Her daughter-in-law, Ms. Ruth Connor, welcomed everyone and said that we are grateful for being here today to celebrate this privilege. I am also thankful that government, in the name of Commissioner Marlin is here for this special occasion. She welcomed the Pastor to say a few words.
Seven Day Adventist Church Pastor Royston Philbert said a few words and a prayer. He complimented her, saying that the quality of life of Mrs. Connor remains better than others who are 80. It seems to me, he said, that she was doing something that made life profitable up until today. Grateful for years, Mrs. Connor remains alert and focused.
More than ever before, Mrs. Connor is fully conscious and God has brought her this far. In the Caribbean, Pastor Philbert said, after checking around, that Mrs. Connor is the only 102 year old with the Seventh Day Adventist Church Community.
Commissioner Marlin followed with a few words to the small gathering. "Good morning to one and all, especially to the Birthday lady—Mrs.Connor. Every time I get the opportunity to celebrate her birthday or to be part of the celebration in some way, I feel honored.
"When I see you, I am reminded that it is more than possible to live long years. You are setting a trend, the commissioner told Mrs. Connor.
"I want to say, on behalf of the Government, I would like to extend a blessed happy birthday to you. We wish you God's blessings and may He continue to bless you and your family with long life and happiness.
"We often pray for our parents and grandparents to be with us, and we hope they are able to enjoy the quality of life.
After Commissioner's Marlin short speech, he presented Mrs. Connor with a new wheel chair that folds.
"Now you are more mobile," Commissioner Marlin said, after demonstrating folding the wheel chair and carrying it by the handles. "Now you can take your wheels with you. I hope it will bring some joy and comfort. May God continue to bless you."
Mrs. Connor thanked her family members and others for the special morning, their kind gestures, and Commissioner Marlin for coming and spending time with her and the family and for donating the wheel chair.
After the short addresses, a short video were shown of an interview Mrs. Connor had with the Government Information Service, in which she talked about her life, growing up in St. Maarten, and her message to the youths of St. Maarten.
