‘Paul and Silas did not only pray, but they praised God, and they were set free’
A popular gospel artist, James Arum has urged Nigerians to complain less about the prevailing economic hardship in the country, but learn to praise and worship God in all circumstances.
He said a heart of gratitude to God for his manifold blessings upon the country would propel him to salvage the masses from the impending doom.
Arum spoke in Onitsha, Anambra State ahead the annual Catholic Concert in Africa, tagged Unusual Praise 2022, with the theme, “Let Everything That Has Breath Praise The Lord”, Pioneered by Catholic Church of Divine Mercy, Lekki, Lagos.
He recalled how the COVID-19 pandemic that ravaged the world gradually disappeared from Nigeria, attributing the miracle to the unsual praise edition of that year.
He said, “What we’re doing is spiritual. Remember two years ago when we gave God unusual praise, you’ll bear me witness that immediately we we’re done with the program, the COVID-19 pandemic seized.
“This time around, everyone is complaining of economic crisis. Paul and Silas did not only pray, but they praised God, and they were set free.
“I don’t know what you’re passing through. Rather than complaining and blaming anyone, why not give God unusual praise and see how he’ll turn around our present economic situation.”
Speaking on the event, a committee member, Mrs Augustine Igbokwe revealed that the event would be providing funding, business training and mentorship for entrepreneurs through its Unusual Entrepreneurship Program.
She said no fewer than 400 persons have been empowered through the project, adding that over 14 gospel artists would be featuring at the event.
She said, “When Jesus was here on earth, he fed the multitude spiritually and also physically with bread and fish. That’s why we’re extending the project to empower people.
“This year edition of Unusual Praise will hold at the Cathedral Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity on September 30, 2022.
“It will feature popular gospel music ministers such as James Arum, Steve Crown, Chioma Jesus, Jude Nnam, Ada Jesus, Joe Vibe and other established ministers who will take the worshippers through an unforgettable music experience.”
On his part, Parish Priest of Catholic Church of Divine Mercy, Msgr. Pascal Nwaezeakpu said the event has no political coloration, describing it as purely spiritual affair.
He called on both Christian and non Christian alike to take advantage of the praise night to appreciate God for His goodness and mercies as well as pray for the nation and their families.
