*2025 CHRISTMAS MESSAGE*
Fellow Christians, esteemed leaders and dear compatriots of Ondo state.
Grace, peace and joy be yours this blessed season!
It is Christmas season, the moment when eternity entered time, when the Creator of the universe was cradle‑bound in a manger. The proclamation that God, in infinite love, became a helpless child so that we might know the depth of His mercy.
The season that declares that God is not distant; He is intimately acquainted with our joys, our sorrows, and our very breath. A season of a divine love‑story written in flesh, a reminder that the greatest gift is not gold or silver, but the presence of the Living God among us.
For us Christians, Christmas is the cornerstone of our faith; it validates the promises of the prophets and seals the covenant of salvation. It calls us to emulate Christ’s humility, to lay down our pride, and to serve with a generous spirit.
It affirms the inherent dignity of every person—created in the image of the newborn King. It declares that life is sacred, that love transcends tribe and tongue, and that peace is possible when we recognize our shared inheritance as children of God.
Thus, it is a divine appointment with purpose. As such, preparation is essential—not as a ritual, but as a spiritual posture. We should prepare for it by cleansing our hearts through repentance, by renewing our minds in Scripture, and by aligning our desires with God’s will. We should cultivate a spirit of generosity, mend broken relationships, and share the story of the manger with those who have never heard it.
Let our homes become sanctuaries of hope, our churches be lanterns in the night, and our communities be testimonies that the Light of the world has indeed come.
As Christians, we are a vessel of grace, called to reflect the character of Christ in every sphere of life. In society we are called to be a prophet of truth, advocating for the vulnerable, upholding moral integrity, and shining the light of the Gospel in the public square.
At home we are a teacher of faith, and a steadfast companion, building a household on the foundation of prayer and love. Let us balance our strength with gentleness, wisdom with humility, and ambition with service, remembering that our ultimate citizenship is in the Kingdom of Heaven.
In this season, we must exhibit the fruit of the Spirit: love that gives without counting the cost, joy that overflows despite circumstance, and peace that steadies the heart amid chaos.
May the newborn King fill our hearts with joy, our families with peace, and our nation with revival. Amen.
Merry Christmas and happy new year.
*Rev. Fr. Anselm Olorunfemi OLOGUNWA.*
*Chairman: CAN Ondo state chapter*