•Colonel Ayanam
The Territorial Commander (national leader) of The Salvation Army in Nigeria, Colonel Friday Ayanam, has admonished Salvationists, and Nigerians at large, to come together in love, unity and hope for better days ahead, at this very significant period of the year, and beyond.
Ayanam said this in a statement made available to The Frontier, issued this morning to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ to the world.
According to the national leader of the largest denomination known internationally for its humanitarian services, Christmas is “a season filled with joy, hope, and the reminder that God is with us, now and always”.
Continuing he said, “In the midst of all the highs and lows of 2024, let us remember that the birth of Christ brings hope to every situation.”
“As Salvationists, let us carry the Christmas spirit beyond just the season of Advent. I encourage all officers and comrades to continue in the practice of caroling, sharing with neighbours, and fellowshipping in one accord. Let us be thankful for what we have and remain compassionate, even amid challenges. This is the true essence of Christmas – to give of ourselves, as Christ gave to us.
“Let us also remember that our actions, even in our celebrations, should reflect the life and love of Christ,” he said.
Read the full statement below:
A Christmas Message From the Territorial Commander, Colonel Friday Ayanam
Dear Officers, Comrades, and Friends of the Army,
As we come to the close of 2024, what an incredible year it has been for us all. Through God’s grace, we have witnessed both challenges and triumphs, and now, we find ourselves entering the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas. It is a season filled with joy, hope, and the reminder that God is with us, now and always.
In this season, I am reminded of the story of the shepherds in Luke 2:10-11: _“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’”_
The birth of Christ was heralded as good news of great joy for all people. It was the fulfilment of a promise that God would send His Son to restore what was broken in the world. Just as the shepherds were filled with awe and wonder, so too should we marvel at the miracle of Christ’s birth, knowing that His coming into our world brings healing, peace, and restoration to the brokenness of our lives.
In the midst of all the highs and lows of 2024, let us remember that the birth of Christ brings hope to every situation. _“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned”_ (Isaiah 9:2). Christ’s birth is the light that dispels the darkness, and He comes to restore the dying parts of our lives – our hopes, our faith, and our spirits – bringing us renewal and peace.
As Salvationists, let us carry the Christmas spirit beyond just the season of Advent. I encourage all officers and comrades to continue in the practice of caroling, sharing with neighbors, and fellowshipping in one accord. Let us be thankful for what we have and remain compassionate, even amid challenges. This is the true essence of Christmas – to give of ourselves, as Christ gave to us.
Let us also remember that our actions, even in our celebrations, should reflect the life and love of Christ. As we enjoy the festivities, let us be mindful that we represent Christ and the Salvation Army to the world. May our joy be contagious, our service selfless, and our hearts full of gratitude.
My dear wife, Colonel Glory Ayanam, the Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, joins me in wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025.
May the light of Christ shine brightly in your lives this season and beyond.
With my warmest regards and blessings,
Colonel Friday Ayanam
Territorial Commander
