The CGI Jamaica Feast of Trumpets was an unforgettable high day in more ways than one: in attendance, in worship spirit, and sermon impact.

The Sagicor Auditorium in Kingston was standing room only as a holy day record attendance of 335 members and visitors excitedly celebrated a most memorable Feast. This included 8 visitors who had attended the recent campaigns on the Sabbath held in Spanish Town by Pastor Ian Boyne. The previous holy day attendance record was 331 on the First Day of Unleavened Bread earlier this year.

There were also 60 persons in attendance, in the Western parish of St. James.

The energy was high as worship leader and conductor Deacon Chris Hendricks led the congregation with inspired hymn selections and readings, and uplifting praise and worship songs with his team. The dynamism of the congregational singing was refreshingly complimented by the feast of solo and ensemble musical offerings, concluding with a vibrant choral medley of “In Majesty He Will Come” and “Majesty, Worship His Majesty” by the choir.

In his riveting sub-two-hour message – short by his standards – Pastor Boyne pointed to the glaring discrepancy between Christendom’s expressed anticipation of Christ’s return, and their rejection of a biblical festival which symbolizes this most signal event in mankind’s future. Referencing several New Testament texts showing the inextricable connection between the Feast of Trumpets and Christ’s Second Advent, Mr. Boyne reaffirmed the biblical soundness of the Church of God’s doctrine on Trumpets.

From this foundation, Mr Boyne pointedly addressed visitors, youths, and members, on the dual outcomes of Christ’s return. For those who have been called, who continue their rebellious violation of God’s laws, by using his grace as licence to sin, Christ’s coming portended a dreadful penalty of God’s wrathful judgment. For those who responded to God’s call with a sense of urgency and a commitment to godly faithfulness, the return of Christ is a glorious hope. Using the book of Zephaniah as the backdrop, Mr. Boyne painted a terrifying depiction of God’s awful wrath that is sure to come on those who would defy the Lord. He however juxtaposed this with a hopeful sketch of God’s promise to “shelter a remnant of the house of Judah” who would “humbly seek the Lord and do what he commands.”

He left listeners with words of hope that God will rescue his own people, and the encouragement to be a part of the faithful remnant who worship God in truth and righteous obedience.

For one young man who has been visiting for some time, this feast of Trumpets was “the best feast day he had observed up to now.” It was indeed a high note on which to start the Fall holy day season – for all of us.

GS.