The church must continue to play its part in fighting poverty and ensuring unity, locally and regionally, President Donald Ramotar told the delegates at the formal opening of the Caribbean Baptists Fellowship Assembly at the National Cultural Centre on Wednesday.
Speaking to hundreds of delegates, including more than 50 overseas church representatives, GINA said that the president said he was glad to see that the church recognises the need for “oneness” within the region. Noting that the Caribbean itself is a very multicultural and multiethnic community, with Guyana as a prime example, he said the teachings of the church are very important in these kinds of societies, “in an appreciation of everyone’s culture and a unity of purpose”.
The historic role of the church in taking the side of the oppressed and the poor must also be recognised said President Ramotar, especially in the fight for betterment.
There is a direct link between the spiritual and material life, he said. GINA said that he adverted to the government’s efforts as being similar to that of the church in fighting poverty, noting that, “poverty dampens the spirit and therefore it is important to us to also work for the improvement of the material conditions”.
Ramotar said that South America is one of the most unequal places in the world. There is a need to redistribute wealth and government is using its social policy to assist in this regard, with the largest expense going to the social sector and education, the president contended, according to GINA.
He referenced the local housing programme and noted that even as he celebrated his 40th wedding anniversary on the same day, he recalled owning his first home only a few years ago.
The event, held annually in different Caribbean territories is marking its 44th year, GINA said.
