Season’s greetings, Bermuda.

The season of Advent is marked by themes of hope, peace, love and joy.

As this year of 2021 draws to a close, each of these themes has a special meaning in our community.

This year, our patience, faith and general wellbeing have all been tested. We’ve had to define a new normal while facing the challenges of waves of coronavirus cases, changing restrictions and new variants.

But in true Bermudian fashion, Bermuda’s people have been resilient. Our healthcare workers are heroes in our midst, working endlessly to save lives and protect our island.

We have witnessed the community, businesses and government working together to help charities continue to execute their missions and meet the rising need for their services.

Our faith community and houses of worship continued to lift the spirits of congregations and the wider community, ministering by non-traditional outreach to stay connected to our residents.

As we celebrate this year’s Christmas holiday, many families will gather in homes across the island following the great strides we have made in our battle against the coronavirus.

There will be renewed joy among families and friends as we have the chance to celebrate this holiday with each other face to face, not separated by virtual platforms.

For the Christian community, Advent culminates in the celebration of Jesus's birth. It represents a fulfilment of the scriptures and signals to the world that a saviour is born to bring salvation and hope for all.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, many families throughout our Island have endured losses this year and Christmas will be a painful reminder of loved ones who will not be present at annual gatherings.

Please remember to take the time to support those who have suffered such a loss this year — especially the young children who may have lost a parent.

Showing care and concern will help those families so that they too can feel the some of the peace and love that is so important at this time of year.

My wife, Kristin, and I believe in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. We have faith in the Bermudian community to work together to build a better future for all of our children.

This past year has been difficult, but as we approach the new year we must look forward in hope, knowing that together we can all build a brighter future as we endeavour to move Bermuda beyond the pandemic.

While we celebrate with family and friends, visit each other’s homes and spend time in fellowship, please be mindful that we must remain vigilant to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

I continue to be grateful for all the encouragement and well wishes of people from all walks of life on our beautiful island home.

The hard work of the Government is made easier thanks to your continued support and your continued prayers.

Christmas is a special time here in Bermuda.

Let us all enjoy this holiday safely and face 2022 with a renewed spirit of community and love for each other.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.