22nd December, 2012
The Wife of Nigeria’s President, Dame Patience Jonathan, has urged for peace, unity and love during the Christmas season.
Mrs. Jonathan said this in Abuja on Saturday at the first-ever lighting of the Nigerian National Christmas Tree, tagged “Let there be light” .
“We are witnessing the making of history. Its significance will best be appreciated when we take into account the fact that Christmas is a season of peace, love and hope.
“I urge you all to rededicate yourselves to the pursuit of unity, love, peace and our common goal,’’ she said.
The Minister of State for FCT, Mrs Olajumoke Akinjide, in her welcome address said the lighting of the tree had come to be recognised across the globe.
“It is an opportunity to express and share the message of Christmas, which is love, peace and goodwill to all men.
Akinjide said it originated from Europe, spread to North and South America and was the first of its kind in Nigeria.
Delivering the homily, His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, said Christmas meant a lot of things to many people, to some, celebrations and to others, sharing of cards and gifts.
“The focal point of this season should be the message of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the message of hope, love, humility and peace.
“This is the season to banish all fear and put all your trust in God. Jesus has come to dispel the darkness of this evil World,” he added.
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He read from the book of Luke 2:8-14, while the carol songs were rendered by Frank Tenor, a musician.