You know the situation here is worrying, and sadly we will not be celebrating Christmas as it used to be. It is going to be quiet reflection and indoors as soldiers will be deployed on the streets to enforce this directive.
The country seems to be at a stand still, all schools and colleges/universities have been closed since last July. I am not certain if they will be reopen in January. The economy is shrinking by the day and movement is a little difficult across the country.
As part of my leadership role, I normally would apply for a “PASS” in order to allow me free access to our Brothers and Communities in the quarantined areas, just to give them some aspect of moral support but ministry of any kind has really been crippled.
Myself, being from The Gambia and working here, I have been cut off from family particularly during this Ebola crises. I have lost two members of my family and currently, an old aunt who suffers a stroke. I couldn’t go home as my government had blocked all flights coming from either Sierra Leone, Liberia and Guinea Conakry. I cross my fingers knowing too well, Jesus supports me as I continue to live and feel with the people here during this crisis.
You know the situation here is worrying, and sadly we will not be celebrating Christmas as it used to be. It is going to be quiet reflection and indoors as soldiers will be deployed on the streets to enforce this directive. Pity for the poor families who have to bear the brunt of it particularly when they cannot put food on the table. We remain hopeful and trust that this cloud shall surely come to pass and we will be a dignified people once again without stigmatization.
Actually, some further measures have been put in place following the President’s address to the nation on Tuesday. We can now go for the Christmas Eve Mass but unfortunately all must be concluded at 5 00 p.m. I suppose the same will apply to New Years. Businesses, markets, trading, bars, night clubs, restaurants etc must all be shut down at 6:00 p.m each day. We hope and pray all of this, at the end of the day, will yield dividends. Once again, profound thanks for your good work, thoughts and prayers. Peace and blessings to all this Christmas time.
Timirí 