The Chapel of Christ Our Light, Protestant, at the University of Lagos became a center of vibrant worship and spiritual renewal last Sunday as the community gathered to celebrate Fathers’ Day. Breaking from standard tradition, the church hosted a unified service dedicated entirely to honoring fathers and paternal figures across the university campus. The special event, centered around the theme of manifesting divine glory, brought together congregants for an unforgettable morning of deep reflection, fellowship, and artistic expression.
Music took center stage during the celebration, defining the atmosphere of the day. The Men’s Fellowship choir delivered a series of soul-lifting renditions, including powerful performances of pieces like The Storm, Alleluia! Chim Le, and Olorun Daada I’Olorun Temi. Dressed in white attire complemented by traditional ceremonial robes, the choir seamlessly shifted the energy in the sanctuary from solemn devotion to high praise, deeply moving everyone in attendance.
The defining highlight of the service came from a brilliant solo performance by Lemuel Iyalla, a renowned soloist and music instructor who stepped in to conduct the Men’s Fellowship. Delivering a moving rendition of Calm me Lord, Iyalla captivated the audience with his vocal precision and emotional depth, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the congregation that lasted well after the final notes faded. After the service, Iyalla described the atmosphere as truly incredible, noting how much he enjoyed the unique privilege of directing a choir composed of academics who share a deep passion for classical and choral music.
Iyalla’s musical journey began at the age of eight in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where his father first introduced him to classical music by enrolling him in the local church choir. That foundational training launched a lifelong career that has seen him perform on prestigious stages both within Nigeria and internationally. His leadership at the UNILAG service added a distinct layer of artistic excellence to an event already filled with deep communal significance.
The celebration concluded with a powerful session of intercessory prayers led by the church leadership and the Men’s Fellowship. Standing together, the congregation offered prophetic declarations for the men, asking for renewed strength, wisdom, and resilience as they navigate their responsibilities. The service stood as a fitting tribute to the sacrifices, guidance, and spiritual leadership that fathers provide within their families and the broader society.
