Religions, beliefs of Jamaicans

For at least five years, I co-ordinated the Religion Feature of The Gleaner – the Caribbean’s leading newspaper, and what an exciting time I had. Initially, I was scared as I wondered about the influence an interaction with so many religions could have on me.
Then, it happened. What was to be my weakness became one of my greatest strengths. It truley fascinated me to learn about the many beliefs of Jamaicans, actually just how people can differ in thoughts, beliefs, perspectives.
It was far interesting how easily persons interpreted, deviated from and applied the Bible to just about any thing, and choice they made.
Thanks to Ms Wyvolyn Gager, the then Editor-in-chief who assigned me that responsiblity. But then my records got destroyed by a landlord, Ambrose “Rollie” Burke, who claimed he was an athiest. He went to court and lied his way about everything, but I know he’ll reckon someday. That has set me back somewhat in many ways on the paths before me — now however I return to those paths to salvage what I can and press along.
Hopefully at some point it all works out for me to retreive something from the Gleaner’s records.
So here I am in recognition that religion plays a critical role in the life of all Jamaicans, if not religion then some spiritual beliefs – all subscribe in one way or another.
Have fun reading and learning as I did. It pays to be open minded by closed to influences that are not beneficial and advantageous.
I often wonder about the over 400 denominations of Christianity alone existing on this little island, and so easily confused as seperate religions.
My biggest question is how can the Bahais say all religions are equal, when for example one believes in salvation through Christ, and one doesnt and has nothing to do with Christ.
I know this though – above any religion or beliefs, or interpretations of the oldest book of faith – is LOVE.

Summary of religions practised in Jamaica:

Christianity
Jehovah Witness (considered a strain of Christianity)
Bahai
Zorastrian
Brahma Kumaris
Judaism
Hinduism
Rastafarian
Scientology
Muslim
Satan worshippers too!
Atheists, it seems to be a religion at times.

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Anthea

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