On the 1st of December 2024, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Sokoto Chapter, hosted its much-anticipated annual Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons. The event occurred at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Old Airport, Sokoto State. It was a resounding success, bringing together Christians from all walks of life to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with the theme “Hosanna in the Highest.”

A Night of Worship and Reflection

As attendees streamed into the venue, the atmosphere was filled with reverence and jubilation. The theme, “Hosanna in the Highest,” set the tone for the evening, focusing hearts and minds on Jesus Christ's triumphant entry and the hope and salvation He brings to the world. The Church was beautifully adorned with Christmas lights, and banners reflecting the theme, creating a perfect backdrop for the festive occasion.

Highlights of the Event

1. Opening Prayers and Welcome Address
   The event began with a solemn opening prayer led by a senior clergy member, inviting the presence of God into the gathering. This was followed by a warm welcome address by the CAN Sokoto Chapter Chairman in the person of Rev. Moses Kayode James, who expressed gratitude to all attendees and emphasized the importance of unity and love during the Christmas season.
2. Nine Lessons and Carols
   The heart of the program was the reading of the Nine Lessons, interspersed with melodious carols rendered by various blocs choirs. Each lesson was a scripture passage chronicling the story of salvation from Genesis to the birth of Christ in the Gospels. The readings were delivered by representatives from different blocs, symbolizing the unity in diversity within the Christian community.
3. Choir Performances
   Choirs from across the five blocs of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Sokoto State dazzled the audience with their harmonious renditions of traditional carols like “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” alongside contemporary Christmas songs.
4. Closing Remarks and Benediction
   The event concluded with closing remarks from the organizing committee and a benediction, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of hope and joy for the Christmas season.

A Message of Hope and Unity

The Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons was not just a celebration but a powerful reminder of the essence of Christmas: the love, peace, and hope brought to mankind through Jesus Christ. The event also highlighted the importance of unity among Christians, with denominations coming together in one accord to worship and celebrate.

As people left with smiles on their faces and hearts full of joy, it was clear that the evening had been a spiritual boost and a lovely start to the Christmas season. The Christian community in Sokoto State is still inspired and encouraged by C.A.N Sokoto Chapter's efforts to bring people together and strengthen their faith through events like these.

Let us honor the message of love and hope that Christ's birth brings by living out the spirit of "Hosanna in the Highest" during and after the Christmas season.