•Anglican Bishop Ifedola Gabriel
The Diocesan Bishop of Anglican Communion Lagos, Ifedola Gabriel has told Nigerians to extend compassion and kindness to those around them in celebration of Christmas.
In a press statement issued today, Gabriel described the season as a perfect opportunity to reach out to the less fortunate in order to share in the joys of community and strengthen the bonds of love.
According to the bishop, this sacred time serves as a reminder of the profound significance of the birth of the Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
He noted that the season is a gift of hope, peace, and love, noting that His coming into the world signifies not just the fulfillment of God’s promise but also the beginning of a New Era in the lives of Believers.
Dr. Ifedola pointed out that Nigerians are being confronted with a myriad of challenges – political instability, economic difficulties, saying it often overshadows the spirit of unity and joy.
The Diocesan Bishop called on Christians to embody the hope and resilience that Christ demonstrated in His life, adding that He came into a world filled with darkness to be light, which is a reminder that no situation is beyond him.
“As we reflect on the birth of Christ, let us also remember to extend compassion and kindness to those around us.
“This season is a perfect opportunity to reach out to the less fortunate, share in the joys of community, and strengthen the bonds of love that unite us as one body in Christ. Let us not only celebrate with our words but back them with tangible acts of kindness.
“This sacred time reminds us of the profound significance of the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
“A gift of hope, peace, and love, His coming into the world signifies not just the fulfillment of God’s promise but also the beginning of a New Era in our lives as Believers.
“In the context of our beloved Nigeria, we find ourselves amidst a myriad of challenges- political instability, economic difficulties, and social strife often overshadow the spirit of unity and joy we wish to experience.
“Yet, it is precisely in these trying times that the message of Christmas resonates even more powerfully.
“As Christians, we are called to embody the hope and resilience that Christ demonstrated in His life. He came into a world filled with darkness to be our light, a reminder that no situation is beyond the reach of God’s transformative presence.
“At this Christmas season, we gather in gratitude, appreciating God for His unwavering presence and guidance throughout the year.
“This year has been for us as our Year of Full Restoration, inspired by the powerful words of Prophet Joel in Joel 2:26-27 ‘You will have plenty to cast until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you’
“In reflecting on this theme, we recognise the various areas in which we have experienced restoration, even amidst the challenges that have confronted our nation, Nigeria, in the Year 2024,” he said.
The Bishop commended the resilience and support within communities despite economic difficulties faced by many.
