Find the reason for the season, urges Atherley

Leader of the Opposition Bishop Joseph Atherley has made a Christmas Eve call for Barbadians to look beyond the limitations created by the COVID-19 pandemic and find their “cause for celebration” this season.

In a Christmas message to the nation, Bishop Atherley encouraged citizens to serve the cause and needs of others where possible, pointing out that “no matter your own challenges, there are always those who are more so in need”.

He said: “My own view is that at Christmas the thing we celebrate most is the birth of the Christ Child and ultimately the hope it brings.

“I urge you to identify your cause for celebration despite your own personal challenges. Perhaps it’s family; perhaps it’s friendship. It may be for you the freedom we enjoy as a people; perhaps it’s our countless blessings as a nation – free educational opportunity, good health care, stable government, the beauty of our landscape, reliable and respectful neighbours, your latest gift or most recent accomplishment, your near next birthday, or that opportunity which you know now is coming.”

At the same time, the Opposition Leader took the opportunity to call on Barbadians from all walks of life to make a contribution to the growth and development of the country no matter their status in society, expressing hope of better days ahead.

He continued: “I suggest that no matter how dark your today’s moment, tomorrow’s mornings hold forth better promise. The promise of better health, the promise of better relationships, the promise of better opportunity, the promise of a better position, the promise of a better day.

“The manger and cattle stall where this infant Jesus was laid represented the start of a journey, not its completion. I do not know what circumstances represent where you are at this point in your life. What I do know is that it may very well be the start point of a new enterprising and rewarding journey for you.

“So I urge you to look upward, look forward, to step outward, and as you do, take each step in the celebratory spirit of this Christmas season. If you do, joy, peace and good well-being will attend you.” (MM)