An atmosphere of peace in one’s own residence is not too much to ask

May 30, 2013 Letters

DEAR EDITOR,
I would like to draw the attention of the relevant authorities to an issue that is becoming more and more intolerable. So much so that I am forced to pen this letter.
I have the utmost respect for places of worship, but this is now overbearing. My family and I have been forced to endure the loud noises emanating from an “Assemblies of God” Church next door to our home on the East Bank of Demerara. Usually, the Church has its service on Sunday mornings, Wednesdays, Fridays, and sometimes Saturday evenings.
I have no problems with the regular Sunday services; however, lately it appears that the period for the noise has extended considerably. During these sessions, a microphone and amplifier is used along with a drum set and an organ. In addition, screaming/wailing and shouting of the congregation, along with the preacher (through the microphone) is extremely disturbing and aggravating.
After speaking to the Pastor on two different occasions regarding the noise, I was told that the church was there before my family and I moved into our home. Does this mean that all churches have the right to be loud and it is expected that my life must be filled by the regular ear-splitting uproar of the church?
I wasn’t aware that residents living adjacent to places as such were supposed to tolerate their seemingly lawless behaviour. I too am a God-fearing, hard-working Guyanese citizen, with rights!Can you imagine after coming home from a hard day’s work to relax, only to be bombarded by loud screaming and shouting through a public address system and banging of drums late in the evenings? It is difficult to carry on a conversation inside my home, without shouting or even listening to the television at the highest volume when the racket at the church is being carried on.
During these sessions, conversing in my yard is totally impractical. I find this behaviour utterly ridiculous, since the members of the Church seem to have blatant disregard for the feelings of other persons living in the neighbourhood.
I fail to comprehend how these people supposedly preach “the word of God” but completely frustrate and annoy residents in the vicinity. I’m sure that when the worshippers return to their respective homes, they have all the peace and quiet there. How fortunate for them!
I hope this letter does not just add to the large number of noise nuisance complaints in the media, but increases the awareness of the authorities and other relevant bodies as to the mental agony that citizens are forced to suffer almost on a daily basis. Noise regulations should be enforced by the authorities; it is not some minor issue but a very real problem and should not be ignored. A noise nuisance is a noise nuisance, and it is of little significance whether it is a place of worship creating it or anyone else. Persons should have consideration for their neighbours and use their discretion, especially in residential areas.
I suggest soundproofing the building so that neighbouring residents can at least have some modicum of tranquility in their homes. After all, an atmosphere of peace in one’s own residence is not too much to ask.
P. Daniels

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