Caribbean Adventist Leader Receives Life Time Service Award
The special recognition event drew more than 300 attendees, including top church leaders, civic leaders, and eleven other honorees. Among the civic leaders in attendance was Mr. J. Andre Laveau, Consul General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, New York, who complimented Dr, Tobias on his achievement.
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Dr. Kern Tobias, President of the Caribbean Union Conference, was presented with a lifetime achievement award for his unwavering dedication to Church leadership in Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean Union. His tireless efforts in fostering servant leadership within the region were also acknowledged. Image by CARU Media.
At the joint Trinbago Progressive Association and Action Performance Commitment gala awards ceremony, held in Brooklyn, New York, on April 14, 2024. Dr. Kern Tobias, President of the Caribbean Union Conference received a lifetime achievement award for his commitment to Church leadership in Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean Union, and for his persistent endeavors aimed at improving servant leadership in the territory.
Dr. Tobias received a commemorative award - The keys to New York City, a symbol of civic recognition and gratitude reserved for individuals whose service to the public and the common good rises to the highest level of achievement.
Organizers read the award statement, pointing out that Dr.Tobias had exemplified the best of what the Adventist Church can do for a community, for which it cares. In the proclamation, Dr.Tobias was described as a professional facilitator and leader in religious affairs; lauded for his many achievements, and dedicated work.
Dr. Tobias, who has served the church since 1979, is a native of Trinidad and Tobago and the product of Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Christian education. He obtained a Bachelor's degree in Theology from the Caribbean Union College now the University of the Southern Caribbean, a Master’s degree in Religion, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Family Ministry from Andrews University. In 2018, he received the Chaconia Medal, Silver from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for Community service.
Dr. Tobias was honored with a commemorative award - The keys to New York City, a symbol of civic recognition and gratitude reserved for individuals whose service to the public and the common good reaches the highest level of achievement. Image by CARU Media
The special recognition event drew more than 300 attendees, including top church leaders, civic leaders, and eleven other honorees. Among the civic leaders in attendance was Mr. J. Andre Laveau, Consul General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, New York, who complimented Dr, Tobias on his achievement. “I take pleasure in congratulating you on your sterling commitment to your work and achievement,” stated Mr. Laveau. “I trust that you will benefit from the grace of the Almighty as you pursue your work on behalf of humanity.” Field leaders from several conferences across the Caribbean Union territory sent messages of congratulations to Dr. Tobias on this achievement.
Dr Tobias who was also the keynote speaker at the gala event expressed his appreciation and stated, “To serve my church in this capacity has been a privilege and at the same time a great responsibility. I feel honored to represent and work in the religious and governmental environment on behalf of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.”
The tireless work of Trinbago Progressive Association and Action Performance Commitment has made a difference in Trinidad and Tobago over the years through education and contributions of medical equipment and supplies. These organizations were able to fulfil their mandate for community service not only through donations, but also through the many fund raising events including the Awards Gala 2024.
Dr. Tobias, who served as the keynote speaker at the gala, delivered an inspiring address on the importance of appreciation and gratitude. Image by CARU Media.
They have done ten medical missions and served over 50,000 persons. “We have distributed walkers, wheelchairs, canes, beds, and other medical supplies,” said Stephen Isaac, President of the Trinbago Progressive Association.
Dr. Janice McLean, President of Action Performance Community Services shared her appreciation for involvement in the mission. “Our members are overjoyed to share and fulfill the mission. We serve with a sense of purpose and gratitude to the people in our neighborhoods, determined to enhance their lives.” Thededication and commitment to the mission was evident with the number of individuals sacrificing to be part of the auspicious occasion.
Currently, the teams are preparing for their 11th mission trip scheduled for May 13-27, 2024 to Trinidad and Tobago. This mission trip will see scores of health professionals collaborating with the Community Hospital to deliver services to those in need. “On every occasion, we deliver free medical screening as well as intensive education and information on diabetes management, heart health and related diseases,” Isaac Indicated.
Dr. Stephen S. Carryl, CEO of The Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists, provided insights into the hospital's collaboration with two organizations for an upcoming mission initiative. Image by CARU Media.
Representatives from the Caribbean Union and the Tobago Conference joined Dr. Tobias and his family in celebrating the occasion. Image by CARU Media
Mr. Wilfred Desvignes, ADRA and Community Services Director of the Tobago Conference also voiced his admiration for the passion of the people. “The enthusiasm for the mission to the Twin Islands leaves anyone feeling happy. You can see their commitment, even during the crisis. They are committed and passionate about the mission.” The gala event provided time for those in attendance to grasp the vision of community residents in the heart of the pioneers since 1989.
Dr. Tobias in address challenged those across the gathering to be more than just present. “We have a responsibility to move forward in transforming our communities with the message of hope we have in Jesus.” Standing still with a timid smile behind the podium, Pastor, Dr. Tobias was not afraid to indicate who he was, where he came from and what the church meant to him. ‘I am a Seventh-day Adventist Minister and I thank God. All I have accomplished I owe it to God and His church.”
The entire village of family were present for the occasion. They include Pastor Leon George, Mr Keith Tobias, Dr. Kern Tobias, Mrs Linda Linda, Dr Cherry-Joseph Hislop, Mr Linden Hislop, Mrs Aleon Tobias.
Gala co-chairs Samuel Clarke and Angela Cooper, exemplary leadership created an atmosphere, where hope was seen and profoundly felt through the three-hour session. The ambiance was alive with the steel pan music and the air was filled with the passion and anticipation that fueled the lives of those present.