Panama City, Panama…[Libna Stevens/IAD]
Inter-America kicked off its 7th annual convention of Adventist Laymen’s and Services Industries [ASI] on August 16 in Panama City, Panama.
More than 250 delegates and hundreds more Seventh-day Adventists packed the Riande Continental Hotel in downtown Panama City, where, among its featured speakers, included Mayor Juan Carlos Navarro’s wife Cuqui Navarro and the mayor’s assistant, Mr. Bedoya. Together they welcomed the ASI delegation and declared the session open.
The highlights of opening day included the traditional parade flags and costumes from each chapter country represented at the convention. There were performances by Panamanian folk dance groups, a report from ASI Inter-American Division [IAD] President Robert Maycock, a music festival and a special message from Pastor Israel Leito, president of the church of Inter-America.
In his message to Seventh-day Adventist professionals, Pastor Leito challenged the delegates to stay committed to taking their religion to their businesses.
“Our religion, our morality, our salvation must be part of our business,” Pastor Leito said. “We have to take our Lord Jesus Christ into our businesses. We have to make sure that others come to the knowledge of the true God.”
Becoming a blessing to others is the reason for ASI’s existence, emphasized Pastor Leito his message to this year’s delegates.
Sharing Christ in the marketplace, networking, and becoming better businessmen and professionals is one of the main goals of the convention, organizers say. Featured seminars presented a variety of such topics, such as ethics, stress management, media ministries, creative marketing, problem solving and the use of technology in witnessing. The seminars were held after opening day on August 17 and 18.
ASI/IAD chapter leaders had the opportunity to share reports on the various projects undertaken by their chapter members.
A special divine service, music festival, and closing ceremonies are to be held on Sabbath, Aug. 20. Also scheduled is the election of a new ASI/IAD president and officers.
Click here to view photos of ASI/IAD convention’s opening session
