Church goes social intervention route in Hanover
THE RELIGIOUS fraternity in Hanover has decided to take the lead in the implementation of social-intervention programmes with a view of making crime less of an option to the youths in that parish.
The Reverend Delroy Harris of the Riverside United Church, which covers several of the communities under the ongoing criminal siege, told The Gleaner that his ministry has undertaken some outreach initiatives and has other activities planned to help curb crime.
“Some of our programmes have not yet come on board, but they will start soon,” said Harris.
“One is to do a survey in the communities to see what training areas are needed, and see how we can have some dialogue with HEART to come in and offer such training. We also want to find creative ways to embark on peace initiatives in the community.
“We have our upcoming Family Weekend from June 30 to July 2, which will be held under the theme, ‘Heal the family, heal the nation, reclaiming peace in Hanover’,” continued Harris. “We are going to be launching this programme and will have a prayer vigil, family fun day and concert. We are going to give people the opportunity to speak about how they see themselves making peace in the community. We want to hear from them.”
In mid-April this year, Hanover had the dubious distinction of recording the highest jump in its murder rate, an amazing 26 since the start of the year. In the comparative period in 2016, there were five murders.
Harris said the Jamaica Constabulary Force was integrally involved in the church activities and would also be part of the upcoming Vacation Bible School (VBS), which will have a special programme targeting boys in the communities.
We are going to give people the opportunity to speak about how they see themselves making peace in the community. We want to hear from them