THE EDITOR, Sir:
THIS IS a response to a letter by Rev. Al Miller, which was carried in your publication on August 23, 2004. I will be the first to commend the proactive, visionary and hardworking Rev. Al Miller and the Bawl Out 2 Committee for their role in tackling the 'deadly beast' of violent crimes and murder. The church, though heavily criticised for its perceived silence and inactivity, has a very critical role to play Jamaica's continued development. However, the church, for its own credibility, has to be careful of making questionable claims about its role and effectiveness.
If Rev. Al Miller claims that, "The drop in criminal activity fell during the period of the intense focused fasting and prayer...and also during the 'No Man's Land' Crusade last year....", is true, then why were those activities not continued over a longer and sustained period of time? Why did the church take its feet off the gas? Was there a shortage of personnel? If this is a proven method used successfully in Jamaica and all over the world, why don't you package and market it to the hapless local crime-fighting authorities, the central government and other crime-torn cities?
If there is a shortage of funding then I am sure the public and private sector would jump at any workable and proven methodology to halt this crime problem. After all, our untenably high crime rate is a major impediment to investments, job creation, economic growth and a much needed fiscal surplus to fund other social and economic programmes.
I therefore implore you to make haste and approach the government, the private sector for funding and support, and other churches if there is a shortage of personnel. You have a responsibility to the country, and to God to do the right thing. You and the Bawl Out 2 Committee could save hundreds of lives, don't you think Reverend Al? Over to you.
I am, etc.,
D. SCARLETT
dhsscarlett@yahoo.com
London, England
