'King David' definitely worth seeing, says Father Ho Lung
Published:Sunday | April 19, 2015 | 12:00 AMDavina Henry
"Definitely worth seeing", is how Father Richard Ho Lung describes the upcoming annual event, aptly titled King David, a musical celebration of a man after God's own heart.
The show certainly provides an excellent means of fundraising, but the mission in these performances goes far beyond that. Every show is evangelistic in nature, but this year, fans are in for an even bigger treat. Father Ho Lung teamed up with several top-notched reggae heavyweights for the theme song, Rise Up.
Written by Father Ho Lung, he told The Gleaner, that the words of the song embody the Missionaries of the Poor concept: to make a family among the poor.
"The inspiration from the song came from the beauty I have seen among the poor and their tremendous sense of joy, which could only come from the Lord. To see the light in their eyes and their gratefulness, stirs up happiness in yourself."
He added that to bring happiness and good news to individuals is a wonderful vocation.
"The purpose of our lives is to bring joy to others. Jamaican people love to be happy and we also love to see other people happy," he told The Gleaner.
And happy is definitely what audience members will be feeling after hearing the words of the song. The song features Shaggy, Tarrus Riley, Chevaughn, Sly and Robbie and keyboardist Steven 'Lenky' Marsden.
Ho Lung recalled meeting Shaggy, who offered to assist in any way possible. Shaggy was also able to visit the Missionaries of the Poor homes and was "swept off his feet by the kids".
"I played the song for him and he loved it right away. He called in Sly and Robbie and Lenky. Tarrus Riley also called and said he would love to be a part of it. I think doing this song brought learning, purpose and a deep sense of satisfaction in using their talent for the benefit of others," Father Ho Lung said.
King David will run from May 7-17 in Kingston before moving on to Toronto, Canada, for performances from July 2-5.