Hundreds gather at Forrest Place for Perth Worship Festival — evening session at Foster Park to follow

Hundreds of locals, families and curious passers-by stopped by to take part Perth CBD Worship Festival in what organisers called one of the largest open-air worship gatherings to be held in the heart of Perth this year.

The Ministry of Repentance and Holiness Australia's National Overseer, Dr Ammish Adu, told WTV he had been overwhelmed by the response from members of the public — many of whom stumbled across the event by accident as they walked through the city centre.

"For the public, it's an opportunity to make sense of the times we're living in — what current world events mean — and to hear a message of hope," Dr Adu said.

"We believe the Bible calls people to be ready for Jesus' return, so we bring it into the public square so our neighbours can hear, reflect, and prepare."

"It's shared in love, with no pressure — so each person can make their own decision."

The festival's choice of Forrest Place as a venue has proved a strategic one, with the open-air format allowing thousands of weekend pedestrians, shoppers and tourists to engage with the event whether or not they intended to.

"Being inside a room can limit who sees it," Dr Adu said.

"Forrest Place is right in the heart of the city and has some of the highest foot traffic in Perth, so it felt like the best place to reach people where they already are."

The message, Dr Adu said, was particularly important against the backdrop of what many Australians are currently experiencing.

"We live in an age of deep global distress and uncertainty — ongoing wars, rising conflict, and a fragile world order where powerful nations threaten smaller ones, undermining any sense of security," he said.

"Closer to home in Australia, and here in Perth, the pressure is personal and real — homelessness is growing, housing stress is intensifying, and the cost of living continues to weigh heavily on families and individuals, leaving many anxious, exhausted, and searching for answers."

"In the midst of this, we believe Jesus is the answer to our deepest needs today — true peace, forgiveness, direction, and lasting hope.

The Bible not only speaks to our present struggles but clearly points to the return of Jesus and the reality of eternity."

The morning session at Forrest Place is set to wrap shortly, but Dr Adu confirmed the day is far from over.

The event resumes this evening from 5.30pm at Foster Park, with a different format — focused on teaching, current events, repentance and prayer.

"That is why this message must be shared publicly," Dr Adu said.

"To alert the people of Australia to what lies ahead, to awaken hearts, and to invite everyone to reflect, prepare, and find real hope — not in fear, but in Jesus."

Dr Adu said the Perth festival was part of a much broader movement now underway across the country, with similar gatherings being hosted in capital cities throughout 2026.

"We believe God's hand is on this nation in a fresh way this year — awakening faith, strengthening believers, and stirring hearts," he said.

"Our prayer is that this becomes a spark — igniting the Church and touching the wider community for an end-time revival in our nation."

For anyone who missed the morning event, there is still a evening session which begins at 5.30pm at Foster Park.

Entry is free, and the public is encouraged to bring family and friends. Details below: