The updates on the COVID-19 / coronavirus continue to be disheartening.  As believers encounter this present menace to our world, we should look to the Lord and His word for directions and instructions. I am aware that this would seem counterproductive to some, but as believers, the BIBLE is our guide.  

We are reminded in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7).

The health authorities have provided us with information on the present situation and the best approach to combat this situation. We are asking our congregations in the Seventh-day Adventist community to avoid the at-risk behaviors that we practice in our congregations. Preventative measures are of utmost importance. Let us follow the guidelines from our health authorities as best as possible. These are our recommendations:

Wash hands thoroughly throughout the day for the duration of at least 20 seconds.
Remove yourself from persons showing signs or symptoms of the virus, i.e., constant coughing, sweating, runny nose, shortness of breath, and fevers.
If you are having signs similar to the above, please self-quarantine and consult your healthcare provider.
Avoid handshaking, embracing and brotherly/sisterly kisses during all services of the church.
Do not panic by listening to unsubstantiated information, primarily via social media.
We should also restrict non-essential travel during this time.
Pastors are encouraged to equip their Sanctuaries with hand sanitizers to be utilized by their membership and guests.

Individuals are asking questions such as ‘Should we close our churches’ and ‘Should we cancel all large gatherings, such as plans for the 2020 General Conference Session to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana, June 25 - July 4, 2020?” Please be assured that the General Conference’s Executive officers and leaders are reviewing the situation and possible scenarios, and will continue to provide updates, which will be disseminated throughout the territories on the way forward.

Here in this territory, we act in collaboration with the Health Department of our Government, and our Adventist Health Ministries Department which works along with them.

We are God’s people, and we are in His hands in whatever difficulties we face.
–Pastor Kenny Deveaux


An official press conference held by the South Bahamas Conference was held including Pastor Kenny Deveaux, President, Pastor Leonardo Rahming, Executive Secretary, Pastor T. Basil Sturrup, Ministerial Secretary and Dr. Kevin Moss, Respiratory Specialist and Health Consultant to the South Bahamas Conference on the Coronavirus. This press conference can be viewed in the weekend’s Adventist News on our Conference website.

For more information on the coronavirus, please visit the Bahamas government website at: www.bahamas.gov.bs\health