Just one day after gun violence claimed the lives of two men and left several others injured in the capital, Catholic priest Father Aaron Albert used his Sunday homily to issue a heartfelt plea for peace, prayer, and unity.
Addressing a solemn congregation, Father Albert described the killings as a painful reminder that violence spares no one and urged Saint Lucians to recommit themselves to their faith, values, and community.
“Parents, are you teaching your children? My brothers and sisters, citizens of beloved 758, are we working for peace by the things we say and do?” he asked. “I want to call on all worshippers today to put down your political hats and come together to work for peace in this country, beginning in this community. Stop blaming each other. If we truly love this place we call home, let us work for peace.”
The priest emphasized that prayer must play a central role in reversing the cycle of crime and despair, warning that knowing about Jesus is not enough. “When you know Jesus, you behave and act in a particular way. Knowing Jesus means having a personal relationship with him. Saying you’re Christian is not good enough, it’s how you live out your Christian vocation.”
Reflecting on Saturday’s violence, which also left a woman and child among the wounded, Father Albert reminded parishioners that tragedy can strike anyone. “That can happen to any one of us,” he said, urging the faithful not to grow numb to violence.
Calling on Saint Lucians to embrace radical choices rooted in faith, he challenged the congregation: “Have you decided to follow Jesus? And if you have not decided to follow him, what are you waiting for? Following Jesus demands courage, demands a decision.”
As the island grapples with rising levels of violent crime, Father Albert appealed for a collective stand against fear, division, and complacency. “God is saying to us: do not surrender to despair. Keep running the race, and keep your eyes on Jesus,” he declared.
The plea comes amid growing calls from both civil and religious leaders for unity in the face of escalating gun violence, which continues to claim lives and shake communities.
