KINGSTON, Jamaica , Apr. 23, CMC – The General Secretary of the Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) Reverend Newton Dixon says churches that can afford it, should utilize the services of armed security guards.
His comment follows a deadly shooting at a church in the western city of Montego Bay on Wednesday.
“This is a question that has been contemplated and we have probably been a little too reactive …. It is a necessity at this time , we would like to have the ideal – of the respect for sacred spaces , creates an environment where we don’t need those kinds of barriers but at the moment , we have to deal with the dangers in the society, so we have to take the measures that are necessary to protect the lives of those who come to us and to ensure their safety and their wellbeing. If local churches can afford it, we have to go in that direction,” he said in an interview with Irie FM.
On Wednesday, Corra Thompson , 38, a businesswoman was shot and killed at the church entrance, while a service was taking place inside the building.
Dixon said with the lack of respect for life and God, being shown by criminals, having armed security at churches is a necessity.
He said the society must find a way to reverse the disregard for life that has gripped the nation.
CMC/jm/kb/2026