Sacred History and Praise-Worthy Events for Faith-Based Travelers to Jamaica
KINGSTON, JAMAICA – Jamaica is an island of rich and diverse religious history. This narrative has heavily impacted the Jamaican way of life and is an integral part of the island’s culture. Visitors are invited to participate in various acts and celebrations of worship in idyllic settings across the island where they can find peace in body, mind and soul. To further focus on celebrating the various religious beliefs, the Jamaica Tourist Board now has a dedicated page on its website: www.visitjamaica.com/faith.
“Although Jamaica is known globally as a destination for relaxation, travelers can also experience healing and worship,” said Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Paul Pennicook. “If music is a testament to one’s faith, we have gospel concerts. For a more hands-on approach, there are group volunteer trips to the island, fulfilling the need to help others. To satisfy a spiritual connection, guests can go back in time to seek historical roots.”
The following is a sampling of activities to assist the spiritual journey in Jamaica:
Attend a praise-worthy event
- Praise on the Beach (April 25): This gospel event in Montego Bay features popular U.S. and Jamaican artists and is designed for families with children of all ages. Vacation Express will be offering fly away packages from the U.S. for the entire praise-filled weekend scheduled for April 23 through April 26. Click here for more information.
- Come Celebrate Jesus (October 3): This gospel event is an evening of celebration and praise for the whole family with various local and international artists ministering songs with a special guest speaker bringing the word. This event is expected to attract 5,000 to 7,000 patrons inclusive of locals and overseas participants. Visit this link for more information.
Plan a faith-based volunteer trip with your family, church or friends
Jamaica paved its way as a faith-based destination by holding the distinction of being the first Caribbean country to host its own Religious Meetings Marketplace and is also a member of Religious Conference Management Association (RCMA). A great way to use those upcoming vacation days is on a mission trip to Jamaica in order to meet spiritual needs. Two organizations to help plan this trip are:
- Mission Discovery partners with local churches and ministries who are making a difference in their own communities. Come and serve through construction, medical aid, or community outreach. Visit their website for more information.
- Won By One Jamaica dedicates their time to Harmons Valley through community outreach and has had over 700 volunteers coming to this small community and build around 50 houses each year. Visit their website for more information.
Explore the Past
The history of faith in Jamaica is found in its places of worship. With the most churches per square mile, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, they are easy to spot all over the island. Three notable places to begin:
- Shaare Shalom Synagogue
Jamaica boasts an impressive Jewish heritage and has one active synagogue located on the historic Duke Street in downtown Kingston. The Shaare Shalom Synagogue is one of five in the world that still maintains sand floors and is the third oldest in the Caribbean. Jamaica also recently appointed the first ordained Rabbi to lead the community in 33 years.
- Ethiopian Orthodox Church
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church is one of the oldest organized churches in the world and dates back to biblical times. Jamaica holds an impressive Rastafarian community and even its own Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Kingston that was commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie.
- Peter’s Church – Port Royal
The present-day St. Peter’s Church was completed in 1726 after being badly damaged by an earthquake and a series of hurricanes. In a small graveyard in front of St. Peter’s Church, a tombstone described the tale of Lewis Galdy, “The Man Who Was Buried Twice.” Despite the odds, Galdy lived for another 47 years after being “swallowed up by the Great Earthquake.” In his last few decades, he dedicated his life to rebuilding St. Peter’s Church.
Rites of Passage
Marriage
Jamaica is a destination filled with romance. It’s no surprise that numerous brides and grooms are choosing Jamaica to say their “I Do’s.” There is an array of Jamaican properties that offer the option of marriage ceremonies with pastors of various denominations. These properties even equip couples with wedding coordinators that make the process as smooth as possible.
Bar and Bat Mitzvah
The coming of age ceremony for young boys and girls in the Jewish community can now be celebrated in Jamaica. With the opening of Jamaica’s first Chabad House, local and overseas followers of Judaism are welcomed to spiritual services and occasions such as bar and bat mitzvahs with Rabbi Yaakov Raskin. The Chabad also offers classes, children’s programs and a new Kosher Food service. Visit their website for more information.
Visitors interested in seeking spiritual solace in Jamaica’s diverse rich cultural heritage can book their travel at www.visitjamaica.com or contact their local travel specialist.
