STATEMENT BY PREMIER AND MINISTER OF FINANCE

DR. THE HONOURABLE D. ORLANDO SMITH, OBE ON THE

OBSERVANCE OF THE 19^TH ANNUAL BVI NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2015

Fellow Virgin Islanders and Residents, today the Virgin Islands observes the 19th annual BVI National Day of Prayer. As your Premier, I am calling on all leaders, especially those in Government, churches, businesses and the community to participate in this Territory-wide event.

The history of the Virgin Islands is built on the prayers of men and women who earnestly went throughout the community, and held prayer meetings to ensure spiritual protection on this Territory and its people. These prayer warriors interceded day and night for the growth and well-being of these islands we call home.

The BVI has long been a praying community, and today is a time where Christians come together, in one voice, to give thanks and petition the blessings of God on behalf of our Virgin Islands.

We therefore welcome the opportunity to partner with the BVI Interdenominational Day of Prayer Committee, church leaders and the community to intercede on behalf of the people. The Word of God tells us that a divided house cannot stand; so we must continue to unite. We must continue fast and pray on behalf of the people, so that God will continue to strengthen this Territory.

I pray that God will continue to protect our families, our youth, and our land from natural and man-made disasters. I pray that He arrests any problems threatening and destroying the fabric of our society. I pray that the people of the Virgin Islands will be lit with the fire of peace, love and forgiveness.

May God continue to watch over and keep our beautiful Virgin Islands.