The Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) has once again entered its cherished season of Harvest Thanksgiving—an annual tradition that unites congregations across the country in joyful praise, heartfelt gratitude, and reflections on God’s unfailing faithfulness. From local congregations to major assemblies, the spirit of thanksgiving echoed nationwide, with EYN LCC Maiduguri standing out in a particularly vibrant and memorable celebration.
Across EYN congregations—including EYN LCC Maiduguri, EYN Utako, EYN Tanki, and the EYN Headquarters Church—this year’s Harvest Thanksgiving brought worshippers together in colorful and spirit-lifting services marked by singing, dancing, testimonies, and generous giving.
Maiduguri Takes Center Stage
At EYN LCC Maiduguri, the atmosphere was electrifying from the onset. Worshippers filled the church premises in a lively display of unity and gratitude, eager to thank God for a year of divine protection, provision, and daily mercies. The service was an explosion of joy—voices lifted in soulful hymns, hands raised in praise, and hearts overflowing with appreciation.
The altar became a beautiful tapestry of thanksgiving as members presented a rich variety of harvest gifts: bags of rice, beans, groundnuts, fruits, pumpkins, and other produce, as well as monetary offerings. The enthusiastic participation of both adults and Sunday School children added color and excitement to the celebration, turning the harvest procession into a joyful spectacle.
A Powerful Message of True Thanksgiving
The service was anchored by a stirring sermon from the Reverend in charge, who preached on the theme “Enter into His Gates with Thanksgiving” (Psalm 100:4a). He reminded the congregation that thanksgiving is not seasonal but a daily posture of the heart—rooted in humility, gratitude, and continuous acknowledgment of God’s mercy.
He emphasized key virtues of a grateful life
- giving thanks in every circumstance,
- praising God wholeheartedly,
- making a joyful noise unto the Lord, and
- boldly sharing testimonies of God’s wondrous works.
The Reverend also called believers to present meaningful gifts, silence complaints, nurture relationships through appreciation, and strengthen their faith through gratitude.
Testimonies That Stirred the Heart
The testimonies session at Maiduguri added emotional depth to the celebration. Members shared moving accounts of God’s intervention—ranging from divine protection during a fire outbreak to unexpected employment breakthroughs. These testimonies ignited applause, tears of joy, and collective worship, reminding everyone of God’s unending goodness.
A Nationwide Wave of Thanksgiving
While Maiduguri’s celebration stood out in energy and colour, other EYN congregations across Nigeria—including those in Utako, Tanki, and the Headquarters Church—also held their Harvest Thanksgiving services with equal devotion. Each congregation presented offerings, shared testimonies, and lifted their voices in gratitude, reflecting a unified spirit of appreciation across the entire denomination.
United in Praise, Strengthened in Faith
The Thanksgiving season across EYN reaffirmed a timeless truth: despite challenges, God’s faithfulness remains unwavering. From Maiduguri to Abuja and across various districts, the church celebrated with one voice—thankful, hopeful, and united.
This year’s Harvest Thanksgiving not only highlighted the spiritual vibrancy of EYN but also strengthened communal bonds, encouraged generosity, and reminded members of the importance of gratitude.
With Maiduguri’s radiant celebration at the forefront, the entire EYN family joyfully declared the same message: God has been faithful, and for that, the church will continually give thanks.
