CHRISTIANSTED — Senate President Kenneth Gittens has extended greetings for Holy Week to residents across the U.S. Virgin Islands culminating in Easter Sunday today.
Gittens said “those who celebrate the Passover and Easter seasons should reflect on the sacrifices made in the name of peace, love and freedom associated with the holy time.”
“Across our Territory, and specifically on St. Croix, we celebrate love and family bonding during this time of year with our religious services, traditional camping and family fun days,” Gittens said. “Many of our families have carried on these traditions for generations and I encourage everyone to enjoy the season with safety and fellowship in mind.”
The St. Croix senator said at this very sacred time, residents are asked to remember those affected by the fires that ravaged the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on Tuesday.
“Many hearts are saddened as we watch by television and see the destruction of this significant religious and cultural icon,” he said.
Gittens said as our community enjoys the freedoms of practicing and celebrating our religions openly during Holy Week and that “it is a time to remember those around the world who are persecuted for expressing their faith.”
“This is a time when Christians are commemorating Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection,” Gittens said. “Traditionally thousands of Catholics flock to services in the pews for Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday,” Gittens said.
The Senate President said Christianity and Judaism are faiths of inclusiveness.
“As Christians, we mark this weekend with observing Good Friday and celebrating Easter. We also join our Jewish brothers and sisters in their observance of Passover,” he said. “Let us give thanks for the many blessings in our lives and commit to following our spiritual teachings and show love and compassion to our neighbors.”
