Márquez Challenges NEJC Delegates to Make 4th Quadrennial Session a Place of Purpose

“Have we come here simply to attend another congress, listen to reports, complete an agenda and then leave?”

 

That was the question Professor Abel Márquez, communication director of the Inter-American Division (IAD), placed before delegates as the North East Jamaica Conference (NEJC) of Seventh-day Adventists opened its 4th Quadrennial Session at Camp Don, Robins Bay, St. Mary on Monday, August 10, 2026.

 

Delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony, Márquez challenged delegates to look beyond the reports, voting and administrative business that will characterize the Session and allow the gathering to become a meaningful “place” of spiritual renewal, relationships and renewed commitment to mission.

 

“Or will this become a true place for us?” he asked.

 

Drawing on Psalm 3, Márquez used the contrast between a “place” and a “non-place” to frame his message. Referencing the work of French anthropologist Marc Augé, he described “non-places” as transient spaces — such as highways, airports and rest stops — through which people generally pass without developing the relationships, memories and sense of belonging that give a place meaning.

 

Márquez suggested that even a church gathering could become a “non-place” if participants merely arrive, complete their responsibilities and leave unchanged.

 

“Are we simply occupying a chair, filling a seat, completing an assignment, representing our district, our church, or fulfilling our role?” he asked.

 

Instead, he urged delegates to take responsibility for making the Session meaningful through their participation and commitment to the mission of the church.

 

“By listening carefully, participating faithfully, encouraging others and keeping mission at the centre, each of us helps transform this gathering from a simple event into something meaningful,” Márquez said.

 

He eventually brought the question closer when he asked, “Has God found a place in us?” 

 

Márquez told delegates that God does not desire to be merely a temporary presence in their lives but to dwell within them and shape their identity, relationships and decisions.

OneVoice27 and a Renewed Focus on Mission

 

Márquez also used the occasion to highlight OneVoice27, a global Seventh-day Adventist communication and mission initiative.

He told delegates that they would be hearing increasingly about the initiative and encouraged them to participate in its emphasis on proclaiming and living the mission of the church.

 

NEJC Opens Fourth Quadrennial Session

 

Márquez’s address formed part of an opening ceremony that brought together delegates, church administrators, civic representatives and guests as NEJC formally began its fourth quadrennial constituency gathering.

 

Pastor Uwayne Orr, executive secretary of NEJC, delivered the opening remarks, while NEJC President Pastor Danielo Daniels welcomed delegates and guests.

 

Member of Parliament for St. Mary Omar Newell brought greetings to the gathering. 

Delegates Approve Electronic Voting

 

As the Session moved from its ceremonial opening into constituency business, delegates voted to use electronic voting for the proceedings.

 

The decision establishes the method by which delegates will cast votes as they consider matters requiring the action of the constituency during the Session.

 

The 4th Quadrennial Session brings together representatives from across the North East Jamaica Conference to receive reports on the work accomplished during the previous four-year period, conduct the business of the constituency and make decisions that will guide the Conference during the next administrative term.