Video: Mark Pettingill Apologizes For Comments
[Updated with video] Speaking at a press conference held this afternoon [June 20], Attorney General Mark Pettingill apologized for any hurt he caused with his recent comments about religion.
Mr Pettingill said he has always advocated equal rights, and opposes discrimination in all forms. He said he believes in the separation of Church and State, something that PLP MP Michael Scott also expressed during the debate.
He said some of the words he spoke were “clearly hurtful” to some in the community. Mr Pettingill said he recognizes what many within the Churches have done for our community, and he is “deeply regretful” for any offence he caused.
He also noted he has not been asked or directed to apologize by the Premier and the Cabinet, and did so on his own accord. He also said that he has even had threats of violence directed against him due to the comments. He declined to expand on that, saying he wants to move on and work for the better of the island.
Video of Mr Pettingill’s statement today is below & the audio of his original comments is here
During Friday’s [June 14] debate in the House of Assembly, Mr Pettingill said: “A large part of the phobia and the fear has come out of religious doctrine that people have been inducted with since they were young. In some churches, not in all churches, thank God. Not in all churches, but in enough. [Read full story here]
On Tuesday [June 18] PLP MP Michael Weeks said that in his role as Attorney General, Mr Pettingill has a “duty to respect and display tolerance for all Bermudians”, and said he hopes the Premier “will move swiftly” and “encourage his Minister to apologize…” [Read full story here]
On Wednesday [June 19] Premier Cannonier and Mr Pettingill said that when Mr Pettingill was talking about aspects of religion, he was speaking on his own behalf, not for the Government or OBA. [Read full story here]
This morning [June 20] Opposition Leader Marc Bean called on the Premier to fire Mr Pettingill, and said that ”failure to act can only be interpreted as supporting the intolerant beliefs and incompetent performance of AG Pettingill.” [Read full story here]
Update 5.07pm: Mr Pettingill’s full comments follow below:
Last week in the House of Parliament, I made a speech on the passing of the HR in particularly on ‘sexual orientation’.
I have always strongly advocated equal rights and have been from the depths of my being, entirely opposed to discrimination in any form. I have strongly held views on the division of State and Church as were also eloquently expressed upon by the Hon. Mr. Michael Scott in his speech for the Opposition.
On reflection, and after discussion with my people, including people of strong faith and those of non-faith, I appreciate that some of the words I spoke [the actual words, not some of the inaccuracies that have been attributed to me], that they were clearly hurtful to people in this community.
One senior pastor, who I respect, told me he felt wounded by my words as did people in his congregation. I recognize that both he and other pastors have given much to Bermuda and this community and I am saddened by this and apologize for any wounds they have suffered.
Whilst I believe passionately in the right of free speech as a fundamental premise of our democracy, if what I have to say causes hurt or anguish to any individual, I am deeply regretful for that. I would say I am unequivocally sorry to anyone who felt that way as a result of what I said.
I have not been asked or directed to apologize by the Premier or the Cabinet. My mother was a bit more keen and have taken this course purely on the basis that I do not wish to have the flames of division fanned.
There have been some very hurtful things said about me personally and even threats of violence made over this issue and I entirely forgive anyone who aroused to such sentiments. In like mind, I would ask your forgiveness. Lessons have been learned. There is much more that needs to be done in Bermuda and I would like to get back to contributing to that work
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- PLP Leader Calls On Premier To Fire Pettingill | Bernews.com | June 20, 2013
bah ha ha..
I was raised Christian and it didn’t offend me.
Some of the most judgemental and selfish people I have ever come across have been at Mass.
As someone who can think for themselves and not blindly follow the teachings of the Church a lot of what he said rang true.
I think Marc Bean is more than a little hypocritical considering his homophobic outburst of a few years back.
Interesting that he received threats of violence. There’s a quote in a book somewhere about casting the first stone. It also talks about forgiveness and loving thy neighbour. As Marc said, some great stuff. But a lot of followers cherry pick the passages to follow.
And there is a lot of fiction. If you really believe the all the stuff in the Old Testament then you might as well throw the Easter Bunny and tooth fairy in there too!!
It did not offend you because you failed to take off your political blinders and see the real issue that was at work in regards to this matter…any wise person was able to see he stepped out of line on this one….. now he has tried to take the road less taken and did the correct thing… wonder why?
I dont have any political blinkers. In fact he probably should step down but it wont happen. In UK or US political figures have been forced to resign over less but Bermuda politics is so amateur at times.
But, a lot of people in Bermuda seek to be offended. Seek and ye shall find.
I find it amusing that it is so easy to offend a religion yet religious folk can use their beliefs as an excuse for bigotry.
This all stemmed from the Human Rights amendment that some churches were openly against.
How many of their congregation chose their religion and how many had it forced upon them a couple of months after birth?
Apologizing was more stupid than what he actually said.
Totally agree.
Our AG apologizes to the Pastors, who he reached out to and respects, but did you here him acually apoligize to the people of Bermuda? I heard “deeply regretful…I heard “equivocally sorry” He gave his speach just enough to make you think he apoligized to residents of Bermuda. Only a idiot would take that as a true, from the heart apology…what a joker! His mama made him do it! lol
I wonder too
Police needs to investigate MP’s allegations about death threats, if true, its serious and should be dealt with immediately, if true.
Well, well, well
MP Pettingill acts with humility and apologises. We will never know what led to the apology but it is good that it has happened.
Lets see if any lessons have been learned.
Listen to what he said “after much reflection”…the man thought about it and apologized. Thats character and leadership but no surprise why you cant figure out where the apology came from!
Oh here we go, now the God Squad are going to think they were right……
I can let you into 2 secrets.It’s a big fairy tale. And the tv on a Sunday morning is better than you’d think.
I don’t know were you are going with your comment and really don’t care to know, but I am concerned that you are using the name Billy Graham as your blog name.
For the record there are a few Graham families in Bermuda, so if your name is this I do apologize, but if this is a sick way to use a dynamic evangelist name like Dr. Billy Graham, I would say be careful with the comments you make under your heading.
God is watching and things like this he pays close attention to.
No I’m not.
God, since you’re watching everything that happens, can you please stop sending all those naturally occurring horrible diseases. People are running out of excuses for you.
By the way, is it true that having created all things, and having told us you love and cherish each and every one of us as individuals, that you have suddenly decided you hate gay people?
“God is watching and things like this he pays close attention to.”
I guess that explains why he’s to busy to do anything about genocide, torture, disease, war, rape, intolerance, oppression and all those other real problems
Duane I’m watching, but I’ve got a 10:30 tee time with Billy Graham, so can we make this quick.
Mark is ARROGANT to the upteened degree. IMHO, CC and Mark came to an agreement. I save you backside this time and you promise to save mine when Dunkley et al come gunning for leadership. He’s not sorry, when they start bringing their mother’s into the equation, watch out.
What a wuss.
Shame on you Pettingill – the absurd thing is, YOU WERE RIGHT. There is too much religion here, it’s a joke, most people don’t believe all that horse s***.
I would have respected you if you had simply said no – I won’t pander to the pulpit bullies.
Shame on Bermuda too for not allowing a man free speech.
I agree I was going to say why is he apologizing when the statement he made is the truth!
a Bermudian politician apologizing instead of explaining why his remarks were somehow “justified”? Has that ever happened before?
Happens all the time.. Just google it. Both sides – not new.
Just funny that yesterday he was defending the actions and today he thinks that they were wrong to say.
who is the hypocrite now.
Provide some examples from the other side please.
Bet you can’t.
There was no justification for his remarks. He realized this, or the pressure got to him… real man stand up….and I think he is trying to catch his Ego before it kills him…
Pettingill, every time you speak, I agree.
You don’t need to apologise for anything. You spoke your mind and your opinion differed from a lot of people, but that doesn’t mean you’re wrong.
Keep speaking your mind. Don’t let others make you mute or turn you into a backbencher. This island needs people like you.
Now let’s work on that decriminalization of certain drugs thing you were going on about a few months back. lol
Thank you, but no thank you. God is bad enough, but drugs are evil.
All drugs or just the illegal ones? What makes them evil? Their illegality? Are they only evil in places where they’re illegal?
Is it even possible for inanimate objects to be good or evil?
He did what he should have done…and that was to APOLOGISE….. it is a great step for someone who has a very large ego…. good step forward…
So if you agree with him every time he speaks, you should be agreeing with his apology.
Now Ms. Furbert I don’t comment on your comment often but I got to hand it to you on this one, I totally agree that if @sorry sir really agrees with this gentleman everytime,then they should agree with his apology.
Well said Mr Santucci, you have spoken well in regards to this matter !!
Wow. Got me on a technicality. *Claps hands* Well Done.
But, I never said I disagreed, I said he doesn’t have to apologise for anything. There’s a difference… If you want to get technical.
You two should hook up.
As a supporter of the AG, i’d just like to say that i submit to your superior intellect. You truly are an intellectual giant and you sure showed us.
So you’re saying you like the flavor of his Kool-Aid…
How you know he was in his right mind?
Yesterday “I said nothing wrong”
Today, “I’m soo sorry for offending you”
Pressure got to hot, and he caved. Should have kept your mouth shut in the first place.
You can say nothing wrong and offend some people at the same time.
I think he did the right thing, even if it was to save his political career…. this should be something for the OBAubpers to learn from. His ego has gone down somewhat, and lets hope it stays steady…Good step and difficult for him to do !!
He has all those small ego”s in the PLP to learn from right? Have look at the green side of things in that House…and they dont have the brains to match!
At least they would learn from it. You tell me if this was Burch or Brown, would they even apologise? In their humbleness..yeah right. They’re egos would have just inflated more.
I guess I don’t have to go somewhere else after all. Does anyone else see the irony in the fact that he said “thank God” on Friday?
His remarks doesn’t mean he doesn’t believe in God.
The apology was nice but he seemed like he did not want to do it but time will tell(the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks).I did not agree when deKlerk got the Noble Peace Prize with Mandela but that’s politics. deKlerk was pressured by the world stage to act like he changed(even though the Truth and Reconciliation Commision had proof of his past Atrocities on the oppressed people. So don’t blow your trumpet too loud TIME WILL TELL.
Thanks Bernews for your detailed reporting and facts..
Thank You Mr. Pettingill for first of all standing up and making the comments of how you really felt in the beginning, when the comments were first made, but more importantly being able to take other peoples feelings and thoughts into consideration.
To stand as a Man in this day and age and speak is not so common anymore, Your comments may have been distasteful to a degree and offended some of us, but at least we know were you stand and what you believe. You are entitled to your opinion and that is what really needs to be respected, the fact that you realize that your comments cut deep into the hearts and lives of so many, Then you come back as a real Man and apologize not in a statement but in a press conference.
We really need to respect that one fact, because even though your belief system may be what it is, you are a gentleman to note that your actions hurt others deeply and there needed to be an apology. To many of our Christian fathers and mothers have sacrificed much of their living in this country, helping others in the capacity and ways and means that a lot of these so called bloggers wont have the guts to do.
The Work of the Christian church in this Island needs to be commanded and applauded and not disrespected to the degree that it has been over this last week, A man made a mistake but a bigger man accepts the mistake and stands to declare his wrong, That Mr. Pettingill is a great act of God, that only Gods spirit can compel you to do, because Satan and some of his bloggers would never have convicted your spirit man to do so.
So may your conscious be your guide as you allow God to guide your conscience.
Well said Mr Santucci…well said…
More rhetoric from Duane.
Your putting words in Marks mouth and speaking for/of him.
How much they pay you.
The only “work of the christian church” that is being disrespected is their “work” to continue the discrimination of a sector of our community.
Perhaps Mike Hind can best explain the unexpected chain if events. Mike you have the floor……..
I’d assume that he’s caved in to political pressure from the religious. A group of people so secure in their views that they descend into outraged screaming if you dare to criticize their (and only their) belief system.
At the end of the day Mark Pettingill is a politician and his job depends on public support. If that means that he has to occasionally make an apology to satisfy the easily offended then so be it. After all a person can have all the principles in the world but it would all be for naught if they’re not in a position to enact them.
Perhaps you could grow a pair and answer my questions on the other thread, instead of bringing up my name wherever you can in some bizarre ad hominem attempt at denouncing me.
As for Mr. Pettingill’s apology?
He was asinine to make the comments and cowardly to apologize.
Now. Any chance that you’ll answer the question of why other people have to follow the rules of your religion?
I find it sad that some religious folks were SO offended by the ministers comments that they felt the need to threaten him with physical violence.. damn shame. Whatever happened to turn the other cheek and love thy neighbor? Or is that one of the many tenets that certain religious folks choose to ignore? Smh
No one is perfect. Even Peter cut off a guy’s ear trying to defend his Lord. Not saying that the violent threats are justified, but God is still working on some people. Until He’s finished we have to deal with some of the ‘old man’.
But maybe you just want to judge them cause you are so perfect.
I’m far from perfect..never claimed to be so… but i’ve never professed to be a person that follows a religion that at its core preaches tolerance and love for your fellow person, then turns around and threatens someone with violence just because they said something i disagree with.
MY whole point is that everyone has the right to believe what they want..even if you or I disagree…just dont try to enforce the rules of YOUR beliefs on others and we’ll be alright. Period.
I never heard him say that christians threatened him…..there are some minds out there that will shoot and kill people for less reasons then that. Haters will find anyone and any excuse to pop off and threaten. Do you see how the mind-sets are today? They take advantages off these situations. Let me know where he said christians threatened him…..please!
I don’t think anyone threatened him. He knows that his political a** was on the line that is why he apologized .He is ian arrogant nicumpoop. They. Are actually trying to embarrass the Premier. All will be revealed in good time.
This is absolutely ridiculous. Bermudians need to wake up and realize Churches are corrupt and religion is the root of most of the problems in the world! It has done nothing good!
Mr Pettingil should not have to apologize.
WOW I totally agree. Those haters who call themselves Christians will be the downfall of Bermuda as they have been of this world for many centuries. More people have been killed and robbed of their lives by religion than by all other forces combined… Including Bernie Madoff!! It was obvious that Mr Pettingil would apologise, and a smart thing to do too. But, what about churches apologizing for their inhuman stand on discrimination and prejudice against homosexuals, this subject cuts both ways. Lets hear some decency and love from the churches, they are supposed to be good at that!
No!! I’m not homosexual, just human!! Guess that disqualifies me from being a Christian!
I agree with ‘wow’ and Mike as well. damn shame what the country has come to.
Leviticus 20:13…amen
Lev: 18:22, Rom 1:27. No need for interpretation or misunderstanding. Yet God still loves the sinner who is all of us, but repentance is required. Not our rules because we did not create ourselves nor did we set this world in order.
Ephesians 6:5
Okay so you’ve apologized Mr.Pettingill, well i hope you realize you already showed your true colors and Bermudians know how you really feel now. By the way, can I still get some kool-aid?
OH YEAH!!!!!!
You do realize that the PLP have used the phrase “Kool-Ade Drinkers”, too, right?
Thank you Minister Pettingill.
Lets hope your constituents accept your apology as genuine.Your political future may depend on it!
Class name!!
At least the apology disarms the opposition and ends the stupid issue. Its something PLP would never have done. We’re still waiting for many of their apologies and we’ll never get them.
Move on to another ridiculous issue PLP.
Just let issues slide aye! Thats how we deal with things now huh?
So, if I say parts of your book are scary I’m being disrespectful and owe you an apology. But when you tell me I will burn in eternal hell you are just expressing religious opinion, no need to worry. Ok, got it.
Why? He was right. Those bigots in the church don’t apologize. Stop letting them hold everyone hostage.
Amen,
God can I have a word with you here?? I was molested several times by church going men, his actions were covered up by church going people and I have seen drugs sold outside of churches throughout this island for over 3 decades yet I have NEVER heard CHRISTIANS apologize to myself nor other young children whose parents have been molested by deacons, elders and members of the church!! I have NEVER heard CHRISTIANS shout from every hillside of this beautiful island to DEMAND DRUGS be stomped from its shores!! I have NEVER heard CHRISTIANS shout from the roadside that my son is a drug dealer who has paid for my beautiful house where I entertain guest!!
Why don’t CHRISTIANS APOLOGISE for being BLIND to the REAL ISSUES which have RUINED this island???? I am so TIRED of HEARING how devoted CHRISTIANS are to their BELIEFS yet when it comes to PUBLIC HUMILIATION on this issues I have mentioned the want to CONFESS their SINS in PRIVATE!! WAKE up NO 1 SIN is GREATER then the OTHER!!!
I want to be at YOUR PEARLY GATES on the day of JUDGEMENT ASSIGNED by your God to PERSONALLY ESCORTED your HYPOCRITICAL SOULS to DAMNATION!!!!
Your GOD ask you to DEFEND the MOTHERLESS, to FEED the HUNGRY, to CLOTHE the naked yet you are looking for the HIGHEST rents in the land to live (in this SINFUL WORLD) to your hearts CONTENT!!!
THe GOD I KNOW SEES ALL!!!!!!
I have been critical of Pettingill but well done to him for showing humility. I think the only thing he said that was offensive was implying that religious views should not be tolerated or churches allowed to express their opinion (and I don’t think he meant to say what he in fact said). We are of course free to ignore what the churches have to say and they should stay out of matters of politics (e.g. the rights of gay persons) and economics (e.g. gambling). But I would defend to the death their right to spout religious nonsense.
Mark is absolutely right that there must be a division between state and church. I also think that most religious organisations lack moral credibility when they bear so much responsility for the problems in this world. They should focus on bake sales and looking after the disadvantaged in our society and keep their noses out of the business that we elected this Government to carry out. It would be nice if the people who have gotten so outraged can find some Christian forgiveness for the AG. No more gaffs please ….
yes, there really should be division between church and state. Howeve, look at how many churches there are in Bermuda and how many people go to them. At the same time, whilst some christians are offended by certain comments, please look at the double standards that are tolerated by the same christians.
I still think he is an a@#, and i voted for these fools. Will not happen again , trust me !!!
Only a@# is you.
Traitor, uninformed, sheltered, pay check spring to mind?
Yeah , right … sure you voted for them .
Or are you implying that you’re just politically illiterate and have a lot to learn yet ?
Mark should be fired, what an a@# !!!!!
He’s way to smart for the plp to understand!
Let’s get going with the important issues facing the island. I am a Christian but was not offended because The Lord directs my path and protects me from faulty teachings that will face us from time to time.
When will “religion” be apologising for the comments it makes about various segments of the population?
will “religion” be apologising for the various crusades it has made over the centuries?
It always upsets me when we can’t speak our minds because “it offends his/her religion”. Religion is an out-dated man-made construct that has NOTHING to do with a belief in some sort of supreme floaty being or not. It is bonkers when viewed with a rational mind. It is about POWER over hearts and minds and nothing more. Mark Pettingill should not need to apologise for this exercise in freedom of speech. Religion is a personal choice; race, sex, age, sexuality and anything else are not. “Love thy neighbour” – unless s/he is different from you in some way and then all bets are off…. grrr….
grrr indeed
Mark showed his true colors, and Mr. AG you can’t take it back!!
Bean showed his true colors some time ago and the PLP will take him back to the back bench…watch, 6 months tops, plots are being laid in the “family” and his days are numbered! Every week the man rambles on , manna from the sky and Hali Salasi I…complete nonsense!
Pettingil apologizes for part of his comments; but the damage has been done; not only for what he said ; but once again his leader premier Cannonier shows his weakness and political ineptitude.
He ran away from the issue and did nothing and if his AG did not succumb
to the political pressue and apologize the matter would have still being
out there; and that is not to say that this matter is going anywhere as
this latest episode is just one more nail in the coffin of the anti-Bermudian; one term OBA government.
YOu are 100% Mr Williams, the Premier premier Cannonier shows his weakness and political ineptitude.
He ran away from the issue and did nothing and if his AG did not succumb
to the political pressue and apologize the matter would have still being
out there; this is a weak leader with no real power, he is leading from behind…others are in front of him…
While I agree that the Bible does have some ‘crazy things’ in it, it also contains very wise words, some of which Mark would do well to consider. Here’s one from Ecclesiastes:
“There is…a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;”
Think on it Mark before you are tempted to open your mouth again.
Oh I bet he opens his mouth again…the PLP would love to think they have shaken him but the man has more character than they can muster in 15 seats…Pettingill had a little twinkle in his eye today when answering press questions…perhaps the Bean and the PLP are scratching their heads tonight and wondering whats coming!
@Robert You sound like a fool. As if the fools that were in for 14yrs could do any better. Must you be reminded AGAIN of S#!+ storm this island has been left in. Because a man who said something that wasn’t very popular by the masses,now you’re saying you won’t vote for the party? Are you serious??? You forget ALL the many offensive comments fools from that other party made over the years?
I was initially shocked at Mark Pettingills comments and the fact that he is the Attorney General and a Lawyer makes all the more shocking. It is not the fact that he attacked christians, but that he used christians as a point of reference to defend the changes to the human rights act.
I’m not trying to defend christians, but the teachings of Jesus reveals that Jesus loved all “Gods Children” and many Christians do not follow those teaching to the true sense of the Word. I don’t go to church every Suinday, but I do go to Church; I was brought up in a Christian home and was taught to show respect and love to everyone. The true essence that Jesus was trying to teach us was to show love and respect for everyone.
Shame on you Christians that have not shown the love and respect to your fellow man that Jesus showed. God loves all “his children”; homosexuals included and we cannot decide who to love today and who to love tomorrow. God loves everyone including ALL sinners. You might be a homosexual, a thief, or even a rapist, but God loves you as much as he loves his Christian people.
Now that I have defended the Christians I can turn to the person at the center of this contreversy; Mark Penttingill; I believe that Mr. Pettingill has insulted a huge portion of the population by not thinking before openning his mouth. This is unbecoming of an Attorney General and although he has apologized, he should be removed from the cabinet and thrown to the back benches. The chances of him being re-elected are slim to nought. He does not meet the criteria of someone who should be the Attorney General. The Attorney General should show respect for all peoples and by attacking Christians in particular he has shown that all his arguments for allowing gays to marry have been offset by his attacks on Christians. You cannot attack one group at the expense of others, your argument regarding freedom of expression and association are now thrown out the window.
To the Christians you need to love and respect everyone, inspite of who they are.
Premier Cannonier needs to toss Mr. Pettingill to the side.
Christians should not be worring over homosexual relationships; worring is a sin and you should let God worry about these things. Do not make judgement on people who you do not know; that is Gods reponsability.
Finally, I don’t think that it is fair to outlaw marriage between homosexuals. However I do not think it should be called “marriage” as marriage is a religious institution (and I challenge anybody to prove me wrong), but it would be fair to call it a “Civil union” as they call it other countries.
That’s my two sense.
Theres your religion!
Read his whole speech from last week! Do you know he never used the word “Christian” once and a lot of the words, as he said today, were attributed to him! And by whom? The PLP Christians! Wow…wonder if hypocrisy is keeping any of that lot awake tonight?
I used the word Christians because that was Mr. Pettingill was obviuosly referring to.
I am not a PLP supporter.
Why do so many people think just because you disagree with Pettingill’s remarks against Christians that you are pro PLP? What type of biased predisposition is that. Why do the majority OBA supporters have to attack so much even when they are clearly wrong. I just don’t get it.
Can two women in a sexual union reproduce? Can two men in a sexual union reproduce?
A man and woman in a sexual union can reproduce.
God loves everyone, but not homosexual or lesbian behavior. Negotiating lust for men sleeping with men and women sleeping with women before REAL CRIME OUT THERE!!!! IT’S MORE PRESSING ISSUES THAT COULD BE FIRST ON THE TABLE TO BE AMENDED!!! In some countries ****** would be CHOPPED!!!
A 60 year old man and 60 year old woman cannot reproduce….
LMAO so true! Most of the time at least…
As humans, we get to choose to have sexual unions for reasons other than to reproduce. Are you going to tell the 60yo man that he can’t have a sexual union with a 60yo woman because they can’t reproduce? If they’re healthy, why not?
Reproduction is in no way a stipulation for marriage and to suggest it is is just plain hateful.
This fiasco is a farce… are you all happy and satisfied now that you “forced” a man to utter words that he had no intentions of uttering..? Will you now offer him a seat at your table without still having ill feelings towards him..? I strongly doubt it. Whoever lost any sleep over his comment surely needs a mental overhaul…why have we become sooooo sensitive to words..? I know why…but it will probably cause you to have a burn out again. Jack Nicholson’s famous line comes to mind “You want the truth!…You cant handle the truth!”, another saying is “The Truth Hurts”…I also have a sayin too..”If telling you the Truth, hurts you….then you are just gonna have to be hurt”.
The only thing he needed to correct or apologize for was telling Bermudians that if they don’t like it then leave…but then again are YOU indiginous to the Isles Of Devils…last i heard YOU ME and HIM are IMPORTS…you all need to get up and brush your shoulders off and get on with what is important to YOUR survival…and by the sounds of it a word might just be the end of the line for you…I will say this to the Christian Communities with out apologies…Save your selves…YOU cannot save anyone else…stay out of the Dealings of the Governments…when you gain everlasting life through your undying faith…you will be rewarded by watching the heathens falling to their OWN demise.
One more thing …there are tasks being taken that will GLOBALLY change everything you have become to accept as “that’s life”…and i just see a bunch of dogs in a box chasing their tails, round n round in circles, going nowhere, you WILL become tired and laydown…that’s when you will be stepped on. um gonna leeve it at dat.
best thing i done last year was vote for mark ! keep your pants on a go for the premireship!
the failed plp and the bible thumpers are going to milk this for whatever they think they can get..which is NOTHING!
So called “Bible Thumpers” and the PLP are not one and the same and have nothing to do with each other.
The reality of the OBA loosing the next election has set in.
This is a cunning attempt to regain the black voters he has lost .
The only cure for religion is education.
Perhaps the previous government should have concentrated on that instead of dividing the country by race.
What a backwards, third world island this is….Bermuda will never move forward.
@Alvin Williams,
You keep on yammering on about the OBA being a anti-Bermudian Government. But when I reflect on the PLP’s reign all use is the selling out of Bermuda to foreign and big business interests. Examples include, but are not limited to the following:
- the issuance of hundreds of millions of debt (for the first time ever) to foreign institutional investors who are paid their coupon payments and principal from BDA taxpayer funds. Thus these funds are paid overseas never ever to benefit the BDA economy.
- the permission to sell 3 out of 4 BDA banks to foreign entities who in turn repatriate profits to their ultimate parents overseas. Also, the sale of Bank of Bermuda to HSBC has resulted in their total head count being reduced from 1,200 to less than 700 since the PLP allowed the sale to go through which was all overseen by Mr. Philip Butterfield. So along with the profits being sent overseas so has 500 local jobs
- the allowance of large construction companies (and Alvin these are white owned, which should matter given your obsession with race) to utilize oversized trucks which essentially displaced the small truckers. Funny that you have never railed against such a policy. But given the fact that it was your mate that provided such perks to these large construction business owners ea,ly doesn’t surprise anyone as anyone that knows you knows that you are a hypocrite
- the majority of the PLP actively sought to deny the rights of fellow Bermudians simply due to the fact that they do not agree with their lifestyle
- the labeling of fellow Bermudians as rednecks, house ni$$ers and uncle toms because they don’t agree with you or the PLP’s intolerant and hateful ways
- the enforcement of policies, despite being advised against doing so, which resulted in the job losses of thousands of Bermudians as well as assisting with the downfall of real estate prices which has severely damaged the middle class. And all this time you purported to be a labour man. Jokes on us I guess
- the issuance of the greatest number of work permits in Bermuda’s history, even for the blue collar jobs which you are supposed to be a defender of. Interesting that you stayed quiet during all of this, but not surprising given your hypocritical track record
And these are the anti-Bermudian actions undertaken by the PLP that I can think of the top of my head. Let me get a good night’s rest and I will get back to you with more tomorrow.
PS: being the staunch unionist that you claim to be I find it amazing that you don’t tone down your overly aggressive rhetoric against the current Government, especially given the fact that your union apparently has gone cap in hand to this administration to beg for another bailout. What will you call them if they save your precious Union (for the second time)?
“The fear of the Lord (Reverence) is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the holy is understanding” Proverbs 9: 10.
“Whatever makes men good Christians, makes them good citizens.”
~ Daniel Webster
“Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.” Proverbs 9:8
“The authority of Scripture is greater than the comprehension of the whole of man’s reason.” ~ Martin Luther
As has been mentioned – “God LOVES The Sinner, not the sinful act (s)”
Christians are followers of Jesus Christ. Accordingly, we are ambassadors of our Heavenly Father.
It sounds like somebody had chicken and waffles for lunch.
“It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”
~ George Washington
“Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion – it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ”
~ Billy Graham
“Prayer is a strong wall and fortress of the church; it is a goodly Christian weapon.” ~ Martin Luther
Christians are followers of Jesus Christ. Accordingly, we are ambassadors of our Heavenly Father, and our Island Home.
We make up a Church/ are the Church. The building/ edifice only houses our services, etc.
Our Heavenly Father is still on HIS Throne, looking and recording the actions of all men….. We MUST continue to uphold HIS standards, instructions, rules, and commands.
Our Island Home has been very blessed and covered by the Divine Hand of protection over the years, and I am sure it is the desire of all for God’s protection to continue.
Our Heavenly Father is God of all.
A lot of hypocrites on here if you don’t believe me go to church where else would you find so many?.
i look foward to reading the apologies that soon must be issued from certain members of “the church” to the gay community for their statments about equal rights/gay marriage which were as offensive (if not more so) than Mr Pettingills. yeah right!!!
Marc Bean said that if gay people want somewhere to leave they can buy mansions and have rainbow circle gay parties…. that was pretty offensive
http://bernews.com/2012/07/sexual-orientationage-discrimination-debate/
Now that I am thinking, I look forward to apologies from those inconsiderate, selfish, coercive, private property intruding 7th Day Adventists and Jehovahs Witness for waking me up and banging on my doors and windows on Saturday mornings. Maybe if I threaten them with violence the next time they come to my door they will give me an apology..
All you have to do is contact their head quaters and request that they not visit your home. Make sure they (HQ) write your address. Further, if you didn’t invite them they are guilty of tresspassing. This is an offence. I did it and they no longer come. It works or you start praying they will leave. Don’t allow them to pray.
Thanks, but you are missing my point. THEY SHOULDNT BE DOING IT IN THE FIRST PLACE! Why do they do it, becuase they think they can stand behind the shield of the Church, so it is ok to be a nuiscance and inconvenience anyone they please. ENTITLEMENT!
This is my (and half the population it seems) point, that the Church has too much power and influence on this island and is a major reason why we cannot move forward into modern times.
I’m going to speak in defense of Jehovah’s Witnesses here.
While they do come around with regularity, those who visit our neighbourhood have been wonderfully polite and considerate people. I’ve known of people who’ve asked them not to return and they haven’t. I’ve certainly never had any come at early or late hours, or repeatedly bang on my door or windows. I’ve had some wonderful, intelligent and informative conversations with those who come about and while I do make it clear that my beliefs are not going to change, I do enjoy reading the literature they offer, and understand that it is part of their religion to act as missionaries.
Gay Lions
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HsfZbfCNOds&feature=youtu.be
Mr Pettingill
I almost got caught in your so called apology but I carefully read it again and the words “if what I have to say causes hurt and anguish” appears in the statement. Well it does hurt and it means that you don’t fully accept responsibility for hurting people of this country. You did hurt people there are no ifs about it.
You got caught out, can’t you just say I’m sorry
Or the citizens of this country can opt not to be hurt/offended by his words. They’re the ones who took his words; he did not force them on anyone. Yes, he should have been more diplomatic with his words and not insult because no one gains points by insulting the other side, but you are responsible for how much you let someone’s words affect you. Same concept as no one makes you hit them, no matter what they did or said to you.
I think what he meant was: “If you are one of the people that this hurt”.
Because, stupid as his comments were, they didn’t hurt everybody.
Which particular comment was stupid? They all sounded pretty pointed and intelligent to me! the Man basically said if you’re a hater (NOT a Christian that was the PLP spin) you can leave and he’s fine with that? I bet he discriminates against racists and pedophiles as well and would be happy for them to leave…me too! Whats stupid about that! Took a lot of B@LLS to say those truths!
Politically stupid.
Exemplified by the hay being made out of this.
I am sure Jesus would agree with this nonsense view! Really?
GIVE THE MAN A BREAK – NOT A SEASONED POLITICIANS – IS ALLOWED
A MISTAKE OR TWO. H O W E V E R – THERE IS A HISTORY OF SOME
QUESTIONABLE STATEMENTS AND BEHAVIORS IN THE PARLIAMENT HOUSE,
THE LAST 10 YEARS OR SO FROM SEASONED POLITICIANS – AND THEY WERE
NOT ASKED TO RESIGN AND WERE CONSISTENTLY VOTED IN.
HOW QUICKLY THEY FORGET!!
“He who takes offense when no offense is intended is a fool, and he who takes offense when offense is intended is a greater fool.”
― Brigham Young
The Mormons are being quoted now???OH MAN…it just got really. really scary!
Tongue-in-cheek yes haha…I find it encouraging that someone recognizes the origin of the statement whether it be from a general knowledge standpoint or google :p
But tongue-in-cheek nevertheless.
I was always told by my parents that ONLY the TRUTH hurts. If its a lie then why would it bother you.
@ The Power of Words says
The bible is full of contradictions and is self authorative. It is a fear inducing book.
1 Jesus doesn’t exist
2 Heaven is a state of mind (imaginary)
revelation 22 vs 16 I Jesus have sent my angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David ,the bright and morning star. Isn’t jesus suppose to be the son of god, according to the bible mythos.
Men called themselves lord in places of high rulership in europe.
The lord has nothing to do with god because he\she never existed as god to begin with.
He apologized ….. Guess what a lot of blacks will forgive him. why? Because the bible said so. Sure black people turn the other cheek so he can kick you in the groin again.
Petingill exercises his right to free speech AND speaks the truth frankly!
He is threatened with being mobbed and burner on the radio and blogs!
He reflects and makes a dignified, sincere and well thought worded apology!
He supported the Bill, thats the end of the facile argument on MInisters cannot ever speak their mind!
AND they keep on bashing the man.
I looked up Kool Aid Drinkers…check it out…I get what he was talking about!
So you think we should “pour gasoline on him and set him on fire” (a quote from a radio show!)
Very ecumenical…wonder why people find Religion scary???
@ Tramsparency for Real!!
Mark pentigill and his EGO correlates.
European
God
of
oppression
losing to be correct