Charles Kong Soo
Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar is urging citizens to let the crucifixion of Jesus Christ inspire them to selflessly love each other.
In her Good Friday message, Persad-Bissessar said , "Today as our Christian community observes the foundation of its faith, God’s ultimate sacrifice to save humanity through the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, I offer my solemn wishes for a blessed day of prayerful reflection and spiritual rejuvenation.
"As we reflect on the passion of Jesus Christ, His selfless journey of courage from being betrayed, falsely accused, scourged and crucified, we are called to acknowledge what can only be described as the ultimate show of love for humanity.
"As a nation and as a united people, the crucifixion of Jesus must inspire us through His perfect example of selfless love to renew goodness in our country."
She said the lesson of Good Friday reminds us that not only did God sacrifice his only Son, but Jesus willingly accepted the agony of the cross so that the will of God could be fulfilled to save humanity.
As a people, we are called to demonstrate selfless love to break down the barriers of division, resentment, and disunity to save a nation facing grave difficulties as never seen before.
Persad-Bissessar said as a country, we cannot abandon those burdened by the rising crime, the rising cost of living, poverty and hopelessness.
She said people are called to be selfless, by putting the interests of those vulnerable citizens and the interest of restoring goodwill in the nation above self-gain.
Persad-Bissessar said this Good Friday as citizens reflect on how they can all positively impact the nation, to remember that the only way they can reflect God's will, especially those in authority, was by ensuring that the nation facilitates equal opportunity, safety, and prosperity for all.
She commended all those who would have undertaken their Lenten fast not only spiritually but by acts of charity and she implored all citizens to replicate such kindness as they worked towards a brighter future.
"May God bless our nation," Persad-Bissessar said.