by Dr. Paula Olivier
I never imagined in a million years that I would be entrusted with an assignment of the magnitude of the United Youth Congress. By nature, I prefer to keep my head down and quietly do God’s assigned work. BAYDA leadership was never on my radar, yet God opened this door.
When I received the assignment, it was already midstream, and much of the United Youth Congress planning had to be rebuilt from the ground up. The Lord guided me in designing the logo and led me to the theme text, 2 Timothy 1:7. From there, multiple layers of planning unfolded. What is normally a five-year process had to be accomplished in just two years—and one of those years was also shared with the massive responsibility of International Camporee. Still, by God’s grace, and with the perseverance of the BAYDA team, we pressed forward. I must give a special word of gratitude to our BAYDA Directors for carrying this extraordinary load while also fulfilling your regular Conference assignments. It was far from easy, but you remained faithful. Thank you for your service; your thoughtful gift of appreciation truly warmed my heart.
To my Northeastern Conference UYC volunteer staff—Ingrid Pierre, Jonathan Coicou, Nancy & Mike Cuffie, Ruth Milius, Victoria Boyce, Gordon Jones, Chee Daniel, Cecil Ward Jr., Socrate Joseph, Mark Henry, and Daniel Francois to name a few—you reminded me that “God’s biddings are His enabling.” Over these past four years, I have had the privilege of serving alongside you in our NEC Youth and Young Adult Leadership Conventions, International Camporee planning, Rally Days, Inductions, Investitures, sports ministry, and new initiatives in Community Outreach. Each time, I have witnessed you embrace the challenge, rise to the occasion, perform with grace under pressure, and remain resolute until the mission was accomplished. My husband and I are grateful for the way you helped shoulder each task.
Thank you for coming alongside me, for sacrificing time away from work and family, and for pressing forward even when sick, tired, or working into the early hours of the morning. The fruit of your labor speaks for itself. We saw the joy on the faces of youth from across the country and around the world. We saw them exercise their gifts, enjoy good clean fellowship, be instructed and equipped—and most importantly, we witnessed souls give their lives to Christ. For that, it was all worth it.
To our NEC AYMD team, with Associate Youth Director Pastor Javier Alcon and Lorraine Graham, thank you for your faithful leadership and service.
To ORCM, with Chairperson Dana Edmond and Treasurer Dr. Margaret Neckles, and to the members of the Regional Conference Presidents’ Caucus, chaired formerly by President Roger Bernard and now by Dr. Carlton Byrd, thank you for your support. A special word of gratitude to my own Conference administrators, led by President Dr. Eldeen King—your encouragement and backing have meant more than words can express.
To our Union and Division leaders, to those who offered counsel, like Pastor Darriel Hoy, Pastor Wayne Hewlette, our field secretary Charmeretta Timothy and others along the way, and to all who held me up in prayer—thank you. I saw your call for prayer. I felt them. And I can testify that God heard and God answered. To our children, youth and young adults: never forget that you are valued, cherished, and loved beyond measure by God, who calls you His own.
To my beloved Dr. Smith Olivier, that anniversary surprise was one for the books—beautifully planned, full of meaning, and a reflection of your love. I will treasure the memory always.
As I reflect, I realize our theme was also my journey. I had to Fear Less and trust more. I am humbled and inspired by what God has done. Truly, “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psalm 118:23).
With a grateful heart,
Dr. Paula Olivier
Director
Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Northeastern Conference/
BAYDA President