepsi, on sale, (that s not a 12 pack). Here are a couple more items that I buy over here, gallon of milk $6.50 and up. A pound of bananas go for $.99 to $1.39, large jar of peanut butter $8.85. The item that I get from City Market are priced for Florida, chips $1.99, I pay $3.99 for the same bag.
Okay that is about the cost of food and gas. Now the electric, (kilowatt hour). In Florida go for $.09, around here it goes for $.27 to $.35. Which you can see there is a big difference. So at this time I have air conditioner, (bedroom) which I have a timer on it and I run it 1 hour while I am falling a sleep.
Okay the reason I am letting you all know this is. Paul let his churches know the hard ships and how he needed some help with his ministry. The Scriptures are 2 Corinthians 6:3 We try to live in such a way that no one will be hindered from finding the Lord by the way we act and so no one can find fault with our ministry of God. Then 2 Corinthians 8:3, 9:1-2. The book of Philippians is one of my favorite. Chapter 1: 3-11, (6) And I am sure that God who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus cones back again.
So guys and s it is so good to be part of a team here that just wants to share the Word and love on these people here. Plus I have a chance to be used for all the missionaries that come over and stay at our ALC Camp. I just want to say thank you again for taking the time to read this and I pray that He has tugged on your heart a little. Bye for now, Tom, Phil 4:13
If you have any questions about the work that we are doing over here. Please check out our web page. alcbahamas.org Then if you feel lead to help me out, make your checks out to Adventure Learning Centre in care of Tom Schafer. Drop them in the Calvary boxes or drop them off at the main office. If you are not part of Calvary Ft. Lauderdale. Please contact me and I can tell you what to do. My e mail address is toms@alcbahamas.org
Thank you again.

Getting back in STEP



Well everyone, I went back to Florida for a couple of weeks. This is funny, every time I go back, the world over there has kept running and running. Even running faster that before. Calvary Fort Lauderdale has expanded again. Not just the people now of 680 staff, plus Pastors of 24. They have another church now in Plantation Florida. This is called a satellite church. There is a Wednesday night teaching and twice on, Sunday. I was told there is about a 1000 people going there now. Next time I get back there, it will have grown even more. Our Lord is doing some amazing things over there.

Now here He has been doing a lot of work too. For the past month there has been groups coming over from Calvary, to work. The first one came and put in 400 flowers and 10 palm trees. The next group started putting in, air condition duct work and ran the electric up stairs in the barn, my old apartment. Number 3 group knocked down a wall between the ALC kitchen and storeroom. Plus they started putting up the studs in the barn. Now the group that is here, now, their plan is to have the all the studs and drywall up by this Sunday night. Plus they are digging a trench for the new sink and drain for the kitchen. That slab is about 6” deep and they have been cutting and hammering away so they can run the pumping for that. Now meanwhile the girls have been painting and building desk (kits) for the staff here. It just has been a crazy and busy and even a neat time even over here in the Bahamas. The next time I log in I will tell you about my trip. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

This little girl is what Indenpence is all about.  

Bahamas’ 33rd Independence Celebrations

This last week has been full of events. Thursday the 6th, was the renaming of the Bahamas International Airport, the new name is The Lynden Pindling International Airport. This gentleman was the first Prime Minister of Bahamas. They call him the Father of this Nation. This gentleman was in the Prime Minster’s job for over 25 years. He passed away back in 2002 ?. Then on Friday the 7th, this day was the National Pride Day. This day was set aside for all to wear your colors of Blue Gold and Black. The same colors that are in the Flag of the Bahamas. Next day was Saturday which was full of things to do. Junkanoo Festival, at Arawak Cay. At Rawson Square had a Independence Beat Retreat. Then during the night we had The Miss Bahamas Beauty Pageant. These s have been training for over ten weeks just so they would be ready for this event. Now the big day is just around the corner. 9th Sunday there was a Royal Poinciana Tea Party which was at the Government House. Jazz festival on the other side of the island. This night we had Church Service at the main park, Clifford Park, downtown. Plus we where suppose to have the flag raising. It just started raining and they had to cancel it. But at midnight there was a big Concert at Arawak Cay. Then July 10th at 4:30am the big People’s Rush Out happen. That is a Junkanoo parade. I got out there around 7 am. It was still happening and boy it was a great time of dancing and just listening to the groups going down the main road. The picture that is above this blog, car with a little waving two flags and just having a wonderful time. Then that evening at 6pm there was a Ground Breaking Ceremony for the New National Stadium which will be built at the Queens Elizabeth Sports Centre this next year. Boy this place is going to be the jewel of the islands. Later on I will write about this place. Guys and s I pray that things are going well in your lives and I pray that you keep me in your prayers for my finances for my remaining 6 months here. Thank you for taking this time to read this and PLEASE write back to me a comment or my e mail. The reason I say this is I am not sure if anyone is reading this. Please let me know. Bye for now Tom, Phil 4:13

Bahamian Flag

Just to tell you about the Bahamas’ Flag

You can see the flag right above. There are three (3) colors. Now this is what I have been told by a Christian, this is what he thinks the colors mean.
Top Blue = The color of the sky.
Yellow Middle = The color is Sun (Son) Jesus Christ
Bottom Blue = The color of the sea (ocean)
Middle Black = The Bahamas’ People, they are pointing towards the Son (Jesus Christ)
That is such a great way to look at the Bahamas’ Flag.
But now let me tell you what it real means.
Top Blue = The color of the sky.
Yellow Middle = The color of the sand and other rich land resources.
Bottom Blue = The color of the sky too.
Middle Black = The triangle represent the people and their strength.
On July 10, 2006 they will be celebrate their 33 years of independence from the Untied Kingdom. So this next Monday will be the day to party. I real look forward in their days of celebrating. They have about 9 things going on this whole week and weekend. I will write about them this next blog. Bye for now and may our Lord just bless your socks off. Bye Tom, Phil 4!3

Hello from Bahamas

This is just a update on what is going on here. I told you about the groups that are coming in the next 6(six) weeks. So let me just share about Esther and where she will be living stating next month. There is three s that are going to be staying on this summer program. So the apartment that they have, they can have pets. So at that time she will be living there. But during the day she will be part of the Camp grounds. While I am working on the grounds or that area, she will be there with me. So I am trying to train her so she doesn’t need a leash. So far she is still house broken and very well behaved. I believe our Lord just sent her for me and the kids around the Camp and areas. So at this time there is a young lady in my life now. So if you have been praying for one for me, your prayers have been answered. Thank you so much for taking your busy time to read this. May our powerful Lord just give you all a BIG hug for me. Bye for now. Tom, Phil 4:13.

It is Esther and I. I tried to put this in my profile, but didn't work. So I have hair again and even added some to my lip. We are just having a ball over here and wish you all could come over and visit us. It is always in His time. I thank everyone of you, that take a look at this page every once and a while. May He bless your day and every day. Bye for now. Up date this weekend. Tom, Phil 4:13

Mission Discover June 2005 

Next 6 Weeks At The Camp

It is that time of the year when we get in a group called Mission Discovery. The leaders came in this last week end. Well the first group is due to fly in tomorrow morning and afternoon. They are all coming from 4 (four) differ high schools. I am not sure as of today where they are from. By tomorrow afternoon I will have an idea. The neat thing about these groups are, they work at four differ places, 1) will be at the Aids Camp, 2) Ranfurly Orphan Home, 3) a church called Ebenezer (Haitian) 4) another Haitian church. That is what these kids are called to do. WORK, the jobs are not easy ones. Last year they tore out a ceiling in Ebenezer Church. Then replaced it with dry wall and stucco. So I am not sure what this year will bring. The real nice thing about theses groups are, I hand them the keys and drive them where they need to go and just make sure things are flowing. Don is the one over seeing these leaders and he has been doing this for over 5 years here alone. So he does the running for supplies and stuff for them to do the job. The picture that is above this log in, is from last year first group. So I will keep you a breast of what they are doing and even send more pictures. Take care for now and may our Lord bless your day. Thanks for looking at this and look forward in seeing your comments. Bye Tom, Phil 4:13.

Andy's group from Chicago, plus 

Another group has come and gone.

There is a picture of this group that is right above this log in. They are from the Chicago area. Their names are left to right. Andy, Clark (baby), Danny (wife), Billy, Lea (wife), Mike, Stephanie (wife), Brain and his wife is Erin. They came over here to bless us by doing work, (what ever). So the first day (Saturday), they help us with another Fun Day. This one was a Water Mania. Boy The Centre was rocking away. We had about 1100 people in two days. Then they went to church with Will and Jenn, on Sunday. Monday another work day to get going. They worked at Billy’s and Lea house. I don’t think I have written about what they are doing. They bought this place on the ocean, (Castle). It needs a lot of loving care and even some work. The place got water damage a couple of years ago. The roof pretty much let go and there was a lot of damage. So Andy’s group just did what they could for two days. Which it just a great time for them and Billy and Lea really enjoy being part of their mission trip. The rest of the week they work at the Adventure Learning Centre. That was working on making up offices out of our classroom. It really does look great. The sad part is everyone needs to go back to their homes and that is the end of a mission trip for them. I thank them for all that they did. Maybe next year they may come. Thanks again. Tom, Phil 4:13

This a note for picture watchers.

This is just a note, all the pictures that you see. You can enlarged them by double clicking on the picture itself. So please if you would like to see them better. Just double click on them. Hey if you read this can you e mail me or leave a comment. Thank you for taking the time to checking this page out. Bye, Tom, Phil 4:13

These are just a flew of the guys.  

These are what they handed out to the college of The Bahamas.  

This is one of three pictures that I think you might enjoy. 

Another Neat Week-end

This one week-end just passed, we had a group of Rastafarians. If you have any idea what they believe, you are looking at this blog now, with a wearded face. The reason I say this is that Rastafarians are known by the use of a called , (they call it ), for their (spiritual) religious purposes. The verses that they use to back this are. Psalms 104:14 He cause the grass to grow for the cattle. And vegetation for the service of man. That he may bring forth food from the earth. Another verse is Genesis 3: 18 Both thrones and thistles it shall bring forth for you. And you shall eat the herb of the field. One more verse is Exodus 10:12 and the last one is Proverbs 15:17. You can get the idea that you can make these verses work for them. Now back how did they get to stay at the Adventure Learning Centre Camp? Well when the man named Paul came to pay for their deposit, I ask him if he knew that we are Christian Camp? He said yes sir. Then even Dan that ran the camp before me talked with him too. So we decided to let them stay, as long as I kept an eye them. Which I did, no real problems except one night they had a song singing night and morning, until 5am. The only reason I know is that Will and his wife live on the campus and they ask me to talk with them about not having anything pass 10pm. Which that day I ask and told them that. No problem at all. They were excepting about 80 people, but I guess our Lord just protected us and only had 9 to 10 at one time. I tried to listen to the songs that they were singing but I just could not understand Jamaican. The reason for this time of them coming together was so they could get all the same page in what they believe. I did walk in during their time of watching videos, which the ones I saw was on Slavery and even a on the Second World War about the Jews being taken to the camps to be killed. Now after I saw these two movies, I talk with a , I asked her why do you guys watch about the pass, what about the future, The of Jesus Christ. She just told me that they need to see the history and to understand it. I jus told her that the of Jesus is the only thing that you need to move forward. She understood but not. I have so much more to share about the week-end but I know by now you are boarded. So if you want to learn more about them. Check out this web page. Rastafari, www.swagga.com/rasta.htm and this will show you so much more about why they are the way they are. It is sad to see people that don’t take Jesus as the Lord and Savor, which He is. Bye for now. Tom, Phil 4:13

This is the second one. 

Just one of two signs at the church I go to. 

This is the Last of the Commandants of Driving.

The tenth commandant had to do with parking. In down town Nassau it’s OKAY to park whatever you want to. You just have to Have faith that you can make anything into a parking space for your car. You can park in the NO PARKING ZONE spots. You can park in HANDICAPPED ZONE. You can park in LOADING ZONES. You can park behind other park cars whether there is a space or not. You can park on the wrong side of the side if you happen to see a friend driving the other way and want to stop to chat with them. In case the commandants also apply to your friends, so do not worry about blocking on coming traffic. You have the PARKING RIGHT OF AWAY. Have faith! The final and greatest commandant to do unto others as you would have others do unto you. If another driver cuts you off, that is an obvious sign that they are inviting you to do the same to them so do it. If another driver does not signal to take you lane and cut you off, then that is a clear signal that you should do that too. Since all other drivers are following this last great commandant, watch what they do and do it right back to them or to others. Remember, Have Faith!!!!!
Now you all know that this is just for fun and in real life here, they do look out for you and when you do want to get out in the main road, they will let you in and then you give them a small beep that is to tell them Thank you for letting me in. If you hear a car coming and they beep twice better look out, because they are coming ready or not. Please don’t take this as the way they drive here. I really do enjoy how they are just driving along and just stop to talk with family or friends. I think that is so neat to see how everyone knows others and they take the time to stop. Like I said before, I am from Fort Lauderdale, Fl and they drive for their own way and there is no rhyme or reason. Just know that we all have a responsibility to help and look out for our brothers and sisters. Please enjoy this day and I will be writing on something else next time. Bye for now, Tom, Phil 4:13

This is Part #3 for the Commandments of Driving.

The seventh commandant has to do with turning a corner to enter a two-lane, one way street. Before you turn the corner, you should know exactly where you are going. This is very important since it show planning and attention to your driving. Do not let traffic in either lane hinder you. Simply have Faith and proceed to drive into lane you want. Again your Faith will been seen by other drivers and they will create a space for you. Have Faith! The eighth commandment has to do with changing lanes” turning a corner or turning into a parking spot anywhere across the street. This really about who has the right of way. Always assume that YOU have the right away and TAKE it right away. This is your chance to paying attention. DO NOT do anything to let people behind you or coming at you in other lane know what you are going to do and do not wait to do it. Everyone likes surprise and this is your chance to make someone happy. Just go about your driving as if no else was on the street. Do what you want, when you want, the way you want regardless of on coming traffic. Consider it your contribution to keeping everyone on their toes and Have Faith that everyone will be ready for anything you can do to surprise them. Have Faith! The ninth commandant has to do with posted limits. Assume that the real speed limit is as fast as you can go. This is true especially when you cannot see a speed limit sign. You happen upon other drivers who are not as skilled as you and who do not have cars as good or fats as yours, just go around them. Don’t worry about on coming traffic. Have Faith that those drivers will see you on the wrong side of the road and will slow down, turn to the curb to give you room or stop to allow you to get safely back on your side of the road. You are in a hurry and others should be considerate and give you space to go. Have Faith! Bye for now.

This is just one area that has a light.The day was Sunday afternoon. It toook me over 45 minutes to get through this light. The reason is that the street just pass this one is a short cut and everyone knows that. Except you know, me.  

Part Two On The Commandments

This is the fourth commandment has to do with painted lanes marker on the pavement. DO NOT believe the painted marks on the pavement. They were probably put there by a political appointee and you should not take them seriously. If you are at a stop light where the right lane says RIGHT TURN ONLY, you may ignore that if you are stuck in a line of traffic, in the left lane. Just go into the turning lane and when the light changes drive straight through and Have Faith those drivers on the left will let you in. This is an especially good commandment in heavy, rush traffic when your time is more important than that of others else in the line. Have Faith! The fifth commandment has to do with RIGHT TURN. This saves time and distance. If you do this often enough you can save many miles on your odometer. Another advantage of doing this is that you have a chance to really scare the person on your right who is waiting at the STOP/ YEILD sign on the street you are turning into. If you are behind a person who is mistakenly making a curved right turn, you should immediately take advantage of the situation and cut inside that car. Have Faith that they will see you and not try to complete their turn until you have gone. Have Faith! The sixth commandment has to do with getting onto a main road from a side corner. Have faith and gently “push” your way into the on coming traffic. The more Faith you have, the faster you can “push”. The faster you drive, the more you are showing the drivers on the main road that you Have Greater Faith and as Christian drivers, they should be impressed and “Part the traffic” to let you in. Have Faith! Okay I know of many drivers in Florida drive just or even worse that these people do. Remember there is no 95 Highway or any other highway. The average speed is only 30 MPH. plus driving here you will enjoy their style and the way they just give into the pushing guy. I have really seen a lot of drivers just trying to make it to work and back. Thank you for reading this. I how it brought you a small smile and may He bless your day. Bye for now.

This is a STOP Sign here inthe Bahamas 

A Tongue-In-Cheek Look At Our Drivers Here

This is from an article, that was in the What’s On, a fun paper for the area. So please just enjoy it and have a great laugh. You know as well as I do how we drive back in the states. Not to much better.
The Bahamas is founded on Christian beliefs and actions and so are the commandments as set down in this driver’s manual. First and most important commandment is “Have Faith”. Have faith that you will be OK. Have faith others drivers will look out for you. Have Faith. The second commandment has to do with traffic lights. Green means GO. Amber means GO FASTER. Red means go if you have Faith, you can still get through the intersection. If you are already stopped at a red light, but there is no one coming either way, that also means GO, Have Faith. The third commandment has to do with the STOP sign. A REAL STOP sign has eight sides, is RED and has Large White letters that spell out STOP. The Bahamas Stop sign is round, with a red triangle that represents YEILD and the word STOP. This is clearly not a serious Stop sign, but offers an option. If there really is traffic, you should probably STOP. If you have faith and you think you can get into the intersection, in spite of traffic, then you should treat the sign as a YEILD sign and you should GO. If you happen to find yourself stuck in a line of cars in, form a continuous string of cars and drive as hard and fast as you can to get as many cars as possible through the STOP/YEILD sign. The sign above this is a STOP/YEILD SIGN. Be for now and I will write about the next commandments that follow.

This is the puppy that found me.Her name is Queen Esther