The Kingston Jamaica headquarters church was the location for the 68th annual national convention held from July 19 through July 26. On hand were Ed Habre, Director of Jamaica Work, along with his wife, Kim, who traveled there to worship with those gathered from the eight island churches. The convention theme was “The Bread of Life” with the focus Scripture found in John 6:31-41.

The first Sunday morning worship service began with the entire congregation standing and lifting their collective voices in prayer, consecrating the week of services to the Lord and to the Glory of His name. The sanctuary and balcony were filled to overflowing, as many sat on benches outside or stood at the windows looking in to share in the blessings that fell on all who attended.

District Superintendent Rohan Clough directed the service, making announcements, reading greetings, and acknowledging the presence of visitors, which included Dan and Marlene Morgan, who were visiting the Jamaica churches for the third time. Brother Ed brought the message and used John 6:31-35 as his opening text to lay the foundation for the conference theme that would be explored by various ministers in the week ahead. He reminded the congregation that those who were fed among the 5,000 returned to Jesus the next day for another meal. However, Jesus offered Himself instead as the True Bread, able to meet their more pressing spiritual needs.

Each of the following weekdays, Monday through Thursday, featured different segments of the congregation who were responsible for the meetings and the content of them. Monday was “Men’s Day,” with the theme “Spiritual Malnutrition: Feed Your Soul.” The morning Bible study began with the congregation singing songs that were printed in the conference program, along with favorite choruses. The song preceding the testimonies was entitled “I’m Not Sorry at All”—a declaration of having no regrets in choosing to serve Christ. The teaching was brought by Albert Brown of Spanish Town, taking his text from Hebrews 5:12-14. He spoke on the signs of spiritual malnutrition, reminding the congregation to focus on the source, which is the Bread of Life.

The afternoon session was a panel discussion. The topic was “From Starvation to Satisfaction: Steps Towards a Nourished Life,” presented in a very realistic mock-radio format with a moderator who asked questions of four panelists, which included Brother Ed. During the two hour “broadcast,” the panelists offered practical tips on how to gain spiritual nourishment and be strengthened from the Word of God as a result.

The evening evangelistic service once again featured the men’s choir, which had sung in the morning service. Following the song service and testimonies, the message was from Adrian Francis of Castleton. He continued the theme for the day regarding the danger of being spiritually malnourished and gave an impassioned message of hope to the congregation.

Tuesday was “Youth Day.” The theme was “Beware of the Leaven of Doctrines.” The morning session began with the congregation being led by three young women in singing beautiful and uplifting choruses. The Bible study was brought by Marcia Chong of Kingston with text taken from Matthew 16:5-12. She broke down the topic by defining what it means to beware, what leaven refers to, and the importance of sound doctrine. In the afternoon, the youth led the congregation to march through the surrounding neighborhood, raising awareness of the convention and inviting all to attend an outdoor service that night.

The Tuesday evening service began with singing and an open declaration of the Gospel message of salvation to all those who walked by, and some who stopped to listen. The testimonies given were evangelistic and inspiring. Brother Rohan brought the message from Genesis 3:6-7, concerning what was lost by Adam and Eve through disobedience. Several of the bystanders came forward to pray and indicated that the Lord heard their prayer for salvation.

The theme for Wednesday’s “Ladies’ Day” was “Is Fasting and Prayer Necessary?” Ann Brown of Spanish Town brought the teaching, using various Scripture references to show the purpose for fasting, and the impact it has on one’s prayer life and relationship with God. The afternoon session was a workshop presented by two medical professionals who work at a local area Hospital. Their topic was “Navigating the Journey: Understanding Dementia.” The high rate of this disease among the island population made this topic of keen interest to many who were in attendance.

The evening evangelistic service opened once again with the congregation singing favorite choruses, as well as the theme song “Victory in Jesus!” Time allowed for various attendees to give greetings, including Brother Ed. He used this invitation to exhort the brethren to continue on until everyone gathers in Heaven. Following a round of testimonies, the ladies’ choir sang “Standing on the Promises”—an old-time hymn sung in a meaningfully expressive way that blessed all in attendance. Nerissa Henry of Spanish Town used Mark 9:29 for her text. Continuing with the theme for the day, she reminded the congregation of the power in prayer and fasting to accomplish what God has called each to do.

Thursday’s session was “Sunday School Day.” Dennise Clark of Albert Town brought the morning message on the theme “The Bread that Brings Eternal Life.” In the afternoon following the service, awards were given to Sunday School children for various achievements made during the past year.

The Jamaica 68th national convention ended on Sunday, July 26, with two services. Those visiting from afar departed feeling very blessed for having the privilege to fellowship with the faithful saints in Jamaica, having enjoyed the Lord’s presence in their Spirit-filled meetings.