Children are young and beautiful creatures; and with their innocent smiles and carefree spirits, they steal the hearts of many. Little wonder there is a day set aside to celebrate them. Children’s Day, which is celebrated in Nigeria on May 27 annually, is dedicated to celebrating children all over the country, and for adults to remember their childhood experiences.
The celebration is very significant, though it is not a general public holiday in Nigeria, the day is set aside to honour the younger generation and, thus, primary and secondary children are given a day off from school.
In addition to the festivities and celebrations of Children’s Day, this date also serves to recognize that all minors and children have the right to health, education and protection.
So many activities are carried out on this day, varying from excursions, parties, funfairs, parades…
For the children in New Apostolic Church in Nigeria, the celebration started immediately after the service on trinity Sunday. Most of the apostle areas celebrated the children in a very unique way. Bible reading, quiz, singing, games, drama, outings were organized to celebrate the children in various districts in the South, North and West Nigeria.
Apostle Nwanza in the West stated that Children are special in God’s sight, and Jesus specifically raises them up, whenever He mentions them.
While quoting Matthew 19:14“But Jesus said, Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven” and Mark 10:15 “Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”
The apostle said: there is need to make this day a fun filed for the children, whilst having songs of praise, memory verses, quiz based on the NAC CQA (New Apostolic Church Catechism Question and answers etc… to glorify our God.
We also used this special day to thank our dedicated, focused and creative Sunday School teacher who have shown so much enthusiasm and dedication to caring and teaching of these children…