Impact Glasgow 2024 reached its pinnacle on the evening of July 6th at the Royal Concert Hall, where the Glasgow Adventist Gospel Choir delivered a spectacular and spiritually uplifting performance to an audience of approximately 500 attendees. This concert was the grand finale of a four-day event series, which included health expos and seminars attended by nearly 400 people, and culminated in a fellowship Sabbath service that morning.
The morning programme, themed "The Greatest Invitation," was a community-focused event aimed at making the gospel message accessible. An intergenerational team of 25 led the first part of the morning programme through drama, song, and prayer, portraying Jesus as our burden bearer and peace provider. This theatrical performance vividly illustrated life's struggles and the solace found in faith.
In addition, Maestro Samuel Cabral shared his moving testimony of overcoming severe health challenges, including an 8-hour open-heart surgery in May. Despite doctors' predictions, Samuel’s miraculous recovery enabled him to perform with vigour and passion alongside his daughter Serena and fellow musician Andre from Portugal.
The day’s special guest speaker, Pastor Ian Sweeney, Field Secretary at the Trans-European Division (TED), captivated the morning audience with his sermon, "Losing His Influence." He presented Jesus as the greatest and most faithful influencer, emphasising the spiritual nourishment Jesus offers beyond physical sustenance. Pastor Sweeney's message resonated deeply, offering a beacon of hope and faith to all present.
The evening began with a youth-led mime act, symbolising the peace found in God during troubled times. The energetic audience enthusiastically embraced the music and profound messages, fostering a sense of unity.
Funds raised from the concert supported the Beatson Cancer Charity, one of the charities Impact Glasgow partnered with during the week, reflecting the event’s broader mission of community outreach and support. Post-concert, church members and guests celebrated at the Glasgow church premises, recognising individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Impact Glasgow project.
Feedback from attendees, church members as well as the public, has been overwhelmingly positive. Pastor Sweeney praised the professionalism and spirituality of the programme, while Pastor Jimmy Botha, Scottish Mission President, commended the involvement of young people and the powerful storytelling through drama and song. Volunteers and attendees from various locations echoed these sentiments, highlighting the event's emotional and spiritual impact.
Adina Lupu, one of the event’s organisers, expressed gratitude for the collective effort and divine guidance that brought Impact Glasgow to fruition. Pastor Claudiu Popescu, the project's visionary, reflected on the journey from conception to realisation, emphasising the power of prayer and community partnerships.
Moving forward, Pastor Claudiu announced plans for a children’s choir, set to perform for Beatson Cancer Charity patients in December 2024. Additionally, his upcoming expedition in the Himalayas aims to raise funds for the Glasgow Church building project.
As the echoes of Impact Glasgow 2024 fade, its legacy endures in the hearts and minds of all who attended. Through music, faith, and community spirit, this event not only celebrated unity but also inspired a deeper connection to shared values. Looking ahead, its impact serves as a beacon of hope, guiding future endeavours in spreading compassion and goodwill throughout Glasgow and beyond.
