ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, CMC – Grenada is gearing up to observe its 50th anniversary of political independence from Britain on Wednesday with a religious leader warning members of the population that Grenadians must make factionalism a thing of the past.
The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church, Rev Dr Osbert James, is also urging Grenadians at the same time to frustrate lawlessness wherever it manifests itself for the the island to move forward in unity and with a shared future.
Delivering the sermon at an Ecumenical Service on Sunday as part of the independence celebrations that was attended by Governor General Dame Cecile La Grenade, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, and Opposition Leader Dr. Keith Mitchell, the religious leader said, “If we are ever to move forward as one people towards a common future we must make factionalism obsolete and frustrate lawlessness wherever it manifests itself.”
He urged citizens to speak out when they see laws being broken and other forms of transgressions taking place, adding, “We cannot build a
“There are many laws on the law books, but they are not consistently enforced. These include noise and environmental laws, traffic laws, and maybe scores of others,” he told the Church service also attended by members of the diplomatic corps here.
Rev James said that laws should also be intentional and not aimed at further dividing the population.
“We must be an inclusive society in which there are no first-class and second-class citizens, and unless we work together for the soul, life, and future of our country, Grenada may suffer the fate of Sisyphus of Greek mythology,” he said.
In Greek mythology, Sisyphus was the founder and king of Ephyra, now known as Corinth. He was described as a devious tyrant who killed visitors to show off his power. This violation of the sacred hospitality tradition greatly angered the gods. Sisyphus was ultimately dealt with by Zeus, who, for his eternal punishment, had Sisyphus forever rolling a boulder up a hill in the depths of Hades.
Warning about the possible dangers of factionalism and lawlessness, Rev. James said that the island will not be able to achieve if they are accepted.
“If we cannot resist and eliminate the malcontent menace of factionalism and lawlessness, we shall always be striving and not achieving and then seeing that which was accomplished undone,” James told the congregation in the sermon broadcast live across various platforms.
The highlight of the independence celebrations will be the traditional military parade, a rally and cultural explosion, and the awarding of awards to deserving nationals.
Later on Monday, the government will unveil a commemorative 50-dollar bill, and Prime Minister Mitchell will address the nation, outlining his vision for the future. On Tuesday, there will be a joint sitting of Parliament.
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