Monsignor Richard Albert

Some religious leaders believe that the high levels of crime and violence now gripping the nation are, in part, the manifestations of demonic forces that are at present holding the country in bondage.

Pastor Errol Bolt of Kencot Christian Fellowship told The Gleaner that many of the heinous murders being committed are done by individuals possessed by demons.

"The scripture teaches that the devil has demonic hosts that he dispatches to different territories to carry out diabolical deeds," said Pastor Bolt.

He said these demonic forces exert their influence over the minds of people through deception so they can carry out their wicked instructions.

According to Pastor Bolt, there is evidence that Jamaica is one of the many countries now under this kind of bondage.

Demon-inspired

"Right now when one looks at Jamaica and see the kinds of murders being committed, the evidence is there that something like this (demon-inspired murders) is taking place in our country.

"Why are our people like this now, when there was a time when they weren't?

"Some will reason that people need employment, others will say it's a lack of education or proper housing, but whatever you give as reasoning, the end result will show that there is evil and wickedness and something is causing this," he said.

Reverend Nalia Ricketts, chief executive officer (CEO) of the parachurch organisation, Prayer 2000, agrees that demonic influences have played a significant role in the rise of crime and violence in Jamaica.

"The thing is, men who refuse to serve God, in any form whatsoever, are likely targets for demonic operations," he said. "A lot of people in Jamaica have given over themselves to satanic forces."

He argues that many of our national practices, including some aspects of our Emancipation celebrations, help to invoke demonic powers, which will serve to bring more bloodshed and mayhem on the country.

Christians job

Both pastors agree that it is the Christian's job to help to release the country from such bondage.

"The people of God need to go to God through fasting and prayer to intercede on behalf of the nation so that God can release his holy angels to fight battle against these demonic spirits," said Pastor Bolt.

However Pastor Glen Samuels, president of the West Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventist churches, said that while he does not discount the issue of demonic bondage, the serious breakdown of family life and moral values are more significant contributions to crime and violence.

"We can stem the tide of violence if we are able to work speedily fixing the breakdown of family life in this country," said Pastor Samuels.

Roman Catholic priest, Monsignor Richard Albert, said poor social conditions, greed and a diminishing family life have created individuals that are wicked and that is the real root of crime.