As the festive season draws near, Christians across the globe have been urged to hold fast to the true essence of Christmas, the gift of salvation.
The reminder came during the Nine Lessons and Carols service organized by the Delta State House of Assembly Chapel in Asaba, where the guest speaker, Pastor Tony Kennedy, founder of the House of Royalty International Christian Centre, Asaba, delivered a powerful message on the theme “Benefits of Salvation”.
Pastor Kennedy warned believers not to let the season’s excitement drown out the spiritual significance of Christ’s birth.
He said “Christmas is more than lights and feasts. It is the celebration of the salvation package that only Jesus can provide”.
Drawing from Luke 7, the Clergy outlined blessings of salvation to include escape from God’s wrath, dominion over sin, divine health, supernatural provision, and lasting peace, adding that “Only Jesus can truly meet every human needs.
The service opened with the first Bible lesson read by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, represented by Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, while the second lesson was delivered by the Leader of the House, Hon Emeka Nwaobi.
Soul‑lifting renditions from the host choir and a guest choir from the Nigeria Immigration Service filled the chapel, creating an electrifying atmosphere of worship.
A highlight of the evening was the cutting of the Christmas cake, followed by a special thanksgiving ceremony attended by members of the 8th Delta State House of Assembly, the Chairman and members of the Delta State House of Assembly Service Commission, and other dignitaries.
Among the attendees were the Clerk of the House, Mr Oto Aghoghopia, former Clerk of the House, Mrs. Lyna Ocholor; Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Pat Ajudua; several clerics; and staff of the State Legislature.
Chairman of the organizing committee and Deputy Clerk (Administration), Bright Edoge, expressed profound gratitude to the Speaker and others who helped to making the religious event a huge success and look forward for more of God’s blessings in the State Legislature.
The gathering reinforced the message that Christmas, at its core, is a celebration of God’s redemptive love and the hope it brings to all who believe.