CELEBRATING a significant part of Christian antiquity with the birth of Jesus Christ brings people together in a different spiritual way.
The commemoration of Jesus Christ’s nativity has always been a significant part of the Christian calendar — celebrated by millions of people around the world every December 25.
The day is not only observed by Christians or believers but is also celebrated by non-Christians who have come to embrace the festive season.
It is a time where people from around the world come together to remember the birth of the Messiah and is often observed with a special church service or mass.
Apart from the church service, gift-giving, family and social gatherings, symbolic decorations and feasting are also associated with the day. As many make their shopping runs today and tomorrow for their Sunday Christmas get-together, authorities have reiterated the importance of shopping smart and also being safe when travelling during this peak festive season.
This year the Consumer Council of Fiji called on all Fijian consumers and traders to keep showing solidarity and to work hand in hand to build back stronger.
CCF chief executive officer, Seema Shandil, said the council reiterates on the importance of looking out for each other and sharing the true spirit of Christmas giving and forgiveness.
“Consumers have the power to make a difference in the lives of many this season by making small changes in their purchasing decisions,” Ms Shandil said.
“When out shopping, consider buying from local vendors and retailers. With this small move, you can make sure that there is food on the table for other Fijians.
“By going local, you will also be creating employment for your fellow Fijians going into the New Year and ensure that our local communities grow in the face of adversities.”
On people’s movement to outer islands, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has urged Fijians to travel safely this festive season.
The authority in a statement also pleaded with ship operators, ship agents and shipping stakeholders to practise due diligence this week.
“Regarded as the peak season for inter-island travels, MSAF will be monitoring the movement of passengers and crew before departure and on arrival at all our local ports to ensure safety is not compromised at any time,” the authority stated.
“In an effort to maintain the highest level of safety, MSAF has increased manpower at busy ports in order to facilitate swift flow of operations during this busy period.”
The Fiji Police Force is also conducting their traffic checks and breathalyser checks this week.
Police has reminded drivers to be alert and vigilant at all times in light of the anticipated increased movement of people this weekend.
Police said it was important for Fijians to stay safe, not to drive under the influence of liquor and be considerate of other roads users during this festive season.
