The Watchman Church Leaders Alliance expresses deep sorrow and grave concern over the ongoing killings and violent acts impacting communities in Jamaica. 

We are especially distressed by recent tragedies in which children have been among the victims. The taking of young lives is a heartbreaking reality that wounds the soul of our nation.  We condemn all violence and expect that the law will take its course fully in all circumstances.  The tragedy of the Pinnock family (Zaylon and Kerrio) in Kingston is a sad poster for the worst of the worst in our crime issues. 

When violence claims the lives of children, it is not merely a reflection of rising criminality; it exposes a deeper moral and social failing. Children deserve security—in their homes, on their journeys to school, and within their communities.

Let there be NOW, therefore, the beginning of a citizen thought and speech movement against this scourge on our nation. We urge citizens and pastors to use their voices respectfully on social media and every available platform to denounce this evil and senseless bloodshed, and to relentlessly stand in solidarity against it.

In this movement, we urge the media to take innovative action to provide leadership. We urge communities to discourage anti-social behaviour and adopt a culture of everyone being their brother’s keeper.  In this movement, we call for every school to be adopted by a local church and for formal partnerships between local churches and schools. We encourage churches to join together and form parent places under the guidance of the National Parenting Support Commission. 

Let it be a life-changing movement that says, “There are more of us than there are unrepentant criminals”.

The movement means the end of the use of social media as a “trace-and-lace-book”, generating anger, divisiveness and depression.

Incidents described as “high-profile” killings also point to a troubling erosion of civility, particularly among individuals whose influence should uplift and positively shape society.  

The Bible teaches that righteousness elevates a nation.  Jamaica must not become desensitised to the shedding of innocent blood, particularly that of our children.

We therefore call upon all sectors of society to unite in advancing healing, justice, accountability, and lasting peace.

Let every Jamaican renew our commitment to protecting our children and rebuilding a culture of respect, compassion, and national unity.

The leadership committee of the Watchman Church Leaders Alliance comprises:

Rev Sam McCook, acting chairman; Pastor Michael McAnuff-Jones, co-chair;  Bishop Alvin Bailey, deputy chair; Bishop Christine Benguche, deputy chair;  Bishop Roy Notice; Reverend Peter Garth; Reverend Courtney Gordon; Bishop Rowan Edwards; Reverend Gary Harriot; Reverend Newton Dixon; Reverend Devon Dick; Bishop Herro Blair Jnr; Bishop Everton Thomas; and Pastor David Henry.