The Editor, Sir:

As I sit by my computer on a daily basis and read the different reports on the upcoming election, I find myself pondering the potential effect the Church can have on this upcoming election. Culturally, we boast of the fact that Jamaica has a church every square mile. Most Jamaicans are fully aware that the Church has a very powerful influence in their community. It is time we as Jamaicans call on the Church to take its powerful influence to the streets of Jamaica and bring forth political change.

The Church has been sitting on the sideline, not actively participating in the political process for far too long. I believe that because the Church has such a powerful voice, it can change the outcome of this election. Whether or not the Church will take on this challenge is yet to be seen.

I challenge the Church to close its doors every Saturday, Sunday and prayer meeting days, get in the community and mobilise the people to get involved in the political process. It is time the Church realise that its continual teaching of brotherly love, peace and prosperity for all Jamaicans must begin with being actively involved in the political process.

Along with teaching the Bible on a weekly basis, we must also challenge the Church to incorporate government and politics with 'God' and the Church.

I am. etc.,

RYAN LUMLEY

El Paso, Texas

Via Go-Jamaica

ryanlumley79912@hotmail.com