Dear Editor,

The media has reported, without clear explanation, that Pastor Al Miller has changed his mind about filing an appeal against his recent conviction for attempting to pervert the course of justice. For clarity’s sake, it is important to note that he continues to aver that he has no personal desire to appeal.

Pastor Al would like to get on with the job of strengthening his immediate family and church and rebuilding his peer relationships and leadership friendships which have been battered and negatively affected over these six years. In addition, he has been looking forward, once again, to being able to speak freely on any matter without the restraint that a court case imposes on his God-ordained purpose as a voice of transformation to this Jamaica, land he so loves.

However, over the last week, he has had many calls from and discussions with people in the legal profession, along with clergy, his local church and citizens, urging him to carefully reconsider his position to not appeal the conviction, as legitimate and understandable as it is. He is aware and asserted strongly to his advisors that there is the possibility that some may view this altered position as being double-minded; a trait that the

Bible book of James 1:8 advises all to avoid.

Nevertheless, there are times when personal positions must be guided by Proverbs 11:14, which declares: “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but in abundance of counsellors there is victory.”

Proverbs 15:22 further validates, “Without counsel purposes are disappointed; but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” Pastor Al understands the possible negative perceptions, but believes that such negatives, real or imagined, cannot take precedence over the greater good; even as the Lord Jesus Christ centuries ago determined to put aside His reputation for a greater purpose.

So, whereas his personal preference was to not appeal the conviction and to bear what comes with it, the multitude of counsel brought to fore that the issue is beyond him. His case carries greater implications for the highest good of the nation. For example, the appeal could help bring value to the current dialogue and in developing protocols to clarify the law, particularly in the areas relating to the clergy’s and other citizens’ duty to assist the police. In addition, it allows for an examination of the manner in which our judges handle or allow evidence. The filing of an appeal will therefore preserve the opportunity for distinguished lawyers’ further research and advice as to how best to proceed in matters of this kind in the nation’s interest.

The Court of Appeal can only consider those matters that are placed before it by the affected party. After filing the appeal, Pastor Al’s own involvement, if any, will be minimal as the process will be handled by the lawyers who will present their concerns and legal arguments.

Michael Aiken

transformationjamaica@gmail.com