HIS Excellency President Donald Ramotar is of the view that while Christmas has great significance for Christians everywhere in Guyana, it has transcended Christianity and is truly a national holiday.

Alluding to the fact that the message of peace and goodwill is universal, one which each person identifies with, the President also pointed out that “we are celebrating this year in a period of great hope for a brighter tomorrow”.

Following is the full text of the President’s Christmas message:

On behalf of the Government and my family, I extend best wishes to all Guyanese, here and in the Diaspora for a Merry Christmas.
I take this opportunity to welcome all those who are coming home for the holidays.

While Christmas has great significance for Christians everywhere in Guyana, it has transcended Christianity and is truly a national holiday.

The message of peace and goodwill is universal, one which each person identifies with.

We are celebrating this year in a period of great hope for a brighter tomorrow.

The message of hope and optimism which is integral to Christmas gives us confidence that set-backs are temporary. We know that sooner, than later, we will achieve the collective goals we have set to advance our nation’s welfare.

On this joyous occasion we once again witness the blossoming and importance of the family; integral to this is owning their own homes and providing quality education and health for all. These vital social issues continue to be central to my government’s programme of developing a strong nation capable of achieving great goals.

I wish to urge that we spare a special thought and even offer support to those who are less fortunate, convalescing or might be experiencing personal difficulties. The message of Christmas is one of genuine demonstration of love and happiness and this must infect our families, communities and country as a whole.

Once more, best wishes for a Merry Christmas!

extracted from the Guyana Chronicle