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ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
In response to a recent spike in violent crime, including a shocking triple murder that has rocked the nation, the Christian Council of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has issued a solemn and urgent call for peace, unity, and decisive action against gun violence.
The statement, signed by Bishop Gerard County CSSp of Kingstown and President of the SVG Christian Council, along with Bishop C Leopold Friday of the Anglican Church, Rev Philbert S Delaney of the Methodist Church, and Captain Wilkings Buissereth of the Salvation Army, expressed deep grief over the ongoing bloodshed that continues to disrupt the fabric of Vincentian society.
“…We denounce violence in any form, the perpetration of evil, and disruptive practices among us,” the statement said. The full text was published via online news source SearchLight.
The Council extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and those recovering from injuries in recent violent events.
The faith leaders voiced alarm over the moral and societal impact of escalating violence and urged the country not to succumb to despair.
“Violence in any form is to be condemned and denounced; the horror of the recent triple murder has shaken us to our core. Still, amidst this darkness, we urge the nation to hold fast in hope to Christ, who reminds us in John 16:33, ‘In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’ We affirm that life is sacred, and we must work tirelessly to uphold its dignity.”
Highlighting the need for both spiritual and practical responses, the Council called on citizens and institutions to reflect on and address the root causes of violence.
“Every life lost to violence is a heartbreaking wound to society, and an offense against God’s call for love, compassion, and justice. As followers of Christ, we reject the culture of fear and destruction, and instead, we call for a renewed commitment to peace—peace in our hearts, homes, and streets.”
It continued, “Even as we lament this tragedy, we must all soberly and deeply examine the root causes of such violence within our country and commit to work collaboratively and decisively to promote peace, justice, and well-being for all. The Council pledges to work with the authorities to reduce violence in our nation.”
The Council urged action from all sectors of society, advocating for a culture of peace and proactive engagement with youth. “Accordingly, the Christian Council calls upon all of us to take concrete steps to address the issue of gun violence. This includes supporting initiatives that foster peace and non-violence and advocating for sustainable strategies that enhance safety, among other measures. Let us choose peace over violence, love over hatred, and justice over destruction.”
The message concluded with a spiritual appeal for transformation through faith and communal responsibility.
“As people of deep and abiding faith in God, we must teach love, forgiveness, and respect in our homes, our schools, and reinforce it in our communities and our churches,” the statement said.
It also suggested all must learn intervention and de-escalation strategies that will reduce and diffuse conflict.
