They have made it clear the aim is not to eliminate or segregate women. However, this group of Jamaican men is on a mission to reclaim wayward brethren.

On February 16, the Jamaica Conference Centre will be transformed with the hosting of 'Covenant: Jamaica's Men on a Mission' national conference.

Courtney Campbell, chairman of the planning committee, said at the launch of the conference last Wednesday that the aim was to reach the fathers, sons and husbands who should take their rightful place in society.

He spoke of the challenges faced by men and their lack of responsibility in society.

"We know that our young men are the major contributors to our high rate of crime and violence," said Campbell.

Catalyst for change

"The conference is meant to be a catalyst for this change that we so desperately need," he said.

The two main speakers scheduled for the conference are Dr Alvin Curling and Bishop Lennox Walker.

These renowned international speakers will be backed up by Dr Orville Taylor and Michael James.

The opening ceremony will be held a day before the main conference at the Mona Visitors' Lodge, University of the West Indies, Mona. The ceremony will commence at 6:30 p.m.

All attendees are being asked to register for the conference.

The conference is being sponsored by The Gleaner Company Limited, National Commercial Bank and the Hilton Kingston hotel.