Fellow Virgin Islanders, residents, friends and visitors, the Christmas Season is upon us again and all over the world persons will celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. The celebration takes on different forms depending on customs and religion.

Here in the Virgin Islands as is customary we are busy doing all the things that will make Christmas a memorable and enjoyable season. This involves repainting homes, cleaning, baking tarts, cakes, ham and turkey, making guava beery wine and putting up that Christmas tree local or imported just to name a few.

During the Christmas Season many of us also attend church services as this signifies the birth of Jesus Christ. In short we say Jesus is the reason for the season. We gather as families and friends and share food, drinks and gifts with joy and laughter. We reflect on the events whether personally, locally, regionally and internationally.

For many of us, this year would be considered an eventful and memorable one. A year filled with joy, happiness and unfortunately some sadness. All of our lives were touched in some manner that will remain in our minds and hearts forever. Regardless of your circumstances one thing is certain; Jesus has been and will continue to be with us always, once we continue to put our trust and faith in him.

During this Christmas Season I pray that all of us will dedicate our lives to the service of mankind by being our brother’s keeper regardless of the circumstances.

Let me take this opportunity to encourage all to do your part and keep these beautiful islands clean and litter free.

On behalf of my Euriniece and our two daughters, I extend to each and every one of you Joy, Peace and Happiness for the Christmas Holidays and have a Wonderful and Blessed New Year.

 I also extend these greetings to the Premier Dr. Hon. D. Orlando Smith and his family, the Leader of the Opposition Hon. Ralph T. O’Neal and his family, the Speaker of the House of Assembly Hon. Ingrid Moses-Scatliffe and her family, the Hon. Members of the House Of Assembly and their families and all public servants and their families.

Again Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to one and all.

Thank you