Local News
British Virgin Islands Christmas Past: A Heartwarming Celebration of Tradition, Community, and Giving
In the heart of the British Virgin Islands, a spirit of joy and togetherness enveloped the islands as Christmas approached. A timeless tapestry of traditions unfolded, weaving together the rich fabric of community spirit.
The islands were alive with the sounds of laughter and the scent of freshly baked tarts wafting through the air. Families came together, their homes adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The spirit of camaraderie filled the air, as neighbours engaged in playful banter while participating in friendly “tart wars,” a unique tradition where families playfully competed to create the most delicious and visually appealing tart.
As the aroma of cakes,bread, ham, and turkey filled the kitchens, the anticipation of the Christmas feast grew. Friends and families meticulously planned get-togethers, sharing not only delicious meals but also the warmth of their companionship. Guava berry wine, the drink of the season, flowed freely, as islanders indulged in tasting sessions, savouring the rich flavours that embodied the essence of the holidays.
Yet, amidst the joyous preparations, the true spirit of Christmas shone through in the acts of kindness and generosity. The childlike excitement of exchanging gifts was complemented by a commitment to give back to the community. Many dedicated their time and resources to charitable causes, organising treats for children and assembling care packages for the less fortunate.
The islanders also embraced their spiritual heritage, attending special church services that kept the Christ in Christmas. Carolers roamed through communities, their voices harmonising in festive melodies that echoed the joy and hope of the season. The traditions, passed down through generations, served as a testament to the strength of the community and the values that bound them together.
Premier Natalio D. Wheatley’s 2023 Chritmas message emphasises the importance of preserving these traditions, ensuring that the younger generations inherited the legacy of a close-knit and harmonious society. Love was the common thread weaving through every aspect of the celebration – love for family, love for friends, and love for the entire community.
In a world often marred by hatred and violence, the British Virgin Islands stood as a beacon of love, peace, and harmony. As Christmas dawned, the islanders took a moment to reflect on their blessings and give thanks. The Premier’s call to spread love and happiness at home and abroad resonated deeply, inspiring a collective resolve to be a source of light in a world longing for peace.
And so, in the glow of twinkling lights and the warmth of shared laughter, the British Virgin Islanders celebrated Christmas, not just as a festive occasion but as a reaffirmation of their commitment to love, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Virgin Islands.
This Christmas, amid the tropical splendour, Premier Wheatley is asking all British Virgin Islanders to not just share in festivities but in a profound affirmation of love, unity, and the enduring spirit of our cherished community.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).
The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.
Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”
Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.
Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”
The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.
As the festive season brings increased consumer activity, the British Virgin Islands Bank Association (BVIBA) has issued a stern reminder to merchants across the territory regarding compliance with card transaction policies.
The association warns that imposing minimum spending requirements or charging additional fees for card payments is not only against their merchant agreements but also violates regulations established by major payment networks, VISA and Mastercard.
The advisory, issued on Wednesday, December 18, warns that merchants engaging in these practices are in breach of their contractual obligations with their respective financial institutions. “We request that all merchants immediately cease these practices to ensure compliance,” the statement read.
The BVIBA comprises several prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited, CIBC Caribbean, FirstBank PR, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) Limited, and VP Bank (BVI) Limited.
For inquiries or guidance on compliance, the BVIBA advises merchants to contact their respective banks promptly.
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation
BVI Bank Association Warns Merchants Against Card Transaction Violations
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