It was a morning filled with celebration, and harmonious praise and worship, as the Nation Publishing Co Limited celebrated its 52nd anniversary at Sanctuary Empowerment Centre in Country Road, St Michael, yesterday.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nation Group Noel Wood reflected on 52 years of the media house’s existence.
“Getting to 52 years is an accomplishment we credit not only to God but also to our founders and the vision He gave them. The NATION started as a fledgling newspaper that was not supposed to survive. But with God’s help, their faith, dedication and hard work established the foundation that got us to where we are today,” he told the congregation that included a number of current and former staff members.
He highlighted the NATION’s journey which started out as a weekly print publication 52 years ago and has today expanded into the digital sphere, where readers can now access the e-paper on their phones, laptops, tablets and other electronic devices.
Wood also spoke of the new suite of digital products, from podcasts featuring youth-centred voices, to shows that highlight Barbados’ emerging sports scene, and the country’s arts and entertainment sectors.
He noted that the milestone anniversary was a chance for reflection on the NATION’s achievements, the work of past colleagues and contributions of founders Harold Hoyte and Sir Fred Gollop.
“But it also challenges us to look ahead. We must to protect what is precious from the past but to also look forward, continue to innovate and strive to excel in this new environment,” Wood stressed.
There will be several activities leading up to the anniversary on November 23, including the popular Nation Funathlon next Sunday, as well as Customer Appreciation Day on Friday, November 28.
In a sermon titled I Am Still Here, Elder Cameron Pile reminded the congregants that though they endured rough patches in life, God was still faithful and kept His
Covenant.
He said that as children of God, they were not called to survive but rather to strive to higher heights and follow into God’s purpose for them.
Pile drew attention to the ox when it gets into defence mode as it prepares to fight. Likewise, he encouraged his listeners to assume the defence position when faced with types of warfare as the enemy was always around to attack their lives and those of their families.
“If we are to fight effectively, we must first assume a defensive position. The first thing the ox is going to do is go down on his four knees and raise his horns, and he’s going to fight. He’s going to get a defensive position, look up and prepare his horns to fight.
“How are we going to fight? We are God’s children. We are going to fight on our knees and call upon the name of the Lord. The ox assumes that defensive position and he holds up his head and he’s prepared to fight for his territory. Are you prepared to fight for yours?” the preacher asked.
(AJ)
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