To Preach or Not to Preach that is the question: 

Should Jamaican public bus Preachers pronounce a Benedict-ion and resign from the practice.

Jamaica Gleaner Photo

The debate continues to rage in Jamaica about preaching on public buses. From those who gladly embrace the ban, imposed by the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Ltd. (JUTC) management, to those who think that their right to free speech is being infringed, the voices are loud on both sides of the fence. 

As for me, I think there is a deeper issue that needs to be considered. That is, the use of public space and the tension between “my space” and what is considered to be “free for all” space. The fact of the matter is, public space is shared space, thus mutual respect is necessary for good relations.

There are many people from very different socio-economic backgrounds and with different cultural mores often defined by family, who use the bus for one reason or another. No single group has a right to the bus more than another, although some people who are "regulars" seem to think they do.There is a general decline in recent years as it relates to the identification and respect for personal space.

This is manifested when the students enter with Cell phones blaring Dancehall or Hip Hop music, sometimes with inappropriate (based on your perspective) lyrics sometimes peppered with expletives. And also when the top of the lungs hell fire preachers (who must bully you into the kingdom of God or collect some rum money in the name of the Lord) or the Selassie Soldier who must chant down Babylon so the whole bus can get a headache. This is all to the chagrin of those who just want a timely ride to their chosen destination. 

This context is ripe for cultural tensions. This phenomenon isn't new, listen to Professor Nuts "Inna the bus" for a history lesson. Now what does this have to with bus preaching? I suggest, that budding preachers be considerate of the audience they which to serve. Consider, that some people have had a tough night or morning  and might not appreciate the loudness of the preaching so reduce the volume somewhat if you must preach. Consider how long is spent as well, I suggest 15 minutes as the maximum time so as not to weary the listeners from which you are seeking support. 

Finally, one can consider not preaching at all, the debate has be raging about preaching, how about reading a scripture and praying some Christ-centred prayers (in short). After all, the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul (Psalm 19:7) That approach might prove to be less disturbing to some of the commuters but still bear fruit for the gospel. We as children of God must love people, love is kind, lets be kind to the ears of our listeners.