PRESIDENT David Granger has said that hope is alive again in Guyana, this following his coalition party’s victory at the May 11 polls; and he has wished all Guyanese a joyous Christmas even as he urged support for the less fortunate and vulnerable.In his message to mark the occasion of Christmas, President Granger, a staunch Anglican, said Christians all over Guyana celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ today. “Jesus’s humble birth in a manger over two thousand years ago fulfilled God’s exalted promise, recorded in the Holy Bible, of peace on earth and goodwill toward men.”

The President said Jesus’s glorious work in an obscure country with a small band of disciples a long time ago brought renewed hope to humanity and transformed the world.

“The flame of hope has been relit in Guyana this year. It is written in the Holy Bible, “…old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new”, the President said. He added: “Hope is alive again in our country. This hope comes with the promise of tangible and lasting change for a better life for all of our people.”

President Granger said Christmas is a time to rejoice in Jesus Christ’s miraculous birth and His marvellous message of hope. It is also a time to rekindle the Guyanese spirit of goodwill, and to be grateful for the service and sacrifice of others.

“We join other Guyanese to make Christmas this year a day of good tidings of great joy”, the President said.

The Guyanese leader said that Christians – through thought, word and work – exemplify Christ’s message of mercy and compassion. “They make Christmas a special sacred season. Guyanese of all religions have also been inspired by the season’s spirit of charity and sense of social responsibility Ordinary people everywhere reach out with compassion and generosity to help their brothers and sisters in need”, the President observed.

He noted that Christmas this year provides an opportunity to call on everyone to join in improving the lives of others; in bridging the gaps that keep our people apart; in reducing inequality; in ensuring a safe and secure country; in delivering the good life for all, including the needy, the sick, the infirm, the lonely, and the forgotten, whom we especially remember and embrace.

“We call to mind today our children, the aged, the poor, and other vulnerable citizens. We remember our soldiers and servicemen who are spending time away from home, on our borders and in far-flung regions, separated from their families. We recognise the service of our technicians, nurses, and other workers who maintain our public utilities and public health services, so that others could be safe and comfortable.

“May all Guyana find comfort in the message of Christmas, a message that offers hope and the promise of a better future! A Blessed Christmas to all!” President Granger has said.