Jamaica’s contemporary gospel music scene witnessed a remarkable gathering as the ‘Audience of One – The Worship Encounter’ event filled the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts to capacity. Organized through a collaboration between Cross Links and the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), the worship concert showcased an impressive lineup of performers including Johmark Wiggan, Prince Saj, Audia Spencer Brown, Jodi-Ann Myers, and several dance ministries.
Dexter Johnson of Jamaica Youth For Christ revealed the divine inspiration behind the initiative, stating: ‘This event emerged from a vision God placed in my heart combined with my passion for youth ministry. Through numerous concert experiences, I recognized the need to create a sustained atmosphere of worship that simultaneously nurtures emerging talent.’
The event has demonstrated significant growth since its inaugural staging in 2023. Johnson acknowledged initial concerns about turnout during the first year due to delayed promotional efforts, but expressed gratitude for this year’s overwhelming response. The production’s quality and impact have been formally recognized with the Sterling Gospel Music Award for Most Rated Event of the Year.
Strategic curation has been fundamental to the event’s success, with most performers being established worship leaders who bring diverse musical expressions to the platform. Johnson emphasized that the true highlight remains the transformative experience for attendees, noting that ‘every single time it’s always a new experience for somebody.’ The electrifying performances by Prince Saj and Johmark Wiggan particularly captivated the audience, while Alicia Taylor’s delivery added to the evening’s spiritual intensity.