The Bahama Experience:
St. John's Cathedral Youth Group Mission 2001

by Jonathan Cox, St. John’s Cathedral, Knoxville
On the mission trip, I was most deeply affected by the people’s ability to live in such a stage of happiness when they have very little in material wealth. This also shows who money seems to have corrupted the greater majority of the United States (myself included). People here can only be happy with what they can buy, but on the island of Abco, God plays a major role in the everyday lives of the locals. The walls of their houses are lined with pictures of biblical figures and stories, and they thank God for what they have regularly. As for myself, I will try to be more thankful for what I have and respect the Bahamians’ attitude towards life.

Almost everyone, though, was in a state of awe when we stepped into the Anglican/Episcopal church in Foxtown. We arrived late, but a rather explosive hymn was being sung as we entered. Accompanied by a full drum set, several amps and the rhythmic clapping of hands, the congregation cheered mightily for the power of God. This is, without question, a far cry from St. John’s. Although a rather celebratory and joyous church by Knoxville standards, St. John’s is relatively somber in comparison with the churches in the Bahamas. People down there look at God as a great family friend. The way of worship down there has more of a Gospel Baptist atmosphere, rejoicing at the smallest hint of God. Attending services in the Bahamas has opened up to me the myriad of ways that we can celebrate the power of God.