Oyewumi Adebisi
The Choir of Christ Apostolic Church, Mercy of God Zone, Ijede, Ikorodu, has celebrated its 32nd anniversary and Thanksgiving service with musical performances, prayers and messages centred on the theme, “Life in Christ”.
The celebration, which brought together church members, community leaders, political office holders, artistes and other well-wishers, provided an opportunity for the choir to reflect on its journey and give thanks for God’s faithfulness over the years.
The anniversary featured various musical ministrations, including songs composed and performed by the choir, as well as performances by guest artistes who joined the congregation in celebrating the milestone.
Among the guest artistes who graced the occasion were Mr Gbera, Ayo Moboluwaji, Daniel G Praise and Taiwo Ojodu, while Tokunbo Malvins served as the Master of Ceremonies.
Speaking on the significance of the anniversary and its theme, the Choir Master, Honourable (Dr.) Aro Moshood Abiodu (AMA), said his personal experience had convinced him of the impact of living a life centred on Christ.
AMA, who is also a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Ikorodu Constituency II, said the theme, “Life in Christ,” reflected his testimony and the reason for the choir’s thanksgiving.
“Well, the theme for this year’s anniversary is Life in Christ, and I can confidently say that what I have become is Christ and that is why the theme for this year is Life in Christ. My life has been a testimony, even to my humble self”, he said.
He said the activities of the anniversary were designed not only to praise God, but also to communicate the message that a life in Christ should be evident in the way people conduct themselves.
According to him, being a Christian should not be viewed merely through religious identity or outward appearance, but through the character and manner in which an individual relates with others.
“For the fact that you are in Christ, that doesn’t mean you cannot be a politician. That doesn’t mean you cannot dress the way you want”, AMA said.
He further explained that the essence of the theme was to encourage people to allow their faith to influence their everyday interactions.
“Life in Christ should be able to reflect in how day-to-day you interact with people. It has to show when people will be able to see you and be able to say, no, this guy is in Christ’s life”, he said.
The lawmaker also appreciated the dignitaries, guests and well-wishers who attended the anniversary, noting that the choir hoped the songs and messages presented during the celebration would leave meaningful lessons with those who listened.
He said the message of the anniversary was not restricted to Christians alone, as people from different backgrounds were present at the event.
“Many of them too, they are believers, they are Muslims, they are Christians, and I know part of what they will take home is that it’s not just about our religion, it’s about our character”, he said.
The Choir Master expressed appreciation to everyone who made time to attend the celebration, saying their presence contributed to the success of the anniversary.
“I want to use this medium on behalf of the Chorister, to appreciate everybody that has made time to be part of this event today,” he said.
“Thank you for coming to celebrate Christ in our life and in everyone’s life”.
Among the dignitaries at the event were the Chairman of the Day, General Manager of NTDA TPL, Kunle Aboyeji, and the Managing Director of D Prince Marine Time International, Prince Uche Akonye.
Others included the Mother of the Day, Mrs Olajumoke Benson, wife of Hon. Babajimi Benson; Father of the Day, Senator Adeseye Kingsley Ogunlewe; General Manager of LASBCA, Bldr. Florence Omolola Gbaye; and Hon. Akindele Adunni Opeyemi, Executive Chairman of Mosan-Okunola LCDA, who represented the Chairperson of the Day.
Other guests included former Executive Chairman of Imota LCDA, Hon. Wasiu Agoro; Vice Chairman of Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA, Hon. Ayeni Adesanya; Chairman of Imota LCDA, Hon. Sunday Benson; Vice Chairman of Imota LCDA, Princess Abioye Omowunmi Jimoh; Executive Chairman of Ijede LCDA, Hon. (Princess) Gbadebo Motunrayo Alogba; Prince and Mrs Abiola Oyebo; DG, PPA, Dr Orofowote Fatai; Mr Adeshina Adekunle, popularly known as Chef Shine; and Mrs Adenike Olanrewaju Omosun, Medical Director, General Hospital Imota.
The anniversary also featured the participation of the choir’s matron, Dc/Mrs Akenuwa Oluwayemisi and Mrs Kayode Olubunmi, as well as choir patrons, Elder L.O. Amusan and Hon. Ileyemi Johnson (JP).
Looking ahead, Aro said the choir would continue to use its annual anniversary as an avenue to praise God, and share the message of Christ with the wider community.
“It’s a choir anniversary every year. And that is exactly how we have decided to be praising God. And we don’t want to be doing it alone”, he said.
He added, “Let them expect more. We will continue to show Christ to the community and also to everybody around our vicinity”.
The celebration ended with further musical ministrations, thanksgiving and fellowship as members of the church, invited guests and residents of Ijede joined the choir in marking its 32nd anniversary.
