GEORGE HENRY, STAR Writer

Elder Stanford Davis is a member of the Ridgemount United Church in Mandeville, Manchester. His work as an elder can be considered as challenging, but this church leader made it known that he loves what he does for the Lord.

"It is very challenging because there are a lot of things for me to do. The structure that we have at our church demands a lot from me, and of course, you have to report and be accountable for those whom you are responsible," said Davis.

In dealing with the challenges, Elder Davis said he takes things one day at a time and places matter in the hands of the Lord. He said whenever his challenges include other individuals, he ensures he holds discussions with them as well as makes sure his church remains one which serves the people, meets their needs as best as possible, while worshipping God.

He added that he gets others to assist him in meeting the needs of those he serves.

"You have the shut-ins and those you have to give communion and, ensuring that you keep in touch with them, a little phone call here and there. It is amazing to see when you make a phone call to a member, especially a person who cannot come to church, it brings a kind of joy to them," said Elder Davis.

Davis said his walk with the Lord started while he was attending the College of Arts Science and Technology (now University of Technology), when a friend of his invited him to church.

"Soon after that, I went back to Mandeville, following graduation, and I started attending Ridgemount United Church with my sister, who is now abroad. I started serving in church in various capacities," said Davis.

He pointed out that he served as men's fellowship president, as one of the youngest members. Now in his second stint as an elder, Davis said his walk with God has been great, despite its ups and downs, trials and tribulations, but, because he lives one day at a time and has been depending on his Maker for guidance, he has had no need to worry.

"Sometimes I have had so many challenges and have said 'this is the end', but God has worked in such miraculous ways that I can't even explain. I have been against the wall when it comes to challenging work, but God provided and continues to provide for me, especially with me having two children at university. He has always been providing, so I can't leave Him out," said the church leader.

The father of Kisean, Stanecia, Deandra and Michael, and the husband of Clover, Davis said if he should live his life over, he would again live a dedicated one for Christ.

"Sure, I would live a life for Christ because I can't see any other way. If I were to be wrong, I would do it just the same way because of the hope that I have, and I do not see any other hope.

"Also because of the satisfaction it gives, I can't see any other way. I have seen persons living otherwise, coming at the end to regret it.

"I have no regrets, and if I should live my life over I would live it getting even closer to God. I am only sorry that I did not start earlier," said Elder Davis.

Davis' favourite Bible scripture is Psalm 46. One of his favourite songs is There will be a happy meeting. He said some of his favourites include funeral songs.

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