Presbyterian Church introduces traditional nativity service

The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Emmanuel Parish, Umuahia, Abia State, has revealed that the nativity service otherwise known as “Cultural Heritage Celebration,” recently introduced into the church was to save Igbo language from going extinct.

The moderator South Central Synod, Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Right Reverend Ibeawuchi Uchechukwu Agwu, who made this known shortly after the 2016 edition of the Sunday/nativity service held at the church auditorium, Umuahia, observed that in the past, some Christians, particularly members of the church in Umuahia, felt he was trying to introduce something fetish into the church.

According to him, the elderly church members had challenges with understanding English sermons, hence the nativity service.

Right Reverend Agwu further pointed out that apart from Igbo language, he also encouraged members to observe dressing the Igbo traditional way, as well as adopt singing and drama presentations in Igbo language.

“People should know their origin, speak their language, dress according to their roots in the church since Christianity encourages values and respect of people,” Agwu stated.

He also charged parishioners not to adulterate religion or introduce ideas that were inimical to the church but rise above board to embrace God through the gospel and obey His commandments in order to attract his blessings.