Reverend Admits Church Has Gambling Double Standard

Proponents of gambling regulation in the Bahamas may have a new friend, and it comes from the most unlikely of sources, the church. Reverend Patrick Paul, the president of the Christian Council, admits that the church has a double standard regarding gambling.

Paul has criticized the idea that churches can hold bingo games or raffles, but Bahamians risk prosecution if they are caught gambling in a casino. Regulation is something that Paul considers a fair alternative.

"I think that would be the right approach to go in relation to the overwhelming question that is before us," said Paul, "I do believe there has to be some degree of regulation. In relation to our history in the last 25,30,40 years as it relates to (bingo and raffles) I'm saying that there should be regulation in that regard."

While admitting that regulation is needed, Paul stopped short of promoting gambling. The reverend still believes that gambling can be destructive to families.

"It has to do with chance, you're uncertain with what you're going to get at the end, it's a fantasy. Proverbs 28:20 says the trustworthy person gets a rich reward, but a person who wants a quick reward will get into problems," said Paul.

Church groups have long been against any type of gambling regulation. They raise money at their parishes by holding sometimes weekly bingo games, in which members of the church pay money to play in the games.

May 4, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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