An Internet radio ministry and a mobile unit that will take its message to the masses are among the plans the Errol Rattray Evangelistic Association (EREA) has to widen its outreach as it celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. It will also host, for the first time ever, a girls’ conference.

Founder and CEO Evangelist Reverend Errol “Dee” Rattray gave a rundown of the plans during a spiritually uplifting thanksgiving service held on March 29 at Olson Memorial Church of God in Kingston.

Other initiatives include a cruise across the Kingston Harbour, an August 16 – 23 anniversary Caribbean cruise on board the Celebrity Beyond Cruise Line, and an Evangelism Conference.

These will be added to staple events such as the annual boys’ conference – now in its 20th year, evangelistic crusades across Kingston from June to November, the St James for Jesus Crusade, continuation of devotion in schools, as well as outreach programmes targeting children and young people.

“Through these initiatives, the association continues to play a vital role in nation building by promoting strong moral values, encouraging positive lifestyle choices, and providing spiritual guidance, particularly among youth and families. The association’s work contributes to stronger communities and a more hopeful, purpose-driven society. As the association marks this significant milestone, it remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing its mission and impacting lives for generations to come,” Rattray stated.

For a quarter of a century the EREA has remained committed to spreading a message of hope, faith, and positive life transformation through evangelism, outreach, and community engagement. Founding board member Samuel Cooper currently chairs the board. He took over when Rev Peter Garth demitted office after serving for more than 20 years.

Under Rattray’s leadership, the organisation has impacted countless lives locally and internationally. The EREA provides spiritual support for specific groupings, boasting a wheelchair ministry, children’s ministry, schools’ ministry, and hosting evangelistic crusades in and outside of Jamaica.

During the recent thanksgiving church service, Governor General Sir Patrick Allen commended the EREA for its enduring contribution to national and community development. His message, read by EREA member June Cooper, noted that the ministry has demonstrated that the gospel is “a living and active force for change, touching lives across both urban and rural communities”.

“The association’s legacy is not merely measured in numbers but in the lives transformed through faith, restoration, and purpose,” said the governor general.

Also during the service, guest speaker Rev Dr Dylan Toussaint challenged the association “to venture into new avenues as you exercise your faith in God, depending on His guidance and provisions”. Attendees included ministry supporters, partners, and members of the wider Christian community who came together for a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration.

— Everard Owen

Guest speaker Rev Dr Dylan Toussaint speaking during a March 29 thanksgiving service at Olson Memorial Church of God in Kingston to mark the 25th anniversary of the Errol Rattray Evangelistic Association.

Founder and CEO of the eponymous Errol Rattray Evangelistic Association sharing details of some of the new programmes to come on stream during the associations’ 25th anniversary.