By: L.N. Reklai
December 11, 2017 (Koror, Palau) As traditions go, Palau’s new traditional addition is the marking of the Christmas season with the first school caroling and Christmas tree lighting at the Ernguul Park, formerly known as Bethlehem Park in Koror.
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Last night marked that beginning with Emmaus Kindergarten students opening with Christmas songs and bible verses about that first Christmas in Bethlehem. Christmas tree was lighted by Vice President/Minister of Justice Raynold Oilouch. The Ministry of Justice sponsored Santa this first night.
The tradition started during President Kuniwo’s term, where every government Ministry, agency and semi-autonomous agency sponsor a Santa Clause giving gifts out to children each night. This will run every night until before Christmas eve.
School children from different schools are encouraged to present Christmas songs and programs each night as each Ministry or Agency Santa come bringing gifts for every child.
This year some changes were implemented where half of the week will be here at Koror Ernguul Park the other half, Thursday and Friday will be held at national Capital at Ngerulmud. President Remengesau Jr. and First Lady Debbie Remengesau will light the Christmas tree at the Capital and President’s Office will sponsor Santa. [/restrict]