OPINION: Too much rage and hate, a sickness in Guyanese society 

Last Updated on Friday, 27 February 2026, 22:38 by Writer

By GHK Lall

At times, I find myself on the edge of throwing up hands and walking away from the quicksand that’s Guyana. The secular environment is razed with the combustible. But must that heat seep into the sacred precincts of the Church? Where is that instinct to turn the other cheek? Or, to work at the things I can change, starting inside of me? And to have the courage to move on from what is beyond me? And, to possess the wisdom to know the difference, and continue? Try this scenario.

There’s a clip circulating on social media. It centers on the Ash Wednesday Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Brickdam. The clip shows a Eucharistic Minister distributing Ash to who I believe was worshipper Susan Rodrigues. There was some rage that this was happening; even an attack on a brother Minister of the Eucharist, which I believe was out of place. In any place, be it inside or outside the Brickdam Cathedral. For that matter, in any Church or temple or synagogue or masjid in this country. Differences are healthy, a vital part of democracy. But those stop at the door, do not belong inside of our sacred meeting places, and how worshipping and serving God are conducted. I quietly disagree, softly object, to the characterizations in that social media post of two fellow worshippers, one a sister, the other a brother. Surely, there must be understanding, that political and social brutalities are off-limits inside places of worship. Surely, there must be the self-discipline that guides – nay, commands – each of us to avoid desecrating certain places. I think we know better, must aim higher, learn to be more tolerant.

From my perspective, Ms. Rodrigues is a sister and parishioner when in God’s House. She is still an honorable minister, but fellow worshipper and parishioner rule inside the Cathedral. Therefore, she is due the same standard of care that is offered to others. Ms. Rodrigues did me an injustice, but if that’s held against her, then there is absolutely nothing that distinguishes me from the ugly brawling now so commonplace, so delightful, in the local environment. Ms. Rodrigues has made her choices about what is dear to her in this life. I cannot, will, not condemn her. Nor cast her into outer darkness, even if such were in my hands. If Ms. Rodrigues was in the line when I was serving ashes or the Holy Eucharist, then she can be assured that what I write here would have been observed in letter and spirit. Should our paths intersect later, my word bonds.

The Church has its teachings. But each Roman Catholic, as a free moral agent, as a Christian thinker and believer, has to face reality. When choices must be made on the run. Hard decisions made immediately. I have raised matters of a close nature in Church meetings, with constructive spiritual guidance provided. My personal position when made clear wasn’t too far off the track. Who am I to stand as inquisitor, adjudicator, juror, Star Chamber, sentencer, and executioner over another? One who may likely be a better individual than me?

To register deeper, I revisit past writings to repeat prior public assertions. If Pres. Ali or Vice Pres. Jagdeo were to be present in the Brickdam Cathedral, they can be assured of the most courteous, respectful reception. If either or both have a preference for going low, or whipping up their loyal soldiers to attack in attempts to denigrate, that’s their call, that which I have no control.

There is too much anger and loathing in this country. There are too many who are ready to force how they see the world should be upon others. I will not yield one inch in the face of such standards, such a monopoly on morals and who should be and who shouldn’t. Out of urgent need, the language in the local domain requires some serious overhaul, with a different tone and lower volume being among the foremost areas to be addressed. Yesterday it was Ms. Susan Rodrigues. Before her, there was me. Tomorrow there’ll be another. Then another. Then what? Then who is left? It is mandatory that the political and ecclesiastical be separate. A man or woman seeking communion with the Almighty should, at least, be able to find some peace in their spiritual sanctuary. Fellow believers, Guyanese chew on this: if an Embassy can be sought for safe haven and that’s granted. Then the embassy of God must be more welcoming, as a matter of routine. Peace of Christ to all.