April 24, 2025 – Bridgetown, Barbados: Barbados Gospelfest today officially launched its “GIFTED” initiative with a dynamic ministry tour to St. Vincent & the Grenadines. From April 24–27 the inspiring outreach brings together ministry, music, and culture in a celebration of the God-given talent of Barbadian gospel artistes, in the spirit of Caribbean unity.
Led by Adrian R. Agard, Executive Producer of Barbados Gospelfest accompanied by his wife, Grace Margaret, and Lester Welch, Artistic Director of Barbados Gospelfest, the eight-member group of vocalists and musicians will minister at the Streams of Power Ministries Church, the Rilland Hill Nazarene Church, the Belle Isle Prison, and make a special guest appearance at the St. Vincent & the Grenadines National Gospel Showcase. The group will be met on arrival at Argyle International Airport by representatives of the SVG Gospel Fest and the Ministry of Culture.
The “GIFTED” initiative seeks to explore and celebrate outstanding Gospel talent across Barbados. Through a series of ongoing engagements, Barbados Gospelfest will be seeking out singers, dancers, dramatists, musicians, and other local gospel creatives who will be mentored and supported to share their gifts with the nation, and celebrated as artistic expressions of the Gospel are afforded greater prominence on the national level through the annual festival and other activities.
“Barbados Gospelfest is a movement, one that boldly declares the creative power of the Gospel and seeks to inspire lives through artistic ministry,” said Mr. Agard. “Now more than ever, the name of Jesus Christ must be boldly and unapologetically lifted up across Barbados, and our entire region. In this current atmosphere of fear, increasing doubt, and diminishing values we are called to proclaim truth, hope, and life through the Gospel. Our local artistes, each uniquely gifted, carry that message in powerful, creative ways. It is not just important, but essential, that we encourage and support them as they use their God-given talents to glorify Him. This is our mandate. This is our mission.”
As the countdown to Barbados Gospelfest 2025 continues, this regional ministry tour serves as a reminder of the divine purpose and creative excellence that define the annual festival as a declaration of calling, purpose, and praise. Recognized as the Caribbean’s premier Christian music and arts festival, Barbados Gospelfest celebrates 32 years this year with events from May 25 – June 01 2025.