In his last Christmas Day message before he leaves office, Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga reflects on the year that has been and God’s blessings on American Samoa while nearly the whole world has experienced unprecedented loss of life due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This Christmas will be exceptionally memorable, because eof COVDI 19 but we int eh terirotry are thankful that American Samoa is among the few countries spared from the ravages of this life-threatening coronavirus.
“The spirit of Christmas is simply doing a little something extra for someone, cherish peace and goodwill, quick to forgive and swift in forgetting the past along with being merciful, rejoicing it with family and friends, rekindling our souls realizing that others are more important besides ourselves, and understanding that the essence of Christmas is measured not by the size and the value of the gift but by the strength of the love and affection which prompted the giving.
“We are very mindful and fully aware of the sacrifices being made by you, our men and women in uniform, many of whom will be spending Christmas without their families and loved ones. So,as you stand guard to protect the freedoms that we have taken for granted, let the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with the assurance that you are all in our hearts along with our continual prayer vigil beseeching God to keep you safe until you return home.
“While many of us will be enjoying Christmas with our families, our Doctors, Nurses, Police, Firefighters, healthcare support personnel, and others keeping our community safe, please know that your services are appreciated and your sacrifices are clearly noted and we hope that you will feel the spirit of Christmas enwraps you as you attend to your duties.
“On behalf of Lieutenant Governor and Governor-elect Lemanu Peleti Mauga, Ella and his family, together with Cynthia Malala Moliga and our family, we wish the people of American Samoa the most joyous and peaceful Christmas Day.
“We take this final opportunity to remind all of you how much you have meant to us. We don’t dare to think what we would ever have done without your love and support. We thank God for your gift to us which gave us the ability to serve you in the best of our God given abilities.
“On this Christmas occasion, our fervent prayer to God is that He blesses each of you and your families with His choicest blessings.
“May this Christmas be a fitting ending to a successful and challenging year and may the New Year bring fresh hopes and bright beginnings.
“Merry Christmas American Samoa and may you all enjoy a prosperous New Year!”
