Roxroy McLean, Gleaner Intern

Crowd favourites School Boys, from Excelsior High, in performance at the Praise and Adoration gospel concert at the Karram Speid Auditorium, Merl Grove High School, on Saturday. - Colin Hamilton/freelance photographer

"Worthy is the lamb that was slain to take away the sins of the world." Those were the words from a very spirited Georgia Bradford at the end of the 'Praise and Adoration' gospel concert, held at the Karram Speid Auditorium, Merl Grove High School on Saturday.

The event, which was organised by the Excelsior 99ers, saw patrons from all walks of life in full praise, and it was backed by some strong performances. Bradford, who was invited by a friend, said more events like this should be held.

"I think more events like this should take place. I think it will help curb the violence the country is suffering," she said. "You could see that the youths were enjoying the performances, and that is what we need ... because the joy of the Lord is what everyone should have."

Bradford, as well as most patrons, could be seen with their hands extended in the air, as they worshiped and sang the words of songs like I'm Coming Up, God Is God, and Can't Give Up Now.

"I don't regret being here ... the songs are wonderful, the theme is well put together and it is about God ... anything about God is always wonderful," she added.

It was Sunshine Echoes who started off with a bang. The group, which is comprised of seven male members, warmed the hearts of the audience with their free-flowing voices.

ORIGINAL PIECE

The introduction of School Boys, a group from the Excelsior High School Choir, created an uproar and their performance did not disappoint. Duo, Alesha Dunn and Delarno Nelson came up big with an original piece.

The group PAWS delivered an exceptional performance. With the lights dimmed, they delivered a very attractive sign-language rendition of the songs Presence Of The Lord and Power Of Your Love.

Recording gospel artiste, Omari, showed the audience why God has been his leader. The messages in his song touched the hearts of those listening.

Other performances came from Men Of Valour, The Ministers, from the Northern Caribbean University, Voice Of Harpers, JCDC's Gamel Grant, and inspired group Total Five.

Chairperson of the Excelsior 99ers, Kerry-Ann Hutchinson-Mitchell, commended the support given to the event. She also said the group would be celebrating its 10th anniversary next year and proceeds will go towards Excelsior High.

"Next June will be the 10th anniversary ... and we are trying to give back $1 million to the music department of the school," said Hutchinson-Mitchell.

"I just thought the line-up was really good," she added of the event. "The programme was in order and I really appreciated who came out. The artistes battled through the rain and the sponsors gave good support."