Christian students at the University of Jos students convened for a three-day retreat, marking the celebration of the birth of Jesus under the theme “Emmanuel: God is with us.” Held at the SSANU Hall of the Naraguta campus, the event was hosted by the Deeper Life Campus Fellowship chapter at the university, drawing participants from various academic backgrounds. The retreat featured diverse activities such as prayer, worship, and discussions centered around the true essence of Christ’s birth.
In an interview with Pastor Dr. Samuel Popoola, the state coordinator of the Deeper Life Campus Fellowship Plateau North, he emphasized the significance of such programs, aiming to bring souls to God’s kingdom and foster the edification, revival, and restoration of spiritual life among students. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a balance between academics and spiritual well-being, asserting that being in tune with God positively influences all aspects of life, including academics. The challenges faced in organizing the retreat, including publicity and fundraising, were acknowledged, emphasizing the commitment to providing a spiritually enriching experience for attendees.
Despite financial challenges, the program, coordinated by Pastor Okezie Mpama, the camp commandant, achieved success. While the goal was to have 350 participants, 271 individuals attended, surpassing the financial constraints. Pastor Mpama expressed gratitude for the successful retreat, attributing it to divine intervention.
Ogwu Kingsley, the program’s secretary and coordinator of the Deeper Life Corpers Fellowship, explained the national significance of the December retreat organized by the Deeper Life Bible Church. Occurring twice a year (Easter and Christmas), this year’s theme, “Emmanuel,” focused on spiritual refueling for Christians. Kingsley emphasized the importance of the program in the campus environment, providing a balanced approach to spiritual and academic growth.
Participants, reflecting on the significance of Jesus’ birth, expressed joy and gratitude for the spiritual upliftment experienced during the retreat. Aduma Judith, a 200-level student, shared how her life was positively impacted through seminars and Bible studies, emphasizing the relevance of the theme “Emmanuel” to the Christmas season. Onuh Daniel, a 400-level student, echoed the sentiment, describing the retreat as a blessing and a revival. Ikechukwu Precious Chiamaka and David Isaac, students of Pharmacy and Veterinary Medicine, respectively, shared similar sentiments about the program’s magnificence and its role in reflecting on their spiritual journeys.
The annual Deeper Life National December retreat serves as a significant gathering for Christians nationwide to seek God and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. With soul-stirring sermons, prayer sessions, worship, seminars, and Bible studies, the program brings together over 200 participants, reinforcing the message of “Emmanuel” as the Messiah.
Report and photos by Eji, Mercy Suleiman
