by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The University of Jos during the week held a “Festival of Carols of Nine Lessons” – to user-in this year’s Christmas event.
One of participants at the occasion, Prof Danny McCain asserted that, “Christmas is a time to embrace peace, humility, and giving, and let us ensure that these qualities are at the heart of our celebrations this year.”
He was speaking during the special Exhortation of the Festival of Carols of Nine (9) Lessons and Tree Lighting ceremony, organised by the University of Jos, on Friday evening.
Prof McCain stressed that: “Giving reflects selflessness and humility; it is an act of love – a central theme of Christmas, rooted in God’s greatest.”
He urged Christians, especially during this season, to go beyond exchanging gifts with family and friends – seek opportunities to give to those in need: the lowly and forgotten in their communities, adding, “Give food, time, and love to make a difference, just as Christ gave Himself for us.
“During this Christmas, let it be a time of reconciliation. If you have unresolved conflicts with family, neighbors, or colleagues, seek peace and set aside our pride and positions. Humble yourself and find ways to serve and bless others,” he stated.
Prof. McCain further noted that, “When we think of Christmas, one of the first words that come to mind is peace, peace with God.”
He explained that, “Sin separates humanity from God, but through faith in Jesus, that relationship is restored: peace in the soul, while many live with troubled hearts, guilty consciences, and internal turmoil,” he said.
Also speaking to newsmen, shortly after the Carols, was the Vice Chancellor of the UNIJOS, Prof Tanko Ishaya, who said he believed that hosting an event like this towards the end of the year is not only a Christian tradition but also an academic one.
“It gives us a moment to reflect on how far we have come, and to appreciate God for His guidance. Most importantly, for Christians, it is a time to prepare for the coming of the Lord, marking the first arrival,” he stated.
The VC added that, “It has spiritual significance; the event also serves to commemorate the year’s end in the academic environment, where both Christians and people of other faiths take time to thank God for His blessings, including keeping us alive to this point.
“We also offer prayers for God’s mercy, hoping that He will bring us back, in the New Year, renewed and ready to continue our academic activities,” he noted.
Prof. Tanko Ishaya further explained that, “Christmas is a season of God’s grace, mercy, giving, and humility,” and urged all of his colleagues and the entire university community to embrace these virtues, which Christ Himself demonstrated – giving, sacrifice, and humility.
“This is what I encourage our community to live out during this period. It’s also a time for prayer. So, I want to extend a message of goodwill to all. On behalf of the entire management, I wish the university community, including staff, students, and our partners, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance.”