For the year 2023, The SCOAN Christmas Carol Service fell on the 22nd of December, a Friday. And it was a most pleasant Friday indeed, as the auditorium stage was lit up with bright colours. Surrounding the church premises were glittering Christmas trees to enliven the atmosphere and the people’s faces and minds. Right in front of one of the trees, Brother Jacob and Sister Jémima declared the carols open and quickly gave way to Evangelist Joseph to say the opening prayer.

Hosts Brother Olumide and Sister Johana soon took over, spicing up their continuity work with interesting banter. Before The SCOAN Choir burst into song, they did a bit of acting on the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ over 2,000 years ago. “We Worship You!” they were singing minutes later.

Following up was Esther of The SCOAN Sunday School, who sang about the birth of Baby Jesus in a mellifluous voice that electrified the auditorium. As she cooed into the microphone the ambience filled up with these unforgettable lyrics: “O Come/Let Us Adore Him!”

It was surely a day for the choristers to perform both collectively and individually, as well as in duets. “O Tidings Of Comfort And Joy!” they proclaimed in celebration of the reason for the season of Christmas.
In Spanish, Sister Raquel put her vocal range on display as she excited the audience with “O Noche Divina!”
For his part, Brother Jerry sang “Someday At Christmas”- a song that envisions a better, more enjoyable world for all.
Then there was a vocally enthralling duet involving Brother Michael and Sister Jessica on “Hallelujah!”
Not to be left out, Sister Florence and Brother Samson did their bit in French, singing “Noel” and getting the people to rock in their seats.

The singing went on with a note of assurance to all about Jesus Christ’s readiness to bear their burden. “All Is Well/Let There Peace On Earth!” sang Sister Rachel and Brother Jerry.
In yet another duet, Brother Moses and Sister MaryAnne led the people to wish Jesus a happy birthday and profess their love for Him.
Another outing of the choristers was led by Brother Joshua during which it was asserted thus: “I Heard The Bells on Christmas Day!”
Of course, the choristers did not leave out the iconic “Silent Night” and “Ding Dong Merrily On High!” Even more significant was their rendition of an inspired composition by Prophet TB Joshua in which the essence of Christmas is portrayed thus: “Christmas Is About Christ/The Spirit Reveals To Us!”

Meanwhile, The SCOAN youths continued to thrill the audience with choreographic displays and brilliantly scripted dramatic sketches, one of which addressed issues such as what we give, how we give and why we give; the drama was as full of humour and sense as its actors were excellent in their delivery.

From outside of The SCOAN were guest artistes De Emeralds Choir, who sang in classical style, and dance drama group I FOR CHRIST, who mimed a sermon by Prophet TB Joshua entitled “WHO IS YOUR NEIGHBOUR?”
And before the choristers gave their final praise performance, budding talents got a chance to showcase their talent for the glory of the Lord.
Just as it started with prayer, The SCOAN Christmas Carols 2023 also ended with prayer. Thank You, Jesus!