Carmona: The cross is not ‘a bling’

Saying that life was precious and sacrosanct and deserved to be respected, he called on citizens to, “Not marginalise persons in challenging communities nor trivialise the senseless demise of many in those communities.

During Easter and beyond, we must continue to invoke God’s benevolence, kindness, genuine love and prayers for those in need.” The President also said the nation needed service leadership rather then power leadership in all spheres of activity and called on citizens to be more Jesus-like in their actions.

“Every year, Easter speaks to the need for a new and renewed start and a refined and better way of thinking and living among us all. It empowers us to exhibit real, genuine compassion and kindness regardless of what our personal circumstances are. We must remember that Jesus Christ stood his ground in the face of an unrelenting adversary in the form of social injustice, religious persecution, jealousy, envy and hate. His spirituality was grounded in affirmative action and faith in the resolute power of mercy and forgiveness.

Speaking to the unique Easter experience found in his home town of Siparia, Carmona said, Easter must be lived and, “Not merely a seasonal ritual of spiritual ceremonies. It offers and encourages unity among our peoples.” He said there is simply too much pain and hurt in the country and wondered if healing can begin at Easter time.

“We must not be flippant about the lives and needs of the downtrodden. The life of every man, woman and child is important regardless of their status, race, colour, religion or political suasion. We must therefore be honest to ourselves and with others.

We must not say that we care when we do not, we must not say that we feel and do not, we must not say we are concerned and show neither mercy, compassion nor forgiveness. Easter is about enforcing genuine humanity in our lives.”