To the Editor:

I'm compelled to step down from my usual "political soapbox" to address a need in the North Country. Your paper's recent coverage of crimes in Ogdensburg caught my attention.

I think the main cause of criminal activity is a misplaced moral compass. Many of the people perpetrating these crimes likely had no father in their homes to help teach them right from wrong.

Our whole system of "morality" has fallen prey to Satan's evil plans to un-do the good that is taught in the Holy Bible (God's "Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth").

The Bible teaches "right behavior". That's why programs like Seaway Youth for Christ, and the Salvation Army's "Celebrate Recovery" deserve our support, both in our attendance, and through our financial contributions.

Seaway YFC does wonderful work with young people, meeting about twice a month at the Impact Center, 31 David Street, Ogdensburg. The kids can hangout, eat, play games, and hear a meaningful Bible-based message. Their next event is "Trunk or Treat" night, Tuesday, October 31st, from 5-8pm at the Impact Center.

"Celebrate Recovery" is a weekly program for anyone with "hurts, habits, and hangups", which pretty much describes all of us! They meet at the Salvation Army, 401 Franklin Street, Ogdensburg, Thursdays at 5:30pm for a free supper, with the program following at 6:15pm. Celebrate Recovery offers Christ-centered healing for all of life's hurts. It is a real eye-opener when you realize that Jesus is the only way to true happiness on Earth, and our only way to Heaven and eternal life.

These two organizations are two weapons in the arsenal at our disposal as we fight the battle between good and evil. Read the Bible all the way through and you learn that we "good guys & gals" win in the end. However, the Devil continues to try to steal the hearts and minds of both children and adults.

It is up to us to wage war against the evil forces in society, by drawing closer to God who sent His son to save us from our sins. When we stand with God, proclaim the name of Jesus, and rely on the Holy Spirit, Satan will flee and victory is ours. Support your local faith-based groups and chase the Devil out of the North Country.

David H. Ellis
Hammond