The Church has not failed (reprinted from the Gleaner)

THE EDITOR, Sir:

DESPITE THE frequent criticism of it, the Church has been doing, and continues to do, a good job in Jamaica. The Church is the single most credible institution in Jamaica today, in my opinion. Over the past three and a half decades, the Church has consistently maintained a solid reputation and has established itself as a strong and effective force for good. If it weren't for the work of the Church and its widespread social outreach, many would go hungry in this country. The Church also does a lot of work in the area of wholistic health care, primarily for the benefit of the poor.

The ecumenical community in Jamaica has produced many church leaders who are often appointed to key roles in the public sector, particularly whenever a fair, non-partisan and balanced voice is required. The appointment of the Rev. Herro Blair, as Political Ombudsman is a prime example of this. Our political directorate often turns to the Church when all other avenues fail, or when things reach crisis proportions. Recently, the PM called upon the Church to assist the Government in the fight against crime.

The Church has been a unifying force in Jamaica as well. Since 1981, the National Prayer Breakfast has been a fixture on the annual calendar, bringing business and political leaders together to spend time in fellowship, reflection and prayer. In education, the Church has played a pivotal role in this country, particularly the Roman Catholic church. Campion College, Immaculate Conception High School and St. George's College are prime examples of the Church's sterling leadership in this regard.

The list of accomplishments of the Jamaican church could go on and on. The naysayers, comprised mainly of secularists, will always find reason to criticise the Church, mainly because it is an easy target. The Church in Jamaica deserves to be lauded for its impressive work over the past four decades.

I am, etc.,

PATRICK A. GALLIMORE

pagalley@hotmail.com