Christians reminded of salvation’s significance at Delta Assembly’s 9 lessons and Carols
At the annual Nine Lessons and Carols service of the Delta House of Assembly Chapel, Christian faithful were encouraged to refocus their hearts on the spiritual foundation of Christmas and not merely the festivity that accompanies the season.
Held in Asaba, the service drew legislators, government officials, clerics, and worshippers from across the state.
The guest preacher, Pastor Tony Kennedy, founder of the House of Royalty International Christian Centre, delivered a thought-provoking message that centered on the event’s theme, “Benefits of Salvation.”
Speaking passionately, Pastor Kennedy cautioned believers against allowing the glamour of the yuletide, its lights, gatherings and celebrations to overshadow the core reason for Christmas.
He stressed that the birth of Christ represents God’s ultimate gift to humanity.
“Christmas is not defined by decorations or banquets,” he told the congregation. “It is anchored on the salvation that only Jesus Christ offers.”
Drawing his message from Luke Chapter 7, the cleric highlighted several dimensions of salvation, including deliverance from divine judgment, victory over sin, divine health, supernatural provision, and enduring peace.
According to him, only Jesus can supply every need of the human soul.
The programme commenced with the reading of the first lesson by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Dennis Guwor, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo.
The second lesson was taken by the Leader of the House, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, setting a reflective tone for the worship that followed.
The atmosphere in the chapel was further lifted by stirring musical performances from the chapel Choir and a guest choir from the Nigeria Immigration Service, whose harmonies filled the hall with Christmas cheer and solemn reverence.
A symbolic cutting of the Christmas cake became one of the evening’s highlights, followed by a thanksgiving session that saw active participation from members of the 8th Delta State House of Assembly, officials of the Assembly Service Commission, and invited dignitaries.
Among those present were, former Clerk of the House, Mrs. Lyna Ocholor, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Pat Ajudua, Chairman of the Assembly Service Commission, Mr. Sunday Ebireri among others.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Otto Aghoghophia, Clerk of the House, expressed appreciation to the Speaker for his consistent leadership and support for the Assembly’s spiritual activities.
He also extended gratitude to the Chapel leadership headed by Rev. Joseph Ighodje, and to the Chairman of the organising committee, Bright Edoge, Deputy Clerk (Administration), for steering a well-coordinated event.
Aghoghophia prayed for continued divine blessings upon the State Legislature as it concludes the year’s activities.
