The following are lightly edited Christmas messages from our nation’s leaders:

I extend warm Christmas greetings to you and to your families, wherever you may be.

As this year drew toward a close, Jamaica was preparing to celebrate what had otherwise been a strong and encouraging year. We had faced challenges, but we were moving forward with confidence, purpose, and hope.

Then, in late October, everything changed.

Category Five Hurricane Melissa, the strongest and most devastating hurricane ever to strike our island, descended upon us, near the very end of the season and turned our world upside down. In a matter of hours, lives were disrupted and entire communities, particularly across the western parishes, were left shattered. Homes were destroyed, agriculture was crippled, schools, churches, hospitals, and businesses were damaged or lost, and the emotional toll has been profound.

We must acknowledge the depth of this tragedy and the magnitude of the task before us. Rebuilding homes, hospitals, schools, churches, businesses, and critical infrastructure will require patience, sacrifice, discipline, and unity.

Yet, even in our sorrow, we have witnessed something extraordinary: The generosity and compassion shown by Jamaicans at home and abroad, our Diaspora family, regional and international partners, and friends across the world, have reminded us that we are not alone. Our first responders acted with courage and urgency to save lives and restore order amid chaos, and for this we are deeply grateful.

I also commend the media across radio, television, print, and digital platforms, who worked tirelessly, often under difficult and dangerous conditions, to keep the nation informed. Your responsible reporting helped calm fears, mobilise assistance, and connect families. Jamaica thanks you.

Above all, we give thanks for our people — a people of faith, grounded in trust in Almighty God, and resolute in spirit. Jamaica has always risen not because the road was easy, but because the people refused to give up.

My fellow Jamaicans, this is not the time for division or distraction. We must remain focused on rebuilding our nation and building back better.

Christmas reminds us that light shines brightest in the darkest moments. In that spirit, I encourage each of us to show kindness by checking on the vulnerable, sharing what we have, offering encouragement, supporting community efforts, and extending patience and compassion in our daily lives.

May this season renew our strength, unite us in purpose, and fill our homes with peace.

May God bless you and may God bless Jamaica, land we love.

SIR PATRICK ALLEN

GOVERNOR GENERAL