Many Carnival fetes this season boasted large crowds, but so too did the Point Fortin Open Bible Cathedral's Annual Missions Conference, which concluded last Friday.World-renowned preacher and gospel singer, Pastor Donnie Mc Clurkin, captured the full attention of the large congregation, as he preached the gospel of God in song and in scripture. The cathedral, under the leadership of Pastor Vickram Hajaree, has the capacity to seat a large audience, yet still, seating was inadequate.
Tents and chairs had to be placed on the outside of the building, along with wide-screen projectors.Pastor Mc Clurkin reminded worshippers that the gospel was for every man, and urged them to become like Jesus and foster a spirit of love for their fellowmen. "Lay all your sins out and let God wash them away," he admonished.The pastor then made an appeal to those gathered to get their lives in order. "These are troubled times we are living in....it does not matter who you are," he said, as many from inside and outside of the building flocked to the altar for prayer and repentance. He encouraged them to work to bring change upon the nation.
Pastor Roger Samuel from the Office of the Prime Minister informed the congregation that he was a first a preacher before a politician.He said the church needed to offer solutions to the government on crime, HIV and other issues.He spoke of his involvement in the fight against HIV and Aids, and encouraged Christians too to get tested."The church is the place for help," he said, as he encouraged them to be open and helpful in the fight against stigmatisation.
The congregation was in a jubilant mood when popular local gospel singer and son of the late Ras Short I, Isaac Blackman, took to the stage. He performed some of his gospel songs, including Always Remember.The mission conference is an annual event that features foreign delegates from all over the world, who participate in three nights of service.The event seeks to create an avenue for Christians to get away from worldly activities. Its intent is to share the gospel from an international perspective.