The Enduring Legacy of Doctor Vernon Carrington: Prophet Gad, Founder of the Twelve Tribes of Israel

Doctor Vernon Carrington, known as Prophet Gad and the revered founder of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, was born on November 1, 1935, to George Carrington and Elfreda Myrie. His birth marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would leave an indelible mark on spiritual teachings and communal living.

Growing up in Jamaica, Vernon Carrington’s early life was marked by a blend of experiences that would shape his future path. He engaged in promoting dances with Coxsone Sound System while simultaneously working as a shoemaker at Hanwood Show Company.

His transformative journey took him to England in 1960, only to find himself disenchanted, prompting a return to Jamaica. It was during this time, while seeking guidance, that he made a promise to God to dedicate himself to a higher purpose.

In May 1961, Vernon Carrington experienced a profound conversion, leading him to immerse himself in studying the Bible and delving into literature on global affairs. His dedication to understanding and preparing himself to engage with the world led him to his grandmother’s house in Trench Town, where he was influenced by her involvement in the Garvey Movement and the Ethiopian World Federation.

It was within this influential environment that Carrington began the significant work of gathering the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Meetings were initiated, and with the collaboration of like-minded individuals such as Brother Dan and Brother Napthali, the foundation of the Twelve Tribes of Israel was laid.

The Twelve Tribes of Israel was officially established on February 25, 1968. Prophet Gad meticulously gathered 49 executive members, representing the Twelve Tribes of Israel and Sister Dinah, an effort that spanned three and a half years.

His teachings emphasised unity, self-reliance, justice, faith, and the possibility of repatriation for all. He advocated that each member belonged to a specific Tribe of Israel based on their birth time, representing different facets of the body of Christ.

Prophet Gad’s impact extended far beyond Jamaica, reaching various countries including Trinidad, Tobago, Barbados, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ethiopia, and more. His teachings and the establishment of the Jamaican Rastafarian Development Community in Shashamane stands as a testament to his visionary leadership.

Sadly missed by the Twelve Tribes of Israel, Prophet Gad’s legacy lives on through his teachings, his family, and the communities he helped establish.

As November marks the birth month of Prophet Gad, known as the Tribe of Gad, it’s essential to remember and honour his teachings rooted in love, faith, and hope. His encouragement to read the Bible daily stands as a timeless reminder of spiritual enlightenment and personal growth.

Source: RastaKnowledge. (2020). Doctor Vernon Carrington, Prophet Gad founder of the Twelve Tribes of Israel

Image Source: Facebook – Prophet Gad page