Gospel Fest 2024 Launches with Renewed Commitment to Message and Cause | Barbados Gospel Fest

Gospel Fest 2024 has officially been launched with the organisers remaining committed to the cause and message of the region’s premier gospel festival.

During a brief media conference at Chefette Corporate Office, Lears, St Michael, executive producer of Barbados Gospel Fest Adrian Agard signalled all was set for the May 26 to June 2 event.

“As I reflect on our experience over the past 30 years and consider our mission, this verse of a song done by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir came to mind, ‘We are an anchor for those who are hurting, we are a harbour for those who are lost, and sometimes it isn’t easy bearing the calvary’s cross. We have been ridiculed by those who don’t know him, and mocked by those who don’t believe, still I love standing up for my Jesus, because of all he has done for me. That’s why I am not ashamed of the gospel, the gospel of Jesus Christ.

“That is the vision, the motivation, the purpose for which we have been here for the past 30 years, and we step into the 31st with a renewed vigour and excitement about what God will do in this nation and beyond, as we encourage people to give honour and glory to God.”

Agard thanked this year’s sponsors, including Chefette, SigniaGlobe Finance, Starcom Network, and Barbados Public Workers’ Co-operative Credit Union Limited, for coming on board.

“We’ve spent the past two years trying to regain our feet after the impact of the COVID pandemic. 2022 was a tough year and 2023 was even more challenging,” he said.

“One may expect that given the kind of challenges this country faces, an activity like this would be embraced. However, on the contrary, over the years we have encountered those who are willing to pretend that the Barbados Gospel Fest does not exist, while others are of the misguided notion that if they ignore us long enough we will disappear; however, with God’s help we press on.”

This year’s specially invited artistes include Nigerian sensation Limoblaze, award-winning artiste Samuel Medas, and Marvia Providence.

Agard encouraged Barbadians and visitors to come out and enjoy the multiple events in this year’s festival, saying that it was the right time for people to renew their faith.

“We are living in a time when, for some, it is politically incorrect to speak the name of Jesus, to mention the Gospel, or talk about God, except when there is some pending danger, when maybe a threatening weather system reminds us that we are really not in control. We then hear the calls for a day of prayer… but I want to remind us that God is not a convenience.”

Gospel Fest 2024 will kick off with a thanksgiving service at the Mount Olive United Holy Church of America in Carrington Village, St Michael on May 26. This will be followed the next day by a public lecture, Campaign of Hope, at the Calvary Moravian Church in Roebuck Street.

Hymnspeak will be held on May 28 at St Mary’s Anglican Church, Bridgetown; Legacy on the Bay is scheduled for May 29 at Savvy On the Bay, Bay Street, St Michael and Laughter & Jazz will be held at the same location on May 31.