Caribbean Preaching Conference

The Essequibo effort highlighted what God can accomplish when His people work together in faith.

This summer marked a milestone for the Guyana Christadelphians and the Caribbean Youth Camp Committee, as we embarked on our first-ever combined youth conference and preaching campaign on the Essequibo coast. Nearly fifty participants, from infants to seniors, travelled from Georgetown to Anna Regina, a bustling town set against rice fields and quiet country roads, to share the gospel and enjoy a week of fellowship.

Planning and Preparation

The seeds for this effort were planted at GuyExpo 2024, when visitors from Essequibo urged us to bring Christadelphian outreach to their region. Though we had no local brethren in Essequibo and little knowledge of the area, a dedicated committee of twelve brethren worked tirelessly, securing permits, accommodations, and transport. God opened every door, and the Essequibo Technical Institute became our home base, offering dorms, an auditorium, and space for worship and activities.

A Week of Camp and Fellowship

Days began early with prayer, exercise, and Bible classes led by Bro. Nigel Small of New Jersey on the theme “As a man thinketh in his heart.” Youth discussions, mini VBS sessions for children, and training on how to share the gospel filled the schedule. Brethren from Trinidad, New York, and elsewhere joined in, adding to the richness of teaching and fellowship.

The evenings were just as vibrant. Some campers gathered for games and laughter, while others enjoyed quiet conversations. The elderly sisters provided a steady spiritual anchor, rising daily at 4:30 am for readings and prayer.

The Preaching Campaign

Each afternoon, the group took to the streets—armed with leaflets, smiles, and T-shirts boldly asking, “Have you heard the Good News? Ask me!” Youths who started timid soon grew confident, encouraged by warm encounters with local residents.

Not every day went as planned. A sudden storm once forced us to abandon preaching for the evening, reminding us of the Lord’s guiding hand. Adjustments followed, moving outreach to earlier hours and upgrading our sound system. By week’s end, the team had reached multiple villages, held countless conversations, and witnessed genuine interest. Several residents requested prayers, attended Bible classes, and even began First Principles lessons.

Building Momentum

The Essequibo mission sparked wider outreach. Shortly after, brethren organized a medical campaign in Georgetown, offering free blood pressure checks and reading glasses, while youth reconvened to map out solutions to challenges facing our CYC groups.

Looking Ahead

The Essequibo effort highlighted what God can accomplish when His people work together in faith. Everyone, from the youngest camper to the oldest sister, made this mission possible. As seeds grow in Essequibo and beyond, we pray for God’s increase and thank the CBMC and all supporters who made this work a reality.

You may access a full report on the CBMC website, cbma.net.

Ben Drepaul,
CBMC Caribbean Working Group