Warmington’s remarks are myopic
Published:Saturday | January 3, 2026 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
I am writing with reference to the recent comments made by Everald Warmington, member of parliament for South Western St Catherine, regarding the government’s allocation of $75 million to rebuild churches damaged by Hurricane Melissa. In my opinion, his remarks were myopic and unsubstantiated. They demonstrate disregard for the church’s role in Jamaican society and its historical contribution to nation-building.
Further, many of the churches damaged during the hurricane are located in rural Jamaica and lack adequate funding. Their congregations are not wealthy, yet these institutions continue to provide essential social services and moral and spiritual guidance to their communities. This support is especially critical now, when so many have lost homes and livelihoods. The church has proven its relevance and purpose by volunteering in affected areas and distributing care packages to those in need. For these reasons, they merit full assistance in rebuilding and continuing their vital work.
Additionally, Mr Warmington’s suggestion that smaller churches should amalgamate into a single congregation reveals a lack of understanding of denominational realities. Places of worship often hold distinct ideologies and traditions, and forcing them to merge would create division rather than unity. His proposal is akin to attempting to amalgamate the Jamaica Labour Party and the People’s National Party — two entities with fundamentally different cultures and political visions — and expecting them to function seamlessly. Such an idea is both impractical and untenable.
Our leaders and all citizens need to recognise the enduring importance of the Church in our society. Rather than belittling its role, we should affirm its contributions and ensure that it remains strong for future generations.
ERROL MCLEISH
Greater Portmore
St Catherine