Her Excellency, President Christine Kangaloo has sent wishes of healing hope and comfort to the nation.
Her Excellency described Christmas as a religious celebration which everyone can participate in fully and lovingly regardless of creed, race, class or religion, she also acknowledged that it is a time when many are unable to celebrate because they are hurting and struggling daily to face and overcome challenges and difficulties.
She also said yesterday that citizens can all be comforted, regardless of religion, in knowing that we are loved by an eternal God who watches over us forgivingly and carefully. She added that as long as we follow and apply the precepts of our faith, we will all be saved.
The Head of State asked the nation to be mindful of those in need and to be aware and sensitive enough to pause in the midst of our own celebrations, to reach out and bring comfort to those who are suffering, just like the angel of Christ did the night he was born.
In her first Christmas message to the nation Kangaloo said: “Christmas is an opportunity for us all to set down our differences, to heal divisions among us, and to find ways to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow men. It is an opportunity to be inspired into action by the narrative and teachings of Jesus Christ and to fully embody the angelic proclamation of ‘on earth peace, goodwill toward men.’ May we all understand the true message and meaning of Christmas and find ways to bring comfort and hope to one another.”
She wished all a purposeful new year: “My husband and I take this opportunity to wish every citizen of Trinidad and Tobago a merry, safe and holy Christmas and a bright, prosperous and purposeful New Year.”