Global integrity crisis demands urgent action, says prominent theologian

In a scathing critique of the global state of affairs, prominent theologian Dr Collin Cowan delivered a public lecture at the 175th General Assembly of the Jamaica Baptist Union, declaring that the world is facing a “crisis of integrity”.

Drawing parallels between the cut-throat ambition depicted in the Academy Award nominated 2024 feature film The Apprentice, and the current political and economic landscape, Cowan argued that the pursuit of power and wealth has eclipsed moral and ethical principles.

“The crisis of integrity in the world needs to be assessed seriously,” Cowan asserted, outlining four critical areas of concern.

CRITICAL AREAS

First, the impotence of the United Nations in the face of escalating conflicts and the trampling of the vulnerable by the powerful. Second, the rise of authoritarianism and the threat to democracy, exemplified by the resurgence of Donald Trump in American politics. Third, the “integrity deficit” within Jamaica’s own Integrity Commission, hampered by interference and intrusion from legislators.

Finally, perhaps the most introspective critique came against the Church itself. Cowan lamented that the complicity and compromises of the Church has rendered it incapable of fulfilling its call to do justice. The Church, he opined “is often seen as a silent bystander rather than an advocate for justice and peace”, remaining silent in the face of injustice, prioritising reputation over righteousness. He urged the Church to reclaim its prophetic voice and actively work towards social justice.

The mission of the Church, Cowan said “must not be neutral, but a force for truth, accountability, and radical change ... . Instead, it may be said of us that we are mere chaplains to corrupt systems, compromising on principles ... ”.

Cowan’s lecture highlighted the disproportionate impact of this global integrity crisis on small developing states, particularly in the Caribbean. He cited Jamaica as a case study, illustrating how decisions by international powers can reverberate through local communities, affecting health, education, and economic stability. He stressed the need for these nations to break free from dependency and cultivate self-reliance.

The theologian called on the Church to champion an ethic of solidarity and self-reliance, urging a return to “God’s economy of enough”. He emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability, not only for political leaders, but also within the Church itself. Dr Cowan concluded his lecture with a message of hope, urging individuals to embrace anger and courage in the face of injustice, and to work towards a world where integrity reigns.

This hard-hitting lecture has ignited a conversation about the state of integrity in Jamaica and beyond, challenging individuals and institutions to confront their own complicity and strive for a more just and equitable world.

Convened under the theme ‘Keeping Faith with the Word in and Everchanging World: Pursuing Integrity’, the 175th General Assembly brought together delegates and pastors from its 341 churches in Jamaica and Haiti to provide a space for spiritual renewal, theological reflection, and strategic decision-making for the denomination.