We need true solidarity and care, not indifference, says Kingston Archbishop

By Kaelanne Jordan

mediarelations.camsel@catholictt.org

Archbishop Kenneth Richards of Kingston has called on Jamaicans to move beyond self-interest and embrace true solidarity in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, urging the faithful to examine their motives and act for “God’s advantage”.

Speaking during Mass from his chapel in Kingston on Monday, November 3, Archbishop Richards cautioned against self-centred living, saying, “Yes, you need to continue living, but let us not live for just ourselves. But our concern for those who are less fortunate.”

He reminded the faithful to ground their actions in divine purpose. “Ultimately, what we must allow to become our motivation is, what am I going to do to please God? If that becomes our motivation, then it will help us to settle and balance things in the right way—to take care of ourselves on this side, but also to show some care to those who need assistance.”

Turning to the impact of Hurricane Melissa, which devastated western Jamaica and parts of the Caribbean in late October, Archbishop Richards called for humility and compassion from those less affected.

He warned against indifference: “We must not gloat, act indifferent, or self-satisfied because of the fact that we have been spared the worst with respect to Melissa. This is an opportunity for persons to truly reach out with solidarity, true charity, true care, for our brothers and sisters who are suffering.”

Archbishop Richards described what he witnessed while visiting affected areas. “I travelled to the west over the weekend…it is obviously stressing. It’s an empty feeling to see the devastation. To see some houses like a pile of rubble… the way in which Melissa ravished them… trees deluded just like Kingston… huge trees, little trees… so empty and distressing.”

He added, “Let us not take that for granted and see what ways we can truly help and give assistance. Prayer is one way in which we show our care and concern but what are the other arms we can give support—like the churches and the other agencies that are working to give relief to people in the west and those who are suffering.”

According to a Caritas Antilles Situational Report #3 released November 1, the Archdiocese of Kingston, along with the dioceses of Mandeville and Montego Bay, has begun on-the-ground assessments and relief coordination.

It reported that Archbishop Richards met with Bishop John Persaud of Mandeville and Montego Bay in Black River November 1, where he confirmed that the town “experienced approximately 90% destruction of roofs, some houses completely obliterated, extensive road damage and no electricity.”

The report noted that “many homes have been destroyed or severely damaged by wind, flood and landslides,” with urgent needs for temporary shelter, tarpaulins, and food assistance.

Caritas Antilles is coordinating with CRS EMPOWER, Food for the Poor, and regional Caritas offices to deliver relief kits, hygiene supplies, and solar lamps.