Thousands of people gathered at the National Arena to celebrate the 60th anniversary conference and convention of the Open Bible Standard Churches of Jamaica on Sunday.

Though sweat could be seen trickling down the face of many, while others used their programmes to cool themselves, it didn't stop persons from being energetic and vigorous in their praise and worship.

The day marked the end of a week of praise and worship under the theme 'Reflection and Renewal - Help in the Past, Hope for the Future'.

The Rev Dr Alston Henry, the outgoing general superintendent of the Open Bible Standard Churches of Jamaica and pastor of the Church Open Bible Church, Washington Boulevard, in his message to the congregation, referred to the faithfulness of mankind as remedy for the global recession.

"Some persons think the way to solve the economic recession is to get money, but the way to solve it is to return to God so that he can do the same for us," said Henry.

"We need to return to God as an individual, as a community and as a country."

Despite the escalating murder statistics, he said Jamaica had one of the highest rates of church attendance, which makes the land blessed.

Alluding to the Olympic athletes, he said, Jamaica has produced many talented persons as a result of the many blessings bestowed on the country.

With this in mind, he advised persons to be faithful to the giver of the gifts, as he would make a way when there seemed to be none.

Fitzroy Gordon travelled from Linstead, St Catherine, to share in the anniversary. He said it was a moment he couldn't miss.

"It's nice, I like how the choir sings and the message was inspirational, so I don't regret coming here," he said.

A Christian for the past 10 years, Gordon, said the Lord has been good to him and even better since he was saved.

It was no different for Karolyn who said she felt blessed after listening to the riveting message.

Meanwhile, Florizel Allen, general secretary of the Open Bible Association, said the conference was aimed at renewing the vision that God had given to the church in the past. "The aim is to galvanise our consistency, to appreciate what God has done and to renew the commitment to make an impact in our community and likewise to the Kingdom of God," he said.

He said the week was successful, as persons were optimistic about the events.

The events, which started last Saturday, included workshops and sermons from various pastors.