By Anthea McGibbon, Staff Reporter
Rev. Devon Dick, right, autographs copies of his new book for guests at the book launch. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer
THE LAUNCH of a new book Rebellion to Riot by Baptist minister Reverend Devon Dick, took place at Boulevard Baptist Church on Thursday October 28. For publisher Ian Randle, it was the first book to be launched in a church. And for the author, it will be placed alongside those of renowned Caribbean writers at the Ibero American Institute of Berlin in Germany.
Some 300 persons attended the launch at which Information Minister Burchell Whiteman was the guest speaker.
The book illustrates that the church, with its power and potential, has played an important role in the nation's
development.
The author's combined love of history and research, as well as his most recent title of newspaper columnist, provided inspiration for the book which he began writing in late 1999. Completing the book was not difficult for Reverend Dick who usually makes the effort to complete tasks. And, in this case, he firmly believes in what the church has done in its contribution to nation building.
Highlighting chapters four and six, Mr. Whiteman spoke about the relevance of the book as a tool for change and resolution at this time.
The final chapter of the book invites the reader to envision and shape the future with the consciousness of the past, offering systematic suggestions both collectively and individually.
Rebellion to Riot stimulates positive and practical action through its records and analysis of the church in our history, from the earlier periods of rebellion to the current days of riots.
Describing it as a "readable" book, Mr. Whiteman charged historians, social analysts and church people to study the important work, which shies away from a quick fix to national problems. And about the author, he said, "Reverend Dick is an excellent example of the partnership and the creative tension which exists between the Jamaican church and the Jamaican state."
Reverend Dick who is from St. Thomas, was educated at Airy Castle Primary, Port Morant Primary, Glen Stewart Primary in St. Elizabeth and Calabar High School before attending the United Theological College in Kingston. He taught at Morant Bay High School from 1979-81 and is married and has three children.
The book will be placed at the National Library and at the University of the West Indies. The book is also being offered for sale on The Gleaner's
website.
