In an Easter message, the union said Easter, though Christian in origin, holds out all the characteristics, teachings and values which all members of the human race should embrace, whatever their own religion or faith.

“GAWU is, therefore, pleased to join it Christian brothers and sisters as they recall and observe the celebration of the foundation of their faith: prophecy, hope, sacrifice, selflessness, divine love and resurrection.

“It is our understanding that Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on Calvary’s cross was long fore-told. It was divine promise that had to be fulfilled, even though many of the events leading up to Christ’s unjust execution were characterised by man’s greed, deceit, lust for power and the denial of rights.

“GAWU advises Christians to use this weekend to meditate on a few lessons handed down to these times. For example, how well are they showing their gratitude for the sacrifice made 2003 years ago? How selfless, caring or loving towards their neighbours are they? And we urge all Christian devotees to truly behave and make manifest the remarkable promises of the Good Friday Sacrifice, and the Easter Day Renewal. If you believe, you must demonstrate the lessons of your faith,” the union said in its message.

President extends Easter greetings to all Guyanese
PRESIDENT Bharrat Jagdeo has extended Easter greetings to all Guyanese, and has expressed the hope that the season will “help us to appreciate the countless sacrifices of all those who have “paid the ultimate price so that peace, order and goodwill can prevail in Guyana.”

Below is the full text of the President’s message

“I WISH to extend a blessed and joyous Easter to the entire nation, but more especially the Christian community who are commemorating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is steeped in tradition and is observed throughout the country by Christians attending church.

On Easter Monday, the skies of our country come alive as families of all religious backgrounds partake in the traditional kite flying exercises.

The festivities that Guyanese will be engaged in over this long Easter weekend should, however, not detract from the special religious significance of Easter and its importance to all Christians. Easter is as important a time for all our people to reflect on the suffering of Christ and his subsequent Resurrection; events that are so central to the faith of the Christian community.

It is my hope that Easter will awaken in all of us that sureness of purpose and that certainty of our conviction to do what is right in our community.

The story of Jesus’ death and resurrection reverberates with meaning for all people of goodwill.

May this Easter also help us to appreciate the countless sacrifices of all those who have paid the ultimate price so that peace, order and goodwill can prevail in Guyana.