Patricia Bowen calls for mercy

Gospel singer Patricia Bowen is hoping and praying that crime and violence will soon be a thing of the past in Jamaica.

"I don't understand what's happening in our beautiful, little island. When did our country become such a violent place? The violence in Jamaica is affecting everyone, including the young and the elderly. At this point, I believe only the Creator can fix this problem," said Bowen. "I know a lot of Jamaicans who are afraid to return home because of all the crime and violence that's going on in Jamaica. It's such a sad thing to see people scared to visit the place that they are originally from."

The Florida-based singer, who is a former member of the iconic Jamaican gospel group The Grace Thrillers, is currently promoting a single titled Mercy, which was recorded on the Black Gospel rhythm for DGP Records.

"This song is a plea to our Heavenly Father for mercy, because when you look at everything that's happening right now, we have to pray for divine intervention," she said.

Bowen originally hails from St Catherine, Jamaica, and has shared the stage with gospel stars like Shirley Cesar, Donnie McClurkin and Tasha Cobbs.