By Francine Black, Staff ReporterHUNDREDS OF Christians of several denominations gathered yesterday near the Parade, downtown Kingston, to launch a three-month season of prayer for the nation, dubbed 'Jamaica Bawl Out 2'.
Social problems such as crime, violence, poverty, corruption and oppression were identified as some that required prayer.
The group noted that an event of that nature was especially important with the spiralling murder rate affecting the country.
NATION IN CRISIS
"With over 750 murders since the start of the year it is evident that we are a nation in crisis,",said the Rev. Al Miller, pastor of Fellowship Tabernacle Church and a member of the organising committee. "Crime, violence, corruption, poverty, oppression and immortality are overtaking the nation."
He said the moral, social and economic decline in the country was an indication of divine judgement and the presence of evil spiritual forces in the nation. This, according to the Rev. Mr. Miller, demanded immediate action by "the people of God".
With this view in mind, Christ-ians throughout the island have been called on to join together in prayer to God for the nation.
RESTORATION AND PROSPERITY
"Restoration and prosperity of the nation can only come after confession, repentance, prayer and rededication of this nation to God," the Rev. Mr. Miller said.
'Jamaica Bawl Out' was organised by a committee of church leaders supported by umbrella church groups including the Jamaica Association of Full Gospel Churches, Jamaica Pente-costal Union (Apostolic), Evange-lical leaders, Seventh-day Ad-ventists, and other denominations.
The period of prayer commenced yesterday and will run until October 31 when it will end with a Victory Praise Rally at Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay, St. James.
During the season of prayer from August to October, Christ-ians will gather to pray at symbolic sites throughout the nation.
