Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL) – As the world ushers in 2025, two prominent religious leaders in The Gambia—Catholic Bishop Gabriel Mendy and Methodist Bishop Bannie Ebenezer F. Manga—have delivered heartfelt New Year messages urging the faithful to embrace hope, gratitude, and collective responsibility in the year ahead.

Bishop Gabriel Mendy: A Jubilee Year of Blessings and Generosity

In his New Year message, the Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Banjul, Most Reverend Dr. Gabriel Mendy, reflected on the unique opportunity a new year provides for individuals to experience God’s goodness and blessings. He emphasized that God’s blessings are both a word and a gift, urging believers to renew their faith, hope, and trust in God’s benevolence, particularly during the Jubilee year.

“A Jubilee year is always a year of God’s favor, forgiveness, freedom, and redemption,” Bishop Mendy stated, encouraging people to approach the year with positivity and confidence. He reminded believers not to take the New Year for granted but to reflect on the blessings and favors God has in store.

The Bishop called on Gambians to express gratitude by sharing spiritual and material gifts with those in need. Quoting Deuteronomy 8:1-6, he assured that God’s blessings will enrich lives when faith and obedience are upheld: “Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.”

Bishop Mendy concluded by praying for the souls of the departed and extending heartfelt wishes for a peaceful, prosperous, and healthy 2025.

Bishop Bani Ebenezer F. Manga: A Nation’s Resilience and Shared Heritage

Meanwhile, the Most Reverend Bannie Ebenezer F. Manga, presiding bishop of the Methodist Church of The Gambia, highlighted the nation’s resilience as it prepares to celebrate 60 years of independence in 2025. He congratulated the Gambian people for their determination and acknowledged the sacrifices of both leaders and ordinary citizens in building the nation.

Reflecting on the nation’s milestone anniversary, Bishop Manga emphasized the importance of preserving The Gambia’s shared heritage and fostering a sense of collective responsibility. “Properties and possessions may often be disputed, but our common heritage, including our final resting place, is undisputed,” he noted, urging leaders and citizens alike to approach national development with humility and care.

He also called for renewed efforts to care for the environment, underscoring the spiritual and communal responsibility to make the country worthy of its people. “Let’s take ownership of our beloved country and participate fully in the processes of continually making it better for all,” he said.

The Methodist Bishop concluded his message by praying for a fruitful and blessed 2025, reminding the faithful that “to whom much is given, much is required for the common good of all.”

A Call for Unity and Reflection

Both leaders echoed a shared vision for the New Year: one of gratitude for past blessings, hope for the future, and a commitment to generosity and unity. Their messages resonate deeply as The Gambia celebrates its rich heritage while looking forward to a promising and blessed year.