“God is in charge, I’m just his vessel,” shared Thelma Mciver, a member of New Direction Baptist Church in Liberty, NY. An idea of bringing pastors together in Liberty as one became the First Annual Gospel Jamboree. Clergy from local churches gathered on stage to begin the event with a prayer led by Pastor Richard Ienuso of Lighthouse Ministries. 

Along with his wife Kathie, they co-pastor the congregation. On this beautiful Saturday morning, LaPolt Park on Main Street was transformed into an outdoor worship and praise festival. Free food and snacks were distributed, and food baskets were given to those in need. Serafina Desio attended the jamboree with her husband, Pastor Albert Desio. 

Serafina shared with the Democrat, “This is something that Sullivan County needs. This was one of our dreams that all the churches would come together,” a sentiment shared by all the pastors in attendance. 

Many other community organizations were represented at the Gospel Jamboree. Oxford House, a self-run, self-supported home for individuals in recovery from substance abuse, was in attendance. 

Thirty-three-year-old Khristian Newkirk took the stage to share his testimony. Newkirk spoke candidly about his journey through addiction. Working with Oxford House is his way of giving back to the community. “All it took was for me to change the perspective on where I was from.” 

Newkirk shared that Oxford House is looking to expand into the area so they can help others like him. 

Dorothy Sanchez started Jonathan’s Legacy after losing her son almost one year ago to an overdose. Sanchez used this community outreach opportunity to do an “in reach with the churches, to come together in unity.” The primary goal of this event was for churches to work together as one in order to share the gospel of Christ throughout the community.