...OBJ, CAN president, Osoba, Oyedepo, others in attendance
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, has called on the people of the state to celebrate Christmas with moderation and extend hands of fellowship to the less privileged and vulnerable in society.
Prince Abiodun made the call in his Christmas message at the Ogun State Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons, held at the Arcade Ground, the State Secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
He said Christmas is a time that transcends barriers and unites people across different divides, emphasizing that it is a period that focuses on the timeless values of love, compassion, kindness, and faith.
He further: "It is a season that inspires us to look beyond ourselves and embrace the bond of family and friendship. Let us extend our hands to the needy, for such acts reflect Christ’s life to the world."
The Gateway State Governor called on the people to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, which entails giving and sharing, adding that without Christ, there is no Christmas.
"It is a time to give back to our community and support the needy," he added.
He said his administration remains steadfast in its commitment to uplifting the vulnerable by fostering inclusiveness, which is necessary to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
"We will continue to focus on promoting programs that spread love, compassion, and empowerment across Ogun State. Our administration has worked tirelessly to enhance public service, improve infrastructure, and drive sustainable development," he said.
The governor, however, noted that his administration's greatest success is not the legacy imprinted on the hearts of the people, but the strength of the community, the resilience of the people, and the compassion shown to one another.
While praying for the spirit of Christmas to continue to strengthen the people's bond, inspire progress, and bring peace and prosperity to every family, the state helmsman urged people to carry forth the lessons of Christmas, which are kindness, unity, and hope for a brighter future as they look forward to the new year.
In his sermon titled "Building Our Future Together," the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Most Reverend Nicolas Okoh, said Christmas represents an opportunity to reconcile man to God through Jesus Christ, who is the Prince of Peace.
Taking his text from John 2:7, the CAN president said it was imperative for believers to be champions of reconciliation and not merchants of bitterness, as the birth of Jesus drew man closer to God.
"Christmas should not be celebrated only with friends, but with all men. As believers, we should bear the burden of peace and cross the mountain of hatred. It is not a time to abuse others but a time to make peace because it is only peace that brings development.
"As we celebrate, let us focus on things that bind us together. Let us remember the poor and the needy because there are people who have not experienced the joy of Christmas in their lifetime. Let us visit the homeless to make them know that they are part of society," he said.
He described Ogun State as a home of peace where people from other parts of the country live in unity and lauded Governor Abiodun for running an inclusive government, which he noted has united all segments of the people in the state.
The Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, while praying for the state and nation, said though peace is a scarce commodity that cannot be bought, the birth of Jesus has brought peace to the world.
The clergyman reminded Nigerians that the essence of Christmas is not only to make merriment but to show love to one another through peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that when there is peace, all problems come to an end.
Highlights of the carol service included Bible readings by the wife of the governor, the Deputy Governor, the Speaker, the Chief Judge of the State, the Secretary to the State Government, among others, and renditions by various choirs and guest artists.
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