The Editor, Sir: On Thursday September 6th the National Electoral Commission presented to the Governor General the official results of the count of the elections. The PNP Government was placed opposition. This was contrary to prophetic words given by members of the prophetic movement in Jamaica.

Understandably, responses from within and outside the church community have ranged from embarrassment to anger, cynicism and in some cases condemnation. The general conclusion is that the prophecies were false, and those who spoke them have been labelled as false prophets. This has placed the prophetic movement particularly the prominent prophets under intense scrutiny.

Since then, I have held a series of meetings with members of the prophetic movement and some church leaders who have supported it over the years. It has been a time of sincere soul searching, introspection and evaluation of the conduct of our main spokesmen. In addition, we are also consulting with members of the prophetic community outside of Jamaica who received similar words.

Although the process is not yet complete, I wish to make the following statement on behalf of the movement:

1. We regret the pain, anxiety, misunderstanding and embarrassment caused by the open and antagonistic debates surrounding the prophetic declarations.

2. We acknowledge that the words were given as irrevocable dictates from God without conditional consequences.

3. Where there appeared to be elements of pride and arrogance in the manner in which their prophecies were presented, we ask forgiveness.

4. We have asked members of the movement to make no public statements or give interviews to the media until the group has completed its full course of self-scrutiny and adjustments, refocusing its mandate and ensuring full personal and corporate accountability as a movement.

In light of this experience, we understand that many will doubt that God speaks through His servants. The church, however, has the responsibility to be the bearers of the Word of God and of the presence of the Spirit of God.

Let me remind you of the words of St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:9 "For we know in part, and we prophesy in part". This places on us an even greater responsibility to present our witness with confidence, yet with humility, with faith but without presumption, as God does not always show us the entire process toward the fulfilment of prophecies.

We are working together to ensure that the movement grows toward greater maturity for the glory of God and the benefit of our nation.

We continue to pray for our leaders, our people and for peace and prosperity in Jamaica, land we love.

I am, etc.,

Bishop CB Peter Morgan