The Head of State, His Highness Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvii II has offered a message of hope, peace and comfort in his Christmas message to the people of Samoa.

The speech was delivered at the official residence of Tuimalealiifano at Vailele on Tuesday.

“Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people for unto to you this day is born in the city of David a savior who is Christ the Lord,” he said.

The Head of State said Samoa being a nation founded on God welcomes Christmas with joy.

“[It is] a day of remembrance and celebration for the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ just over 2,000 years ago.

“We acknowledge with gratitude the immeasurable love of God for mankind in giving his only begotten son so that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.

“In this demonstration of his love for us we see God’s desire that we love one another just as he has loved us and that is indeed the true spirit of Christmas.”

He added that the birth of Jesus was proclaimed by a message of peace from the angels for all human hearts to receive Jesus the Prince of Peace who was born on Christmas day.

“When we reflect on the last 12 months of our journey as a nation, we have assured that the grace and guidance of God has given us strength, success, and blessings in our personal, communal and national pursuits for the development and betterment of Samoa.

“But like many journeys in life it also faces troubles and difficulties. This year, however, during the storms we have encountered Jesus calmed the wind and gave us hope because nothing can separate us from his love.

“And as we mourn the loss of loved ones with other difficulties, the grace of God turned the adversity to bring to light the propensity for good that is present among the human family around the world.”

 Tuimalealiifano expressed his deepest sympathy and condolences to people who are grieving and suffering.

“I pray that the spirit of God gives you peace and comfort in Jesus Christ whose birth we celebrate today.

“I thank the Government, the church leaders, our development partners, the business community and Samoa as a whole for your invaluable service, contributions, support, and commitment to the betterment of Samoa and our people.

“I thank you also for your prayers. Unto us a child is born, to us a child is given and the Government should be on its shoulders and he would be called wonderful counselor mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of peace.”

He also wished Samoa a merry Christmas and a happy New Year, “God bless.”

The Samoa Police Service band led by Eme Tuala Eteru also performed Christmas songs at the official residence of the Head of State.