Melodious tunes that uplift the spirit rented the air as choristers from different churches in Awka Anglican Diocese converged on Cathedral Church of Saint Faith Awka for the 2023 Annual Diocesan Christmas Carols and Festival of Nine Lessons.
The Cathedral wore a new look of the season in light of the celebration as it was decorated with the colour of the liturgical calendar for advent.
the festival was attended by many Christian faithful and lovers of carols who were dressed in the colours of the season, red, green and white.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo represented by his Deputy, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim was also in attendance and read the seventh lesson.
Other top government officials, church leaders and students from some selected mission schools in Awka Diocese were also in attendance.
In his charge, the Archbishop, Province of the Niger, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim said Christ is the reason for the season, therefore all should celebrate in a way that depicts what Christ stands for.
Most Reverend Ibezim who is also the Bishop, Diocese of Awka and Dean of the Cathedral called for peace, unity and love, adding that it is important to celebrate the season by sharing with one another more especially the poor.
Archbishop Ibezim reminded Christians that beyond celebrating Christmas every year that they should also remember the second coming of Jesus Christ.
Addressing the church, Governor Soludo said that the Christmas season is a period of physical and spiritual stock taking and a moment to thank God for his mercies and grace.
While calling on the church to continue to pray for him and the members of his team, the Governor assured that his administration has provided the desired security of life and property for Ndi Anambra, beckoning on them to come home to enjoy the season with their loved ones and explore the potential that the state offers for investments.
Earlier in his sermon, the Archdeacon of the Cathedral, Venerable Samuel Okonkwo described carols as a Christian worship traditionally celebrated to tell the stories of the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that though Christ was born in a manger, he brought salvation and forgiveness of sins to those who believe in His message of reconciliation.
For the Secretary of Awka Diocesan Music, Venerable Chris Nkem-Okafor such event reminds Christians of the second coming of Jesus Christ, challenging everyone to acknowledge the personality of Jesus Christ, who came to redeem them and reconcile them with God.
The President, Women’s Ministry, Province of the Niger and Diocese of Awka, Mrs Martha Ibezim was among the people that attended the festival.
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