Thousands of worshippers are expected to attend this year’s Rhema Christian Church and Towers glorious Great Carol Service by Candlelight holding on 21 December at the church headquarters in Sango Ota, Ogun State.
Announcing the details of its much-anticipated programme which starts at 5 p.m. at the Champion Peace Cathedral in Otta, the church described the annual event as one of the most uplifting Christmas gatherings in the region, attracting worshippers from far and near.
According to the organisers, this year’s service promises a deeply moving expression of the Christmas message, complete with soul-stirring carols, timeless hymns, and musical renditions that illuminate the nativity story.
The church said the event has earned a reputation as “the best Christmas event of the year” among many who attend annually.
The 2025 theme, “Emmanuel — God With Us”, drawn from Matthew 1:23, anchors the entire celebration.
Church leaders said the theme is intended to remind worshippers of the miracle of God’s tangible presence through the birth of Jesus Christ and to strengthen faith in a season often marked by reflection and hope.
Presiding Bishop, Archbishop Dr. Taiwo Akinola, explained the spiritual weight of the theme, noting that the birth of Christ offers reassurance in challenging times.
“The birth of Jesus Christ assures us that we are never alone. God’s presence is our strength, our comfort, and our victory,” he said.
The Archbishop added that the evening would not only be centred on worship but will also carry a prophetic dimension.
He emphasised that the church expects a time of spiritual renewal and supernatural empowerment. “As we celebrate Christ, we will invoke divine light to break every form of obscurity and usher God’s people into a brighter, more impactful year ahead,” he stated.
In preparation for the event, the church’s Praise and Prayer Department has been coordinating music rehearsals and worship segments expected to feature prominently during the service. The department’s head, Pastor Tofunmi Opaleye, described the carol service as “a cherished highlight of the season.”
Pastor Opaleye said the service has grown into a beloved annual tradition marked by warmth, unity, and heartfelt worship.
“Over the years, the Carol Service by Candlelight has become a time when families reconnect, friends reunite, and our community gathers to honour the birth of Christ,” he said.
He further encouraged residents of Otta and neighbouring communities to attend the celebration, emphasising that the event is open to everyone—regardless of age, background, or denomination.
“We are inviting families, friends, and worshippers from across the region to join us for this special night of worship,” he urged.
In addition to the musical performances and readings, the church revealed that special gifts will be distributed to children below the age of fifteen. Organisers say this is part of their tradition of spreading joy and creating memorable experiences for young attendees.
The candlelight procession, a key highlight of the service, is expected to once again fill the cathedral with a soft, glowing ambience.
Church officials say the symbolic lighting of candles reflects the message of Christ as the Light of the World and remains one of the most anticipated moments of the evening.
Local residents who have attended previous editions say the atmosphere is usually electric yet deeply reverent. Many describe the carol service as a blend of worship, community bonding, and festive celebration that sets the tone for Christmas.
