By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has urged Christians to ensure that their Christmas celebration must embody the virtues and principles of Christ for He is the reason for this season.

The Governor gave this charge at the 2024 State’s Service of Carols and Nine Lessons, held at the Dome on Thursday.

Addressing the joyous gathering, Governor Aiyedatiwa also urged Christians that the celebration of Christmas and the coming New Year must reflect the realities of the moment.

“I implore you all to be modest in your engagements and expenditures to avoid financial embarrassment during and after the Yuletide season. Christmas is not just a day, it is a frame of mind. A good conscience is a continual Christmas.

“This season is a testament to divine goodwill towards mankind, unfolding the great plan of redemption, worship and praise to the Almighty God for his benevolence to all His creatures. It is a season that reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas: love, kindness, compassion and generosity. It is a time for reflection, a time to count our blessings, and a time to recommit ourselves to the values that bring us together as a people.

“As we reflect on the outgoing year, we have every reason to appreciate God for his numerous blessings and protection over our State. We serve a living God that truly loves us, the Almighty who overlooks our imperfections to rescue us from the vicissitudes of life.

According to the Governor, Christmas is a time for celebration with family, friends and sharing in one another’s joy and charity. A time to help, to reconnect with people, share joy and give to those in need, and indeed a time to pull down walls of segregation and build bridges.

He acknowledged the efforts of religious leaders in promoting and maintaining group solidarity, social control, moral order and social organisation in ensuring peaceful coexistence among the people and all residents, irrespective of the cultural and religious backgrounds.

“We have tremendously leveraged this template of cohesion as a government and people to advance the development of our dear Sunshine State and to also contribute meaningfully to nation-building”, he concluded.

Earlier in his sermon, the State Chairman, Prayer Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Bishop Joshua Opayinka noted that Christmas is not just to celebrate the birth of Jesus but the joy we pass onto others.

“No matter what you face in life, just know that joy awaits you. A saviour has been born to us, if you accept him, He will save from calamity and decorate your life”.

“We are celebrating today because is the birth of Jesus is beneficial to us all, do not let this moment to pass away. Jesus came for the purpose of saving us all, ensure that you live your life in a way that will please Him”.

The highlight of the event included Nine lessons, carol songs by different choir groups, prayer for the State and Nigeria.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, represented by Hon. Chris Aiyedatiwa, member representing Okitipupa constituency 1, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, Heads of security agencies, among other eminent personalities.