– attorney general urges religious bodies

MINISTER of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, encouraged religious organizations in Guyana to become “agents of peace” at the country’s second hosting of a Religious Liberty Congress on Saturday.

The event took place at the Central Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) church and marked the closing of the session put on by the Caribbean Union Conference (CARU) of SDA.
Its conclusion was celebrated with a grand Festival of Liberty and Parade through the streets of Georgetown which included uniformed members of the Masterguide, Pathfinder and Adventurer clubs.

The some 600 marchers held banners and placards promoting religious harmony, impartiality and the congress’ theme: ‘Peaceful Co-existence: The Challenge of Diversity’.
Along with Williams, present to receive the hand salute were Junior Minister of Public Health, Karen Cummings and other CARU executive heads.

The conference began on May 16 with representatives visiting from some 10 countries to engage in discussions on religious tolerance, religious freedom, liberty of conscience and other pressing matters.

Delivering the feature address, Williams said that Guyana’s diversity should be seen as an advantage rather than a disadvantage which can result in productivity and economic growth as all work together.

He told the gathering that even as the country is replete with a history of racial division and strife, it is the church’s duty to help eliminate these common forms of animosity for the benefit of future generations.

“It is the church’s role to foster a spirit of cooperation and tolerance; inclusivity must be the order of the day and the church must be at the forefront. Togetherness is the only way that the vision of a good life for all Guyanese will be realized,” he said.

Presenting scriptural reference, the minister added that the church is entrusted with a ministry of “peace and reconciliation” which is a mission the Government is pleased to assist all religious organizations in achieving.

“Peace cannot be limited to one group, one people or all those of one belief. The work for peace must be the agenda for all of us. The Government cannot do it alone…our Government is ready and willing to work with all religious organizations to build a society that embodies the aspirations of the Guyanese people.

“A society where everyone has equal access to health, social services and education… This Government will continue to work towards the wellbeing of all Guyanese and social cohesion will be made a priority,” he affirmed.

Williams encouraged the local and international visitors to continue their efforts towards transforming their societies for the better.
At the gathering, the Attorney General who celebrated his birthday on Saturday, received greetings in song from the audience.

Executive members of the Caribbean Religious Liberty Association then presented a list of resolutions emerging from deliberations at the congress which were accepted and approved by the attending delegates.