In a candid conversation with The Exclusive Press (EP), Bishop George B. Holmes and Grammy-nominated gospel artist Byron Cage offered powerful reflections on The Gathering 2025—a three-day spiritual summit (June 24th to June 26th) held in Landover, Maryland—and the deeper meaning of discipleship, leadership, and the enduring call to follow Christ.
Both men emphasized the profound impact of the annual conference, not only on their personal walks with God but also in the way it reinforces their call to serve with humility, conviction, and purpose.
“It’s on Christ, the solid rock on which we all stand,” said Cage.
“If we focus on Him, everything else will fall into place. The Lord knows what we need. He’s not going to forsake us now—that’s why we can’t give up,” he added.
Cage, who has led worship across the globe, described The Gathering as a living embodiment of the Great Commission—Jesus’ call in the New Testament to go into all nations and share the Gospel.
“Jesus didn’t run from the sinner—He wanted to make sure they knew they had a chance to know Him as Lord and Savior,” Cage said.
For Bishop Holmes, The Gathering represents the intersection of spiritual strength and strategic leadership. Having served under five U.S. presidents and trained through the Congressional Black Caucus’ Political Leaders Institute, Holmes brings a wealth of civic and theological experience to his ministry.
“This is part of my world and part of who I am,” Holmes said.
“There’s power in unity. One can chase a thousand, but two can chase ten thousand. That’s what we’re doing—gathering in God’s name, where He promises to be in our midst.”
Holmes also highlighted how conferences like The Gathering equip leaders with tangible tools—ranging from prophetic ministry to fundraising strategy—that empower them to serve more effectively in both sacred and secular spaces.
A Call to Action
Both Holmes and Cage underscored the urgent need for unity within the body of Christ during challenging times. The Gathering, they said, offers more than inspiration; it is a call to action.
“It’s not just a conference—it’s a mission. It’s about moving beyond church walls, going into the community, and being spiritually fed so we can feed others,” said Holmes.
Cage echoed the sentiment with conviction, drawing from Scripture as he addressed the importance of trusting in God’s sovereignty.
Singing and praise dance performance during Day 3 of the Gathering’s evening service – June 26, 2025; Photo Credit: Tracey Morrison/The Exclusive Press
“Nothing catches God by surprise,” Cage said. “He knows what’s happening on Pennsylvania Avenue. The Bible says, ‘Fret not because of evildoers.’ Whatever a man sows, he shall reap. So even if it seems like others are winning, our hope is in Jesus Christ—not in man. He is our ultimate source.”
The Legacy and Leadership of Bishop Joel Peebles
Both men expressed deep admiration for Bishop Joel R. Peebles Sr., Presiding Bishop of the Global United Fellowship, and his wife, Dr. Ylawnda Peebles, praising their leadership, spiritual integrity, and commitment to building a global network rooted in biblical unity.
“No one could’ve done it better than Bishop Joel and Dr. Ylawnda Peebles. Their example has helped me adopt better practices in ministry, and I’m honored to serve alongside such great leaders,” said Holmes.
Cage recalled his early days in the D.C. area and the lasting impression the Peebles family made on him and the community at large.
“I moved here in 1998, and I remember Bishop Peebles and Mother Peebles well…The legacy of this church, the conferences, and the work they’re doing around the world is absolutely incredible,” said Cage.
Strength in Fellowship
As the conversation came to a close, Bishop Holmes reflected on the personal spiritual discipline that grounds his leadership.
“I prostrate myself before the Lord to build myself up and stay aligned with His will,” he said. “When I come together with my brothers and sisters in Christ, we become stronger and more humble together.”
Whether through worship, training, or fellowship, The Gathering 2025 left attendees—both seasoned leaders and emerging voices—spiritually renewed and ready to carry forward the mission of Christ with boldness and love.
As Byron Cage put it, “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”
Make sure to follow Global United Fellowship Ministries on Facebook at “The Official Global United Fellowship” and on Instagram at @gufellowship to keep updated on the fellowship ministry, including future dates for the Gathering 2026 and other current and upcoming events and conferences.
