REMINISCING WITH THE LONGESTSERVING MEMBER – DEACON ALVIN HENRY
1) How long have you been a member of the Exchange Baptist Church?
My Christian journey started at a crusade on November 10 1966, an unforgettable experience.
2) In what year were you baptised and received into the fellowship?
Good Friday 1968 (resisting my parents).
3) Where was the church located when you became a member and how many members were there at that time?
At the present location with 31 members.
4) Can you recall any of the foundation members and what were their major roles in the various areas of the church?
Deacon Daniel White, the builder of the sanctuary, leader and treasurer. Sis. C Martin – Sunday School teacher ad secretary, Sis D. Wallace – Sunday School superintendent, Sis Deloris White – Sunday School teacher and Deacon A. McCalla
Rev R. S Muir – a wonderful person, approachable, peaceful and accommodating. Rev. A.O. Fraser – very supportive, tactful, sincere, interested in the development of all, known as the builder, faithful, humble and industrious. Rev J.O. Hemmings (current minister) – supportive, interested in development of youth and, personable, outstanding preacher and teacher and conscientious.
– Brotherhood leader.
5) Tell us about the ministers who served during your years.
Rev R. S Muir – a wonderful person, approachable, peaceful and accommodating. Rev. A.O. Fraser – very supportive, tactful, sincere, interested in the development of all, known as the builder, faithful, humble and industrious. Rev J.O. Hemmings (current minister) – supportive, interested in development of youth and, personable, outstanding preacher and teacher and conscientious.
6) How has the Exchange Baptist Church grown since its
I founded the youth fellowship in 1970 with 18 members. The sisters were encouraged to start Women’s Federation and I was also instrumental in starting the Brotherhood.
inception?
The church has grown spiritually and numerically to include a choir, musical instruments, sanitation facilities, as well as improved seating.
7) How has the church served the community over the span of 125 years?
A primary school was established by the church; the Exchange Elementary School, now called the Exchange Primary School.
8) In what capacities have you served the church?
Administrator, deacon, secretary, Sunday School teacher and superintendent, lay preacher, and on the Evangelism Committee
9) How have you as a member developed personally over the years?
In many ways, but I would say I have learned to be discreet and cautious in my utterances.
10) What role, if any did you play in starting and organising other auxiliaries, such as the youth fellowship?
I founded the youth fellowship in 1970 with 18 members. The sisters were encouraged to start Women’s Federation and I was also instrumental in starting the Brotherhood.
11) What advice would you give to the young people in the church?
Be faithful, committed to Jesus Christ and His Church. This is only possible with much sacrifice and self-denial. Always respect others. Do not quit. Be a source of blessing.
12) What are your most treasured memories being a member of this church?
When we had over 300 students attending Vacation Bible School and the resilience of members to rebuild after the building collapsed.
13) What is your vision for the church? Any specific (growth) plans in the pipeline as the legacy is passed on?
A stronger and more vibrant evangelism ministry poised to take us beyond our expectations. That the establishment of a multipurpose court (on the church grounds) become a reality to facilitate social activities of the church and community.