The Arnett Gardens and Greenwich Park neighborhoods witnessed a historic gospel crusade under the direction of Pastor Melvin Francis, an awe-inspiring culmination of faith, devotion, and spiritual awakening. The event, which concluded with a joyful 66 individuals choosing the sacred path of baptism, left an unforgettable mark on the hearts and souls of all in attendance.
The final Sabbath service began with the soul-stirring rendition of "The Midnight Cry," delivered with undeniable passion by music evangelist Hilkiah Jones. With a voice that seemed to touch the heavens, Jones ventured beyond the stage, descending into the congregation to engage with them on a profoundly personal level.
The praise team joined in with the well-known and cherished song "Ancient Words" as Jones' melodious anthem reached its crescendo, setting the tone for a spiritual journey characterized by open hearts and eager souls.
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Underneath the vast open sky, the "Revelation of Hope Gospel Series" unfolded, guided by the resonating lyric of the theme song: "We have come with open hearts; oh, let the ancient words impart". The man at the helm, Pastor Melvin Francis, Executive Secretary for the East Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, delivered an unadulterated message of grace and salvation to a receptive congregation.
Night after night, from Sundays to Wednesdays and on the Sabbaths, for four weeks, the word of God echoed throughout the Greenwich Park and Arnett Gardens communities, illuminating minds and kindling spirits.
Pastor Francis's final sermon was nothing short of a spiritual revelation. He opened with profound questions that tugged at the very essence of faith: "What is heaven really like? Where can we find detailed information about heaven? These queries served as a gateway to a discussion on the topic "Revelation's World of Tomorrow."
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The scripture from Revelation 21:1 set the stage for an impassioned sermon that resonated in the hearts of the faithful. Pastor Francis, supported by his beautiful wife of 13 years, Christine Francis, and visited by esteemed guests, international evangelists Fitz Henry and Elder Noel Jumpp, delivered a message infused with divine inspiration, despite the sweltering heat that enveloped the congregation seated under the tent, eagerly awaiting the word of God.
The essence of his message revolved around the splendors of heaven and the promise of the second coming, a place where golden streets glisten and there will be no more night and no more pain.
No more tears or crying; these will be but distant memories. It was a testament to the eternal joy and happiness awaiting those who embrace Jesus Christ as their savior.
Pastor Francis passionately declared, "God will inject divine energy into our bodies," emphasizing the renewal of strength for those who place their hope in the Lord. His words resonate with hope and faith in a heavenly promise.
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He affirmed that heaven is a place of fellowship where Jesus will personally welcome His children home.
The congregation was moved to express their longing for this divine abode as they cried out, "Jesus, I need you," with tears streaming down their faces and hands raised in surrender.
During the appeal, individuals made their way to the altar, choosing to embark on a journey of faith and salvation. A soulful rendition of "Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior" filled the air as members cried out in gratitude.
As the service came to an end, the last notes of the appeal song "What a Day That Will Be" reverberated through the hearts of the congregation. Elder Noel Jumpp concluded the service with a heartfelt prayer of appeal, offering blessings to the community and a special benediction for Pastor Francis, who continues to declare the word of God with unwavering commitment.
Eight candidates emerged to embrace the waters of baptism, bringing the total number of baptized souls to an astounding 66, a remarkable accomplishment made possible by the unwavering support of pastoral leaders and the visionary guidance of Bro Carlos King.
The Heroes Circle District of Churches, led by Pastor Sebert Hamilton and intern Pastor Byron Anglin, played a pivotal role in bolstering the crusade.
From the Macedonia District of Churches, Pastor Sheldon Schooler and Associate Pastor Mickel Allen, along with their congregation, lent their unwavering support. Their presence and dedication added a layer of spiritual depth to the crusade, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
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The Trench Town District of Churches, under the guidance of Pastor Adolphus Smith, also extended their pastoral support.
Pastor Carl Cunningham, Vice President and Stewardship Ministries Director of the East Jamaica Conference (EJC), assumed a crucial role in coordinating Bible workers who diligently guided the candidates on their spiritual journey towards baptism.
Bro. Carlos King, a member of the Ephesus Seventh-day Adventist Church, was very instrumental in the raising of the crusade. He grew up in the community, and he envisions the land as a model church, beacon of faith, school, and epicenter of influence for the community. King believes the only limitation is the extent of collective faith and vision.
As this gospel crusade draws to a close, the Greenwich Park and Arnett Garden communities stand poised for a spiritual renaissance. The seeds of faith have been sown, and the fruits of this extraordinary event promise to be far-reaching, bringing new hope and spiritual vitality to the hearts of many who will be watered by the presence of a new church to be planted when the tent is taken down.
Truly, this gospel crusade has been a spiritual journey of profound proportions, reminding us that, as the hymn goes, "To God be the glory for the great things He has done."