The Editor, Sir:

I write in response to your most insightful and timely editorial of Saturday, August 9, titled 'Good boys need support too'.

All educational institutions, church leaders, community organisations, and youth-related institutions should read that editorial and seek to make a positive response.

Recognise youngsters

For starters, I call upon each church across Jamaica to begin during the upcoming school year (2008-2009) to "identify and recognise" their fifth form (grade 11) boys who display Christian qualities, especially among their peers.

These churches could have an annual reception and give recognition to these youngsters. I don't think we need to get to the point of being competitive, but they could certainly recognise in a special way those who uphold Christian principles under very trying circumstances.

As Diocesan president of the Brotherhood of St Andrew (the Anglican Men's Fellowship), I shall propose to our council that our organisation invite such recognised youngsters as special guests to our annual conventions.

I see this as a natural outgrowth of our mentorship programme, and we will be pleased to highlight our mentorees.

I would be delighted to develop extended dialogue with any group or individual on these possibilities, as we have been working with youngsters with much success over an extended period of time.

I am, etc.,

HERBERT L. BROWN, JP

Diocesan president

Brotherhood of St Andrew

Diocese of Jamaica

and The Cayman Islands