What makes Jamaica a Christian country

THE EDITOR, Sir:

It said that Jamaica is a Christian country. I would like some knowledgeable person to explain what this actually means. It appears that on the basis of how we behave overall as a people, to call ourselves a Christian country could be compared to a person claiming to be vegan while feasting consistently on animal products.

Thousands of Jamaicans attend church services regularly and otherwise participate in religious rituals. The overwhelming majority of us believe in God – largely in a manner that seems entirely to consist in mental assent only. Does this make Jamaica a Christian country?

It would be better if we instead strive to construct a social order that places emphasis on, and gives pride of place to, moral values espoused by Jesus of the Bible.

These are standards that would help us decide what is right and wrong. Some of the most important ones include honesty, respect, personal responsibility, compassion and forgiveness. Forget religious dogmas and rituals that are mostly man-made. We should focus on these core issues, and watch the transformation that will take place in our society over time.

DERVAL GRAHAM