The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THERE is no greater feeling than lending a helping hand to those in need, and for members of the Christian Discipleship Ministries international, this is one of the most significant and rewarding things a person can do in their life.

The group hopes to share this sentiment and more at the launch of the organisation’s “Project LIFE” initiative to take place on the Farrington Road Park this Saturday from 12noon-4pm. The event is free of charge; all are invited and are urged to bring the entire family.

Project LIFE stands for “Living In Faith Every Day” and had its beginnings in the aftermath of Hurricane Joaquin last October. As thousands of people were displaced by the devastating storm, the congregation of Christian Discipleship Ministries International, under the leadership of Pastor Al Rahming, joined with countless others in making financial contributions to the cause; they called their efforts Project LIFE.

“This was our way of organising something that was already in place in order to be more effective, not just for the relief of the hurricane victims, but as a means of helping others right here in the city of Nassau who are facing difficulties with life generally,” said Pastor Rahming.

He believes there is no better time than now to minister to families. This weekend’s event will highlight this message through music, dance and storytelling. The launch party will also feature a children’s bouncing castle, face painting and other performances throughout the afternoon.

With the focus on the children of the communities of Rock Crusher Road, Chippingham, Farrington Road and Oakes Field, the aim is to create an inviting and fun atmosphere where families can attend and experience genuine fellowship.

Counsellors will also be available for those with particular needs. Pastor Rahming said a major community outreach is something Jesus would have done.

“He was moved with compassion when He saw the need of the people and He did something about it. Today, we are His hands and His feet. The lot has fallen on us to do likewise. So we are here to serve,” he said.

For the members of the Christian Discipleship Ministries International, this is the first time that an event of this type is being, although they have for years provided food items and clothing from their church located just off Dolphin Drive. Pastor Rahming said it gives them a great sense of accomplishment to be able to do this in a major way this year.

“Many of us live in excess, for example we overspend, we overeat, we overdress, and we do a lot without conscience. Project LIFE helps to refocus us to the realities as to how others live, without the excess that many of us have. Further, this project channels our efforts in the direction that Christ himself advocated, that we should be our brother’s keeper and that giving back is the duty of all Christians. All of our people are on board, along with partners in the community. For this we are thankful,” he said.

He said this project could be game-changing for the Christian Discipleship as a ministry as well as for the community, as they work on expanding their reach by partnering with other individuals and groups.

“Whenever God gives you vision it is for an appointed time and it is intended to accomplish a specific purpose. Carrying the vision and bringing the vision to fruition is not an easy matter. As an organiser and visionary, I am looking forward to seeing people helped; that is the motive. If we can just get the supplies into people’s hands, feed them a meal and minister the word one person at a time, we would have achieved our mission – to make a difference,” said Pastor Rahming.

For more information contact the Christian Discipleship Ministries International at 325-5433.