Jamaican gospel fans are eagerly awaiting the 39th annual staging of one of the most anticipated events on the gospel calendar: Genesis Praise Fest 2025. Slated for January 1, 2025, this annual event is a go-to for believers, offering a spiritual start to the new year filled with worship, praise, and powerful ministry. Organized by Jamaica Youth for Christ, the festival has grown in popularity, continuing to impact lives across the island. Excitement for the upcoming event is building, especially following a recent Instagram post from the official Genesis Praise Fest account. The post stirred conversation by asking followers who they would love to see ministering at the 2025 staging. Fans quickly responded, mentioning gospel powerhouses such as Prodigal Son, Papa San, Johnmark Wiggan, Prince Saj, Kevin Downswell, Positive, DJ Nicholas, Jason Mighty, and Petra Kaye. Some even voiced their hopes to see international gospel icons like Tasha Cobbs, Tye Tribbett, Cece Winans, and Israel Houghton grace the stage. In 2024, the festival was held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, featuring unforgettable performances from renowned ministers such as Marvia Providence, Rondell Positive, Goddy Goddy, Rhoda Isabella, Jai Kingston, Johnmark Wiggan, and Rian Davis. Highlights from Genesis Praise Fest 2024 With such a rich history of powerful ministry and worship, it’s no wonder fans are already making plans for the upcoming event. Patrons are being urged to save the date for what is sure to be another spiritually uplifting and unforgettable start to the year.

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (ESV) In life, we may face situations where the path ahead seems unclear or where we cannot see how things will work out. In these moments, we are challenged to rely not on what we see, but on our faith in God’s plan. Faith isn’t just about believing when things are going well; it’s about trusting in God when the future is uncertain, when we don’t have all the answers. The apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:7 that we walk by faith, not by sight. This means placing our confidence in God's wisdom and direction, even when our own understanding falls short. Walking by faith requires surrendering control and embracing the unknown. It’s not always easy, but it’s in these moments of surrender that we grow deeper in our trust of God. We don’t need to see every detail of His plan to know that He is guiding our steps. We are called to trust that He will provide what we need in His perfect timing. Today, reflect on areas of your life where you’re struggling to walk by faith. Is there a decision you’re facing where you’re relying more on what you can see than on God’s promises? Surrender those areas to Him. Remember, God is faithful, even when the path is unclear. Trust that He will lead you exactly where you need to go. Prayer: Lord, help me to walk by faith and not by sight. I trust You even when I cannot see the full picture. Strengthen my faith so that I may follow You with confidence, knowing that Your plans for me are good. Teach me to surrender control and trust in Your perfect will. Amen. Reflection: What situations in your life are calling you to walk by faith instead of relying on what you see? How can you grow in your trust in God’s guidance, even when the outcome is hard to see?

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28 (NKJIV) Life often feels overwhelming. The pressures of work, family, and personal responsibilities weigh us down, and it can seem as though there's never enough time or energy to accomplish it all. In these moments, we may find ourselves running on empty—physically, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted. Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28 offer a simple yet profound invitation: “Come to me.” He doesn’t demand perfection, nor does He require us to have everything figured out. Instead, He invites us to rest in Him. This is not merely a physical rest, but a spiritual one. It’s the rest that comes from knowing we don’t have to carry our burdens alone. What would it look like to lay down your burdens at Jesus’ feet today? Sometimes, we hold on to our struggles tightly, thinking we must solve them ourselves. But Christ calls us to let go and trust Him. His promise is clear: He will give us rest. This doesn’t mean that all of life’s difficulties will suddenly disappear, but it means we can find peace in His presence, even amidst the chaos. This week, take time to pause and reflect on what is causing you stress or fatigue. In prayer, bring those things to Jesus. He is ready to carry what you cannot. His love is a refuge, His grace a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles. When we trust Him with our weariness, we are met with a peace that surpasses all understanding. Prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today weary and burdened. Thank You for offering rest to my soul. Help me to release the things that weigh me down and trust in Your strength and provision. Teach me to find peace in Your presence, and remind me that I don’t have to carry my burdens alone. In Your name, I pray, Amen. Reflection: What burdens are you carrying right now that you need to give to God? How can you create space in your life to rest in His presence this week?

Jamaican gospel singer and guitarist, Flavia Beswick-Malcolm, has announced the return of her podcast, Kingdom Creatives , for its third season. Launched in 2023, the podcast is dedicated to helping Christians who are struggling as creative individuals, particularly those unsure of where to start or how to find their niche. In a recently uploaded Instagram post, she wrote the caption, "🚨Are you ready for Season 3 of the @kingdomcreativespodcast? 🚨 #swipeleft⬅️" The brand new episode titled "What's in Your Hand?" focuses on the story of Moses and how God used him mightily despite his fears and insecurities; how God can use what we consider small to make a big impact. Beswick-Malcolm says her mission is to empower listeners by providing practical "tips, soul-nourishing nuggets, and heartfelt interviews that inspire you on your creative journey", noting that she sees the podcast as a platform "Where faith meets artistry". Past guests she has interviewed on the podcast include gospel vocalist, Sean L. Ennis, musician and evangelist Yannick Reid, and Trinidadian singer/songwriter Shermaine John. Listeners can stream Kingdom Creatives on major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Beswick-Malcolm is best known for her 2019 single God Will . Her musical collaborations include Johnmark Wiggan ( Something Good , 2019) and Shurnelle Spencer ( Claim It , 2020).

Sophia Laing, the wife of veteran gospel artiste Cleveland 'Lt Stitchie' Laing, has come forward to dismiss false reports circulating online about her husband's passing. These rumors stem from a YouTube video uploaded Monday night, which sparked concern and confusion among fans. The video, titled ‘Lieutenant Stitchie is dead at 58,’ quickly spread across social media and messaging apps like WhatsApp, leading many fans to share premature condolences. However, Sophia quickly dispelled the rumors, confirming that he is alive and that she refuses to focus on the negativity. Two weeks ago, Lt Stitchie, suffered a severe brain hemorrhage and was hospitalized in critical condition. This crisis has left him unresponsive, prompting Sophia to launch a GoFundMe campaign to seek financial help for his extensive medical care. "While his condition is gradually improving, he remains in need of significant rehabilitation to continue his progress. The road to full recovery will be long and challenging, and the Laing family is currently seeking a rehabilitation facility that can provide the specialized therapy and care Cleve needs to regain his strength and mobility." As of now, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over US$17,000, but it still has a long way to go to meet the US$100,000 goal needed to cover his long-term medical expenses. Sophia and the Laing family are standing strong by his side but acknowledge that the costs associated with his care are significant. "We are diligently looking for the appropriate facility that can provide Cleve with the care he needs. In the meantime, we are requesting your prayers and financial support to help make this possible". Known in the dancehall scene for hits like "Natty Dread" and "Wear Yu Size," Lt Stitchie became one of the most influential figures in reggae and dancehall music. In the late 1990s, he underwent a spiritual transformation, dedicating his life to Christianity and transitioning to gospel music. Since then, he has used his platform to inspire and uplift audiences globally, blending his dancehall roots with messages of faith. If you or someone you know can offer financial support towards Lt. Stitchie's recovery, you may contribute to the GoFundMe campaign here .

The Sterling Gospel Music Awards is set to make a grand return for its 8th annual staging on Saturday, October 5, at the Emmanuel Apostolic Church, in Kingston. Gospel music enthusiasts are gearing up for an unforgettable evening filled with music, praise, and a celebration of Jamaican gospel artistry. This year’s theme, “Vintage Glam,” takes inspiration from the popular Bridgerton series, promising a night of timeless elegance. Attendees are encouraged to don their best vintage-inspired outfits, a stark difference from their 7th staging's classic black-and-white dress code. The evening promises to be a grand affair, starting with the red carpet event from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., where guests will have the chance to showcase their vintage glam outfits and mingle with other attendees. Showtime kicks off at 7 p.m. sharp, so punctuality is a must for those wanting to catch every moment of this gospel extravaganza. A lineup of renowned ministers will grace the stage, each bringing their unique style of praise. Attendees can look forward to soul-stirring performances from Sherwin Gardner, Audia Spencer-Brown, Jodian Pantry, Junior Tucker, Genesis Praise Squad, and Gilead Collective. In total, there will be 18 awards distributed. Leading the nominations is Johnmark Wiggan, who has secured an impressive 8 nods. Here’s a look at some of the key categories and the talented artists vying for the top spots: Album of the Year: The competition is fierce in this category, with nominations for Johnmark Wiggan, Jai Kingston, Kevin Downswell, and H.U.M.B.L.E. Male Artist of the Year: Kevin Downswell, Johnmark Wiggan, Prince Saj, and Jai Kingston are in the running for this title. Female Artiste of the Year: Chevelle Franklyn, Maria Providence, Petra-Kaye, and Rhoda Isabella are the nominees for this award. Breakout Sensation of the Year: This category celebrates emerging talent in the gospel music scene with Audia Spencer-Brown, Trevelle Clarke-Whyne, H.U.M.B.L.E, and Kayann Ledford. Tickets are currently on pre-sale, offering a chance for guests to secure their spots ahead of time. The cost is $5,000 for pre-sold tickets, while those purchasing at the gate will pay $6,000. For the little ones, children aged 12 and under can attend for just $1,800. Tickets can be purchased at Fontana stores or online at spurropen.com/sterling8 . To add an extra element of excitement, the first 100 attendees to arrive will receive a special Sterling swag bag packed with surprise goodies.

We all go through tough times, whether it’s dealing with stress, anxiety, or even just feeling lost. But here's the thing; our faith can give us the strength we need to get through those moments. Spiritual practices like prayer and meditating on God's Word are not just comforting; they can actually help us manage our mental health. Let's talk about how these practices can make a real difference in our lives. Why Prayer Matters Prayer is more than just a ritual; it’s a real conversation with God. It’s where we can pour out everything we’re feeling—our fears, our worries, our hopes—and leave them with the One who truly cares for us. The Bible tells us, "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7).  When you pray, you’re letting go of the need to control everything and trusting that God has got you. That alone can bring a huge sense of relief. Studies even back this up; people who pray often feel less stressed and more hopeful. Plus, when we take a moment during prayer to express gratitude, it shifts our focus away from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. It’s like a reset button for our minds. Meditating on God’s Word: Finding Calm in Chaos Now, let’s talk about Christian meditation. It’s not just about clearing your mind; it’s about filling it with God’s truth. In Psalm 1:2-3, it says, "...but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water..." This means that when we meditate on God's Word, we ground ourselves. We become like that strong tree that isn’t easily shaken by life’s storms. Lean on Your Faith Community Another huge part of faith that can support our mental health is community. The church isn't just a place we go on Sundays; it's a network of people who should be there for each other. In Galatians 6:2, it says, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." Having others around who genuinely care, who will pray for you, and who can lend a listening ear, reminds you that you don’t have to face your struggles alone. While you certainly shouldn't confide in just anyone at the church, you should ask God who is sincere and wants the best for you. Faith is Powerful Let’s be clear; faith doesn’t magically remove life’s challenges. We’re still going to face hardships, stress, and uncertainty. But our faith equips us to handle them. By turning to prayer, diving into God’s Word, and surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, we’re reminded that we have a solid foundation to lean on. In those moments when it all feels like too much, just know that you don’t have to carry it alone. God’s got you. Your faith, your prayers, and your support system are there to help you through. So next time life hits hard, remember you have a source of strength that’s greater than any problem you’re facing. You're not alone, and you never will be.

We’ve all had those days that start off rushed, with us scrambling out of bed, grabbing a quick breakfast, and rushing into the day. It usually leaves us feeling frazzled, and let’s be honest—it sets a tone that’s hard to shake off. Now, imagine how different the day would feel if we started it with a few moments of peace, prayer, and time with God. A faith-based morning routine can completely shift our mindset, giving us a sense of calm and focus that carries through the day. Starting your day with intention can make a world of difference. Think of it this way: the first things you do in the morning are like the foundation of a house. If the foundation is shaky, the rest of the house won’t stand strong. But if it’s solid, everything else feels more manageable. Spending the first moments of your day in prayer, reading Scripture, and just being still before God sets up that strong foundation. It’s a chance to align your mind and spirit with His presence before the busyness of life kicks in. Starting with Prayer Prayer is our direct line to God, and in the quiet of the morning, it can be especially powerful. Before diving into your to-do list or checking your phone, take a moment to talk to God. It doesn’t have to be anything long or elaborate; it’s just about starting a conversation. Thank Him for the new day, ask for guidance, and place your worries in His hands.  By opening your day with prayer, you’re basically saying, "God, I trust You with whatever comes my way today." This simple act can set your heart at ease and shift your focus away from what might go wrong to the One who's in control. Remember the words of Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." When we start the day with this mindset, it becomes easier to face whatever challenges may come. Diving Into Devotionals After prayer, spending some time in devotionals can deepen your connection with God. Devotionals are like little reminders of His truths, providing insights that can really speak to what you might be going through. It’s about pausing to listen, to see what God might be trying to teach or show you that day. Set aside five to ten minutes to read a passage from the Bible or a devotional book that resonates with you. If you're new to this, there are plenty of short, daily devotionals that guide you through Scripture and offer practical ways to apply it to your life. You’d be surprised how often these readings feel tailor-made for what you’re facing, offering the exact encouragement or wisdom you need. As you read, think about how the passage applies to your day ahead. Maybe it’s a reminder to be patient, or perhaps it’s about trusting God in uncertainty. Let that truth sink in and shape your attitude as you move through your morning. Quiet Time to Listen After you pray and read, take a moment to just be still. I know, it can be tough to slow down, especially when your mind is already racing with the day's plans. But this moment of quiet is where you really get to listen. In Psalm 46:10, God says, "Be still, and know that I am God." It’s in these still moments that we often sense His guidance, comfort, and assurance.  This isn’t about sitting in complete silence for hours; it’s just about creating a space where you can breathe, reflect on what you’ve prayed and read, and listen for that gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit. It might be as simple as feeling a sense of calm about a decision or gaining a fresh perspective on a problem you’ve been worrying about.  The key to making this routine work is consistency. You don’t have to be perfect at it. Some mornings you might have more time, and others you might be rushing. The point isn’t to follow a strict ritual but to build a habit that sets the tone for your day. Even if you can only spare five minutes some mornings, that time can make a difference in how you approach the day.

In life, we all face moments of uncertainty. Whether it’s a health crisis, financial struggles, or unexpected challenges that shake our foundations, the feeling of not knowing what comes next can be overwhelming. However, as Christians, we have access to a source of unshakable hope and strength. Our faith in God and the teachings of the Bible remind us that we are never alone in our struggles. Instead, we have countless examples of God's faithfulness to His people, even in the most uncertain times. The Bible is filled with stories of men and women who faced difficult times yet found their strength in God. These accounts are not just historical narratives but living testimonies of God’s power, love, and guidance for us today. The Israelites and the Red Sea (Exodus 14) One of the most powerful stories of finding strength in uncertainty is that of the Israelites as they fled Egypt. They stood at the brink of the Red Sea, with Pharaoh's army rapidly closing in behind them. The situation seemed hopeless. However, Moses, a man of faith, did not succumb to fear. He declared, "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still" (Exodus 14:14). In that moment of crisis, God parted the sea, allowing them to pass through on dry ground.  This story teaches us that, even when it seems like there is no way out, God can make a way. When we are faced with situations that appear impossible, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes. The uncertainty we feel can be a place where God’s power is revealed most profoundly. Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16) During a severe drought, Elijah encountered a widow gathering sticks. She had just enough flour and oil to prepare a final meal for herself and her son before they expected to die from hunger. But Elijah, directed by God, asked her to make him a small cake first and assured her that God would provide. In a remarkable act of faith, the widow obeyed, and as a result, her flour and oil did not run out during the famine. Even in the most dire circumstances, God's provision is limitless. In times of uncertainty, when resources seem scarce, our faith in God's promises can sustain us. It reminds us that God sees our needs and will provide, often in ways we do not expect. Jesus Calms the Storm (Mark 4:35-41) In the New Testament, we see another example of God’s sovereignty when Jesus calmed the storm. While Jesus and His disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee, a fierce storm arose. The disciples, experienced fishermen, were terrified as the waves threatened to capsize their boat. Meanwhile, Jesus was asleep. In their panic, they woke Him, crying out, "Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?" Jesus got up, rebuked the wind, and commanded the sea to be still. Immediately, the storm ceased. How many times in your life have you thought that Jesus seemed nonchalant during your hardship? This scripture teaches us that no matter how chaotic our circumstances may seem, He is in the boat with us. His command over nature illustrates His ultimate authority over every situation. When uncertainty threatens to consume us, we can call on Jesus, knowing that He has the power to calm every storm in our lives. These biblical accounts offer timeless lessons on navigating the uncertainties of our own lives. But how do we, as modern believers, tap into that strength? Here are a few practical ways to find strength during difficult times: Trust in God's Promises The Bible is filled with promises that offer comfort and assurance. In Isaiah 41:10, God says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Meditating on verses like these can shift our focus from our problems to God's unchanging character and His faithfulness. Seek God's Presence in Prayer When uncertainty strikes, our first response should be to seek God in prayer. The apostle Paul encourages us in Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." In prayer, we find peace that surpasses understanding, reminding us that God is greater than any storm we face. Lean on Your Community of Faith The church is meant to be a support system. In times of uncertainty, do not isolate yourself. Reach out to fellow believers for prayer, encouragement, and wise counsel. The Bible says in Galatians 6:2, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ."  Remember God’s Past Faithfulness Reflect on previous situations where God has come through for you. The same God who helped you then is the same God who is with you now. Remembering His past faithfulness builds our faith for present challenges. The truth is, life will always have moments of uncertainty. However, as children of God, we are not left to face these moments alone or in our own strength. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, God reassures us, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." It is often in our most vulnerable times that we experience God’s power the most.  So, the next time fear and doubt loom, let us remember to trust in God’s promises and find our strength in the One who holds our future. As we navigate life's storms, may we be reminded that God is always in control, ready to part seas, provide in famine, and calm the waves.

Jamaican dancehall gospel artiste DJ Nicholas has fans excited about his upcoming release, Prayer Meeting . A recent teaser video shared on social media gives a glimpse into the studio session where the track was recorded. In the video, DJ Nicholas is seen performing the new song, with his son, Malachi, seated in the studio engineer's chair suggesting that Malachi may have been involved in the production of the song, adding a personal touch to the project. Prayer Meeting promises to be another standout track from DJ Nicholas, drawing on his signature blend of dancehall rhythms and uplifting gospel messages. The song is characterized by his usual high-energy beat and powerful delivery, making it highly anticipated and a must-listen. The opening verse sets a dynamic tone as DJ Nicholas boldly proclaims, "The place hot like a prayer meeting. Demon run when the fire reach him. Use the word like a wire beat him. Obedience and prayer beat him," vividly illustrating a narrative of spiritual warfare where believers emerge victorious through faith and prayer. With an impressive discography boasting six albums, DJ Nicholas has solidified his position as a key figure in the Jamaican gospel music landscape. His most recent album, Abnormal Decibels (2021), features unforgettable tracks such as Earth Lord and Say What . Still, classics like Cut it Off from School of Volume (2011) and Pop Off the Word from On the Shout (2005) continue to resonate within the Christian community, underscoring the longevity and impact of his career.

Prophet Ryan Mark, lead pastor of Pure In Heart Ministries International and a renowned gospel artiste in Jamaica, has called for national repentance in a video uploaded to his Instagram account, following a profound dream he says he experienced recently. In his dream, Prophet Mark found himself driving when he encountered a police checkpoint. Despite the uncertainty, he says he felt a strong prompt to stop. He parked his car and as he was speaking to one of the officers, he heard another say, "Jesus Christ, a wha dat?!" As he looked up the street, he saw floodwaters surging towards where his vehicle was parked, bringing with them widespread destruction. The dream vividly depicted the devastation as cars were overturned and people ran frantically. Prophet Mark went on to share that when the flood waters had subsided, he observed absolute destruction with cars piled up on each other and a scene of chaos. Amidst this, people began stripping parts from the wrecked vehicles. He recalls being bewildered that in such mayhem, people found the time and the heart to be stealing from others. Prophet Mark notes that in the dream he had a clear understanding that the owners of the vehicles were persons of wealth or higher economic status and those stripping the vehicles seemingly represented persons of lower income or social status. He shares his revelation that the scene revealed, that in times of judgment, no one is exempt from suffering—the wealthy and less fortunate alike face the consequences. He says the sight also brought home the message of the frailty of material possessions. After waking from this troubling dream, he says he soon fell back asleep, only to experience another disturbing scene. In this part of the dream, he found himself in Hellshire, St. Catherine, where floodwaters had returned. Seeking refuge at an elevated stall, he and others watched as the waters rose and ultimately destroyed it. The owner of the stall, who had been anxiously hoping and praying to protect his livelihood, was left distraught as the floodwaters claimed everything in its path. Prophet Mark, struck by the image of the dirty, brown waters and the widespread ruin, reiterated that the scene felt like utter judgment. The dream soon came to an end with him on a high-rise building where he notes he felt some level of security. Upon waking, Prophet Mark says he felt the Lord urging him to deliver a message akin to that given to the biblical prophet Jonah. Just as Jonah was sent to Nineveh to warn of impending destruction if the people did not repent, Prophet Mark believes he has been called to warn Jamaica. He asserts that the dream was a divine message urging Jamaica to seek repentance before it's too late and is calling for a national day of fasting and prayer, asking Jamaica’s leaders, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness, to organize the event. He believes this collective spiritual effort is crucial to beseeching the grace and mercy of God, highlighting that other methods such as the states of emergency continuously implemented in different sections of the island to curb issues such as crime have been of little effect.