Some religious leaders say Christmas carols are more than just festive tunes. To them, they are a powerful tradition that brings joy, unity and spiritual reflection to Christian communities.

They said this in separate interviews on Sunday in Lagos.

Rev. Fr. Peter Irabor, Catholic Priest of Issele-Uku Diocese, Delta, said that Christmas carols, over time, evolved to focus on the birth of Christ, spreading the message of unity, hope, love, and redemption.

Mr Irabor said Christmas is a time for forgiveness, healing, and reconciliation.

“Let’s remember that He came to bring peace and reconciliation to humanity. During this season, let’s strive to forgive those who have wronged us and seek reconciliation with those we may have offended.

“This can be done by letting go of grudges and resentments, reaching out to those we may have wronged, and cultivating a spirit of empathy and peace,” he said.

He said Christmas carols had a rich history that dated thousands of years.

“Carols originated from pagan songs sung during the Winter Solstice celebrations in Europe. However, the early Christians adopted these celebrations and replaced the pagan songs with Christian hymns. The first recorded Christmas carol was “Angel’s Hymn” in 129 AD,” he said.

According to him, carols officially begin in most Catholic churches on the third Sunday of every Advent season, a period of preparation for Christmas by the Catholic faithful.

“The nine readings, popularly called ‘Nine lessons’, beautifully tell the story of God’s plan to save humanity.

Also, Rev. Fr. Paul Amenaghawon, formator, Saint Albert Major Seminary, Ogun, noted that Christmas carols profoundly impact the spirit of joy in the Christian faithful.

“During the Advent and Christmas seasons, the carols remind everyone of God’s love, mercy, and redemption. Christmas carols fill the air with joy, happiness, and a sense of celebration. They create a festive atmosphere, bringing people together in praise and worship.

“Carols provide an opportunity for Christians to share the Gospel message as a powerful tool for evangelism, spreading the good news of Jesus’ birth. Singing Christmas carols fosters a sense of community and belonging among Christians. It brings people together, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories,” he said.

Mr Amenaghawon further said that Christmas carols connect Christians to their rich heritage and traditions, fostering spiritual reflection, joy in the communities and emotional connection.

Similarly, Rev. Fr. Anthony Afariogun, Chaplain, Lady Queen of Peace Chaplaincy, Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, said carols remind the faithful of the coming of Christ.

“The impact of Christmas carols is enormous as it teaches us the impact of which reminds us about the second coming of Christ. Christmas carols are a great lesson that we should detach ourselves from material things and show examples of humility from Jesus, the Mary and Joseph family, our model.

“Christmas carols are not just about drama or acting but to emulate the teachings, humility, love, gratitude and charity of the life of the newborn child, Emmanuel,” he said.

(NAN)