By Juliana Uzoka

Christian faithful were reminded to show gratitude to God in both joyful and challenging times, acknowledging His divine care for His children.

This was the central message delivered by Rev. Frs. Anthony Pwajok and Jonah Onah during the 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. Masses, respectively, at Saint Theresa’s Harvest Thanksgiving held on December 1, with the theme “Harvest of Divine Mercy.”

While the majority of St. Theresa parishioners expressed joy and gratitude to God for His protection and blessings, the priests encouraged those less inclined to give thanks to join in, emphasizing that God’s mercy touches the lives of all His children.

Thanksgiving Sunday, an annual event observed in Catholic parishes across Nigeria, coincides with the end of the liturgical calendar and ushers in the Advent season, marking the beginning of a new Church year.

Speaking during the celebration, Rev. Fr. Anthony Pwajok, the Assistant Parish Priest, said, “Today, the Church is celebrating the mercy and goodness of God. We are thanking Him for our lives despite our shortcomings and the economic hardship in the country. Things are difficult, yet God has been merciful. We pray for His mercy for the times we have wronged Him and for the times we have offended one another.”

Fr. Pwajok emphasized that Thanksgiving is about returning glory to God. “It is an act of gratitude and appreciation. Just as we say thank you when someone gives us a gift, we must also thank God for all He has done for us. Thanksgiving is a way to show God that we are grateful, and it encourages Him to bless us even more,” he added.

The priest urged parishioners to adopt an attitude of gratitude regardless of their circumstances. “Every human being should thank God for the fact that they are alive,” he said, adding that the Bible teaches us that “God loves a cheerful giver.”

The Mass also marked the beginning of Advent, a season of preparation and anticipation for the coming of Jesus Christ at Christmas. Fr. Pwajok encouraged the faithful to focus on spiritual preparation. “Sometimes people prepare for Christmas thinking about material things, but the real preparation is spiritual—reconciling with God and with one another so that when Jesus comes, He will find us ready,” he said.

In his reflection, another Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Jonah Onah, prayed for renewal in all aspects of the parishioners’ lives. “Through this sacrifice of Thanksgiving, God will renew and make us new in Jesus’ name. He will make our hearts, homes, businesses, careers, vocations, and professions new,” he prayed.

Fr. Onah reminded the congregation that Thanksgiving is rooted in faith. “It takes a man or woman of faith to have a grateful heart. Sometimes difficult situations make it hard to be thankful, but the Bible tells us to give thanks in all things—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Faith in God comes from expressing absolute gratitude to Him and trusting Him in all situations,” he said.

He also referenced Job’s unwavering faith despite his challenges, encouraging the faithful to remain thankful regardless of their circumstances. “Thanksgiving is for men and women of faith,” he stressed.

The parish priest, Rev. Fr. Paul Pam, used the occasion to thank parishioners for their generosity, particularly their contributions toward the purchase of solar energy for the parish. “Your kindness and generosity have strengthened our faith as priests, knowing that our service to you bears fruit,” he said.

Parishioners shared testimonies of God’s goodness in their lives. Mrs. Helen Chunu expressed gratitude for good health and family. “I had health challenges this year, but by God’s grace, I am healthy today. I thank God for my life, my family, and the blessings around me,” she said.

Also, Sir Ikechukwu Muonanu, Chairman of the 2024 Harvest Thanksgiving, encouraged the faithful to be thankful in all situations. “God is always working in our lives, and His gifts are not always material. When you look back, you will find reasons to thank God,” he said.

Reacting to the good turnout and cheerful countenance of the parishioners, the acting president of the Parish Council, Mr. Anselm Egbosie, highlighted the significance of life as a reason for gratitude. “Despite the economic challenges in Nigeria, God has kept us. His goodness is too numerous to mention,” he said.

The event featured a colorful procession of parishioners, young and old, who came forward with gifts as a mark of their thankfulness. Families, associations, and individuals joyfully participated, testifying to God’s faithfulness in their lives throughout the year.