MESSAGE TO THE NATION FROM DR THE HONOURABLE KEITH ROWLEY PRIME MINISTER OF THE REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO ON THE OCCASION OF EASTER SUNDAY 2018

Easter is a celebration of the victory of life over death, of the fulfilment of a long-awaited promise to all of mankind. As Christians in our nation and around the world commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we continue to be encouraged by the lessons in selflessness and love demonstrated by Christ in his sacrifice on the cross.

A fundamental aspect of Christ’s legacy on the earth is that he consistently put into action one of his greatest admonitions, which is to love your neighbour as yourself. As our nation continues to navigate its way through turbulent waters, this profound command has never been more relevant. As people around the country gather with their families and friends to celebrate this holy day, it is important to recognise that it is through the strengthening of family relationships and the purposeful building of community life that our nation will flourish.

For those who believed, Jesus’ death and resurrection signalled the end of an old order and the birth of a new era. In the same manner, we must be fully aware of the new season that we have entered and be ready to adapt to its changed requirements. We must acknowledge the challenges that currently exist as well as those that will inevitably manifest on the road ahead. This is done, however, with the assurance that abundance follows sacrifice and that the diligence and persistence of our efforts will in due season, bear fruit fit for purpose.

Easter gives us the opportunity to reflect on the beliefs and ideals that unify us and enable us to put aside our differences that often hinder our progress as a nation. As we celebrate the potency of Christ’s message of love and sacrifice, let us pay special heed to the qualities and resolve that enabled him to lay aside his life for mankind. Let us move forward into a season of hope and renewal, fortified by the acknowledgement that we all desire a country that is safe, stable and resilient.

On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, I wish the entire national community a happy Easter, with every blessing of peace and prosperity.