Leaders across Jamaica’s political, religious, and civic spheres gathered at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel for the 45th anniversary of the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB).
Under the theme ‘Righteousness Exalts a Nation’, members convened on Thursday with a confirming message of hope, unity, and spiritual renewal.
Their unified goal was to reflect on the importance of servant leadership and intercessory prayer for the nation.
Bishop Dr Stevenson Samuels and Pastor Claudia Ferguson welcomed the participants, emphasizing the centrality of faith in addressing Jamaica’s pressing challenges.
The invocation, led by Rev Dr Wayneford McFarlane of the Jamaica Methodist Church, set the tone, calling for gratitude and divine intervention.
Musical interludes by Redemption Rhythms infused the gathering with uplifting praise and worship, reinforcing the purpose of the event.
Reverend Sam McCook, chair of the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast Committee, followed with inspiring remarks that underscored the organisations enduring mission: Fostering unity among leaders and encouraging moral integrity in governance and society.
‘Our theme this year is a call to Jamaicans in leadership spaces to pursue righteousness, not as people who start from a position of righteousness, but as people who are pursuing righteousness in all that we do,’ McCook said.
Later, a video presentation traced the rich history of the NLPB. Patrons were reminded of the NLPB’s pivotal role in our spiritual and civic life.
A key feature of the event were prayers offered for Jamaica’s leaders — the governor general, the prime minister and the leader of the opposition.
Both PM Holness and Golding, MP, read Proverbs 14:26-35 and Matthew 5:1-10, respectively, reflecting on the virtues of trust in God and humility in leadership.
Deputy Governor-General Steadman Fuller, who brought greetings on behalf of the Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, commended the work of the NLPB by way of national development through prayer and fellowship.
A moving youth testimonial by Romeo Elliot, a member of Grace Missionary Church, underscored the transformative power of faith among Jamaica’s youth.
Elliott recounted his spiritual journey, humble background, and fervent dedication to walking with the Lord, and he encouraged his peers to yearn for and cling to righteousness, saying ‘Your circumstances don’t define you. Your choices do.’
Organisers announced the 2025 outreach project as part of a commitment to impactful community engagement. The Committee will focus on supporting The Tegwyn House, a special unit at the Jamaica National Children’s Home that cares for children who have severe mental and physical disabilities and need 24-hour care.
The keynote address by Dr David Henry of Swallowfield Chapel was a reflection of the intersection of faith, leadership, and national progress, which encouraged leaders to embody servant leadership and moral courage.
‘Righteousness transforms lives, families, work and our relationships, and if embraced, will exalt a nation,’ said the clergyman.
Henry closed out the event with personal reflections, prayers, and a benediction by Bishop Courtney Golding.
The National Leadership Prayer Breakfast, backed by VM Group and Best Dressed Chicken, remains a beacon of hope, inspiring leaders to transcend political and societal divides to pursue a united and prosperous Jamaica.
