Opposition, President urge Guyanese to draw inspiration from Christmas

The two main political parties in Guyana – the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) – have both joined in extending Christmas greetings to all Guyanese while urging all to draw inspiration from the message of Christmas.
The PPP extended Christmas wishes to the Christian community in Guyana and in the Guyanese diaspora, noting also that it was a time for joy, goodwill and sharing, as well as other positive attributes.
“The holiday season is a time of joy, goodwill and sharing. It is also a time for compassion and kindness as we all endeavour to spread peace and love towards our fellowmen and women for the betterment of humanity.
“Our dear country abounds with traditions for Christmas, as Guyanese, despite their challenges, find ways and means to share in the true spirit of the season. It is these traditions and values that have come to make this period here unique and much anticipated, epitomising what we have all come to hold dear at this time of year.”
The Party urged that while Guyanese celebrate, they also reflect on the pertinent messages and the significance of the festivities. According to the Party, there are lessons to be learnt about building a more tolerant society.
“Christmas marks the birth of the Saviour Jesus Christ whose exemplary life and teachings provide guidance for the upliftment of humanity. Let us all be inspired by what he stood for and continues to represent so as to build a more tolerant society and a better Guyana.
“Our Party also urges that we all keep in our thoughts and prayers, the needy, the less fortunate and the many others who are faced with personal challenges thereby preventing them from truly experiencing the festivities of this season.”
APNU
Meanwhile, APNU noted in its message not only the religious symbolism of the occasion, but also the fact that Christmas represents the eternal and universal human aspiration for peace and goodwill.
“Christmas recalls that Christ was born into a family. Jesus came into the world as a baby, born into a family, He belonged to a model family…the holy family. The family is a divine creation which must be protected.
“Christmas is a time to strengthen the bonds of fraternity, friendship, and family-hood. It is a time for family reunions and for spreading cheer by exchanging gifts, visiting friends, attending church, sending greeting cards, singing carols and sharing dinners within the home and community.”
The party also noted that Christmas reminds every one of their duty to each other, particularly the nurses, soldiers, policemen and other persons involved in providing public services. According to the party, they will spend Christmas away from their families and homes.
“We are reminded, also, of the plight of the poor, the weak, the destitute and those who are sick, in grief and in need, at this time. We are all part of society. The Holy Festival of Christmas is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds which unite us – as a family, community and country.
“Let us be the agents for promoting peace and bearing goodwill to all. Let us ensure peace, goodwill and safety in our homes, on the roadways and in our communities. A happy and peaceful Christmas to all Guyanese!”