Issue:GG and the Sabbath Sir Patrick limited by faith

THE EDITOR, Sir: In a letter published in The Gleaner on Wednesday, August 10, Pastor Karl Archer, president of the North Jamaica Conference of SDAs, weighed in with full support for the governor general (GG) in his decision to be absent from Independence celebrations last Saturday, if indeed such absence was due to his religious beliefs and desire to keep "the Sabbath of Jesus".

I am amazed at the reasoning of this gentleman, who as a pastor, and leader of thousands, must have had the benefit of tertiary education and theological instruction. Pastor Archer regards this position as evidence of high integrity, but with respect, questions can be raised.

It must have been known by the incumbent, Sir Patrick, that his SDA beliefs would severely handicap him in the successful performance of his duties. To accept appointment to this high post knowing his severely strict potential limitations of action in key aspects of national interest, such as the celebration of Independence Day and Emancipation Day, which were possible through three centuries of the shedding of the blood of resisters and heroes, is at the very least an appalling lack of good judgement.

deficiencies

It, therefore, brings to the fore the question as to what would the GG's tenure contribute so significantly which could make up for these deficiencies? Or was it just a career move?

The SDA Church is no more an exemplar of morals and ethics than any other of the major denominations in Jamaica. The point about scrupulously keeping "the Sabbath of Jesus" is used most often to render themselves as keepers of the flame, yet I have never seen an SDA live up to that statement of ideals in real terms.

Every Adventist that I know, or have ever heard about, is ambivalent about commerce on the Sabbath. They all buy electricity on the Sabbath - nobody turns off their lights and fridge on the Sabbath, for example, yet Jesus lived without these modern conveniences.

CATHY BROWN

cathy291181@yahoo.com