MONROVIA —Hundreds of children were treated to a joyful Christmas celebration on Wednesday as Alexander Benedict Cummings and his Alternative National Congress (ANC) hosted a special Christmas party dedicated to children and families in the community.
The event, held on Christmas Day, featured food, gifts, music, and games, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the spirit of giving and togetherness associated with the season. According to organizers, the celebration was organized to bring happiness to children—particularly those from underserved communities—during one of the most important days on the Christian calendar.
Speaking at the gathering, ANC Chairman Horatio Gould explained that the initiative was inspired by a desire to focus on children and ensure they experienced joy during the holiday.
“We need people we can get involved and we provide for the children,” Gould said. “Mr. Cummings and his wife said, ‘Yes, let’s take time and do something for the children, particularly in this area.’”
He noted that the initiative is not intended to be limited to one community, adding that future celebrations would be extended to other areas so that more children can benefit.
A Day of Laughter and Inclusion
Throughout the program, children participated in lighthearted activities, including games that invited them to identify Mr. Cummings and his wife from the crowd, sparking laughter and excitement among attendees. Organizers guided the children with care, ensuring access to facilities and encouraging them to enjoy the celebration freely.
“We are very happy to be here,” Gould told the children. “Let’s have fun and enjoy ourselves.”
Messages of Guidance and Care
Mrs. Theresa Cummings, wife of Mr. Cummings, delivered a brief but heartfelt message to the children, reminding them of the importance of good behavior, respect, and obedience to parents and guardians—not only during Christmas, but throughout the year.
“You must be good all year round, not just on Christmas,” she said. “You must listen to your adults, because they know what’s best.”
Her remarks were met with enthusiastic responses from the children, many of whom eagerly raised their hands when asked if they had been well-behaved during the year.
Investing in Liberia’s Future
In his remarks, Alexander Benedict Cummings emphasized that the celebration was rooted in a broader commitment to children as the foundation of Liberia’s future. Quoting former President William R. Tolbert, he reminded the gathering that “young people are precious jewels” and represent the nation’s hope.
“We care for you. We love you,” Cummings told the children. “We want to create an environment where you can go to school, where you can learn, where you can have a meal every day, and where you can represent the future of our country.”
He thanked members of the organizing committee, for coordinating the event, as well as volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure its success.
Celebrating the True Meaning of Christmas
Beyond the gifts and entertainment, speakers said the event was intended to remind families of the deeper meaning of Christmas—the celebration of love, generosity, and the birth of Jesus Christ.
As music played and children danced, the gathering stood as a moment of shared joy and community solidarity, offering a reminder that humanitarian gestures—especially those centered on children—can bring hope and light during the holiday season.
Organizers said similar initiatives would continue as part of ongoing efforts to support children and families across different communities in the future.
