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Vacation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

7/21/2016

11 Comments

 
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Ben Matthews (3rd from left) with contingent after worship service.
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Ben and Denise Matthews
By Ben Matthews (56th and Warrington Church of Christ, USA)
Unfortunately, most of the time it takes sad events like funerals or hospital visits to bring friends and family together. To counteract this, my sister, Dawne, created the "Zero Celebration" idea. Every summer, she would pick a date and folks from far and wide would convene at her house. There, we'll have fellowship, food (lots of food) and a funny skit and presents to honour the one(s) with a 'zero' that year. Whether a birthday, anniversary or even immigration date.

Two years ago, Tellisford "Limbs" Quashie attended his first Zero Celebration. He enjoyed it so much, that he suggested with the question, "Why don't you take it to St. Vincent?" So in 2016, we made it happen! He unfortunately was unable to attend, due to cancer treatment (he is doing well).

Our contingent of over thirty included my dear wife, Denise, family members, relatives and friends from around the world. We landed at the E.T. Joshua Airport on Thursday 7th July and the events in SVG began. The first outing was a Grenadine boat-ride on Friday, a picnic at Cumberland Bay on Saturday, church service and luncheon on Sunday, trip to the Owia Salt Pond on Monday, visit to Richland Park on Tuesday, a (lack of) talent show and skits on Wednesday, and culminating with the departure of most guests on Thursday.

Of the fun filled week, my personal favourites were the two church services. After an edifying Sunday morning worship service with the brethren at Kingstown Church of Christ with the sermon, God's Providence through Esther, we enjoyed a fabulous luncheon on that included the 'Red Ju-c' provided by the Mandevilles. They were gracious enough to spend their wedding anniversary preparing for our arrival. Many thanks to them. Many thanks to all who helped!  The following Tuesday, there was the memorable visit to Richland Park (and Sister McCoy) where I led the Bible study. My topic was 'Be your best self' and God can use you. After many examples, I ended with the lad who provided the loaves and the fish for the miraculous feeding of thousands (Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-15). Following the study I surprised the brethren by presenting a cheque form my congregation, 56th and Warrington Church of Christ, in support of Richland Park's evangelistic effort at Greggs. 

Our family scripture verse was----Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity! (­Psalms 133: 1 ASV).

May God bless the work at the hands of the faithful who worship in the various locations throughout SVG 

11 Comments
Patricia Mathis
7/22/2016 08:18:06 am

Ben, that was such s pleasant read, & what an awesome idea for family to get together annually. I appreciate the sharing, & mag God bless you & your family richly!

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Marc
7/22/2016 08:37:55 am

A big thank you to the church for your hospitality we really enjoyed our time spent in SVG

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J P Singh link
7/22/2016 03:20:18 pm

My life was truly blessed when my path crossed that of Benedict Matthews. This world would never find a more decent, caring and giving human being. I was supposed to be a part of this event but, regrettably, the logistics of getting to St. Vincent intimidated me and I sadly did not make it. This would not happen again and I look forward in meeting everyone in this fine, fine family. Congratulations to all of you and congratulations to the person that came up with the concept. God Bless all of you.

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Telesfofd (limbs)Quashie
7/24/2016 11:19:38 am

It was the greatest idea came to me at the time while we were having fun in the Lord.while I was sharing a word from the Lord I suggested we should stay together.and let us go to st.vincent.unfortunately while I was planing i came down with a cute form of cancer.which I am going through treatment for.at this time i'm doing well in terms of the cancer.but having bad side effects from medication.but I thank you blessed Lord for keeping me.i'm so happy my wonderful friend while like a family member to me .the Matthews family who have put every thing together with other friends and made it the successful as it was and I thanking all at this time for their input God richly bless you all and thanks

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J P Singh
8/9/2016 02:59:51 pm

Wishing you a speedy and complete recovery.

Brian Mulholland
7/23/2016 01:30:57 pm

A fine example for families
Thanks for sharing ⛱

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Wayne Lawrence
7/24/2016 07:20:53 pm

Ben, great idea. I know everyone had a wonderful time. I will try and get Auntie Joy to come on the next visit back to St. Vincent! Lol! Take care.

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Wayne Lawrence
7/24/2016 07:21:11 pm

Ben, great idea. I know everyone had a wonderful time. I will try and get Auntie Joy to come on the next visit back to St. Vincent! Lol! Take care.

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Jill
7/24/2016 08:25:43 pm

Cousin Ben great job!! So impressed with your blog post. Keep spreading the love for sea to shining sea.

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Janelle
7/25/2016 03:54:24 pm

Ben, Denise and the brethren at 56th & Warrington, Philadelphia your thoughtfulness and gesture of love will always resound in our hearts. Thanks for your demonstration of Christian love and support for the church in SVG. Simply saying "thanks" seems so inadequate, so we just humble say "To God be the glory".
It was truly wonderful seeing Ben and Denise once again. We often remember the wonderful times we had in the past, especially when we had to travel all over SVG in 'maxi taxi' to support brethren having campaigns for Christ. You all are indeed happy Christians. Keep shining for Jesus. Love you all dearly.
It was also wonderful meeting some of your siblings - there is never a dull moment when Ben is around.

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Viola Leigertwood
8/3/2016 01:33:00 pm

Ben you are a man who has integrity and compassion. I thank God for a caring man as you in these troubling days. When you told me that you and your family was going to SVG,I was so happy for you and I said to myself thank God he is going back to his home land . Ben you are doing so much work in your community ,especially helping the elderly and the handicapped like myself. You have made a substantial impact on everyone you meet, sometimes the little things you do for others mean the most. Your blessing are sure from the creator. There is nothing more beautiful than finding your course as you believe in yourself . I love you and Denise .

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