When prayer replaces planning: Rethinking our response to disaster

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Hurricane MelisSa’s devastation in St Elizabeth and nearby parishes revealed more than damaged homes – it exposed a troubling mindset. As the storm approached, many Jamaicans turned to prayer, convinced that faith alone would turn it away. Rev Al Miller recently suggested that the hurricane was a result of the nation’s “wickedness”, a view that, while spiritual in tone, risks misleading people into a false sense of belief that repentance alone can avert disaster.

Faith remains a vital part of the Jamaican identity, but it must walk hand-in-hand with reason. The Bible itself teaches prudence – that wisdom and action are essential in times of danger. Jamaica’s geography makes us prone to hurricanes and earthquakes, yet too often we heed the words of pastors and other spiritual figures rather than meteorologists and disaster experts.

The Government and its agencies issued timely warnings, opened shelters, and urged readiness, but many ignored this advice. When belief replaces preparation, the consequences can be severe. Religious leaders have a powerful role to play in guiding their congregations toward both prayer and practical action. Praying for protection must go hand-in-hand with reinforcing roofs, clearing drains, and securing homes.

As we recover from Melissa, we must rethink our response to disaster. True faith does not replace preparation – it strengthens it. Jamaica’s resilience depends not only on our prayers but on our willingness to act.

Mikhail A. Graham