Church ready to fight crime

Laura Redpath, Senior Gleaner Writer

A section of the crowd that gathered at the National Arena on Tuesday to pray for peace and unity in Jamaica. - Ian Allen/Photographer

WORSHIPPERS AT the Power of Faith Ministries prayer convention on Tuesday confirmed their faith in the church and its efforts to tackle crime in Jamaica.

More than 10,000 persons gathered at the National Arena for a prayer convention under the theme, 'This is Turning Point'. Churchgoers started gathering before sunrise for prayers and other devotional activities.

"We're living in the last days," said Karen Smith, a member of the Walk by Faith Tabernacle. "I think God is the answer. If we could just come together, this world would be a better place."

'Prayer is the answer'

She said prayer was the answer to Jamaica's crime issues, echoing Bishop Dr Delford Davis, chief coordinator of the event.

"Prayer changes people and people change things," Davis said.

Magdelene Cochrane of the New Testament Church of God attended the convention for the first time yesterday.

"Yes, the church is doing a lot to help fight crime. We need fasting, faith and belief.

"There is too much war and toomuch violence."

However, Smith said she thinks the church needs to do more.

"Some of us," she said, "have one foot in and one foot out. We have to see everything that's going on now and come together."

Michelle Martin's smile faded as she said she had a lot to say about the church and Jamaica's crime.

"If it wasn't for the church, we wouldn't have the country we have," she said.

Martin said Jamaicans have a lot to give God thanks for.

"The church has done enough. We have to go with the church if we want something from the church.

"The prime minister and the opposition cannot do it. This island needs Jesus."

'The prime minister and the opposition cannot do it. This island needs Jesus.'