KINGSTON, Jamaica- Friday, January 17, 2025: The 2025 National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB) convened on Thursday, January 16, with a resounding message of hope, unity, and spiritual renewal. Leaders from across Jamaica’s political, religious, and civic spheres gathered at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel for the event’s 45th anniversary—held under the theme “Righteousness Exalts a Nation”—to reflect on the importance of servant leadership and intercessory prayer for the nation.
Bishop Dr Stevenson Samuels and Pastor Claudia Ferguson opened the programme with a warm welcome, 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 a reverent tone, calling for gratitude and divine intervention.
Rev. Sam McCook, Chairman of the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast Committee, followed with inspiring remarks that underscored the event’s enduring mission: fostering unity among leaders and encouraging moral integrity in governance and society. “Our theme this year is a call to all Jamaicans in all 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,” said the reverend.
An engaging video presentation traced the rich history of the NLPB, reminding participants of its pivotal role in Jamaica’s spiritual and civic life.
Deputy Governor-General Steadman Fuller, who brought greetings on behalf of His Excellency The Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen, commended the NLPB for its continued dedication to national development through prayer and fellowship. Musical interludes by Redemption Rhythms infused the gathering with uplifting praise and worship, reinforcing the spirituality and solemnity of the event.
Central to the event were prayers offered for Jamaica’s leaders—The Governor-General, the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. These moments of collective supplication highlighted the shared responsibility of national leadership to seek divine wisdom in decision-making.
Biblical readings from Proverbs 14:26-35 and Matthew 5:1-10 were delivered by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness and Leader of the Opposition Mark Golding, MP, respectively, reflecting on the virtues of trust in God and humility in leadership.
A heartfelt youth testimonial by Romeo Elliot, a member of Grace Missionary Church, spotlighted the transformative power of faith among Jamaica’s youth. Elliott spoke about his spiritual journey, humble background and fervent dedication to walking with the Lord. He encouraged young people from similar socioeconomic backgrounds to yearn for and cling to righteousness. “Your circumstances don’t define you. Your choices do,” Elliott expressed.
The NLPB announced the 2025 outreach project as part of its 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 event’s keynote address by Dr. David Henry of Swallowfield Chapel offered profound reflections on the intersection of faith, leadership, and national progress, urging 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.
The programme concluded with personal reflections, prayers, and a benediction by Bishop Courtney Golding, leaving attendees with renewed resolve to serve with purpose and integrity.
The National Leadership Prayer Breakfast, generously sponsored 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
Jamaica Highlights 