Expert Assesses Cult Sacrifices in Jamaica

There have been numbers of myths surrounding cult sacrifices and the history of cults in Jamaica, and the conversation has grown recently following the revelation of what is believed to be a religious cult in Montego Bay, St. James. Which resulted in two congregants of the Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in Albion, St. James being fatally stabbed in an alleged cult-like sacrificial ritual, and another member was shot dead during an altercation with the police.

A cult which is defined as a system of religious veneration and devotion directed towards a particular figure or object. However, speaking with CVM Live Tuesday, October 19, Christopher Charles, professor of political and social psychology at the University of the West Indies, (UWI) explains that cults are often spearheaded by a leader whose ideologies do not coincide with the norms of society.

Regarding the history of these extreme cult practices and sacrifices existing in Jamaica, Professor Charles says he is reluctant to blanket this particular instance as a cult. However, he sought to highlight Alexander Bedward that had led thousands of his followers in 1920 to believe they could fly.

Cult is normally defined by its unusual religious practices; however, Professor Charles further explains that the concept of sacrifice has often been taken out of context within these religious cults.

More in this CVM Live story from Javine Mclean: