Christmas: Anglican Bishop Preaches Love, Tolerance

Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kwara, Rt. Revd Sunday Adewole, has urged Christians to demonstrate genuine love through forgiveness, tolerance, and mutual support, describing these virtues as essential for lasting peace in society.

In his Christmas message at the Cathedral of Saint Barnabas Church, Sabo-Oke, Ilorin, with the theme, “The Greatest Gift from God,” Adewole said the season is a reminder of God’s love for humanity through the birth of Jesus Christ and encouraged believers to reflect that love in their daily interactions.
“We want to thank God for this year’s celebration because God has demonstrated His love by sending His Son, Jesus Christ.

“The onus now lies on us as individuals to show love to our brothers and sisters by forgiving their shortcomings, accommodating them, encouraging them, and being our brother’s keeper,” Adewole said.
He noted that when Christians consciously uplift others despite their weaknesses, society becomes more humane and peaceful, emphasising that love, not division or hatred, defines true Christian faith.

The cleric also urged the political leaders to tackle national and state challenges with integrity while cautioning them against the influence of insincere aides.

“We want the President to do more. He is trying his best, but there are many things for him to do. He should be aware of sycophants who pretend to love his government but are actually working against it,” he said.

He offered similar counsel to the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, advising him to leave a positive and lasting legacy.

“They inherited many challenges, but they should leave an indelible mark so that when they leave office, people will remember them for good,” he said.

On security, Adewole urged Christians to celebrate responsibly, noting current safety concerns across the country.

He advised moderation during the festivities and discouraged the use of fireworks and late-night parties.

“We have told Christians to rejoice moderately. There should be no loud parties, and bangers should be discouraged. If there must be any night activities, they should be done at a meaningful time so people can return home safely,” he said.

The bishop concluded with prayers for divine protection, hoping that adherence to these cautions would strengthen peace and security in communities.

In his remarks, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by his deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, commended the Christian community for promoting peaceful coexistence in the state.

He assured that the state government would continue to implement policies and programmes that benefit the people.