PROMINENT ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Peter Champagnie has made a special appeal for members of the society to inculcate good values in children.

He is of the view that if this were to be done, perhaps there would not be so much crime and violence in the country.

Champagnie, who was giving a motivational speech at 'The Great Children's Banquet' at Riverton Meadows Seventh-day Adventist Church, St Andrew, called on the children never to lose sight of their goals.

He implored them that their goals must include studying hard to get a good education and being hard-working and law-abiding citizens.

"You can be anything you want to be irrespective of where you live or where you are coming from," he told the large gathering of children.

Great leaders, outstanding athletes

Champagnie reminded them that their country had produced great leaders, outstanding athletes like Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and great musicians including Bob Marley who were all from humble beginnings.

"Children, you can be anything you want to be, but you must abide by the law, study hard and emulate good role models," Champagnie said.

The banquet was put on by the Children's Ministry Department of the church recently to fete the children for the festive season and for them to get a positive message going into the New Year.

The banquet was also aimed at teaching children social skills and character development, and to remind them of God's goodness towards them throughout the year.

Antia Mitchell, master of ceremonies, ensured the children were in a good mood as she made the various announcements.

Be good, work hard

Vice-principal of Pembroke Hall High School, Yvette Green, called on the children never to forget that wherever they are, they must be on their best behaviour at all times.

She, too, implored them to be good boys and girls and to work and study hard to achieve their goals.

Retired educators Ruby Wells, Dernel James and Olive Lindsay in speeches punctuated with humour, called on the children never to forget what they were taught at church and school.

They encouraged the children to avoid getting into trouble and always show love to another.

Pastor Errol Griffiths reminded them of God's love for them. He urged them to remain focused at all times.

barbara.gayle@gleanerjm.com