At the beginning of each year, I seek guidance from god: Melissa Skerrit

Roseau, Dominica: At the beginning of each year, I seek guidance from God, and last year, I was inspired by the concept of charity, said Melissa Poppone Skerrit, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development and the parliamentary representative for the Roseau Central Constituency.

She delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the Roseau Christmas Village, held at the Botanic Gardens in Roseau. During her address, she expressed her delight in officially launching the Roseau Christmas Village 2023.

This inspiration led her to introduce numerous opportunities for citizens to uplift their spirits and bring joy into their lives. She emphasized the special nature of Christmas, highlighting the more expectations it brings for children and families. The launch of the Christmas Village aims to provide a space for people of all ages to celebrate the festive season together.

Minister Melissa Skerrit also shed light on various activities undertaken in the region this year to pay patronage to parents, children, and the elderly, including the establishment of a people’s park playground, Easter egg hunts, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations, an outreach program for elders, and the distribution of homes to deserving families.

Looking ahead, she drew attention to the upcoming Grand Christmas Parade, which will involve the entire community. She emphasized the Christmas Village’s role in fostering a joyful atmosphere and creating a sense of connection among people.

“It is a place where families can come together and socialize,” the Minister stated. She also mentioned how the village would offer opportunities for couples to create lasting memories and for local entrepreneurs to display their creativity and talents through handmade crafts.

The Roseau Christmas Village, she noted, will encapsulate the essence of Dominican culture, with offerings ranging from eateries to entertainment. She announced that the village would host around 40 vendors on the opening night, with projections of about 60 vendors, including pop-up shops and music, in the coming days. Additionally, Gospel nights are scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays.

Minister Skerrit expressed her gratitude towards Lynn Jingzhao and the people of China for their support and extended Christmas greetings to all attendees.