As families nationwide welcome the New Year with hopeful resolutions, Reverend Ronald Ram of the Grace Samaritan Church emphasizes the urgent need to care for the elderly and strengthen family ties. He believes that the beginning of a new year presents a prime opportunity for individuals to reflect on their responsibilities toward family, especially vulnerable members of society.
Reverend Ram highlighted the growing isolation faced by many elderly individuals, widows, and other vulnerable groups, despite being surrounded by family and community. He encourages a focused effort this year to enhance relationships within families, asserting, “The new year must begin at home with stronger relationships between parents, children, and grandparents.”
By prioritizing the wellbeing of the elderly, families not only become more resilient but also contribute to the creation of safer, more unified communities. Ram advocates that “faith, family, and compassion should guide New Year resolutions,” urging families to reconnect, spend quality time together, and ensure no one feels neglected.
The Grace Samaritan Church, which has been a cornerstone in the Korociriciri settlement for 12 years, serves over 400 families, growing from just 10 members initially through dedicated outreach efforts meant to assist those facing various social and personal challenges.
Looking forward to 2026, Reverend Ram has ambitious plans to extend the church’s outreach beyond Korociriciri by targeting five additional communities. His focus will be on assisting widows, single mothers, and those struggling with addiction or social isolation, aiming to support at least 50 more vulnerable individuals. He wishes to inspire families to take an active role in caring for these members of the community.
Reverend Ram’s vision underscores that “strong families create strong communities, and strong communities build a strong nation.” His commitment to reinforcing family bonds and providing support to the elderly reflects the essential role that unity and compassion play in achieving collective progress. As the New Year unfolds, it offers a hopeful reminder of the power of community and the potential for positive change.