…host friends, associates, and others to a festival of 9 Lessons
It was an atmosphere of excitement and fun fare on Sunday, at the Benin private residence of Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, as the number two family celebrated this year’s edition of Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons.
The event featured enthralling hymn renditions and spectacular performances by the El-Excess Chorale, St. Paul’s Catholic Church (Benin City)Choir and Orchestra, had in attendance, friends, political associates, staff and other guests.
In his exhortation titled Kingdom Influence, with Bible reading taken from St. Luke Gospel, Chapter 1, Edo State Government House Chaplain and Parish Priest of St. Francis Catholic Church, Benin City, Rev Fr. Andrew Obinyan, said we should be grateful to God at all times.
According to Obinyan, “the festive season should be seen as a period of gratitude to God by every living soul”.
He stated that Christmas represented a time to reflect on the uncommon love, sacrifice, forgiveness and kingdom influence shown to us by God while urging the people to use the special occasion to ponder on the true essence of kingdom influence and exemplify the spirit behind it.
Rev Fr. Obinyan enjoined the gathering to share love with others and give a helping hand, especially to those in need, affirming that the “Christmas period symbolizes giving and sharing”.
“I pray that the season of Christmas will usher in blessings and understanding. May Almighty God bless all of you through Christ our Lord,” Father Obinyan added.
The Deputy Governor read the first lesson taken from Genesis Chapter 3: 8-15, 17, 19, while his wife, Maryann read the second lesson, also from the book of Genesis Chapter 22: 15-18.
Notable dignitaries at the celebration were some members of the Edo State House of Assembly, including Hon Donald Okogbe, member representing Akoko-Edo Constituency 2, Isoken Omo, Edo State Commissioner for Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development, Hon Anselm Ojezua, former Edo State APC Chairman, Chief Sunny Okomayin, Edo North PDP Senatorial leader and over 10 Reverend Fathers from across different Catholic parishes.