….Author urges youths on reading, singing hymns
Methodist Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr Michael Olusegun Akinwale, has advised Christians to emulate the art of music through hymns in order to offer God quality praise and worship expected of them by their creator.
This is just as an author, Sir Uwem Jonah Useh also called on youths to imbibe the art of reading and singing hymns, as a way of igniting societal values in the country.
The occasion was the presentation of two books: Abiding Grace Hymn Book (Commentaries of 150 selected Christian hymns) and Abiding Grace Hymns and Anthems as well as launching of a music album by Sir Useh.
The event also featured the festival of 12 hymns composed by Sir Uwem Useh, a Knight of Charles Wesley and the 51st birthday celebration of the author.
Sir Useh explained that the values embedded in the Bible and by extension the hymns was enough to address the attitudinal reorientation of the youths.
According to him, “When we talk of attitudinal reorientation, it is when you now understand the values that we have in the Bible that we’ll be able to live according to the dictates of the society.
“So the hymnal books that are launched today are based on a scriptural background. It’s going to contribute immensely to changing the thinking, the behaviour pattern of our youth.
The author explained that most Nigerians don’t understand the importance of hymns noting that the choice of the book was to ignite the love and passion for hymn singing.
He noted that the Festival of 12 Hymns was envisioned as an annual event to promote the legacy of hymn singing and as well strengthen the spirit of communal worship.
“Globally today, you discover that so many countries use hymns as their national anthem. In Nigeria, you will agree with me that the second stanza of the former national anthem was used everywhere as national prayer.
“And so, for me, the importance of hymn singing as a nation and church can never be overemphasised.
”And then the only way to build and strengthen the culture of communal worship through hymn singing is to put together the Festival of Twelve Hymns,” he said.
Sir Useh appealed to individuals, organizations and corporate bodies to be committed to the vision to make Nigeria a better place for all by partnering in sponsoring the Festival of 12 hymns annually.
The keynote address, The Most Rev Akinwale maintained that music was the engine room to attract blessings from God, hence the need to make music a lifestyle.
“Anyone who is addicted to music, who gives quality praise to God all the time, they are always in good health.
“Music is healing. Music is the tool for effective worship. Without music there is no worship and the only thing that gives quality worship to God is an act of quality music,” he said.
He summarized 12 key reasons which human beings need to praise God continually which includes Divine healing, restoration, and open heaven to answer prayers, among others.
He therfore commended the author for the work while advising him to do more for God in writing soul lifting hymns that would address individual and nation’s challenges.
Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Ali Aba represented by the Bishop of Kubwa Diocese, Rt Rev Dr Frederick Agada Gabriel Onoja, appreciated the contribution of the author to Christian worship.
The Prelate also encouraged the author and Christian community to ensure the sustainance of Festival of 12 Hymns.
His Eminence Aba the felicitated with Sir Uwem Useh on his 51st birthday anniversary.
In his goodwill message, President of Christian Association of Nigeria, His Eminence, Archbishop Daniel Okoh represented by the Coordinating Chaplain, National Christian Center, Rt Rev Ini Ukpuho, said the hymnals are very refreshing inputs to Christian worship.
The CAN President encouraged all Nigerians to live to praise God for a better nation.
In his remarks, the Chief Host, Arc. Ubokutom Nyah, who is the Mandate Secretary, Economic Planning, Revenue Generation and PPP, FCTA commended the tenacity and hardwork of Sir Useh, wondering how he was able to come up with the books and music Album going by his tight schedule in the office.
The Chief Launcher, High Chief Ojimba CF Ojimba, the Nnanyereugo 1 of Izzhi Land who was ably represented sent in a handsome donations.
Mr Adesola Esuola of the Music Department of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, (JAMB), reviewed the hymnbooks.
The wife of the celebrant, Lady Mercy Uwem Useh Ph.D who gave the vote of thanks was among the several Hymn conductors at the Festival of 12 Hymns graced by a team of 100-member Choir.
