The Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Ayodeji Fagbemi, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians across the world, Nigeria, Ondo State, and particularly to the clergy and laity of the Owo Anglican Communion, urging them to uphold the virtues of peace, love, humility, and righteous living as exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ.
In his Christmas message, Bishop Fagbemi described the season as a divine reminder of God’s immeasurable love for humanity, demonstrated through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, whose birth brought salvation, hope, and reconciliation to the world.
He called on Christians to look beyond the celebrations and festivities to embrace the true essence of Christmas, which he said lies in sacrificial love, compassion for one another, and unwavering faith in God, especially in the face of prevailing economic, social, and security challenges confronting Nigeria and the global community.
The Bishop also urged leaders at all levels of governance to prioritise justice, equity, and the welfare of the people, noting that peace and sustainable development can only thrive where love, integrity, and the fear of God prevail.
Bishop Fagbemi encouraged members of the clergy to remain steadfast in preaching the undiluted Word of God and to serve as role models of Christ-like living, while charging the laity to live as true ambassadors of Christ in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
He further called on Christians to use the Christmas season as an opportunity to reach out to the needy, promote unity, and pray fervently for Nigeria, Ondo State, and the Church, expressing confidence in God for divine intervention and a more prosperous future.
He prayed that the joy of Christmas and the hope of the New Year would usher in renewed strength, peace, and spiritual revival for all believers.
“May the light of Christ illuminate our paths, restore our nation, and strengthen our faith as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour,” the Bishop concluded.
