Rev. Dr. Peter Garth delivered a powerful message of unity, compassion, and national healing during his sermon at the 2026 National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB) on Thursday at Boulevard Baptist Church in St. Andrew.
Speaking against the backdrop of Jamaica’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Melissa, which devastated primarily western parishes last October, Garth drew on the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan to urge Jamaicans to respond to the crisis with empathy and practical support.
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“We don’t have to look very far. Melissa destroyed the western end of Jamaica, but the good news is that God has raised up many good Samaritans who have been helping persons who are hurting,” he said.
Garth highlighted the Samaritan’s actions as a model of ethical compassion, contrasting them with those of the priest and Levite, who prioritized ritual obligations over aiding someone in need. He drew parallels between the dangerous Jericho Road in the parable and Jamaica’s current social climate, where fear and cynicism often discourage acts of help.
“Many Jamaicans are afraid to help,” he observed. “Even genuine efforts are often met with criticism. Yet, we must not turn away from those in need.”
He also warned against the misuse of power, noting that ethical responsibility is essential in all spheres of life. “Blessings and abilities must be used rightly,” Garth said. “The end does not justify the means.”
Despite potential risks, he called on citizens to actively support hurricane recovery efforts. “There are thousands of Jamaicans wishing for concern—people simply wanting someone to stop and lend a hand,” he said. “Let us respond to the urgent needs of our brothers and sisters. Let us care for our neighbors and demonstrate compassion.”
Garth also criticized what he described as a combative national posture, urging an end to “vulgar criticism” and “vicious character assassinations.” “Love must take over. We are all in this together, and we need all hands on deck if we are going to rebuild Jamaica,” he said.
He concluded by challenging Jamaicans to become individuals “who bring blessings, break barriers, and build bridges.”
Funds raised at this year’s NLPB will support a wellness center at Manning’s School in Westmoreland, a facility heavily damaged by Hurricane Melissa. The event, themed “Caring for Our Neighbors,” drew church leaders, government and private sector representatives, and political figures. Both Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader Mark Golding participated in scripture readings, and prayers were offered for the nation’s leadership.
