MacDonald inspires crowd

Exactly a week ago, Canadian gospel singer David MacDonald inspired a crowd made up of 70 people during an intimate brunch benefit concert held at AJ’s Restaurant.

“Love at the Center” saw the Ottawa-based MacDonald pick up a guitar and perform a number of songs from the Christian billboard charts.

In between songs, MacDonald also shared his experience that transformed him from literally a man of the world into one who has put Jesus Christ in the forefront of everything he does.

He said he has lived the life most people would envy—with all the trappings of fame and riches to go along with it. But admitted it was only when he joined a Cursillo weekend retreat that he found his real calling–which is to serve Christ and help others.

Near the end of his performance, MacDonald took time out to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Dean Brubaker, who were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary that day, and even composed an impromptu song for the couple.

MacDonald said he enjoyed his stay on Saipan and was especially taken by the pristine nature of the island.

“In three days I will be on a plane back to Canada and I will be freezing. I’m so excited to be here on Saipan. You have the most beautiful island. I walked at the back of my hotel this morning and saw the sea, which was of a turquoise-green color. It’s simply amazing” he said.

MacDonald also admired how the people of the Marianas put family first and implored them never to let the influence of the U.S. mainland change their way of life.

He also imparted the message that being a Christian is not only for old people and dispelled the notion that it is boring to be one.

“It’s not only for your grandparents and parents. It’s also for the youth. I want to show them that it’s cool to be a Christian. It’s really incredible to be a Christian.”

People who watched MacDonald perform were all in agreement that they felt an extra bounce on their step after the concert.

“It was very worshipful. He [MacDonald] showed us that not only religion is important but also having a personal relationship with God is key,” said Dean Brubaker.

“I loved it. It was very inspirational. David gave us a great show,” said Marlene Cruz. Rita Cruz agreed with Marlene and added, “He touched us in many ways and we all came out of it [the concert] a better person.”

Fr. Manny Corcuera and Fr. Joseph Billoti said they both liked MacDonald’s message and concurred that it was made more effective because the artist presented it in a very entertaining way.

Carmen Gaskin, who was one of the coordinators of the concert, said she was very grateful for the warm reception MacDonald got and thanked everyone who bought tickets to the event. She said proceeds from the brunch benefit concert would go to the Immaculate Concepcion Fiesta slated for Dec. 8.

MacDonald left the island last Tuesday but promised he would definitely return in a moment’s notice to once again share his music and life experience to the people of Saipan.