THE Ministries of Local Government and Regional Development and Housing held simple but significant programmes at their respective locations on Thursday to commemorate the important Christian observance of Easter, which marks the Crucifixion, Burial and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Over at the Housing Ministry, where the programme started at 13:00hrs, staffers recited poems, sang, danced and engaged in other activities in keeping with the spirit of Easter. Those gathered also received the spoken Word, which was delivered by Reverend Terrence Esseboom.
Speaking from the New Testament Book of John, Reverend Esseboom told the gathering that Easter deals with the most fundamental problem of human beings, which is sin. He explained that there are many persons who try to find different words and aliases to describe the problem; but at the end of the day, the wrongs we do and the injustices we commit are still considered sin in the sight of God.
In closing, Reverend Esseboom emphasized that despite the position or job one holds, “We are all corrupt biblically.” He added that there are various principles that speak to each and every issue, including sin.
In his brief remarks, Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali told his staff and the few guests that sin is harmful, and that too much time is spent on dealing with the outcomes of sin, rather than finding ways to prevent ourselves from sinning.
The observance over at the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development was not as extravagant as that of the Housing Ministry. Staffers there gathered in their boardroom with Permanent Secretary, Collin Croal and Senior Minister Ganga Persaud, who was also joined by Hinterland Coordinator, Harripersaud Nokta.
Nevertheless, for some of the staff, it was a learning experience, while others deemed it a true reminder of the goodness of the Almighty God.
In his reflections on the significance of Easter, Health Co-ordinator of the Ministry of Local Government, Davin Washington reminded the staff that it was due to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ that humans no longer have to offer sacrifices to atone for their sins. He explained that it was because of the crucifixion that we are now able to speak directly to God through Jesus Christ in prayers.
Minister Ganga Persaud told the gathering that their presence, which comprised Christians and non-Christians, reflected the true spirit of Guyana, being a multi-cultural society. He urged the staff to stick together, to respect each other’s religion, and to be tolerant of same.
There was also modelling and exhibition of Easter hats by staff members.