By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan
The Bishop of Ibadan North Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. Williams Aladekugbe, has urged Christians to be moderate in their spending as they prepare for Christmas.
Aladekugbe gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Ibadan.
The bishop said that on account of the current economic situation in the country, Nigerians should be modest in their celebration and maintain peace and order.
“If there is anything we cannot achieve before Christmas this year, there will always be another Christmas. We should not be involved in evil or dabbling into crimes.
“We should adopt cost cutting measures as a way of addressing the current economic challenges in the country,” he said.
The Anglican Bishop equally appealed to the Federal Government to make good its electioneering campaign promises of making life better for the people.
According to him, the government must be sincere with the citizens.
“The government must be considerate in their politics, actions and decisions by walking the talk. Frivolous spending should be avoided.
“Our appeal to Mr. President is that he should fulfil his campaign promises to us. He told us to put our mind to rest that everything will be fine.
“So the citizens are full of expectations,” he said.
Christmas, Aladekugbe said, reminds Christians of the Saviour who gave us salvation (Matt. 1: 23).
“Christmas should be celebrated by reflecting the reason(s) Jesus came into our world, to erase the curse of sin, to bring salvation to man and to restore us to God.
“We should reflect on our relationship with God and our neighbours even as we celebrate,” the Bishop said.
Also, the Bishop, Diocese of Lagos West Methodist Church Nigeria, Rt. Rev. Oluyinka Akande, urged the government to continue its efforts in promoting unity, peace, and prosperity in the country.
“Let’s use this festive period as a catalyst for positive change and growth,” Akande stressed.
The Methodist bishop said that Christmas time should be a time of healing and renewed strength.
“The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of God’s ultimate gift, the birth of Jesus.
“Usually people celebrate Christmas by exchanging gifts, decorating their homes, celebrating with parades or parties, dedicating prayer and sharing food and drink.
“But as children of God we must reflect on what this season brings to us. Christmas brings us to God, Christmas brings us peace and Christmas brings us prosperity.
“As we celebrate, let’s remember those less fortunate, and strive to build a society where everyone can share in the joy of the season,” Akande stressed. (NAN)
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