25/12/2025
CHRISTMAS MESSAGEFROM HIS EMINENCE DR. OLIVER ALI ABA, JPPRELATE OF THE METHODIST CHURCH NIGERIA AND IN THE DIASPORA
Theme: The Light of God
Text: John 1:5
Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,Grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied unto you from God our Father and from our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. As we joyfully celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are reminded by the Gospel according to Saint John that “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it” (John 1:4–5).
Christmas proclaims to the world that God’s Light has entered human history, not as an idea, not as a philosophy, but as a Person: Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh.
The Light of God is divine revelation in a darkened world. At a time when nations are troubled, values are confused, and many hearts are weighed down by fear, injustice, and uncertainty, Christmas announces hope.
The Light shines not only to expose darkness but to overcome it. Christ illuminates our paths, restores our dignity, and reconciles us to God.
The Light of God is also redemptive and inclusive. John testifies that “the true Light which gives light to everyone was coming into the world” (John 1:9). This Light is for all, young and old, rich and poor, home and diaspora. No one is excluded from God’s saving grace. Wherever you are worshipping today, the Light of Christ reaches you. Furthermore, the Light of God calls us to responsibility.
Those who have received the Light are called to walk as children of light, reflecting love where there is hatred, truth where there is falsehood, peace where there is strife, and righteousness where there is corruption.
The Church must shine as a beacon of hope, holiness, and compassion in our communities and our nation.As we celebrate this holy season, I encourage all Methodists and people of goodwill to open their hearts anew to Christ, the Light of the world. Let His Light guide our families, strengthen our Church, heal our land, and inspire us to serve humanity with humility and faithfulness.
On behalf of the Conference and leadership of the Methodist Church Nigeria and in the Diaspora, I wish you a joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with divine illumination, peace, and abiding grace. May the Light of God shine upon you and through you, now and always.Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.
His EminenceDr. Oliver Ali Aba, JP
Prelate,
Methodist Church Nigeria and in the Diaspora