Christmas serves as a reminder of transformative power of love, compassion, hope – Pres Ali

…lauds brave men & women in uniform for sacrifices

In extending greetings for a joyous, holy and peaceful Christmas to all Guyanese at home and abroad, President Dr Irfaan Ali is reminding everyone of the transformative powers that this season brings.
“Christmas holds profound significance for Christians worldwide, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of love, compassion, and hope,” President Ali said in a message from himself, First Lady Arya Ali and their two children.

He noted that Christmas is a special period on the Christian calendar as it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. According to the biblical narrative, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in a simple stable. This modest beginning, the Head of State said, is considered symbolic of the humility and accessibility of God’s love.
“Christ’s birth was a ray of hope – a hope that transcends the darkest of times. This child, Jesus, born in a manger, would grow to be a symbol of love and peace. Peace remains the great aspiration of human civilisation. Unfortunately, today, in many parts of the world, including in Bethlehem, where Christ was born, peace is threatened by the shadows of war and conflict. I invite all to pray for an end to the suffering wrought by conflict.”
Reflecting on Guyana, the Head of State noted that the country often faces adversity but in those times of such challenges, the nation can draw strength from the manger. He said the nativity reminds that greatness can emerge from the humblest beginnings and that even in the face of despair, hope can be found.
“The story of Bethlehem teaches us that hope is not contingent on favourable circumstances but rather on the will to rise above adversity. Guyana today is rising to confront its challenges and bring peace and prosperity to our country. Guyana remains wedded to the ideal of peace, peace within our nation and peace with all our neighbours. May the teachings of Jesus inspire us to foster unity in our diverse nation, to overcome the challenges that lie ahead, and to build a future filled with promise and peace.”

Reach out to
less fortunate
Additionally, the President urged that the nation embody Jesus’ teachings by reaching out to the less fortunate and extend a helping hand to those in need. He asked that support be given to those who are feeling the weight of loneliness, offering them the warmth of friendship and understanding. Embrace, especially, all those who are grieving the loss of loved ones or grappling with misfortune, he added.
The Guyanese leader also encouraged Guyanese to spare a thought and reserve an act of caring for those who are sick and ailing. Through these and other acts of kindness, both collectively and individually, he said Christ can be honoured.
“As we send Christmas greetings to all of Guyana, we must, for a moment, understand the challenges and the circumstances that our country withstood during this year.
In all our challenges, in the loneliest of moments, what stood out the most was our love for our country, our patriotism, nationalistic fervour, our love for each other, our unity, and our commitment to each other and our country. This is the year we dug deep and renewed that love and commitment for our country and each other.”

Sacrifices
President Ali, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, remembered the country’s loyal and brave men and women in uniform, including those who are patrolling Guyana’s borders and waters, and who are unable at this time, because of the call of duty, to be at home with their families. He also paid special homage to the five servicemen – Retired Brigadier Gary Beaton; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud; Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles and Sergeant Jason Khan – who died in the horrific helicopter crash on December 6.
“I thank them and all others for the sacrifices that they are making in the cause of peace. So, as we move in this season, I cannot help but remember our heroes – our five heroes who today stand tall in the history book of our country and this region. Their sacrifice is a lesson and a guide to us. Let us all come together in strength and unity, love and peace, as we build a stronger, more prosperous Guyana for all of us.”
However, as this is being done for Guyana, President Ali also asked that we do not forget that we have a responsibility too, to call upon all those who are involved in war, all those who continue to use conflict and war and force as a means of bringing peace, to halt their action and give peace a chance.
“Let us stop the slaughter of children and women across the world, the slaughter of children and women in Palestine, and acts of terrorism. We must stop it. We must find a way to resolve these conflicts and bring peace to those families because peace around the world depends on each of us as a country, as individuals and as citizens of the world.”
“Let us not allow this season to go without a recommitment from each of us as we seek to build a stronger, safer, fairer and more prosperous world. May the warmth of Christmas engulf all of us and keep us safe during the holidays. I wish you and your loved ones a blessed and peaceful Christmas.” (G8)