National State of Emergency, wars, 2012… a sign of the times?

No doubt this country, and indeed the entire world, seems to be in upheaval. Like the Israelites of old we find ourselves caught between Pharaoh’s army and the deep, unfathomable Red Sea. Yet Deuteronomy 26: 8 tells us “He brought us out of Egypt with His strong hand and outstretched arm, with terrifying power, with signs and wonders…”

Has God changed? No. He is still the same yesterday, today and forever. And just as surely as He delivered His people in that day, He sits waiting to deliver us today. But the signs around us seem so grim, the future so bleak.

That’s precisely why it’s time for God’s people to arise, to wake up and be the sign of God’s presence that this world so desperately needs. That’s precisely why the People of Praise Community has chosen for its sixth annual Praise and Worship Conference the theme: Sound the Trumpet 6: Signs and Wonders.

We invite you to share the weekend of October 21 to 23 with us as we celebrate and learn what it means to be living signs of God’s presence today. This promises to be a weekend overflowing with Spirit-filled praise (indeed God dwells in the praises of His people) and dynamic talks that explore the journey of “Coming out of Egypt and into the promised land” and relating these to our own journeys today. Powerful workshops will allow all present to delve even further into these areas.

This year’s conference speakers include Fr Trevor Nathasingh, Sr Deborah de Rosia and Bro Winston Garcia – three servants of God who for several years have themselves been awesome signs and living testimonies to God’s saving presence in our land and beyond. God’s Time Ministry from Jamaica and the People of Praise Music Ministry will be there ushering us into God’s presence with heartfelt praise and worship. There will also be a healing session on Saturday, all culminating, with the celebration of Holy Mass on Sunday.

So if you’re tired with the negative signs that pervade our society and you’re ready to be a part of something greater, this weekend is for you. If you desire to be, as described in Mark 16: 17-20, one of “those who believe: [who] in my name will drive out demons; speak in tongues, pick up snakes [and not be harmed], who will place their hands on the sick and they will be healed, consider yourself invited.

Tickets for the weekend cost $150, which includes lunch and drink on Sunday. If you wish to attend only one day, the cost is $60 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Santa Rosa Bookstore and from the members of the People of Praise Community. Further information and registration forms can be found on our website www.peopleofpraisett.org or you can call the House of Praise at 667-1544.

No one who has ever responded to God’s call to follow Him has ever been disappointed. Answer God’s invitation and join with us as we spend a weekend in the presence of Almighty God. God bless. – Kathryn Romero