A cultural ensemble tagged “Caroliganza”, a panoply of culture, fashion, steeze and gastronomic delights kick-started VLBC 2025 Christmas Carol with the theme “The Manger and His Majesty”.
Gaily dressed children enjoyed the 360 degrees photo session, bouncing castle, paintings and delightsome music dished out by DJ O Mighty who dazzled on the wheel of steel.
All the Districts paraded by strutting their stuffs to the appreciation of attendees. James Edafe emceed the session cracking ribs with wise cracks and germane jokes.Children lapped up the fun playing table tennis and sundry other games which lasted for over four hours.
To round off the first session, Santa Claus gave children mouth watering gifts to make the season very merry for them. Ecstatic children were full of gratitude to VLBC.
Professor Folu Eniolorunda took the first lesson from Luke 2 verses 5 – 8. Thereafter, choristers from the Rock Foundation Church serenaded attendees.
The second lesson, Luke 2 vs 10 to 14, was read by the General Manager of Paramount FM, Abeokuta, Mrs Oluremi Olugbenro.Next the VLBC children entertained with cultural performance of the nativity play.
Reverend Adeoye Adeyanju, the Assistant General Overseer-prayed for all sectors of Nigeria and declared peace to every corner. He also prayed for Ogun State declaring peace over every nook and cranny of the state. He prayed for our leaders adding that the God of peace will direct them. The Church declared prosperity and progress for the state.
Mr. Wole Elusakin took the third lesson from Matthew Chapter 2 verses 1 to 6.The Jubilee Voices ministered in songs and this was followed by general dance to stretch the legs. A drama sketch followed on the essence of Christmas urging Christians to propagate the gospel of Christ, who is the reason for the season, through evangelism.
The congregation gave gifts to the Lord as depicted in the drama sketch.The VLBC clothed in white and grey entertained with a medley of rap and Yoruba chorus with “rap param param”.
The homily was given by Apostle Lawrence Achudume titled “The Manger and His Majesty”.He said a manger is a feeding place for sheep and shepherds who in those days were not reliable and generally despised.
They were the ones that broke the news of the birth of Jesus.Story of Jesus is indicative that where a child is born does not determine the destiny of Jesus.From the humble beginnings, God gave Jesus a name above all names.
Apostle Achudume said his childhood was about masquerades. He said anybody can rise from humble beginnings adding Jesus displayed authority when he said they should bring the donkey.
Apostle Achudume quoted Phillipians 2 verses 1 to 8 to underscore the need to share and care adding “do not let your neighbour sleep hungry”.He said Jesus’ mind of service and humility earned him majesty.
He charged people to use all opportunities to serve people!He prayed that “if I light your candle, it does not diminish me”.
The Olowu of Owu gave the Royal Greetings and thanked Apostle Achudume for the honour of inviting him.
He said the chorus he met when he entered evoked fond memories of his boyhood.He described the birth and life of Jesus Christ as filled with miracles.He urged all to spread love, equity and fairness asking “Are you a leader or boss?”.
The Hallelujah Chorus was rendered by the all male Choir of Cathedral Church of Christ, Ake.Professor Sola Arulogun, VC of Chrisland University read the fifth lesson from Micah 5 verses 1 to 5.Priceless gave a beautiful musical rendition as interlude. The carol service was well compered by a highly resourceful lady who calls herself “MGI”The sixth lesson was read from John Chapter 1 verses 1 to 15 by the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya.The VLBC choir gave their last performance for the night in Yoruba. Attendees could not resist the melodious songs and literally danced the evening away.The Chairman, Elder Akin Okudero gave the vote of thanks.The VLBC Choir then sang the evergreen hymn “Silent Night” to wrap up the Carol and attendees put on the lights of their phones which sparkled as stars in the dimmed light of the auditorium. It was indeed a beautiful spectacle to behold!Apostle Achudume gave the grace and valediction and the guests departed till December, 2026 by the grace of God!
Glory to God in the highest!Halleluyah!!!
The Olowu of Owu, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola led other eminent personalities like the Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Professor Oyedunni Arulogun.
