Dear Editor
It is with deep consternation and apprehension that I take some time off from my Ecclesiastical duties to address a particular culture/issue that is slowly taking away credit from an institution, which is named the church.

Since the era of Jim Jones and his cultic sects’ destructive act of killing 914 souls at Jonestown in the month of November 1987; there have been talks of the church in a negative say. Many don’t understand or have a clue as to the church’s mandate.

On Saturday morning, May 5, 2018 I was at the Bourda Market buying coconut water from a vendor; I used a $1,000 bill to pay for a $200 coconut. He had no change. In doing so, he saw money in my wallet and made a joke about leaving some money with him. I then told him I’d rather leave money with the church.

This young man began a series of tirade degrading the church in the most disrespectful way. I immediately defended the integrity and the authenticity of this institution called “The Church”. He apologised!

By the time I reached home. I picked up my regular newspaper and low and behold there is a letter highlighting Bishop Joseph G. Fisher’s letter I read on Friday May 4, 2018. I am aware of the many missteps made by several officers of the Christian faith over the past 40 years. The core thought conveyed within Bishop Fisher’s tirade against Bishop Juan A. Edghill was uncalled for.

Editor, I recall 40 years ago I shared my thoughts with someone I trusted about writing a book; that someone went around speaking evil of my name to several church leaders. I went ahead and published my first of 12 books and sent copies to various church leaders. Again, the same thing happens over and over again, where some people are annoyed and envious over one’s progress within the Ministry of their calling.

In 1980, I wrote a National Poem on Guyana, thereafter, I was interviewed by the local radio station. I read the poem for the first time on radio. On another occasion I recited this poem at one of our church services, when one of the leaders of the church made a remark that was tantamount to me wanting to become famous as a writer and went on to name countries where my name will be mentioned. True leaders never seek fame and popularity. Some people question the authority of God within my life as a Minister of the Gospel and even my writings for many seasons.

For the years I have been in Ministry, I have had to deal with issues of jealousy, envy, hatred and malice in the rawest of ways that is not lawful or conducive to mention here; but I have learned that when a man’s life pleases God, even his enemies become his friend, if you live long enough and be true to your God and Saviour Jesus Christ you will overcome.

I sent copies of my writings to those who are not appreciative of my work and some of them marvel and thank me in the end for doing what God has called me to do. So, beloved Bishop Edghill, “Stay calm, continue steadfast and see beyond.” Jesus said, “I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matt. 16:18. Sometimes the devil and his angels are right behind the pulpit; you know how to cast those imaginations and thoughts out of the way. I wish you God-speed! Maranatha! Maranatha!

Finally Editor, kindly permit me to use my privilege and authority given me to caution anyone and I mean anyone, whether rich or poor, high or low that is tempted to speak evil of the church, to hold their peace and avoid saying good or bad; less or more; of the church if they don’t have an understanding of the mandate and mission of the church let them be silent.

Furthermore, Mr. Editor, if our leaders both secular and ecclesiastical pray: Our Father which art in Heaven, hallowed by thy Name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done…for thine is the Kingdom and the Power and the Glory for ever and ever Amen. We will see each other in the light of his glorious plan and purpose for our lives and the Nation of Guyana.
Regards
Apostle Vanrick Beresford