Christmas Message 2015
Mrs. Celia Nicholas ( M.S.A., E.E.A.)
President
Dominica Association of Teachers
The year 2015 can be characterised as an exacting one for the Dominica Association of Teachers. Without hesitation though, we can declare boldly that grace and favour abound!
In the height of our comprehensive preparations for the hosting of the 39th Biennial Conference of the Caribbean Union of Teachers; contentious salary negotiations assumed ascendancy.
For the first three months of the year under review, the protracted engagement was intense. The obstacles were formidable and multidimensional.
These circumstances brought to the fore our steely resolve to negotiate in the best interest of Dominican Educators and to execute in August a unique conference for our regional and international colleagues.
Both goals which seemed insurmountable during our trying moments were achieved. We were upheld by Jesus, the par excellence Teacher who placed everything in perspective for us. Due to the experience, we have grown stronger and wiser, institutionally and personally.
Christmas tells the story of our Saviour who was born about two millenniums ago. His birth is an unparalled event. Through the Old Testament prophet Isaiah, God instructs us that His Child brings “light, love and life”. What does each of our lives bring to each other?
The onslaught of Tropical Storm Erika of August 27th, 2015, provides us with an exceptional opportunity to carry out what I term the three “L” mission of the Christ Child. Additionally, to allow others to experience what Pope Francis calls “a sign of Christ’s nearness”.
The Dominica Association of Teachers experienced Christ nearness in the overwhelming response and solidarity from the affiliates of the Caribbean Union of Teachers and Education International. By working together with us through this difficulty-the aftermath of Tropical Storm Erika-they have helped to strengthen us. They extended towards us the care and affection of Christ.
The people of Dominica, especially the teachers shall be forever grateful for the outpouring of concern from our regional and international friends. Their interest in our predicament was reflected in diverse ways which exemplified the qualities of light, love and life.
The National Executive and members of the Dominica Association of Teachers pray for Christ’s light to shine upon all; Christ’s love to inflame all and Christ’s life to enthuse all.
A blessed Christmas and a New Year full of grace, favour and wisdom.
I thank you.