Saint Lucia News

Catholics stand united against crime

Friday, July 18, 2025

by Archdiocesan Commission for Integral Human Development

THE CATHOLIC CHURCH ISSUES A CALL TO PRAYER, ACTION AND NATIONAL HEALING.

Amid a troubling rise in violent crime and deepening public anxiety, Catholic leaders and organizations across Saint Lucia are issuing a heartfelt appeal to the nation’s conscience. In response to the recent wave of murders and violent incidents, they are calling on Saint Lucians both at home and abroad to stand united in faith, solidarity, and purposeful action.

The escalating violence is not only alarming but a stark reflection of a deeper moral and spiritual crisis. It is a darkness that should weigh heavily on the hearts of all Saint Lucians, demanding a collective and compassionate response rooted in justice, prayer, and national healing.

In alignment with His Grace, Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire’s powerful Message Denouncing Crime and Violence in Saint Lucia, the Catholic community is calling for a dismantling of the "structures of sin" greed, self-indulgence, and disregard for human life and a rebuilding of the "structures of grace" rooted in community, compassion, and respect.

“The all-consuming thirst for power, profit, and now pleasure are tentacles of the structures of sin. Let us recommit to prayer and the respect for life, taking all appropriate actions to address the scourge of crime. The Light of Christ is needed to dispel the darkness.” – VMP

Prominent voices within the faith community echoed this message: “The upsurge in violence mirrors the erosion of our communal spirit. We have lost our moral compass. I welcome His Grace’s call for fasting and prayer to heal our land.” – DPL

“People of God, let us take up our rightful places in this critical national fight against crime, violence, and decay.” – GC

“As we tackle this scourge, may God grant us the serenity to accept what we cannot change, the courage to change what we can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” – GC

“We should not seek revenge, but forgive. Let us be agents of mercy and reconciliation.” – RPL

In a joint statement, Caritas Saint Lucia and Caritas Antilles expressed deep solidarity with those mourning lives lost to violence and announced a special day of prayer in union with the Archdiocese of Castries on Friday, July 11, 2025.

“We call on all people of goodwill to unite in fostering peace, justice, and healing. May our collective efforts restore light and hope to our beloved Saint Lucia.” – Caritas Antilles.

Other leaders and faith advocates added: “Choose life… choose peace.” – WPP

“Lord Jesus Christ, come heal our land!” – VXP

“Take a stand against crime and all destructive behaviors.” – VMP

“If we truly feel, we will love more deeply and transform our land.” – VKP

“Saint Lucians, let us: Reclaim our LAND, Restore our PEOPLE, and Reignite our LIGHT.” – VMP

This collective call reminds all Saint Lucians that faith without action is incomplete. As the nation seeks peace, the Church stands firm in proclaiming that hope is not lost, and change begins with all of us.