'God is large and still in charge'

STONY HILL, Portland:

One of the first things that Mordecai Patterson, a Seventh-day Adventist Christian at Boundbrook will tell you, is that God is large and still in charge, which according to him, is the motivating factor behind his religious journey.

Patterson, who hails from one of the most depressed communities of Stony Hill in Portland, has been exposed to harassment, ridicule, and threats, all of which he takes with a smile, without any thought of retaliation.

"I am too blessed to be stressed. As far as I am concerned, violent and troublesome persons existed centuries ago, and that will not stop until the good Lord comes. I try not to be angered or bothered by what people say, as they, too, have a right to their opinion. But with each passing day, some of those same persons have calmed down and we are now getting along much better. My Christian values and attitude always pay off, and I relate to them about the love of Jesus Christ towards mankind," Patterson told Family and Religion.

According to Patterson, who has held the distinction of being head deacon on numerous occasions, his Christian beliefs have assisted him greatly all over, which oftentimes makes the difference between peace and conflict. His commitment to Jesus Christ has created in him a conscience, a kind heart and a caring attitude.

But while Patterson has created a good impression on those displaying antisocial behaviour, his greatest asset is probably being able to encourage backsliding members to return to the fold, while explaining to them that the outside world has no hope to offer them in this life or the one to come.

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

"I was never born a Christian, and I was once a frequent visitor to the rum bar. However, more than 30 years ago, I had an unforgettable experience, which pointed me straight to Jesus Christ, and I have never returned to my sinful state since. The point that I am trying to make is that if I was able to accept Christ as my personal Saviour, then anyone can change. Praying earnestly is a direct connection to God, and He is a good listener."

These days, Patterson's love for God has propelled him to join the men's choir at Boundbrook Seventh-day Adventist church, a decision, which even today, still baffles his wife, Thelma, as her husband has always been on the shy side, especially as it relates to singing with an audience present.

familyandreligion@gleanerjm.com