New Year:Taraba CAN host combine service,tasks citizens on Thanksgiving,unity – peace
Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo.
The Taraba State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN),has hosted a landmark combine service at the CAN Secretariat Jalingo to mark 2026.
In his address during the service, the Taraba State CAN Chairman, Very Rev Fr. Williams P. Awoshiri charged christians to return all thanks, honor and glory to God Almighty-the Creator of heaven and earth and the sustainer of nations adding that the gift of a New year was not an entitlement but a divine privilege granted by God’s Mercy and grace.
He maintained that the New year stand before all believers as a fresh chapter, giving an opportunity for renewal, reconciliation, repentance and recommitment to God and to the service of humanity.
“The past year presented us with challenges, uncertainties and moments of trials yet, God remained faithful. Therefore, with humble hearts, let us give thanks to God for preservation, protection, provision and hope,” he admonished.
Fr Awoshiri further called on all residents of Taraba State including Christians, Muslims and people of all faiths/ethnic backgrounds, to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and responsible citizenship, rejecting violence, intolerance and division.
“Let us teach our children the values of love, honesty, hard work and respect for human dignity. When we work together in unity, Taraba State will continue to stand as a beacon of peace and harmony,” he said.
Reflecting on the Theme: God’s Mercy as contained in Psalms 136:1-7,the Guest speaker Rev Simon Ali explained that Christians who do not obey God miss the benefits of His mercy. He defined God’s Mercy as the demonstration of His loving-kindness towards humanity.
Rev Ali revealed that God chooses to withhold punishment for sin and instead, extends unmerited favor towards sinners, admonishing the congregation to reverence God and live holy lives to enjoy God’s divine mercy.
Other Speakers at the gathering including the Special Adviser on Christian Religion Matter Very Rev Fr Sunday Muke Patrick,Bishop Emmanuel Ande of the United Methodist church, Rev Mark Dopa among others,expressed gratitude to God and extended appreciation to CAN’s leadership for successfully organizing the joint service, calling on all to prioritize unity, peace and love.
Prominent at the event was the Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency, Dr Agbu Kefas, the Speaker Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, the Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, His Lordship Most Rev Charles Michael Hamawa among many other high profile Clerges and politicians.
