THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE FOLLOWING concerns are being projected regularly in Jamaica:- decay of the social fabric; crisis in society; and social disintegration.
Since these expressions are now becoming commonplace, a country with so many 'churches' is calling on the Church in general to take stock of her prophetic role. This requirement is obvious because Church adherents are definitely accountable to God for the deplorable state of our homeland.
It is my view that the Christian Church in Jamaica has had very limited impact on governance during recent years. Clearly, there has been little religious effect on the operation of public affairs.
Annual denominational assemblies take place. There have been 20 years promoting Prayer Breakfast to start progressive out-turns of national life. So how do we explain the social decline and financial collapse?
If since the 1950s we claim to have been building a nation, we need to examine the pillars of the structure so as to see if they are firmly undergirding the national framework. I would therefore refer to the essential pillars as follows:
The legislature; political economy; public safety; and justice.
They all seem to be 'shaky' and so demand a look by all patriotic Jamaicans at the foundation of the national edifice.
As a minister of 'The Word' I have to use the proclamation of Jesus, my Master, as the basis of my analysis and prophetic declaration.
Matthew's gospel shows Jesus teaching that if a structure is to remain in a strong condition it has to be set on a rock-like base.
Obviously, the prophetic judgement on Jamaica is to lament the lack of a spiritual foundation in governance, and to make this message of the risen Lord a constant challenge to the political directorate.
I therefore entreat my brother ministers to share this commitment.
Thanks for your assistance.
I am, etc.,
SALDOR D. ROBERTSON
Baptist Minister, East City
Seven Miles P.A.
Bull Bay, St. Andrew
