The Women of Wisdom from Fellowship Tabernacle are hosting their highly anticipated two-day conference, Empowered to Rise , on Friday, October 25, and Saturday, October 26, 2024. This event promises to be a weekend of powerful fellowship, impactful conversations, and spiritual renewal, open to women from all walks of life. The conference aims to provide a life-changing experience, combining inspiring teachings, and uplifting worship. Women seeking a weekend of empowerment and spiritual growth are encouraged to attend and be part of what is expected to be a truly transformative event. Day 1 of Empowered to Rise  will take place on Friday, October 25, at Fellowship Tabernacle, located at Fairfield Avenue, Kingston 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m. This session is dedicated to any woman experiencing hurt and trauma, looking for the path to healing. The evening will feature a special Talk Show titled "The Courage to Heal: Survivors' Journey" . Ms. Stacy-Ann Smith, author of Time Does Not Heal , and Mrs. Jackie Innis will share their personal stories of overcoming trauma. From navigating heartbreak and infidelity to losing a son, both women have walked through immense pain and come out victorious. This session is a must-attend for anyone seeking encouragement and inspiration to begin or continue their healing journey. To top it all off, this day of the event is free. On Saturday, October 26, the conference moves to The Summit at 16 Chelsea Avenue, Kingston 5, beginning at 5:00 p.m. This day will be a rich and immersive experience, where attendees will enjoy a catered meal, live music from gospel songbird Alicia Taylor, and a powerful sermon from Pastor Sharon Kirkland that is sure to inspire attendees. There will also be a dedicated time of prophetic ministry, led by Prophet Kathy Campbell, Rev. Charity Campbell, and the Prophetic Team from Fellowship Tabernacle. The cost for Day 2 is $3,500, which includes the catered meal. For those interested in attending, registration is available online at www.spuropen.com/228b3720 . For more details, including updates on the event, you can visit the official Instagram page of Fellowship Tabernacle's Women of Wisdom at feltab_women .

In today’s digital age, a growing number of self-proclaimed prophets are flooding YouTube and social media with daily or weekly prophetic messages. Many of these so-called prophets claim to have a word from God on everything, from who you’re destined to marry, to your path in life, to what God is about to do with your enemies. The sheer volume of these prophecies is overwhelming, leaving one to wonder: When did the prophetic company become this congested? In biblical times, prophecy was not something that came day in and day out like clockwork. Prophets were respected individuals, sought after for their connection to God and their ability to hear His voice with clarity and conviction. They were not delivering a new word every day. But today, many online personalities seem to constantly have something "prophetic" to say, much of which often blurs the line between prophecy and mere words of knowledge, insight, revelation, or even mere common sense. This relentless bombardment of prophetic words leaves us with a pressing question: Are these modern-day prophets truly speaking on behalf of God, or are they simply capitalizing on the hopes and desires of believers? The Biblical Definition of Prophecy Before we delve into the commercialization of prophecy, let’s take a moment to understand what prophecy truly is, according to the Bible. Prophecy is the act of receiving and delivering a message from God. The Bible describes prophets as individuals who were called by God to convey His words to people, often with great responsibility. These messages could include future events, divine judgment, or calls for repentance. For example: Jeremiah  was known as a prophet of judgment, called to warn the people of Israel about their impending downfall due to their disobedience (Jeremiah 1:4-10). Isaiah  delivered prophecies of both judgment and restoration, foretelling the coming of the Messiah (Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 53). Elijah  prophesied during a time of rampant idolatry, bringing both miraculous signs and words of God’s impending punishment to Israel (1 Kings 17-19). In these examples, we see that prophecy in the Bible was serious and deeply connected to God’s specific timing and purposes. It was not a daily occurrence, nor was it something taken lightly. Prophets were not delivering messages to fulfill the emotional or material desires of their listeners but were often speaking hard truths. Round the Clock Prophecy In contrast, many of today’s YouTube prophets seem to always have a new word, creating a congestion of prophetic messages that appear disconnected from the biblical pattern. Every week—or sometimes even daily—these individuals bombard believers with new "prophecies" about everything under the sun: marriage, personal success, finances, or vague promises of whatever seems to pop into their minds. But in biblical times, there was no such constant outpouring of prophecy. God spoke, absolutely, but God speaking and having fellowship with his people is not the same as prophecy. Even during moments of significant prophetic activity, such as in the ministries of Elijah, Isaiah, or Jeremiah, the messages were spread out over long periods. There was no continuous stream of daily updates from God. Instead, when God spoke, the words carried weight and were often tied to a specific moment or crisis in the history of His people. Many of these modern-day prophets have added CashApp and Zelle information in their video descriptions, claiming that what they offer is a ministry. However, there is often no transparency about what outreach or ministry work they’re actually doing. They don’t disclose any church or greater ministry affiliation that would allow people to understand how donations or offerings are being used. If a prophet is delivering messages every day or week, why should someone feel compelled to sow into their message? Desperate individuals, especially those seeking breakthrough, can fall into the trap of giving offerings repeatedly, hoping for a miracle. I don’t agree with this. Offerings should go to ministries where it’s evident that they are being used to benefit the Kingdom of God, not just to line the pockets of individuals. The Blurring of Prophecy and Words of Knowledge A closer examination of the so-called prophecies from many of these online prophets reveals that they are often not prophecies at all, at least not in the biblical sense. Many of these messages are simply words of knowledge or insights that anyone could provide based on observation, intuition, or generalized wisdom. These are not divinely inspired revelations about future events or God's specific will, but rather vague affirmations or promises designed to appeal to the emotional and spiritual desires of their audience. For example, statements like "You are about to enter into your season of breakthrough" or "God is about to reveal your spouse to you" are broad and nonspecific, often playing on the personal hopes and aspirations of believers. These so-called prophecies are not grounded in the same level of divine specificity or seriousness we see in the Bible. I also find it humorous when YouTube prophets provide a disclaimer to state, "Take this word back to God. Not every word is for you." While that is true in essence, this disclaimer almost seems like a substitute for "don't hold me accountable if nothing happens." An even greater question would be, why are these individuals coming onto a public platform to issue a prophetic word so constantly? How do you know the group of people or the person meant to hear the word will watch your video? We all know that social platforms function based on algorithms. Many times, it isn't God who has led us to watch a video, it's just that YouTube has learned our patterns. Growing up in church, receiving a prophetic message would entail the prophet speaking the word to you, oftentimes discreetly at the altar, and if not discreetly, you and the other congregants would at least know it was intended for you. The idea that giving a prophetic word on YouTube is in any way the same is laughable. My point isn't that God can't speak to you through a video, but that many of the videos we see are simply generalized uploads because some of these people are bored, looking to line their pockets or satisfy the itchy ears of their subscribers and followers. The Business of Prophecy What makes this trend even more concerning is the monetization of these prophetic words. Many of these online prophets offer spiritual coaching services, charging people for one-on-one prophetic consultations, prayer sessions, or guidance. Some even host paid webinars and conferences, promising deeper revelations for those who can afford the fee. But charging for prophecy or spiritual counseling goes against the very nature of biblical prophecy. In the Bible, prophecy was never a business. Prophets did not make a living by selling divine revelations. Instead, they often faced persecution and hardship for delivering God’s word, which was frequently a message of repentance or judgment that people did not want to hear (Jeremiah 20:1-2). They also enjoyed many blessings at the hands of God who would lead others to bless them without having to desecrate their gift. This commercialization of spiritual guidance is troubling, especially when we consider that many people seeking these services are vulnerable and looking for hope. Charging for what is supposed to be divinely inspired wisdom exploits the faith of believers and turns sacred gifts into a profitable business. The Ethical Dilemma As we navigate the rise of these modern prophets, it’s important to ask tough questions. Are these individuals truly speaking on behalf of God, or are they simply profiting from the spiritual desires of believers? Why is there such a congestion of prophetic messages today, when biblical prophecy was less frequent and yet more potent? And most importantly, should anyone be charging for spiritual guidance? For those of us who take our faith seriously, the commercialization of prophecy is a disturbing trend that undermines the integrity of spiritual leadership. The Bible makes it clear that the gift of prophecy is not something to be sold—it is a sacred responsibility, given freely by God to guide His people. The moment it becomes a business, we must question its authenticity.

Welcome to the vibrant world of journalism! As an aspiring media professional, you’re stepping into a dynamic landscape that’s ever-evolving. With the rise of digital platforms and changing audience expectations, it’s essential to equip yourself with a diverse skill set to thrive. Here at Jamaica Media Academy, we’re committed to guiding you on this journey by highlighting the essential skills every aspiring journalist should develop. 1. Strong Writing Skills First and foremost, writing is the cornerstone of journalism. To engage and inform your audience, you need to master the art of clear and intriguing storytelling. This means honing your grammar and style while learning to write concisely and persuasively. Whether you’re crafting an article, blog post, or social media update, practice is key. Regular writing will not only refine your skills but also help you find your unique voice in the crowded media landscape. 2. Research and Investigation Journalism is about uncovering the truth, and strong research skills are your best tools for doing just that. Learn how to gather accurate information, verify facts, and conduct thorough investigations. Familiarize yourself with valuable resources—public records, databases, and social media platforms can all serve as gold mines for information. Remember, a well-researched story carries more weight and credibility. 3. Adaptability and Flexibility In the fast-paced world of media, adaptability is your best friend. The industry is constantly evolving, and being open to new technologies, platforms, and storytelling methods is crucial. Whether it’s mastering video editing software or riding the latest social media wave, your willingness to learn and adapt will keep you relevant and resilient. 4. Digital Literacy As we navigate this digital age, strong digital literacy is a must. Understanding how to use various online platforms and content management systems is essential for any media professional. Dive into SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategies and social media marketing to enhance your online presence. After all, connecting with your audience online is just as important as connecting with them in person. 5. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills Journalism often requires sifting through a sea of information to identify the most crucial elements. Developing critical thinking and analytical skills will empower you to assess situations and evaluate sources objectively. Engaging in discussions and debates can help sharpen these skills, allowing you to consider multiple perspectives and make informed decisions. 6. Interpersonal Skills and Networking Building relationships is fundamental in journalism. Strong interpersonal skills will enable you to connect with sources, colleagues, and your audience on a deeper level. Networking is also an essential aspect of a successful journalism career. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and leverage social media to expand your connections. Remember, your network can open doors to exciting opportunities! 7. Storytelling Abilities At its core, journalism is about telling stories that resonate with people. Whether covering local news, social issues, or entertainment, developing your storytelling abilities will engage your audience and leave a lasting impact. Practice crafting narratives that inform and evoke emotion, using various techniques such as anecdotes and vivid descriptions. 8. Ethical Understanding Ethics are the backbone of journalism. A solid understanding of ethical standards will guide your decision-making and help maintain your credibility. Familiarize yourself with the principles of ethical journalism—accuracy, fairness, and accountability are key. Your work has the power to shape public opinion, so it’s vital to approach your reporting with integrity. As you embark on your journey in the media world, remember that navigating the landscape requires a blend of skills, knowledge, and a genuine passion for storytelling. By focusing on these essential skills, you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in this competitive industry. At Jamaica Media Academy, we’re here to support you every step of the way. With dedication, a commitment to learning, and a heart for impactful journalism, you have the power to make a meaningful difference in the media landscape. If you need coaching curated to your needs as a current or aspiring media professional, don't hesitate to contact us at (876) - 854 - 9989 or noblemediantwrk@gmail.com

The Bible offers timeless wisdom not just about spiritual growth but also about financial stewardship, independence, and responsibility. Here are a few key scriptures that teach us how to approach money in a way that honors God, leads to financial independence, and allows us to live generously. Proverbs 21:20 – "The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down."1 This scripture highlights the importance of saving and planning for the future. Financial independence begins with the discipline of not spending everything you earn. The wise person sets aside resources—whether for times of need or future opportunities—while the foolish spend without thought of tomorrow. Practicing delayed gratification and saving a portion of your income is essential for financial stability. It’s about being wise with what you have so you can provide for yourself, your family, and others in the future. Proverbs 22:7 – "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This verse offers a clear warning about the dangers of debt. Being in debt gives control over your life to someone else. To be financially independent, it’s important to avoid unnecessary debt and, when possible, work to pay off any existing debts to regain freedom. Financial independence requires freedom from debt. While some debt, such as a mortgage or education loan, may be necessary, the Bible encourages us to avoid burdensome debt that enslaves us and prevents us from fully living out our purpose. Proverbs 6:6-8 – "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest." This passage draws wisdom from the habits of ants, which are diligent in preparing for the future. Just as ants gather food in preparation for harder times, we are called to work diligently and save during seasons of abundance to sustain ourselves in leaner times. Hard work and preparation are critical to financial independence. Being proactive about your finances—whether through saving, investing, or avoiding impulsive purchases—ensures that you’re prepared for both good and bad times. Matthew 25:14-30 – The Parable of the Talents In this parable, a master gives three of his servants varying amounts of talents (a form of money) before going on a journey. Two of the servants invest and multiply the money, while the third buries it in the ground out of fear. Upon the master's return, the two servants who invested are rewarded, while the one who hid the money is rebuked. God calls us to be good stewards of the resources we’ve been given. This scripture encourages investing wisely and using what we have to grow and multiply, whether it’s money, time, or talent. Financial independence isn’t just about accumulating wealth; it’s about managing and growing what God entrusts to us. 1 Timothy 6:10 – " For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." This well-known verse is often misunderstood. It doesn’t say that money is evil, but that the love of money leads to destructive behavior. Financial independence should never come at the cost of our relationship with God or others. When money becomes our primary focus, it can easily lead to greed, dishonesty, and spiritual downfall. While pursuing financial independence is good, it should not become an idol. Keeping money in its proper place—seeing it as a tool for good rather than an object of desire—helps us live in a way that honors God and aligns with our faith. Luke 14:28 – "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?" This scripture speaks to the importance of planning and budgeting. Before embarking on any financial journey or making significant purchases, it’s wise to plan and calculate the costs. Financial independence isn’t possible without a well-thought-out plan for managing money. God encourages us to be intentional and calculated in our financial decisions. A budget helps us manage our resources wisely, prevents overspending, and ensures we live within our means. Deuteronomy 8:18 – "But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth." This verse reminds us that our ability to work, earn money, and achieve financial independence is a gift from God. Everything we have—our skills, opportunities, and wealth—comes from Him, and we are called to honor God with the resources He has entrusted to us. Financial independence doesn’t mean relying solely on ourselves. While we are called to work hard and manage money wisely, we must remember to give thanks to God and remain humble, acknowledging that He is the source of all blessings. Ecclesiastes 11:2 – "Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land." This scripture teaches us about diversification and the importance of not putting all our resources in one place. Just as wise investors diversify their portfolios, we are encouraged to spread our resources across multiple ventures to protect ourselves from financial risk. Achieving financial independence involves making smart investments and diversifying income streams. Whether through different forms of savings, investments, or businesses, spreading out our resources reduces the impact of unforeseen challenges. The Bible offers a wealth of guidance on how to manage finances wisely and pursue financial independence. It encourages saving, avoiding debt, planning, working diligently, and remembering that our ability to produce wealth is a blessing from God. Financial independence, when rooted in Biblical principles, allows us to live more freely, give generously, and honor God with our resources. By following these teachings, we can build a strong financial foundation that aligns with our faith and allows us to make a positive impact in both our personal lives and God’s kingdom.

In a recent report, the National Family Planning Board of Jamaica revealed a significant shift in reproductive trends among women. For the first time in over 50 years, the country's total fertility rate has dipped below the crucial 2.1 mark, now resting at 1.9. This decline is understandably concerning to many, including Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica's Minister of Health and Wellness. While this statistic might raise alarms, I believe it may not be as alarming as it seems—at least not entirely. When we look back to the 1970s, when the fertility rate was around 4.5 births per woman, the current figures highlight a stark contrast. Dr. Tufton has expressed that the ideal number of births per mother should hover around two or slightly above. He points out that this decline indicates we may be nearing a net neutral population status, which could pose serious challenges for our economy. I understand his perspective; a continuously decreasing birth rate can evoke concern, and it’s crucial for him, in his capacity, to educate the public about its potential negative ramifications on various aspects of society. However, I must admit, when I first came across the news about women in Jamaica having fewer children, I felt a sense of optimism. This sentiment does not stem from a desire for lower birth rates each year, nor from a rejection of motherhood, but rather from my belief that more women are beginning to grasp the significance of planned parenthood. The term "planned parenthood" is one that hasn’t always enjoyed widespread acceptance, particularly in the 20th century. In past generations, it was common for women, like our grandmothers and mothers, to have four, five, or even more children, which was simply the norm. It's important to note that I am not here to dictate how many children any woman should have. The choice to reproduce is deeply personal and varies from individual to individual. Nevertheless, acknowledging the value of planned parenthood is vital. It appears that many women today recognize that they can control certain aspects of their life trajectories, including the timing of parenthood. Traditionally, women have been advised to have children in their early 20s to ensure they can connect with their kids as they grow. This idea posits that a young mother can relate better to her children than an older one. However, I believe this narrative can be more harmful than beneficial. Nowadays, we’re witnessing a trend where women are choosing to have children later in life, often in their late 20s or early 30s. Having children too early can bring challenges, not only for society but also for the individual woman. While it’s concerning that a low birth rate could impact the economy negatively, having children prematurely can also hinder personal growth. In our early 20s, we should be focused on self-discovery—whether that means pursuing education, embarking on a career, or simply exploring who we are. Research indicates that most people do not reach full maturity until around age 25, yet many women are becoming mothers before this milestone. This isn’t a judgment but rather an observation. I believe it’s often more beneficial to wait before starting a family. By doing so, women can gain valuable life experiences that enhance their ability to make informed decisions regarding their partners and family planning. Motherhood is a monumental responsibility that requires considerable time and energy. When a woman brings a child into the world, she often has to set aside her own aspirations, at least temporarily. The earlier a child is born, the more difficult it may become for the mother to pursue goals like attending university or traveling. While many manage to juggle these responsibilities, we cannot ignore the challenges they face. Many women navigate the path of motherhood while also pursuing education and careers. Although these experiences often foster strength and resilience, they can also lead to delays and obstacles in achieving personal ambitions. Allowing ourselves to progress through the natural stages of life can facilitate a smoother transition into motherhood. On a related note, I contend that young people should reconsider dating in high school. Reflecting on my own experiences, I realize that those early relationships often lacked depth and significance. Each phase of life—primary school, secondary school, college, and into the workforce—should be distinct, as it allows for growth and development. Entering the workforce helps us learn more about ourselves and the kind of people we want to be around. If we rush into parenting without fully understanding our identities, we may struggle to provide the foundation our children need. This underscores the importance of planned parenthood, as it involves thoughtful consideration of our lives and futures. By emphasizing family planning, women are not only looking out for their own best interests but also for the welfare of their children. A child raised in a stable environment is more likely to thrive. I was encouraged to see that more women are recognizing the significance of strategically planning their lives and achieving professional and financial stability before taking on the responsibilities of motherhood. There's no set timeline for having children; not every woman must start a family in her early 20s. While Dr. Tufton suggests that women should ideally have two or more children, it’s ultimately a personal decision. If a woman opts for just one child or chooses not to have children at all, that choice should be respected. The topic of childlessness often stirs controversy, with some labeling women who choose not to have children as selfish. This perception is perplexing. Why should anyone dictate when or whether a woman should have children? While some may refer to biblical texts that encourage procreation, it’s essential to recognize that not all women aspire to motherhood. I invite your thoughts on this matter. Is a woman selfish for deciding against having children, or is it simply her prerogative? I strongly support the latter.

Jamaican gospel fans are eagerly awaiting the 39th annual staging of one of the most anticipated events on the gospel calendar: Genesis Praise Fest 2025. Slated for January 1, 2025, this annual event is a go-to for believers, offering a spiritual start to the new year filled with worship, praise, and powerful ministry. Organized by Jamaica Youth for Christ, the festival has grown in popularity, continuing to impact lives across the island. Excitement for the upcoming event is building, especially following a recent Instagram post from the official Genesis Praise Fest account. The post stirred conversation by asking followers who they would love to see ministering at the 2025 staging. Fans quickly responded, mentioning gospel powerhouses such as Prodigal Son, Papa San, Johnmark Wiggan, Prince Saj, Kevin Downswell, Positive, DJ Nicholas, Jason Mighty, and Petra Kaye. Some even voiced their hopes to see international gospel icons like Tasha Cobbs, Tye Tribbett, Cece Winans, and Israel Houghton grace the stage. In 2024, the festival was held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre, featuring unforgettable performances from renowned ministers such as Marvia Providence, Rondell Positive, Goddy Goddy, Rhoda Isabella, Jai Kingston, Johnmark Wiggan, and Rian Davis. Highlights from Genesis Praise Fest 2024 With such a rich history of powerful ministry and worship, it’s no wonder fans are already making plans for the upcoming event. Patrons are being urged to save the date for what is sure to be another spiritually uplifting and unforgettable start to the year.

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (ESV) In life, we may face situations where the path ahead seems unclear or where we cannot see how things will work out. In these moments, we are challenged to rely not on what we see, but on our faith in God’s plan. Faith isn’t just about believing when things are going well; it’s about trusting in God when the future is uncertain, when we don’t have all the answers. The apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:7 that we walk by faith, not by sight. This means placing our confidence in God's wisdom and direction, even when our own understanding falls short. Walking by faith requires surrendering control and embracing the unknown. It’s not always easy, but it’s in these moments of surrender that we grow deeper in our trust of God. We don’t need to see every detail of His plan to know that He is guiding our steps. We are called to trust that He will provide what we need in His perfect timing. Today, reflect on areas of your life where you’re struggling to walk by faith. Is there a decision you’re facing where you’re relying more on what you can see than on God’s promises? Surrender those areas to Him. Remember, God is faithful, even when the path is unclear. Trust that He will lead you exactly where you need to go. Prayer: Lord, help me to walk by faith and not by sight. I trust You even when I cannot see the full picture. Strengthen my faith so that I may follow You with confidence, knowing that Your plans for me are good. Teach me to surrender control and trust in Your perfect will. Amen. Reflection: What situations in your life are calling you to walk by faith instead of relying on what you see? How can you grow in your trust in God’s guidance, even when the outcome is hard to see?

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28 (NKJIV) Life often feels overwhelming. The pressures of work, family, and personal responsibilities weigh us down, and it can seem as though there's never enough time or energy to accomplish it all. In these moments, we may find ourselves running on empty—physically, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted. Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28 offer a simple yet profound invitation: “Come to me.” He doesn’t demand perfection, nor does He require us to have everything figured out. Instead, He invites us to rest in Him. This is not merely a physical rest, but a spiritual one. It’s the rest that comes from knowing we don’t have to carry our burdens alone. What would it look like to lay down your burdens at Jesus’ feet today? Sometimes, we hold on to our struggles tightly, thinking we must solve them ourselves. But Christ calls us to let go and trust Him. His promise is clear: He will give us rest. This doesn’t mean that all of life’s difficulties will suddenly disappear, but it means we can find peace in His presence, even amidst the chaos. This week, take time to pause and reflect on what is causing you stress or fatigue. In prayer, bring those things to Jesus. He is ready to carry what you cannot. His love is a refuge, His grace a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles. When we trust Him with our weariness, we are met with a peace that surpasses all understanding. Prayer: Lord Jesus, I come to You today weary and burdened. Thank You for offering rest to my soul. Help me to release the things that weigh me down and trust in Your strength and provision. Teach me to find peace in Your presence, and remind me that I don’t have to carry my burdens alone. In Your name, I pray, Amen. Reflection: What burdens are you carrying right now that you need to give to God? How can you create space in your life to rest in His presence this week?

Jamaican gospel singer and guitarist, Flavia Beswick-Malcolm, has announced the return of her podcast, Kingdom Creatives , for its third season. Launched in 2023, the podcast is dedicated to helping Christians who are struggling as creative individuals, particularly those unsure of where to start or how to find their niche. In a recently uploaded Instagram post, she wrote the caption, "🚨Are you ready for Season 3 of the @kingdomcreativespodcast? 🚨 #swipeleft⬅️" The brand new episode titled "What's in Your Hand?" focuses on the story of Moses and how God used him mightily despite his fears and insecurities; how God can use what we consider small to make a big impact. Beswick-Malcolm says her mission is to empower listeners by providing practical "tips, soul-nourishing nuggets, and heartfelt interviews that inspire you on your creative journey", noting that she sees the podcast as a platform "Where faith meets artistry". Past guests she has interviewed on the podcast include gospel vocalist, Sean L. Ennis, musician and evangelist Yannick Reid, and Trinidadian singer/songwriter Shermaine John. Listeners can stream Kingdom Creatives on major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Beswick-Malcolm is best known for her 2019 single God Will . Her musical collaborations include Johnmark Wiggan ( Something Good , 2019) and Shurnelle Spencer ( Claim It , 2020).

Sophia Laing, the wife of veteran gospel artiste Cleveland 'Lt Stitchie' Laing, has come forward to dismiss false reports circulating online about her husband's passing. These rumors stem from a YouTube video uploaded Monday night, which sparked concern and confusion among fans. The video, titled ‘Lieutenant Stitchie is dead at 58,’ quickly spread across social media and messaging apps like WhatsApp, leading many fans to share premature condolences. However, Sophia quickly dispelled the rumors, confirming that he is alive and that she refuses to focus on the negativity. Two weeks ago, Lt Stitchie, suffered a severe brain hemorrhage and was hospitalized in critical condition. This crisis has left him unresponsive, prompting Sophia to launch a GoFundMe campaign to seek financial help for his extensive medical care. "While his condition is gradually improving, he remains in need of significant rehabilitation to continue his progress. The road to full recovery will be long and challenging, and the Laing family is currently seeking a rehabilitation facility that can provide the specialized therapy and care Cleve needs to regain his strength and mobility." As of now, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over US$17,000, but it still has a long way to go to meet the US$100,000 goal needed to cover his long-term medical expenses. Sophia and the Laing family are standing strong by his side but acknowledge that the costs associated with his care are significant. "We are diligently looking for the appropriate facility that can provide Cleve with the care he needs. In the meantime, we are requesting your prayers and financial support to help make this possible". Known in the dancehall scene for hits like "Natty Dread" and "Wear Yu Size," Lt Stitchie became one of the most influential figures in reggae and dancehall music. In the late 1990s, he underwent a spiritual transformation, dedicating his life to Christianity and transitioning to gospel music. Since then, he has used his platform to inspire and uplift audiences globally, blending his dancehall roots with messages of faith. If you or someone you know can offer financial support towards Lt. Stitchie's recovery, you may contribute to the GoFundMe campaign here .

The Sterling Gospel Music Awards is set to make a grand return for its 8th annual staging on Saturday, October 5, at the Emmanuel Apostolic Church, in Kingston. Gospel music enthusiasts are gearing up for an unforgettable evening filled with music, praise, and a celebration of Jamaican gospel artistry. This year’s theme, “Vintage Glam,” takes inspiration from the popular Bridgerton series, promising a night of timeless elegance. Attendees are encouraged to don their best vintage-inspired outfits, a stark difference from their 7th staging's classic black-and-white dress code. The evening promises to be a grand affair, starting with the red carpet event from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., where guests will have the chance to showcase their vintage glam outfits and mingle with other attendees. Showtime kicks off at 7 p.m. sharp, so punctuality is a must for those wanting to catch every moment of this gospel extravaganza. A lineup of renowned ministers will grace the stage, each bringing their unique style of praise. Attendees can look forward to soul-stirring performances from Sherwin Gardner, Audia Spencer-Brown, Jodian Pantry, Junior Tucker, Genesis Praise Squad, and Gilead Collective. In total, there will be 18 awards distributed. Leading the nominations is Johnmark Wiggan, who has secured an impressive 8 nods. Here’s a look at some of the key categories and the talented artists vying for the top spots: Album of the Year: The competition is fierce in this category, with nominations for Johnmark Wiggan, Jai Kingston, Kevin Downswell, and H.U.M.B.L.E. Male Artist of the Year: Kevin Downswell, Johnmark Wiggan, Prince Saj, and Jai Kingston are in the running for this title. Female Artiste of the Year: Chevelle Franklyn, Maria Providence, Petra-Kaye, and Rhoda Isabella are the nominees for this award. Breakout Sensation of the Year: This category celebrates emerging talent in the gospel music scene with Audia Spencer-Brown, Trevelle Clarke-Whyne, H.U.M.B.L.E, and Kayann Ledford. Tickets are currently on pre-sale, offering a chance for guests to secure their spots ahead of time. The cost is $5,000 for pre-sold tickets, while those purchasing at the gate will pay $6,000. For the little ones, children aged 12 and under can attend for just $1,800. Tickets can be purchased at Fontana stores or online at spurropen.com/sterling8 . To add an extra element of excitement, the first 100 attendees to arrive will receive a special Sterling swag bag packed with surprise goodies.

We all go through tough times, whether it’s dealing with stress, anxiety, or even just feeling lost. But here's the thing; our faith can give us the strength we need to get through those moments. Spiritual practices like prayer and meditating on God's Word are not just comforting; they can actually help us manage our mental health. Let's talk about how these practices can make a real difference in our lives. Why Prayer Matters Prayer is more than just a ritual; it’s a real conversation with God. It’s where we can pour out everything we’re feeling—our fears, our worries, our hopes—and leave them with the One who truly cares for us. The Bible tells us, "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7).  When you pray, you’re letting go of the need to control everything and trusting that God has got you. That alone can bring a huge sense of relief. Studies even back this up; people who pray often feel less stressed and more hopeful. Plus, when we take a moment during prayer to express gratitude, it shifts our focus away from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. It’s like a reset button for our minds. Meditating on God’s Word: Finding Calm in Chaos Now, let’s talk about Christian meditation. It’s not just about clearing your mind; it’s about filling it with God’s truth. In Psalm 1:2-3, it says, "...but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water..." This means that when we meditate on God's Word, we ground ourselves. We become like that strong tree that isn’t easily shaken by life’s storms. Lean on Your Faith Community Another huge part of faith that can support our mental health is community. The church isn't just a place we go on Sundays; it's a network of people who should be there for each other. In Galatians 6:2, it says, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." Having others around who genuinely care, who will pray for you, and who can lend a listening ear, reminds you that you don’t have to face your struggles alone. While you certainly shouldn't confide in just anyone at the church, you should ask God who is sincere and wants the best for you. Faith is Powerful Let’s be clear; faith doesn’t magically remove life’s challenges. We’re still going to face hardships, stress, and uncertainty. But our faith equips us to handle them. By turning to prayer, diving into God’s Word, and surrounding ourselves with a supportive community, we’re reminded that we have a solid foundation to lean on. In those moments when it all feels like too much, just know that you don’t have to carry it alone. God’s got you. Your faith, your prayers, and your support system are there to help you through. So next time life hits hard, remember you have a source of strength that’s greater than any problem you’re facing. You're not alone, and you never will be.