Antigua and Barbuda’s current challenges are a prelude to national renewal, not a sign of decline, Apostle Stephen C. Andrews told worshippers Sunday as he delivered a sermon focused on restoration, resilience and economic destiny at the National Service of Thanksgiving.

Addressing political leaders, clergy and congregants, Andrews cautioned against interpreting hardship as failure, urging the nation to resist despair and public pessimism.

Drawing from the biblical book of Micah, he warned against placing excessive trust in human systems and personalities, arguing that national confidence must rest on faith, moral discipline and unity.

He declared that Antigua and Barbuda would “rise again,” framing the country’s recent pressures as temporary and necessary stages before recovery.

Andrews said adversity should not be welcomed or celebrated by critics, maintaining that struggle often precedes restoration.

In remarks that extended beyond personal spirituality, the apostle linked faith directly to national development, saying the country has the potential to emerge as an economic powerhouse if it remains unified and grounded in integrity.

He suggested that sustainable prosperity depends as much on ethical foundations as on policy and investment.

Andrews also shared personal testimony of overcoming uncertainty through what he described as divine provision, using his experience as a parallel to the nation’s journey.

He told the congregation that resilience, rather than fear, must define the public response to current challenges.

Throughout his address, Andrews urged citizens to speak positively about the country’s future, warning that persistent negative narratives could weaken national confidence and cohesion at a critical moment.

His sermon formed one of the central messages of the annual thanksgiving service, which traditionally sets a reflective tone for the new year by blending faith, national identity and public responsibility.