André Jebbinson, Staff Reporter

Gospel singers Genieve and Robert Bailey perform at 'Ketch A Fire' at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre on Saturday, February 3. - Nathaniel Stewart/Freelance Photographer

If there was one patron who did not have the Holy Ghost 'dash pon dem' on Saturday, that person was not at the Covenant Christian Academy's 'Ketch A Fire' held at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.

The biggest and hottest flames came late in the night but still there were many artistes trying to stoke the fire.

Biggest arsonist

Once again the biggest arsonist was Prodigal Son. Not only did he minister to the masses, he had a message for dancehall artistes Vybz Kartel and Mavado.

"Don't be speaking negativity over this land," Prodigal said.

Very few of these events come across as well planned, but once the first act had entered the stage, it was smooth sailing, despite the late start that had a few members of the audience demanding an apology.

"Unnu need fi apologise," yelled a couple of them but that did not happen. Instead, MC Nadine Blair emerged and welcomed the first minister. The first set of artistes before the break tried to win over the audience. It would be safe to say that several of them were unsuccessful.

But make no mistake, their intentions are in the right place. The first real sign of a truly solid act came from Shepherd. Probably one of Jamaica's most underrated gospel artistes, he took the stage and flicked on the light at the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre.

Special ministers

There are those who came to see their special minister and had no interest in anyone else. When a particular artiste was said to be backstage, another woman anxious for her artiste's turn shouted, "Nuh badda sen him out." Then she made it pretty clear who she wanted instead.

In the middle of getting her praise on, one patron could not help but wonder why every artiste, from lead to backup, was in the habit of taking their bottled water to the stage. She found it quite disturbing.

That was the least of the concerns though. Other stars, like Robert and Genieve Bailey were on the show in what seemed to be their pre-valentine red outfits.

Several times, the energetic Mrs. Bailey commanded the crowd to their feet and they obliged.

When Katalys was ready to usher in the presence of the Lord. The patrons stood to their feet and just worshipped. While Katalys ministered in song, Praise Academy of Dance ministered in a vibes-filled dance routine.

Prodigal was given the task of closing the show and he took it seriously. He quickly put on the minister's cap. From moments of fever pitch excitement to solemnity, Prodigal took the audience to the "inner court" and sent them home rejoicing like the biblical Samaritan woman at the well.