Stop derailing our collective efforts to fight COVID-19
Dear Editor,
Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) has taken note of a recent incident involving a religious leader from St Ann who, along with members of her congregation, conducted a religious service in clear contravention of the Disaster Risk Management Act.
The JCC wishes to distance itself from this most unfortunate incident and denounces the actions of the parties involved, as it in no way represents the position of JCC or the wider religious community in Jamaica.
As partners with the Jamaican Government in the efforts to combat the surge in COVID-19 infections, the JCC takes very seriously this and all other breaches of the COVID-19 protocols, as it can only serve to derail our collective efforts and further put the lives of our loved ones at risk. Indeed, we encourage adherence to the protocols, not only as effective mitigation measures, but also as expressions of love for one’s neighbour.
We urge our members, other members of the faith community, and the general public to comply with the COVID-19 protocols and encourage them to take advantage of the alternative methods of worship, even as they seek to fulfil their spiritual needs.
We also ask for respect and support of our law enforcement officers as they go about keeping us safe during these difficult times. This is in keeping with the teaching of Romans 13:1, which states inter alia, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” To this end, obeying God and following the protocols or regulations of the authorities are not in opposition to each other.
The JCC is therefore committed to the continued strict adherence to the protocols established by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and thanks the professionals in the health sector who continue to work tirelessly to keep us all safe. We continue to offer, as well, our prayers for the families of those who have lost loved ones to COVID-19 and to those recovering, and call upon all well-thinking Jamaicans to join us in our efforts to eradicate the virus from our blessed land.
Revd Newton Dixon
President
Jamaica Council of Churches
presidentatjcc@gmail.com
