Imagine singing the mantra “So we lift up our hand to praise your name” with many more people than you could ever imagine being gathered for a holy event. This is how the evening began, with wonderful words for the one and only Lord.

And then came a call to action from the pastor, Chris Oyakhilome, as he made a grand entrance, “Come on give the Lord a shout! Glory! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Glory to God!”

All were enthralled to see the man before them, the one who was willing them and helping them to keep on about their praise and love for the great God. And so, it took some time before the people of the crowd found silence and their seats once again for this once-in-a-lifetime event.

It came time to look at the year in review. What a glorious year, one in which the ministry flourished. Many months were met with great growth, persistent productivity, and also awesome attainments. A significant task succeeded of course was the spread of Rhapsody of Realities, over 1.3 billions copies sent worldwide and distributed in over 900 languages. As Christ deserves, knowing that His people deserve to be able to read the book that helps spread the word of God.

The ministry and its tremendous impact came to be discussed as well. Millions of children had their lives touched by the Inner-City Mission. Thousands were brought hope and healing through the Healing School. And of course, the International School of Ministry trained thousands of ministers.

Those present in Pastor Chris’s presence were truly enjoying the moment. The connection to Jesus Christ was made attainable once again to all involved, and it was truly an exciting experience.

The Lord’s grace came through Pastor Chris clearly and when the winners of the Future African Leaders Awards were announced and brought to the stage, it was seen clearly as they collapsed with uncontrollable excitement. These individuals were honored for making change in their communities. Between the prestigious prize and the Man of the hour, the air was filled with excitement so great like no one has ever seen.

Oh but that was not the end of the ever-so-thrilling service! A couple singers came to bellow their songs to the Lord above. These people were Martin PK with his recent Gospel single, Beautiful Jesus, and Sinach with her thankful song to Christ the Lord. So beautiful that everyone listening found their hearts filled with thankfulness and bliss.

Finally came time for the outstanding evening to close. With the crowd as his witness, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome thanked the Lord. His words were, “Oh father we thank you, we worship you, we honor you. Thank you for your love, for your grace, for your kindness. We worship you. Thank you for the year of flourishing, and our flourishing continues in the mighty and matchless name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hallelujah!” Something truly well said!

He sent a reminder to all that in 2018 we must do things differently. That it will be a truly significant year and one in which we must “pray with words or prophesy into the lives of family members.”

Such a thrilling evening indeed, one to be remembered for ages with words to never forget! Now to carry what was brought into this world on that evening by Pastor Chris into the new year with us. Praise the Lord and may God Bless!