2 ORGANISERS OF the annual Jamaica Diaspora Day of Prayer and Fasting (JDDOP) are promising an event with a difference to coincide with happenings at home and overseas. First started in 2004, this year’s JDDOP, scheduled for Saturday, July 30, will be more than a time of prayer, praise and worship, against the backdrop of the global COVID19 health crisis on the one hand and the many socio-economic challenges facing Jamaicans at home on the other hand. “Jamaicans at home and those scattered around the globe are being encouraged to remain steadfast in their vision of achieving spiritual renewal and transformation in these challenging times, as the nation marks a significant milestone – the 60th anniversary of Independence,” said Rev Newton Gabbidon, a member of the consortium of Jamaican clergy who founded the prayer movement in NewYork City and who have remained spiritually engaged in the affairs of their island home, Jamaica. The clergy, elected officials and community leaders in the three key diaspora divisions, United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, will use the occasion to reflect as they celebrate through prayer and praise, while offering messages of inspiration and music. The call to prayer, led by pastors and leaders chosen from across the regions, will run for about 30 minutes, with focus on areas of national life, including but not limited to government and governance, economy, education, public safety, and international affairs. With the pandemic still a matter of concern, the event organisers have opted to conduct the prayer service virtually for the third year running. Jamaicans and friends of the island nation will be able to participate using the popular Zoom platform using Meeting ID: 831 1224 1733, Passcode: 742735. There will also be a live stream on Facebook @ https://www. facebook.com/jamaicadayofprayer. Persons and organisations seeking additional information on the prayer event, or wishing to make a donation towards the cause, are being asked to call/contact the Intercessory Prayer Ministry International (IPMI) at 718.241.2162 or via email at ipmiorg@ aol.com. A special day of prayer, fasting for J’can diaspora ‘Jamaicans at home and those scattered around the globe are being encouraged to remain steadfast in their vision of achieving spiritual renewal and transformation in these challenging times, as the nation marks a significant milestone – the 60th anniversary of Independence.’ THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JULY 31 - OCTOBER 21, 2022 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | FEATURE
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