As the year gradually comes to an end, the people of Benikrukru community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, are now looking ahead to the coming year and others after it with great expectations as they closed 2024 by tapping into the power that the spiritual exercise of fasting, prayer and thanksgiving offers the Christian faithfuls.

The once neglected coastal creek settlement has now entered its modern phase of development as it is currently witnessing tremendous growth, most especially in infrastructures that are helping to reshape the host of the annual Christmas Carnival in the kingdom.

Home to Delta State businessman, Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, along with his wife Mrs. Esther Tonlagha, both of whom are philanthropist, Benikrukru is now one of fast developing communities in the kingdom.

But being aware that the physical affairs of men are not dictated by what goes on in the physical realm alone, they collectively humbled themselves to submit to an higher authority by partaking in a three days of fast and prayer, which began on Wednesday, December 18, and culminated into Thanksgiving at the grand finale of the exercise on Friday, December 20.

By demonstrating humility before the Almighty God by reverencing Him and acknowledging His interference in the affairs of Benikrukru, they believe this will usher in more development and growth in the coming years ahead.

The significant exercise which was hosted by the Chairman of the community, Comr. Joel Tonjoh, had in attendance various ministers from various Christian denominations popular among which are the pentecostal and the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) church leaders, demonstrating the power of one accord in prayers despite different doctrines and ideologies, but all centered on "One God".

Among the host and featured guests are the coordinator, Pastor Roland Ojogun; Archbishop Phillip Tonfawei JP, Rev. Dr. Emmnuel Imeleye, Apst. Amb. Dr. Johnson Bibogha JP, Apst. Dr. Mathias Amaye Zion, Snr. Boan. Aloro Amas, Bisop Felix Piniki.

Guest speakers are Rev. Dr. Isaac Kadiri from Benin City, Apst. Ebierede German JP from Bibopere Zion, Okerenkoko, Rev'd Dr. Felix O. Ekong, Pst. Thompson Ayubaemi, with guest artistes Evang. Moses Edio of the Amazing Grace Crew, and the PUSH (Praise Until Something Happens) Crew.

One of the interesting moments in the exercise was the thanksgiving session. Pouring their hearts and souls in excitement, participants took to the dance floor to do what they know how to do best as they glorified God in tune to the theme of the programnme, "Be Thou Glorify O' Lord" (Psalm 118:1). Even the Tonlagha's were not exempted as they all showcased their dancing skills in celebration of God's goodness and in celebrating what is to come in advance.

Benikrukru community, being spiritually conscious, has offered its sacrifice for a better tomorrow. And as the year 2025 inches closer, for the Benikrukruans, it is one of great expectations!

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