The Island's religious community will join forces next month in a bid to address Bermuda's social woes.

The unprecedented forum comes after more than a year of planning between the leaders of five religious denominations.

Chairman of the executive committee Rev. Dr. Goodwin Smith of New Testament Church of God said earlier this week that the Unity of the Spirit Conference was aimed at tackling the Island's social ills.

"We are calling together all the churches to address the problems of the Island,'' Rev. Smith said. "The churches of the Island need to come together.

"Individually the denominations have been doing good work but we want to come together and put forth a united front.'' Rev. Smith was joined by fellow committee members -- Bishop Robert Kurtz of the Catholic Church, Rev. Malcolm Eve, presiding elder of the AME Church, Rev.

Neville Smith of Radnor Road Christian Fellowship and Rev. Dr. Vernon Lambe, general overseer of the First Church of God -- in this week's call for religious unity and action.

"We are embracing all denominations and hopefully we will forget that we are from different denomination,'' Rev. Smith added. "We are not coming in to teach doctrines and dogmas.

"Before we go out into the community and be a voice that can be heard, we must take a look at ourselves. I hope people across the line will attend.'' Bishop Kurtz echoed his colleagues sentiments and pointed out that the conference could help promote racial harmony.

"I am happy to be part of the effort,'' Bishop Kurtz said. "We need to promote racial unity and I hope that my presence will help.'' He said that by having unity among the Island's religious leaders, it would act as an example for their believers and the rest of the community.

Radnor Road Christian Fellowship's Rev. Smith added: "One way to bring Christians together is to bring the pastors together.'' And all the executive members predicted that the conference, which will feature several workshops, would be a fruitful endeavour for all who attend.

"I can't see it as being anything other than a positive experience,'' Rev.

Smith added. "We hope that we will come up with some solutions.'' The workshops will focus on family life as well as the youth, with two of the lecture specifically targeted at pastors and spiritual leaders. There will also be a special workshop for pastor and minister's wives.

In addition to the motivational workshops, the four day conference will include dynamic speakers and a gala banquet.

The Unity in Spirit Conference will run January 8 to 10 at the Southampton Princess Hotel.

Those interested in attending the unprecedented conference must register before December 31. Registration is $75 and $50 for those staying at the hotel during the conference.

For more information on the upcoming conference contact Gayna Joynes at 292-5214.