IJAPO HIGH SCHOOL, AKURE AGOG AT 2024 SPECIAL CAROL SERVICE AS DR. JOGBODO REFLECTS ON BIRTH OF CHRIST
Ijapo High School, Akure, one of the leading public schools in Ondo State under the visionary leadership of Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo, witnessed a remarkable and colourful celebration of its 2024 Christmas Carol Service with the call to reflect on the. Birth of Jesus Christ.
The event, filled with joy, thanksgiving, and unity, took place on the 17th of December, 2024, within the serene premises of the school where Students, teachers and management gathered in an atmosphere of love and gratitude, celebrating the grace that kept them through the year in good health and wellness.
The Carol Service began with an opening prayer that set the tone for the spiritual celebration. The Principal, Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo, took the honour of reading the First Lesson from John 1:1-15. Her reading was infused with reverence and deep reflection on the meaning of the season, the birth of Christ, and its significance for humanity.
In her remarks, she expressed profound gratitude to God for His benevolence and protection over the school community throughout the year.
Speaking with Democrat News Magazine shortly after the Programme, Dr. Jogbodo described the Carol Service as a “dream fulfilled,” emphasizing her desire to bring joy and unity to the entire Ijapo High School family.
“This event has been a long-time vision for me. I wanted everyone in the school community—students, staff, and management—to rejoice together and dance to God for all He has done for us,” she said, with her voice radiating happiness and satisfaction.
Dr. Jogbodo took the opportunity to encourage all staff and students to embrace the true message of Christmas: love, giving, and spiritual renewal saying that this season is all about love and sacrifice,” she remarked.
“I call on everyone to reflect these virtues in their daily lives and to rededicate themselves to Christ. You could see joy, love, and unity radiating in every corner of this school today. The faces of our students and teachers reflect the true joy of the season.”
The Second Lesson, taken from Genesis 1:1-26, was read by the Vice Principal, Mrs. Fahola, whose calm delivery resonated with the solemnity of the moment. The Third Lesson followed shortly after and was beautifully rendered by the Senior Prefect Boy, Oluwaleye Tumininu, who read from Genesis 3:1-15. Both lessons were delivered with remarkable clarity, adding to the spiritual depth of the event.
The high point of the Carol Service was the melodious presentation by the school choir, led by Mrs. Adegbite. The choir, dressed in vibrant robes, rendered a series of soulful Christmas hymns and carols that lifted the spirits of everyone present. Their harmonious voices filled the air with songs drawing applause and admiration from the audience.
Adding an element of excitement and cheer, the appearance of Santa Claus was a delightful surprise for the students. Santa, with his traditional red and white attire, brought laughter and cheer as he moved around distributing sweets and gifts to the students, eliciting joyous shouts and smiles from all.
The preacher, Rev. Ade, delivered a heartwarming message centered on the anchor text from Matthew 1:20. In his sermon, Rev. Ade urged all participants to embrace the real essence of Christmas, which is the birth of Christ and its power to transform lives. “This season calls for reflection, renewal, and submission to Jesus Christ.
He is the reason for the season,” he emphasized. Rev. Ade also prayed for all attendees, asking for God’s grace to guide them into the new year and the ultimate reward of eternal life.
The atmosphere grew even more jubilant as the Programme reached its climax. Students, teachers, and management alike took to the dancing floor for a special thanksgiving session to God. The scene was filled with enthusiastic dances, clapping, and singing, showcasing the deep gratitude and joy of the school community. It was a memorable moment that reflected the bond shared within the school.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Jogbodo extended her heartfelt appreciation to the organizing committee for their tireless efforts in making the event a resounding success. She also commended the staff for their support and commitment to the school’s growth. “I cannot thank my team enough. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in achieving this success today,” she remarked with a tone of deep appreciation.
The Carol Service was not just a celebration of Christmas but a reflection of the school’s commitment to fostering unity, spirituality, and moral values among its students. For many, the event served as a much-needed moment of spiritual renewal and gratitude, marking the end of the year with hearts full of joy and hope.
As the event drew to a close, students and staff were seen sharing warm wishes and exchanging gifts, embodying the true spirit of Christmas—love, giving, and togetherness. It was evident that the message of the Carol Service resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on all present.
Ijapo High School’s 2024 Carol Service was not only a success but a testament to the leadership of Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo and her dedication to the holistic development of the school community. It underscored the importance of faith, unity, and gratitude, setting a positive tone as the school looks forward to another year of excellence and progress.
Indeed, the event will be remembered for years to come as a landmark celebration that brought the entire Ijapo High School community together in worship, gratitude, and unbridled joy.