The city of Yola came alive with the joy and spirit of Christmas on Sunday as CAN under Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza organized the annual Christmas Carol Service at Ribadu’s Square. This year’s event was particularly special as it featured a moving homily by Archbishop Filibus the Head of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN).
The Christmas Carol Service at Ribadu’s Square has become a cherished tradition for the people of Yola, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. This year’s event was no exception, with the square adorned with twinkling lights, colorful decorations, and a sense of warmth and festivity in the air.
The service began with a delightful performance by the choir, filling the square with the melodious sounds of traditional Christmas carols. The audience swayed and sang along, reveling in the joyous atmosphere. Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza welcomed the congregation, expressing his gratitude for their presence and emphasizing the importance of reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas.
The highlight of the evening was Archbishop Filibus’ heartfelt homily, drawn from the Prophet Isaiah 9:6, in which he urged the congregation to embrace the spirit of love, forgiveness, and compassion embodied by Jesus Christ. Drawing from the biblical prophecy of the Nativity of Jesus Christ, Archbishop Filibus spoke of the humble beginnings of Jesus and the profound message of hope and salvation that his birth represents.
As Archbishop Filibus spoke, his words resonated deeply with the audience, prompting moments of reflection and introspection. His invocation of the virtues of empathy and goodwill served as a poignant reminder of the essence of Christmas and the universal values it espouses.
Following the homily, the service continued with more soul-stirring musical performances, readings from the Scriptures, and prayers for peace and unity in the world. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of spiritual fulfillment and a shared sense of community, transcending differences and uniting all present in the spirit of Christmas.
The 2023 Christmas Carol Service organized CAN under the leadership of Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza at Ribadu’s Square Yola served as a powerful testament to the enduring significance of Christmas and the unifying power of faith. It was a night of celebration, introspection, and spiritual rejuvenation, leaving an indelible mark on all those in attendance. Special Guests included the following: Her Excellency, Prof. Kaletapwa George Farauta, the Deputy Governor, Former SGF Bar. Boss Mustapha, Members of the State and National Assemblies, Commissioners, Traditional Rulers, Clergy, Choir Groups and a host of the Christian population in the State. The Deputy Governor switched on the Christmas Lights and gave a Goodwill message on behalf of the Executive Governor of Adamawa State Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
As the event drew to a close, the congregation was led in prayer for the nation by Dean Rev. Babangida of the LCCN while the closing prayer was said by Very Rev. Kwairanga of the Catholic Diocese of Yola. The congregation departed with a renewed sense of hope and purpose, carrying with them the timeless message of Christmas – the promise of peace, joy, and salvation for all as they joyfully sang the Great Alleluia by Handel. The evening’s festivities were a poignant reminder of the universal values that bind humanity together, and a testament to the enduring power of love and compassion.
