Wednesday, October 13, as well as being the 88th birthday of Hesed member Gladys Dennison, was also the eighth anniversary of the launch of Hesed Christian Fellowship. The first Hesed service was held in New Hedges Village Hall; the fellowship had already met informally where the pastor was living, Bethesda Manse on the Narberth Road. Today, services are held every Sunday at 4.15 pm in Carringtons Restaurant, below the Atlantic Hotel, Tenby. Special preacher for Sunday's anniversary celebration was Pastor Sam Wright, from Bethel Baptist Church, Pembroke Dock. He started his talk by reminding members of his friendship with them that was formed when he was in Bible college and preaching at Bethesda. He also acknowledged the occasions on which Hesed Pastor, Peter Richmond, had preached at Bethel, and the regular contribution his wife, Lynda, makes to the worthwhile restaurant project each Wednesday. Those who understand the trials ministers, preachers, leaders and evangelists face will not have been surprised that Sam's message began with the words "if you preach righteousness, you'll have trouble and opposition." There was one occasion in King David's life when he seemed to have lost everything, including his wife and children, and his army were ganging up on him, feeling that their own loss was his fault. Sam said, however, "things are not always what they seem. It's important to remember this in the Lord's work." He explained that sometimes God allows his servants to feel lost and alone, so that they can only rely on him and his promise that "I have never seen the righteous forsaken, nor his children begging for bread." King David had the sense to know that he wasn't alone. The Bible says that he "encouraged himself in the Lord." "It's no good sitting back and waiting for something to happen," said the preacher, "but what happens when we step out in God's promise? David recovered everything that had been taken from him and his men. Nothing was lacking. "It was one final attack from the enemy to hinder David from becoming king, which was the promise of God," he continued. "When surrounded by trials and difficulties, look up. God is in charge: though everything seems so contrary, we fix our eyes on what is unseen." Dot Quirk, who sang beautifully (accompanied by the 'Sony singers'), had also baked and decorated an impressive cake to commemorate the anniversary. A large number of people were able to partake in the celebration. Pastor of Hesed, Rev. Peter Richmond, can be contacted on 01646 681805. Services are open to all, even late-comers!
