I think the appointment of Dr Patrick Allen will be the best thing ever to happen to Jamaica. This is going to be a turning point in our nation at last. Dr Allen, a Seventh-day Adventist, is what our country needs at this time. I think he will do a good job and not be partial in his duties.

My only hope is that one day the prime minister of Jamaica will be a Seventh-day Adventist. The rest of the world needs to take a leaf out of Jamaica's book now.

H. Morgan

huby84@yahoo.com

Birmingham, England

I did not dream of this day - a Seventh-day Adventist getting the highest position in the land.

We have been held at the periphery of society due to our religious beliefs, which are unique in several respects.

I remember the many laughs from the corner shops when we 'grease cans' attended church. I remember the job interviewers who told me that I was not flexible about working on Saturdays. I remember the fathers of my church sisters' children who said they wouldn't marry someone from 'that' church. And the managers who scheduled everything on Saturday, the political leader who would not attend any function at 'that' church.

How could I forget the accounts exam at the University of the West Indies that was held on Saturday and the declaration of one lecturer, that "that is your and your church's problem".

politically feasible

Those were the days when our members were in the minority. But as we grow to become the largest church body, it is now politically feasible to recognise us. More will come.

Pastor Allen, I know you will not find it easy to attend some of the functions which your duty requires. Will you kiss the beauty queens? Will you attend functions on the Sabbath? Will you sign death warrants? And would you greet the Pope as head of state, if he were to visit Jamaica?

Radcliffe Robinson

rrr115@hotmail.com

Toronto, Canada

The choice of Patrick Linton Allen CD as governor general is a good one. He has the résumé and a proven distinguished record, to serve in the office. His tenure will be an exemplary one. Jamaicans all over the world will be proud of him.

Michael McGowan

michealmcgowan@rocketmail.com

Rosedale, New York

I am a strong supporter of the Government, but I am very disappointed with the choice for governor general (GG). I have nothing personal against the person selected, but my choice for GG is someone who is not so tied to a particular and narrow segment of the society - religious or otherwise.

This person should have a profound and demonstrated understanding of the fullness of Jamaica - its multifaceted culture, its dynamism, its texture, its challenges and possibilities and, preferably, be an activist scholar - a real scholar that is.

Dr Allen does not fit into this category. Dr Alfred Sangster, Professor Barry Chevannes, and others come readily to mind. These persons could bring real 'moral leadership'.

Dr Agustus Smith

The Cayman Islands

The selection of Dr Allen is a good one. He is well known for his impartial attitude and dislike of extreme party politics, one of the existing evils in the everyday life of Jamaicans. I wish him well.

Frank Phipps, QC, would have been my first choice, however, as his distinguished career and wide experience would be a great asset to the community at large in this prestigious position.

Mike Lewis

Orlando, Florida