Festive Spirit Alive in St. Mary

Despite the setbacks of Hurricane Melissa in late October, the festive spirit is alive and well in the parish of St. Mary with a large showing at this year’s staging of the annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in Port Maria.

The event, which was held by the parish’s Municipal Corporation on Thursday (December 11), brought together residents, families and stakeholders for an evening of civic pride and festive reflection.

Addressing the gathering, Mayor of Port Maria, Councillor Fitzroy Wilson, said that “Hurricane Melissa tested our strength”.

“She challenged our spirits and she left her mark on our beloved town. We faced the wind and the rain; we mourned losses. And we have rolled up our sleeves to begin the hard work of rebuilding. We are still on that journey,” he continued.

Mayor Wilson noted that the togetherness displayed at the event was a miracle worthy of celebration.

“We gather not just to light a tree but to ignite a flame within our hearts. This Christmas, perhaps more than any other, carries a profound meaning for our community. Look at the faces of your neighbours. Feel the collective pulse of Port Maria beating strong and steady,” he said.

To this end, the Mayor pointed out that the tree was more than a symbol of the season.

“It is a testament. Its roots are our deep faith. Its trunk is our collective resilience – strong and unbroken. Its branches reach out just as we have reached out to help one another… sharing meals, offering shelter, clearing roads with our own hands. And its lights are our shared hope. They are promises of a new dawn,” he said.

The Mayor called on the residents to make a silent pledge to carry the figurative light of the tree beyond the ceremony, to their homes, streets and into the hearts of those who are still struggling.

The event also featured a kiddies treat, live band and greetings from other parish officials.