Samuel Osbourne is a familiar face on Brunswick Avenue, at the corner of Job Lane and Eltham. From 7 a.m. until 10 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. He and a team of intercessors display their ministry cards, minister to passersby about the love of God, and pray for the surrounding communities.
The team is a part of the Tarrant Baptist Church/ Freedom Come Ministries International Peaceful Prayer Protest, a non-denominational gathering, that is now active in over 80 locations islandwide. It is centred on advocating for spiritual and societal change through prayer, scripture readings, and non-violent protest. The ultimate goal is to encourage righteousness and national transformation through faith.
Osbourne was already involved in the ministry and knew about the prayer protest—having heard the announcement on the radio (TBC) when it began in January. He initially joined some of the outreach efforts as he saw new locations emerging.
As the momentum grew, Osbourne said he felt a strong urge to respond when the call came for more men to be involved.
“They started to call out for men to go out, because it was mostly women who were out there, you know. So it was for men to come out to join with the women. So I made it my point of duty, and I went out a few times to where the women were,” he shared with Freedom Come Rain.
He explained that when the prayer protest first began, it was already in his spirit to start one at the location where he now ministers. However, it was not until July that he obeyed the call, an experience he and his team say has been fulfilling and rewarding.
“When I just started, it was me alone. Then shortly after, a little sister came out there with me, and now a few others have joined.”
In the beginning, Osbourne said many people simply looked at them and went about their business—catching taxis or walking by. However, as they continued distributing cards and praying, things began to change.
“The longer we were there, things began to change. When people come out to catch taxis to go to work, they always come and greet us, and they read the cards,” he shared, adding that some even commended the team, telling them they are doing a good work.
Still, like others serving in various locations, Osbourne has faced his share of opposition and challenges. However, he said he does not allow these experiences to discourage him or the team members.
There are times, he said, when detractors pass by and make unwholesome comments, with some even chastising them for believing in God.
“Some men come here telling me that God doesn’t exist and try to make me look foolish, but I don’t pay them any mind,” he stated.
While he listens, Osbourne said he does not entertain arguments or allow negativity to affect him. His focus, he stressed, is to minister. Whether people hear or forbear, he knows his duty has been fulfilled.
According to Osbourne, the main theme of his message is repentance. Although he also shares other words from the Lord, repentance remains the core focus.
He also emphasised that there are times when the Holy Spirit leads him in the conversations he has with those who engage him.
“The Holy Spirit enters you when you go to talk to somebody. Sometimes you don’t know where the words come from, but you just minister to the people. When you talk to them, they are really convinced. When you minister to them and show them certain things, they really receive it. You can see that they are really impacted by what you said to them,” he explained.
Osbourne is encouraging others to come on board and be change-makers by covering the island in prayer. However, he is especially reaching out to men, emphasising that it is all about having the right motives.
“By motive is enlightening people toward Christ, because the coming of the Lord is near. Therefore, we want to sensitise others to come to know the Lord as their personal Saviour, so they can be saved from the wrath of God. We are calling out for men to come out, but make sure when you come, you come with one motive—and that is to unite together, to let the Word of God go out and bring unity,” he said.
