PRESIDENT David Granger last evening called on Guyanese to ensure that their Christmas activities include peace, love and acts of charity.The President was at the time speaking at the traditional ceremony in the middle of the road leading up to switching on the lights on the Rahaman’s Park Christmas tree on the East Bank of Demerara.
“This is a time of charity; charity is at the heart of God’s greatest gift to mankind, his son Jesus, this represents a gift and it presents us with the opportunity to give gifts even out of the little that we have.”
VERY SYMBOLIC
The father of the nation, as he was called by a young man who introduced him to the crowd, said that the celebration yesterday was very important and has now become a public ritual and is very symbolic.
He explained that the Christmas tree has to do with faith and reminds us of the unchanging faith as we approach a season that reminds us of God’s love for mankind, and which is manifested in the Holy Book, where God promises to send a redeemer.
Mr Granger explained that faith is something that runs through all faiths and which speaks of good overcoming evil, light triumphing over darkness and peace will also triumph.
“So let us take time out to remember the destitute, the homeless, the dispossessed, the lonely and the depressed. These persons are our brothers and sisters and they must hold a special place for us this Christmas. Let us remember the unfortunate, so that we can help them to overcome their trials and tribulations and share in this most joyous festival,” President Granger said.
He went on to note that “Christmas brings joy to children of whom there are so many in our country, who do not have enough to have a happy Christmas.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes in her remarks reminded the gathering that Christmas is a time when most are willing to put aside problems and let love reign, and it is time for our people to work towards making each Christmas even better.
She expressed gratitude to the business community which has been supporting the venture of the Christmas Tree light-up over the years, and the staffers of the ministry who have also put in a lot of work to ensure its success.
The Rahaman Tree light-up began in 2005 and has been receiving support from the Ministry of Tourism over the years. The tree which was started at an initial height of 15 feet, now stands at 60 feet and with 3,000 lights as against 200 lights back in 2005.
One of the young Rahaman daughters made a commitment to ensure that the tradition continues in the years to come. (Leroy Smith)