The mood, on the opening day of the 58th General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, could accurately be described as cool, calm and collected. But, in truth, it has not been without its trials and tribulations and organizers were requ
The mood, on the opening day of the 58th General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, could accurately be described as cool, calm and collected. But, in truth, it has not been without its trials and tribulations and organizers were required to paper over a few cracks.
Foremost among the difficulties encountered has been the intense heat experienced in St Louis’ America’s Center during the days leading up to the 2005 quinquennial. Last weekend, and during the early part of this week, weather forecasters on local television stations delivered heat warnings for the city, predicting temperatures that would hover somewhere between 100 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
Throughout that time, an advanced guard, hundreds of God’s soldiers delegated to prepare this ambitious General Conference Session, worked conscientiously; unpacking crates, setting up display stands, setting out dining halls, prayer rooms and the million and one features and facilities so vital as the church conducts this business meeting in the Missouri city.
They did it in stratospheric temperatures, the impressive America’s Center and the cavernous Edward Jones Dome temporarily air-conditioning free zones — the air-conditioners were not switched on until the outer doors officially opened to the public on Wednesday.
But, by the time Lowell Cooper declared the 58th General Conference Session open, all was prepared for another momentous 11-day gathering. The air conditioning is now on and thousands of Adventists swim in cool, clean air. Meanwhile, outside, the temperature continues to soar.
The world church president has delivered his opening address, the election of the nominating committee is complete, and music fit to grace any concert hall is punctuating the business and devotional sessions.
The thousands flocking into St Louis for this Adventist gathering look forward to nine days of business, music, prayer and praise.
Inside America’s Center, all now appears cool, calm and collected.
Editor’s Note: John Smith was a BBC producer and broadcaster for 14 years and part of the team that won a Sony Gold award for the radio coverage of the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales. He is serving as operations manager for the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s communication team at the St. Louis meeting.