By Kizito Nwachukwu
The New Seraph Church (TNS) has called for love among the people, especially during the yuletide.
Chairman of the Lagos State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Bishop Stephen Adegbite urged Nigerians to celebrate the Yuletide in moderation.
He spoke at the Christmas Carol held at 10 Degrees Event Centre in Oregun, Ikeja.
He said: “Don’t do anything in excess because Jesus is the reason and when you do, you will have multiple joys and blessings in the New Year. Nigeria will not disintegrate next year, there will be peace, there will be joy, there will be tranquillity after the election, the election will be free and fair, and the winner will be announced and we will give glory to the name of the Lord.”
Founder of The New Seraph, Dr Oluwaseye Yomi-Sholoye, who took nine scriptural lessons said Nigerians should take time to reflect on the essence of the season instead of focusing on mere merriment.
She said: “It’s yet another Christmas, a season known for sharing love with so many reflections, a unique and colourful period when we assemble to render songs in praises to the Lord Jesus Christ, who came to redeem the world by laying his life for our sins.
“It is essential we recognize that Christmas is not about the merriment, it is more than that. We must spare some time to reflect on the essence of the period, which is the love of God for mankind. His deep love for us is summed up in john 3:16 which says “for God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him, will not perish but have everlasting life.
“When we ponder over God’s love for us, we will be encouraged to share the same with others, living a Christ-like, for peace to reign in our society and the entire world. In our respective capacities, let’s reach out to those in our neighbourhood who struggle to provide for their families.
“His mercy and grace spared our lives till now, his goodness to us and his unconditional love for us knows no limit as stated in Romans 5:8 which reads” But God shows his love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us”(KJV). When we see God as king of kings, we are agreeing that He has absolute dominion; The title ought to stir up a sense of respect, worship and even wonder within us.
“Hence within these few moments we are to spend here, we have only one business, which is to praise the King of kings according to Psalm 150 which says, “Praise ye the Lord, Praise God in his sanctuary, praise him in the firmament of His power, On that note, let me welcome and congratulate you once again for being a witness to this remarkable gathering which indeed is awesome. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone in advance, Thank you,” she said.
Brand new Almera Car was gifted to Bro. Bukunmi Oyebisi, brand new TVS Tricycle gifted to Sis Bukola Olaleye alongside Best Programme Anchor of the Year
Several districts of TNS within and outside Lagos were also awarded in different categories such as best upcoming district, and best in membership drive, to mention but a few.
Also, coolers were presented to 10 women from the audience who showed interest in setting up businesses related to the usage of Coolers.
There was also the distribution of thousands of bags of rice amongst districts of TNS who were actively present at the end of the year service which marks the last event in the calendar year of the church.