BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – AN explosion of gospel rhythms drew dozens to the Sandy Point Recreational Ground last night (Apr. 18) for the launch of the premier local gospel event – HOSANNA 2010.
This year marks the 11th annual celebration and is being held under the theme ‘Taking it Back!’ The one-week event, organized by the Unique Touch Christian Centre, is supported by platinum sponsors Island Purified Water and National Caribbean Insurance as well as a list of other businesses and community groups.
HOSANNA 2010 got off on a good note at its opening ceremony last night with its first ever musical gala. Attendees were warmly welcomed with thrilling music from Majestic string band generating a rhythmic hum and toe-tapping in the audience. Duets from the Gumbs sisters and the Glasgow sisters and a special performance from Jackie Williams set an atmosphere of worship for the event.
Popular gospel artist Jasmine Thomas performed two compelling hits ‘I won’t complain’ and ‘Not my will’, which propelled the audience into praises of thanksgiving. A similar response came in from Hazel Williams’ renditions of ‘You raise me up’ and ‘Alabaster Box’.
The highlight of the evening was the gospel soca sensation Jadee out of Trinidad and Tobago. His up-tempo songs ‘Men of God’ and ‘Rock So’ caused both youths and adults alike to burst out in dance. He shared his testimony with the audience and urged them to live clean and faithful lives, drawing an altar call with the song ‘I give myself away’.
Organizers of the event have noted their pleasure with last night’s worship and according to Pastor Clive Saunders the Youth Fest planned for tonight (Apr. 19) is expected to be “bigger and better”.
Gospel youth bands from across St. Kitts, including Radical Praise, Tehillah and Nu Nation are expected to take the stage by storm.
The week continues with a Dance Mania, Drama Fest and two super concerts featuring Donna Thomas out of Tortola and world-renowned Richie Righteous.
