PHILIPSBURG–“There is Jollification in Christmas. Traditionally, we cook up a storm, not just to feed ourselves, but all those who pass by our homes. We even send food to friends and relatives, and share with our neighbours, not because they have nothing to eat, but because this is the way we express our sense of belonging,” said Prime Minister William Marlin in his Christmas message to the community.
“We open our homes and our hearts to others without feeling vulnerable because of the mystery and marvel in the manger where Christ was born … Christmas is, indeed, a time for family. And nothing brings family and friends together like the birth of a child,” he said.
“No one is supposed to feel lonely at Christmas. No one is supposed to go hungry. Every child looks forward to receiving gifts during this season, whether they behaved well throughout the year or not,” said Marlin.
“That story about the child Jesus teaches us that the circumstances of our birth do not define us, that our destiny is not tied to where we were born but who we were born to be. It tells us that we should never look down on a person because of their humble beginnings but look to lift up everyone to where they truly belong.
The spirit of Christmas is, therefore, not a one-day feeling; it is not a seasonal event but a permanent injunction for us to be our brother’s keeper. Charles Dickens said, ‘I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.’ This should be the mantra for all of us,” said Marlin.
“Christmas is a gift, and as Pope Francis put it, ‘God never gives someone a gift they are not capable of receiving. If he gives us the gift of Christmas, it is because we all have the ability to understand and receive it.’ I pray that you will receive this gift with humility, and understand the message that comes with it. May the love, joy and peace that Christmas brings be with you and your loved ones throughout the year,” said Marlin in his wish for the community.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/62484-marlin-jollification-part-of-christmas
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