SEVENTH-DAY Adventist Pastor Jermaine Johnson is one of 72 individuals who late last month received a Governor General Medal of Honour for significant and exceptional contributions to their communities and the nation as a whole.

Johnson, who pastors Moneague District of Churches in St Ann, was presented with the Medal of Honour (Gold) in the category of Social Programme Contributors for writing the head of state’s I Believe Initiative (IBI) theme song titled I Believe.

“I am deeply honoured to have received the Governor General’s Medal of Honour for my contributions to the esteemed office and the advancement of our nation,” a news release from the Seventh-day Adventist Church quoted Johnson.

“This recognition is a testament to the indelible impact that pastoral ministry can have on matters of national import and I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to make a meaningful impression on our country.”

In 2009, shortly after Sir Patrick Allen was installed as governor general (GG), Johnson was inspired with a song that emanated from the themes of Sir Patrick’s inauguration speech. Johnson then put pen to paper and after refining the composition, he recommended it to the GG as a possible theme song for his I Believe Initiative social transformation programme.

“He invited me to come to King’s House with my choir to share the rendition,” explained Johnson. “Upon hearing the song, he was blown away and decided that it best befit the IBI.”

Subsequently, the governor general commissioned the song to be produced by Northern Caribbean University Media Group and a production company in Kingston. The piece, which was then presented at the official launch of the IBI, is a reflection of the notion of “using what is right with Jamaica to fix what is wrong with Jamaica”.

Johnson, who is a well-sought-after motivational speaker by corporate companies and schools for their graduations, is also the author of the book The 7 Ps to Effective Church Leadership, a culmination of numerous experiences, lessons, and inspirations, whereby he uses his expertise as a trained educator, motivational speaker, and leadership specialist to carefully detail practical steps for current and emerging Christian leaders to effectively lead the departments and congregations they serve.

Over the years, Johnson has contributed to national development as a social transformational leader, inspiring thousands of youths and adults to aspire toward their best while walking in their God-given purposes. As a result, on November 30, 2021, he was inducted as an IBI ambassador for the Governor General’s Programme for Excellence.

“In all my 24 years in the Church, this is the first pastor I have ever seen to be so passionate about the mission of the Church, and he has only been with the district since May 7, 2022,” the release quotes Earl Waysome, an elder at Moneague Church and the church’s personal ministries director.

“He is charismatic, innovative, and energetic about his ministry to the members. He is one who is adept as it pertains to training and development, especially with the young people.”

Waysome said that Johnson has been networking with various government and non-government agencies to effect social intervention programmes that have not only benefited the church, but also Moneague and its adjoining communities.

“I look forward to continuing to serve and contribute to my country’s growth and prosperity. For I am of the opinion that God doesn’t fill you up for you to live like you’re empty. We must pour out ourselves for His glory, using our gifts and influence to transform others for time and eternity,” Johnson said.