Monday, July 13, 2009

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Rev. Patrick Paul: The nation needs to unite By JASMIN BONIMY ~ Guardian Staff reporter ~ jasmin@nasguard.com: As the nation prepares to celebrate its 36th anniversary of Independence, a leading clergyman is calling on the all sectors of society to band together as the nation heads in a "downward spiral" during tough economic times. While speaking at the Independence Ecumenical Church Service that was held at Bahamas Faith Ministries on Carmichael Road yesterday afternoon, Bahamas Christian Council (BCC) President Reverend Patrick Paul called on local stakeholders to unite. "Every Bahamian is given a gift from God and we must have faith in each other," said Paul. "We must create partnership and [an] alliance incorporating with other institutions and networking together to overcome the downward spiral by which our nation is on. "There must be much more cooperation between the government and the church and the business sector and even other stakeholders. Together we can transform and invigorate our industries and indeed our country." Paul addressed an audience filled with ministers of the government, members of the Opposition, law enforcement, religious and community leaders who all attended yesterday's ceremony. The BCC president added that if the country hopes to continue towards a bright future, local measures must be taken in order to address growing global concerns. Admitting that tackling the issues will not be easy Paul added, "The task before us is not an insurmountable one. With faith in each other and faith in God we can indeed do the impossible . Together we can address the needs of our country. "And it is not impossible for us to lift our people from this web of despair. This country is filled with lots of brilliant minds and as people of faith we must not be afraid to invest in this downturn in the world's economy." Specifically Paul said joint initiatives between local stakeholders must incorporate plans to stimulate social, economic and spiritual growth. "Now is the time for the government and the church and other stakeholders of The Bahamas to create jobs for hundreds of our young people that leave our high schools every year," he said. "We need to earnestly consider and research the potential that exists in our areas of industry. One field that we really need to consider and make preparations for is the field of psychology and sociology." Monday, July 6, 2009